Marcus Smart has left the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency, signing a two-year deal with the Houston Rockets. The former Defensive Player of the Year's departure comes after a single season in Los Angeles where he averaged 9.3 points, 3.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. His exit is part of a major roster overhaul that saw the Lakers move on from several veterans this summer.
Insider Jovan Buha suggested Smart was ready for a new situation. Reports indicate the Lakers' contract offer played a part, with the team proposing fewer years and less money than the veteran guard wanted. That proposal reportedly offended Smart and pushed him to walk away, even though the Lakers still valued his defensive ability.
He ultimately chose to reunite with his former Boston Celtics head coach, Ime Udoka, in Houston. The Rockets offered a two-year, $13 million contract with a player option for the second season. Smart's decision was surprising given his solid contributions, including a vital role in the Lakers' first-round playoff upset of the Rockets last season.
Smart's exit is one piece of a massive summer transformation. The Lakers also parted ways with LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, Luke Kennard, and Jaxson Hayes. Deandre Ayton was traded to the Washington Wizards in the deal to acquire young guard Jaden Hardy.
In response, the front office has been aggressive. They've added 10 new players through the draft, trades, and free agency. Key arrivals include center Walker Kessler via sign-and-trade, guards Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes in free agency, and defensive specialist Matisse Thybulle. The team also secured Austin Reaves on a new four-year contract, locking in Luka Doncic's primary backcourt partner.
The new-look Lakers are currently in preseason action, working to build chemistry. They opened with a 127-103 win over the Sacramento Kings on October 5, but fell 124-98 to the Golden State Warriors a day later. Their most recent outing was a 114-110 victory over those same Kings on October 8.
Integrating so many new pieces is the immediate challenge. The team's depth chart has been completely remade, with a focus on youth and defensive versatility. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matchups on our schedule page. The next test is a preseason rematch against the Golden State Warriors at home on October 13.
