Patrick Beverley didn’t hesitate to highlight Marcus Smart as the under-the-radar addition that could shift the team’s dynamicMarcus Smart (Image Credits: Imagn)
This offseason brought a significant shakeup for the Los Angeles Lakers, as they landed Marcus Smart in a move. The signing came after Luka Doncic reportedly suggested the Lakers should add the former Washington Wizards guard.

To make room, the Lakers quietly waived Jordan Goodwin and Shake Milton. Later, they finalized a two-year, $11 million deal with Smart.

On The Pat Bev Podcast with Rone, former NBA guard Patrick Beverley shared his perspective on what Smart’s arrival could mean for the Lakers. Beverley didn’t hesitate to highlight Smart as the under-the-radar addition that could shift the team’s dynamic.

“The sleeper of this whole pickup was Marcus Smart. Marcus Smart has something to prove. It’s different, right? You talk about Marcus Smart dealing with injury. Yeah, he got Defensive Player of the Year. Is he the same player? Is he gonna defend it like that?” Smart said.

Beverley shared that Smart’s value often goes unnoticed. For Beverley, Smart’s hunger and drive could be the difference-maker for Los Angeles.

“People don’t understand, after the trade deadline, this month and a half, Marcus Smart was playing some really good basketball with the Wizards. People don’t understand that. He has motivation to get a new contract. He has motivation to get back to the Marcus Smart that people know he is. So, I think he’s gonna have a stunning year,” he added.

Marcus Smart Set To Lead Lakers’ Second Unit

Marcus Smart Marcus Smart (Image Credits: Imagn)
According to Lakers Daily, the Lakers are projected to roll out a starting lineup featuring Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Deandre Ayton. Meanwhile, the second unit is expected to include Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, Marcus Smart, Jaxson Hayes, and Gabe Vincent.

Smart’s first year in Los Angeles will begin as part of that second group. Smart endured several injury-riddled seasons, appearing in just 54 regular-season games over the past three years.

Now, with a fresh start under JJ Redick, Smart can remind the league of the player who once earned Defensive Player of the Year honors. If he can stay healthy and anchor the second unit, his presence could be vital in balancing the Lakers’ rotation.