Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic said veteran guard Marcus Smart and New Orleans Pelicans wing Herb Jones are the most challenging defenders he has encountered in the NBA.
Speaking with The Wall Street Journal, Doncic noted that the newly signed Los Angeles Lakers guard “is one of two players” who give him the biggest headaches on the court, placing Jones in the same category.
Smart joins Lakers on two-year deal
The Lakers added Smart on a two-year contract after the former Boston Celtic cleared waivers following a buyout from the Washington Wizards. The 11-year veteran has battled injuries in recent seasons, but Los Angeles targeted him for his defensive reputation and leadership.
Smart captured the 2021-22 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, the first guard in more than 20 years to claim the honor. Known for guarding multiple positions, he is expected to play a significant role—either starting or coming off the bench—under first-year head coach JJ Redick.
Doncic helped recruit Smart
According to the report, Doncic actively recruited Smart to Los Angeles this summer. The Mavericks guard said he looks forward to learning “some things” on defense from the three-time All-Defensive selection after working on his own conditioning during the offseason.
Potential interest in Herb Jones
The Lakers’ move for Smart addresses their need for perimeter defense. Whether the team will try to acquire Jones—Doncic’s other toughest matchup—from New Orleans remains to be seen.
Beyond his defensive impact, Smart is also regarded as a capable playmaker who can initiate an offense and create shots for teammates. His arrival gives Los Angeles another option to defend bigger guards, wings and even some forwards by pushing them off their preferred spots in the paint.
Training camp opens later this month, when Smart and Doncic will share the floor for the first time as teammates.
Source: Lakers Nation
