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Lakers Secure Second Signing! DPOY Joins on Two-Year Deal, Becomes Doncic's Defensive Shield!
On July 20th, Beijing time, the Los Angeles Lakers officially announced a two-year, $11 million contract with Marcus Smart, the former Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY). The deal includes a player option for the second year. Smart, a three-time All-Defensive Team member, fills a crucial gap in the Lakers' lineup, particularly fortifying their perimeter defense. Notably, the signing was heavily influenced by the Lakers' cornerstone, Luka Doncic, who personally reached out to Smart, eagerly inviting the defensive stalwart to join forces.
展开剩余85%Infusion of Defensive Prowess to Reshape Lakers' Backcourt
Smart is renowned for his tenacious defense throughout his career. In the 2021-22 season, he averaged 1.7 steals, 3.4 deflections per game, and showcased remarkable versatility, becoming the first guard in Celtics history to win DPOY. Despite recent setbacks due to finger injuries, his defensive efficiency rating remains solid at 104.8 (mid-tier in the league), with his three-point shooting improving to 39.2%, highlighting his value as a \"3-and-D\" guard.
For the Lakers, Smart's arrival directly addresses their weak perimeter defense from last season. Facing stars like Curry and Alexander, opponents shot a high 38.7rom three against the Lakers, ranking them third from the bottom in the league. Smart's addition provides defensive flexibility from point guard to forward positions, with his career average of 1.6 steals per game serving as a key weapon against Doncic's old rivals like the Mavericks and Thunder.
Doncic's Endorsement: Turning Former Foes into Teammates
Another highlight of this signing is the connection between Doncic and Smart. Though never teammates, Smart limited Doncic to a 20% shooting rate in a 2020 matchup against the Mavericks, becoming a league-discussed defensive standout. Now, as a core member of the Lakers, Doncic personally recruited Smart, valuing not only his defensive prowess but also anticipating his role as a team \"spiritual leader.\"
\"Luka (Doncic) told me he needs a teammate who can shut down key opponents in crucial moments and bring a competitive spirit to the locker room,\" Smart revealed in an interview. \"The Lakers' championship pedigree and title window made it impossible for me to refuse.\" This chemistry could be a vital catalyst for the Lakers' championship aspirations.
Precision Management, Salary Cap Strategy
Securing Smart demonstrates the Lakers' precise maneuvering. They first waived guard Milton to free up roster space, then utilized a split mid-level exception to sign Ayton ($8.1 million annual salary), Larravide ($6 million annual salary), and Smart, completing their lineup upgrade while avoiding the luxury tax. Salary expert Bobby noted the Lakers' move as a \"textbook example of finding value\"—Smart's contract averages just $5.5 million annually, significantly lower than his peak salary, showcasing exceptional value.
Outlook for the New Season: Integrated Offensive and Defensive Championship Puzzle
With Smart's arrival, the Lakers' starting rotation is nearly set:
Starting Lineup: Ayton (center), Hachimura (forward), James (forward), Rivers (guard), Doncic (guard)
Key Bench Players: Hayes, Smart, Larravide, Vincent, Vander Blue
This lineup combines height (Ayton, Hayes), shooting (Larravide with a 42.3% three-point shooting rate), and defensive toughness (Smart, Vander Blue), particularly against Western Conference powerhouses like the Nuggets and Timberwolves. Smart's targeted defense against Murray and Edwards could be crucial in deciding series outcomes.
Expert Analysis: Defense Sets the Upper Limit
NBA analyst Skip Bayless commented on First Take, \"Smart is the missing championship piece the Lakers desperately need. His defense allows Doncic and James to conserve energy during the regular season, and come playoffs, his experience and grit make opponents tremble.\" According to Basketball-Reference's models, Smart's addition could increase the Lakers' defensive efficiency by 2.3 points, raising their championship odds from 12% to 18%.
From the Celtics to the Grizzlies and now the Lakers, Smart has always been a \"defensive cornerstone for championship teams.\" Now armed with DPOY honors and Doncic's expectations, can he continue his legend in Los Angeles? Fans eagerly await the answer.
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