The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly finalizing plans for key free agents Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard as the start of NBA free agency approaches. After a season filled with roster adjustments and injuries, the Lakers see both guards as vital pieces moving forward, with the organization hoping to retain their services to maintain continuity and support for superstar Luka Doncic.
Luke Kennard, acquired from the Atlanta Hawks in February, proved to be more than just a sharpshooter. Stepping up as a reliable playmaker and secondary ballhandler during the absence of Doncic and Austin Reaves, Kennard averaged 9.0 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game while shooting over 52% from the field and nearly 45% from three in 32 games. His ability to integrate seamlessly into the Lakers’ system has made him a priority for retention.
Marcus Smart, a former NBA Defensive Player of the Year, quickly emerged as the team’s premier perimeter defender and a locker room leader after signing a two-year deal following a buyout with the Washington Wizards. The second year of Smart’s contract includes a $5.4 million player option, and sources indicate he is leaning toward opting out to negotiate a longer-term deal that reflects his value to the team.
The Lakers’ interest in retaining both Smart and Kennard reflects a broader strategy to solidify their roster around Luka Doncic while maintaining a balance of defensive intensity and perimeter shooting. Smart’s leadership and defensive versatility, combined with Kennard’s shooting and playmaking, would give the Lakers stability and depth as they aim for another championship run.
Team sources suggest that negotiations for both players are already underway, with the Lakers likely to offer competitive deals to ensure that their backcourt remains strong. Smart’s connection with Doncic and Kennard’s demonstrated ability to step up in critical moments make them central to the franchise’s offseason plans.
As free agency opens, Lakers fans can expect updates on both players’ contracts, which could shape the trajectory of the team for the 2026-27 season. With the core of Doncic, Reaves, and these veteran additions, the Lakers are positioning themselves to contend in the Western Conference while maintaining flexibility for additional moves.
Overall, retaining Smart and Kennard is seen as essential to maintaining continuity, defensive stability, and offensive balance in a roster built to maximize Luka Doncic’s impact while pursuing a championship. Their deals could set the tone for the Lakers’ offseason strategy in the coming weeks.
