The Los Angeles Lakers seem to have a clear strategy for strengthening their roster this offseason, with Marcus Smart becoming one of the notable free agents drawing league-wide attention.
Given his defensive reputation and veteran experience, Smart is expected to attract interest from several teams, and one Western Conference contender has reportedly separated itself as a serious suitor.
Rockets Emerge as Leading Suitor for Marcus Smart in Free Agency
In Sunday’s “The Stein Line” report, NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer broke the news that Smart is expected to seriously consider declining his $5.4 million player option with the Lakers in favor of testing free agency.
They later identified the Houston Rockets as a leading potential landing spot for the veteran guard.
“One of the strongest things we’ve heard all weekend: Houston’s interest in Marcus Smart, which we reported Friday, is only sounding more serious,” the report said.
“The expectation of a three-year offer at a higher annual number than Smart’s $5.4 million player option for next season with the Lakers has only led to more anticipation that Smart will bypass the option and become an unrestricted free agent Tuesday.”
Houston’s interest is boosted by Smart’s previous relationship with Rockets head coach Ime Udoka.
The two worked together during the 2021-22 season with the Boston Celtics, when Udoka made Smart the team’s starting point guard.
Smart shone in that role, helping lead Boston to the NBA Finals while earning the 2021-22 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, becoming the first guard to win the honor since Gary Payton in 1996. He also secured a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team after an outstanding season.
The Celtics had gained a 2-1 lead over the Golden State Warriors in the 2022 NBA Finals, but ultimately fell in six games.
Smart remained one of Boston’s most impactful players before being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in a three-team deal in June 2023. His successful history with Udoka is now seen as a huge factor behind Houston’s aggressive pursuit.
Smart averaged 9.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.4 steals while shooting 39.5% from the field last season. His defensive toughness, playoff experience, and leadership would give the Rockets a proven veteran presence on the court.
Houston is also well-positioned to offer Smart a larger contract and a prominent role.
As for the Lakers, losing Smart would create a huge void on the defensive end while also impacting the team’s leadership and identity.
Amid this, seven-time NBA All-Star Joe Johnson claimed the Lakers could be in trouble if they fail to retain both Smart and Rui Hachimura.
Whether Los Angeles has a contingency plan in place remains one of the key questions as free agency approaches.