A number of players have been extremely important to the success of the Los Angeles Lakers this season and one of the biggest has been veteran guard Marcus Smart. Ever since being inserted into the starting lineup, Smart has shined, not only with his play, but also as a vocal leader for this team.
Smart was recently named a finalist for the 2025-26 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award, alongside a number of other deserving candidates including the likes of Jalen Brunson, Jrue Holiday, Jayson Tatum and De’Aaron Fox. When asked about Smart’s impact as a teammate, Lakers coach JJ Redick spoke on what the guard does both on and off the court.
“I think there’s the off-court piece and the on-court piece,” Redick said. “I think the on-court piece is just buying in to what the group needs. Off-court there has to be an effort, I think that’s the big thing. Particularly in today’s day and age there has to be an effort. It’s easy to be on your device or have your AirPods in or be on your screens. Smart’s been a great addition to our group and he’s been a great teammate.”
As Redick noted, especially off the court, it takes effort to be a great teammate and Smart consistently goes above and beyond. And Redick has especially noticed the impact that has had on Deandre Ayton.
“I think there’s a built-in level of respect and, in some ways acceptance with Marcus because of how hard he competes and how much he gives every single time that he steps on the floor,” Redick added. “That’s an easy way to build trust with your teammates is to play as hard as you possibly can every single night and do it with a competitive gusto and that’s what Smart does.
“I think for DA he’s just been a great calming voice for him throughout the year. Whether it’s been J-Rob (player development coach Justin Robinson) or coach Nate (McMillan), off the court or at the facility, Marcus has been there throughout halftimes, huddles, on the court. It’s really allowed DA to be more consistent as we’ve gotten towards the end of the season.”
Smart’s energy and effort raises that of everyone around him because no one has an excuse when he is doing everything he can, sacrificing his body for the betterment of the Lakers. Ayton and the rest of the Lakers have greatly benefitted from everything he has brought to this team.
Austin Reaves looking forward to matchup vs. Thunder
Unfortunately, Smart continues to deal with injury and remains out for the Lakers’ contest against the Oklahoma City Thunder, but Austin Reaves is still excited about the upcoming matchup.
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