Point guard Marcus Smart, former Boston Celtics and current reinforcement of Los Angeles Lakers, declared that playing with LeBron The signing took place during the offseason to reinforce the starting point guard position and bring more defensive intensity to the squad. Smart highlighted the daily learning when sharing the court with the star.
The change of side came after a trade that involved multiple players and draft picks. Smart arrived at Lakers with the status of a former Defensive Player of the Year and a history of intense duels against LeBron, especially in the finals of Conferência Leste between Celtics and Cavaliers. Agora, the two share the same locker room for the first time in their careers.
Quick adaptation to the new role
Smart is already showing impressive numbers in the regular season. The player records an average of 2.0 steals per game, the second highest mark of his career. The average score is 9.8 points in 12 games played so far.
The point guard’s presence contributes to the team’s perimeter defense, an area that has shown weaknesses in recent years.
Statements about LeBron James
The point guard spoke about the transition from rival to teammate. Smart stated that he can “read” LeBron on the court naturally. Ele highlighted that they both think about the game at high speed and have a high understanding of basketball.
“Learning from him and being on the same court is different. It’s good to play with someone who thinks the game as quickly as I do, and who understands it even more”, declared Smart in a recent interview. The declaration reinforces the mutual respect built throughout the confrontations.
Head-to-head history
Smart and LeBron have faced each other in 28 regular season games throughout their careers. Celtics won 16 of those duels when Smart was at Boston. Nos playoffs, matchups included the 2017 and 2018 Conferência Leste finals.
These games marked an era due to the defensive intensity of Smart on LeBron, including man-to-man markings and provocations within the four lines.
Defensive impact on Lakers
Lakers’s defense has improved in several indicators since Smart’s arrival. The team allows fewer points per possession when the point guard is on the court. The team’s steal rate increased significantly.
LeBron James recently returned from injury and has already played alongside Smart in training and games. The duo should gain more minutes together in the next matches.
Upcoming appointments
Los Angeles Lakers plays again on Sunday against Utah Jazz. The clash marks the second duel between the teams in a short period of time. Smart should start as a starter at guard alongside LeBron James.
The team seeks to consolidate chemistry between the veterans to climb the Conferência Oeste table.
Lakers currently occupies an intermediate position in the conference and is banking on Smart’s experience to reach the playoffs with maximum strength. The partnership between the former rival and LeBron remains one of the most watched points of the regular season.
