In Game 2 of the Lakers’ playoff series against the Houston Rockets, Marcus Smart faced a tough challenge.
He was up against Kevin Durant, one of the greatest scorers in NBA history.
What was he thinking?
“Oh my god,” Smart chuckled when chatting with the California Post. “Literally, oh yeah.”
Smart defended Durant so effectively that it was like he was a pesky gnat—always in his way. He made things incredibly difficult for Durant, who had a rough night.
In the Lakers’ 101-94 victory, Durant managed only 23 points, with just three in the second half and nine turnovers following a knee injury.
“Oh, it worked,” Smart said. “He just makes me even better as a defender. He challenges me.”
Smart didn’t just excel defensively; he shone on offense too. He truly embodied energy on the court. He was dynamic, scoring 25 points—8-of-13 overall, including 5-of-7 from three. He also contributed with seven assists, five steals, and one block.
“Wise, he just had a great game today,” remarked Lakers coach JJ Redick.
Interestingly, Redick turned to Smart as the season faced turbulence due to injuries to key players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, both of whom could be out for weeks.
“We talked about it in San Francisco,” Redick shared. “I’m not going into specifics, but it was crucial for us to instill confidence in the team.”
Smart recognized the challenge. The task was to uplift a discouraged squad despite missing their top scorers.
This was a significant moment for Smart. He’s been eager to revive his career after being traded to the Lakers on a two-year, $11 million deal in July, following a buyout with the Wizards.
Once a Defensive Player of the Year, Smart had struggled with injuries in previous seasons, but this was his opportunity to rebound.
“I came into this season with doubts circulating around me, especially with key players sidelined,” he reflected. “For J.J. to rely on me to step up means a lot. It shows the trust I’ve built with this team.”
Smart managed to instill belief in his teammates, showing what relentless effort can achieve on both ends of the floor.
He was relentless against Durant and found his own rhythm too.
Smart’s path to this moment has been anything but straightforward.
Back in January 2018, he missed a game-winning three in a close contest against the Lakers and ended up injuring his hand in frustration.
He spent nine seasons with the Celtics, reaching the playoffs each year and even participating in the 2022 Finals before being traded to Memphis in 2023, which started a decline in his performance.
At his lowest, the Lakers expressed interest. Doncic wanted to partner with him, and Redick, after observing Smart’s impact in the playoffs when he was a commentator, became intrigued.
“It’s easy to overlook someone because of age or past struggles,” Redick noted. “But his defensive capabilities and ability as a secondary playmaker were significant advantages for us.”
It was indeed a valuable gamble.
Smart found success with the Lakers, being integral to their defense and even contending for the Teammate of the Year award.
As the Lakers stumbled initially in the playoffs, Smart truly stepped up.
“He’s battle-tested,” LeBron James commented. “He’s been through tough playoff games and knows how to handle pressure. Bringing in someone like him adds depth and calmness to the team.”
Things have certainly improved for Smart.
He’s stepping into the spotlight, showcasing his defensive skills, and cherishing every moment.
When asked about the significance of this chance, his face lit up.
“Everything,” he said, beaming. “I thank God every day. This is my dream and how I support my family. When life gets tough, this is my refuge.”
“And it feels incredible to have another shot to turn things around.”
