Since being inserted inserted into the starting lineup, Marcus Smart has helped the Los Angeles Lakers recapture some of its form defensively.
Smart is always pestering ball handlers or putting his body in harm’s way to pick up charges. His physical style of play borders on reckless some nights, though ultimately it ends up to his team’s benefit.
For example, Smart was a key cog in the Lakers’ fourth quarter comeback against the Dallas Mavericks. He hit some clutch shots, but also rallied the team defensively in crucial moments.
There was a moment in the fourth quarter, however, where it looked like Smart hurt himself after deflecting a pass. After the game, he revealed his finger popped out but he popped it back in so he could continue playing. via Lakers reporter Mike Trudell:
Marcus Smart said his right index finger – which he had surgically repaired last summer – popped out in the 4th quarter, but he didn’t want to come out of the game, so he just bent over and popped it back in. He’s about to go get it wrapped and iced up now.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) January 25, 2026
There’s a certain level of toughness a player has to have to pop their finger back in mid-game, but Smart is that exact kind of competitor. At this point in his career, Smart is no stranger to playing through pain and his willingness to pop his finger back in to keep the momentum going speaks a lot about his character.
The guard will naturally miss games throughout the season due to little injuries that pile up, but his presence when healthy is worth the investment. There aren’t many players on the roster who carry the same mindset Smart does, so his availability is always worth monitoring.
With the trade deadline coming up, the Lakers should be actively seeking upgrades as they’ll need more than just Smart to keep the defense from falling apart. Los Angeles has several holes it needs to plug, but a two-way wing or a rim protector should be their top priorities.
Marcus Smart discusses difficulties for players leading up to trade deadline
Smart has experienced several trade deadlines in his career, but the toll it can take on players can be difficult for outsiders to understand. With this year’s trade deadline quickly approaching, Smart detailed the kinds of difficulties he and other players face this time of the year.
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