Marcus Smart Says He Feels Healthy, Ready as Lakers Prepare for Season Opener
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Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart declared himself close to full strength after delivering a solid preseason performance against the Sacramento Kings on Friday night at Crypto.com Arena.
Smart, who had been slowed by Achilles tendinopathy and a recent illness, came off the bench to post 14 points, three rebounds, two assists and four steals in 23 minutes. He shot 5-for-11 from the field in the Lakers’ 116-112 loss.
“I feel great,” Smart said after the game. “That first game is always tough, just trying to get your feet under you. Tonight I was more aggressive. The season is here in three days, so it felt good to be out there and I’m going to keep getting better.”
The 31-year-old made his Lakers preseason debut Tuesday in Phoenix but did not attempt a shot. Friday’s outing, he added, was the best he has felt “since I got here.”
Smart appeared in only about 60 games over the past two NBA seasons because of various injuries. Joining a new club, he said, has given him fresh motivation.
“Mentally, I’m ready,” he noted. “I just want to give back to a team and show what I can bring to this historic franchise. I’m very excited.”
Setting a Physical Tone
Following Friday’s defeat, Smart addressed the Lakers’ need for greater physicality, a point also raised by teammates in the locker room.
“Just follow my lead,” he said. “I’m going to try to set the tone every night. Me, Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent go out there and try to establish that edge so everyone can follow. We’re still learning each other, but once that clicks you’ll see more physicality from the whole team.”
The Lakers open the regular season in three days, giving Smart limited time but renewed confidence as he ramps up for his first year in purple and gold.
Source: Lakers Nation
