"When someone like Luka calls you...": Marcus Smart, after signing with the Lakers

With months to go before the start of the new season, Luka Doncic already has his first assist. During his official presentation with the Los Angeles Lakers this Tuesday, Marcus Smart revealed that it was the Slovenian himself who actively recruited him to join the Los Angeles team.

"When someone like Luka calls you... cares about you, wants to know how you're doing, if you're willing to join something special that he's trying to build here," Smart explained. "Him telling me he needs my help meant a lot to me."

Smart, 31, signed a two-year $11 million contract with the Lakers after agreeing to a buyout with the Washington Wizards and clearing waivers. To make room for him, Los Angeles waived Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin, using the bi-annual exception to offer him more than the veteran minimum, as reported by ESPN.

The former Celtic and 2022 Defensive Player of the Year winner arrives with the mission to strengthen the team's perimeter defense after Dorian Finney-Smith's departure to Houston. With 108 playoff games in his record—tied for 18th among active players alongside Mike Conley—his experience will be key in a revamped roster led by JJ Redick in his second year as coach, which added Doncic via trade in February.

In addition to Smart, the Lakers added center Deandre Ayton, forward Jake LaRavia, and second-round pick rookie Adou Thiero this summer. The team is coming off a 50-win season, securing the third spot in the West but falling in the playoffs' first round to Minnesota in five games.

"My role is to be myself," stated Smart. "To be that tenacious defender, bring my intensity, leadership, and intelligence on the court. To be that annoyance I've always been."

Doncic's direct involvement in his arrival also sends a clear message about his long-term commitment to the franchise. The Slovenian is under contract until 2026-27, with a player option in that final year, but the Lakers can offer him a four-year, $222 million extension starting from August 2, as reported by ESPN's Bobby Marks.

Smart, who spent his first nine seasons with the Celtics before brief stints in Memphis and Washington marked by injuries, expressed excitement about this new opportunity.

"I am very motivated," he confessed. "The last two years, for me, were a disappointment. Injuries held me back. But as I told my wife and family, everything happens for a reason. Twelve years ago, the Lakers worked me out before the draft... and now, the circle closes, and I am finally here."

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