Overview

• After a scoreless debut, Smart posted 14 points, four steals, three rebounds and two assists on 5-of-11 shooting in 23 minutes against the Kings.
• His training camp and early preseason were limited by Achilles tendinopathy and a recent illness, but he now says he feels great heading into opening night.
• Smart said he plans to set the defensive tone and lead by example, highlighting on-court synergy with Jarred Vanderbilt and contributions from Gabe Vincent.
• Head coach JJ Redick praised Smart’s activity and comfort level, calling the performance a positive sign as the regular season begins.
• The Lakers signed the former Defensive Player of the Year after a Wizards buyout, and Smart noted he played roughly 60 games over the past two seasons but feels mentally ready to contribute.