Veteran point guard Marcus Smart is set to embark on a new chapter in his career, marking his third relocation in as many years. After reaching a contract buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards, Smart is expected to sign a two-year contract worth $11 million with the Los Angeles Lakers, according to reports from ESPN's Shams Charania.

In the recruitment process, Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic reportedly reached out to Smart, expressing his desire to play alongside the seasoned guard. The Lakers faced competition for Smart from both the Phoenix Suns and the Milwaukee Bucks during the pursuit for his services. Smart was originally due to earn $21.6 million for the 2025-26 season under an expiring deal, having been acquired by the Wizards from the Memphis Grizzlies at the 2025 trade deadline.

The 2024-25 season was particularly challenging for the 31-year-old Smart, who was limited to just 34 games due to injuries, averaging 9.0 points, 2.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.1 steals over 20.0 minutes per game. A right index finger injury plagued him throughout the year. Prior to his stint with the Wizards, Smart was traded to the Grizzlies from the Boston Celtics before the 2023-24 season, during which he achieved career highs in scoring and steals but was hampered by injuries, appearing in only 20 games. Despite recent struggles with health, Smart maintains his reputation as one of the league's premier defensive players, with his potential to contribute significantly to a playoff-contending team still evident.