The Los Angeles Lakers, a team rich in talent, face a significant challenge as they aim to solidify their status as championship contenders. Veteran Marcus Smart highlighted the need for the Lakers to lean on their supporting cast for more consistent offensive contributions.
Marcus Smart’s Impact on Lakers’ Performance
During a recent match against the Memphis Grizzlies, Smart delivered an impressive performance. He registered 13 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, one block, and a steal in the Lakers’ victory, which ended 128-121. When Smart achieves at least five assists, the Lakers boast a 7-2 record. Additionally, they are 8-2 when he scores a minimum of 10 points.
Smart noted that his playmaking abilities contributed significantly to the win. “Just my ability to create for others, and my ability to create for myself,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of making right decisions during games. His skill set allows him to effectively see the floor and distribute the ball, which is essential for the team’s success.
Building a Contender: The Role of Supporting Cast
Despite their star-studded roster, the Lakers must figure out how to utilize players beyond their core superstars. Notable high-usage players such as Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves each face the challenge of coexisting effectively. Dončić has maintained a usage rate of 35.0 or higher in six out of the last seven seasons. In contrast, James’s rates have fluctuated from 29.1 in the 2024-25 season to 26.1 in the 2025-26 season, while Reaves holds a rate of 27.1 this season.
- Stars’ usage rates complicate offensive fluidity.
- Fatigue and predictability have impacted performance.
- Defensive abilities of the stars have diminished compared to expectations.
This high dependency on star players limits opportunities for other players, like Smart, to alleviate pressure and create a more dynamic offense. Traditionally, Smart has averaged 6.3 assists against just 2.3 turnovers per game in his career, showcasing his effectiveness when given the opportunity.
The Importance of Team Depth
For the Lakers to realize their full potential, they must trust all members of their roster. While the stars are critical in winning games, the depth of the team remains equally important in the modern NBA. The Lakers may not transform into a deep unit overnight, but they can start to establish a culture that empowers players to enhance their impact.
Smart’s strong showing against the Grizzlies is a promising sign. However, to become true contenders, the Lakers need to embrace the full extent of their depth chart and encourage every player to contribute effectively.
