Overview
- Smart signed a two-year, $11 million deal with Los Angeles on July 22 after agreeing to a buyout with the Washington Wizards.
- Luka Doncic personally reached out to Smart multiple times, tipping the scales in the Lakers’ favor over offers from the Bucks and Suns.
- Smart said he expects boos from Celtics fans at TD Garden and is prepared to embrace the hostile reception.
- He confirmed he has not yet spoken with LeBron James since signing and plans to connect when James is available.
- The Lakers’ addition of Smart follows earlier low-cost signings of DeAndre Ayton and Jake LaRavia as the franchise prioritizes defensive intensity around its stars.