As the NBA offseason heats up, the Los Angeles Lakers face a pivotal moment: the potential departure of Marcus Smart, who has opted out of his $5.4 million contract and is now an unrestricted free agent. His exit could leave a significant gap in the Lakers’ defensive strategy, a challenge they must address swiftly.
Smart’s impact on the court goes beyond his scoring. Last season, he started in 54 of the 62 games he played, averaging 9.3 points, 3.0 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. His defensive prowess, characterized by strong instincts and a relentless competitive spirit, has been invaluable to the Lakers, especially as they lean heavily on offensive stars like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
With defensive ratings showing the Lakers ranked 19th in the league last season, the urgency for a solid defensive guard is palpable. If Smart leaves, the Lakers can’t just fill his spot with another shooter; they need a player who can defend fiercely and take on tough matchups.
Here are four potential targets the Lakers might consider if they need to fill Smart’s shoes.
First on the list is Jevon Carter. While not a household name, Carter could be a cost-effective option for the Lakers. Last season, he averaged 6.4 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists, shooting 40.1% from the field. His role would focus on applying defensive pressure and supporting the second unit, particularly next to Doncic, who often dominates the ball. However, his size poses challenges against bigger guards, so the Lakers would need to find additional defensive support elsewhere.
Next up is Josh Okogie, who offers a more athletic and energetic approach. Though not a natural point guard, Okogie’s defensive intensity and improved shooting—38.5% from three last season—could make him a valuable asset. At 27, he could be a long-term fit, but his limitations in ball handling mean the Lakers would need to manage his role carefully, especially in high-pressure situations.
Gary Payton II is another intriguing option. Known for his defensive skills, Payton had a solid season with the Warriors, averaging 7.5 points and showcasing his ability to cut and create fast-break opportunities. While he may not fully replicate Smart’s size and strength, his defensive tenacity could help alleviate some pressure off the Lakers’ stars. However, at 33 years old, the Lakers would need to consider a short-term contract for him.
Finally, De’Anthony Melton stands out as a top contender to fill the void left by Smart. After declining his $3.3 million option, Melton enters free agency with a skill set that aligns perfectly with what the Lakers need. Last season, he averaged 12.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.6 steals, showcasing his versatility as a defender and secondary ball handler. While his shooting has been inconsistent, his potential alongside Doncic could unlock new offensive opportunities.
As the Lakers navigate this critical juncture, the question remains: who will they target to bolster their defense and maintain their competitive edge?
