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LeBron James on what Marcus Smart brings to Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers are adjusting quickly as injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves continue to reshape their rotation late in the regular season. With both key guards expected to miss time entering the playoffs, the responsibility has shifted back to LeBron James, who has resumed a primary playmaking role for a team still pushing for seeding in the Western Conference.

That transition has coincided with Marcus Smart’s return to the lineup after a nine-game absence due to a right ankle contusion. Following the Lakers’ recent win over the Phoenix Suns, James pointed to Smart’s immediate impact, highlighting the veteran guard’s ability to influence winning plays on both ends of the floor.

“He’s just a winning player. He just makes winning plays,” James said postgame. “That third quarter sequence, that’s just what he makes. He’s always around the ball. Defensively, you know he’s going to be there. And then offensively, he gives another ball hand, another guy that can control the offense as well.”

James’ comments come at a critical moment for Los Angeles, as the team continues to adapt without its primary scoring duo. With playoff positioning still in play, contributions from experienced players like Smart have become even more important.

LeBron James Highlights Marcus Smart’s Two-Way Impact for Los Angeles Lakers

GettyLos Angeles Lakers forward Lebron James and Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart

Smart’s return provided immediate stability for a Lakers team that has dealt with multiple injuries across its rotation. In his first game back, the veteran guard recorded six points, seven assists, five rebounds, two steals, and one block in 18 minutes, showing his ability to contribute across multiple areas despite limited minutes.

His presence has helped address a key concern for Los Angeles: secondary ball-handling. With Doncic and Reaves sidelined, the Lakers have relied on a combination of James, Luke Kennard, and now Smart to initiate offense and maintain structure.

James emphasized Smart’s instincts and activity level as defining traits.

“He’s always around the ball,” James said. “That’s what makes him so good for our club.”

Smart’s ability to defend multiple positions and create plays has also allowed the Lakers to maintain balance. His involvement in hustle sequences, including loose-ball recoveries and transition setups, has been particularly valuable for a team trying to build rhythm with new lineups.

The Lakers’ recent performances suggest that this committee approach to playmaking is beginning to stabilize. Still, the margin for error remains small as they prepare for postseason competition without two of their primary scorers.

LeBron James Explains Discipline Required to Sustain NBA Excellence

Beyond discussing Smart’s impact, James also addressed a broader topic during his postgame availability: the level of commitment required to sustain success in the NBA over time.

“It starts way before you get on the floor,” James said. “They see it once the game is going, the lights are brighter. But it takes so much more sacrifice and discipline.”

James, now in his 23rd season, has taken on increased responsibility in recent games. He is averaging 21.0 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds while shooting efficiently from the field.

He described the process behind maintaining that level of play.

“There’s so many things that you maybe want to do that you can’t if you want to be great,” James said. “But I do think that the game gives back to the ones who put the time in and commit to the game.”

His remarks reflect the Lakers’ current situation. With a shortened rotation and increased pressure, preparation and execution have become even more critical.

Head coach JJ Redick acknowledged that opposing teams may view the Lakers as a favorable matchup given their injuries. However, the team’s recent performances indicate a growing adjustment to their circumstances.

As the regular season nears its conclusion, Los Angeles remains focused on establishing consistency with its available roster. The return of Smart, combined with James’ expanded role, has provided a foundation as the team prepares for the postseason.

For now, the Lakers continue to rely on experience, adaptability, and depth as they navigate a challenging stretch without two of their central contributors.