Lakers Insider Predicts Marcus Smart Will Join Starting Lineup After Contract

Marcus Smart is projected to join the Los Angeles Lakers’ starting lineup, assuming he does in fact sign a contract as expected, according to Lakers insider Jovan Buha.

Smart is expected to slot into the starting lineup as the ideal fifth piece alongside Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, bringing needed defense and playmaking.

His ability to defend the opposing team’s best perimeter players allows Reaves and Dončić to focus more on offense. Smart’s fit alongside Dončić, Reaves, LeBron James and Deandre Ayton provides much-needed defensive balance to the lineup.

Buha's projected starting lineup and depth chart:

Point Guard: Luka Dončić, Gabe Vincent, Bronny James
Shooting Guard: Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht
Small Forward: Marcus Smart, Jake LaRavia, Adou Thiero
Power Forward: LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt
Center: Deandre Ayton, Jaxson Hayes, Maxi Kleber

Buha initially had guard Jordan Goodwin listed behind Reaves on the depth chart. However, after Buha's show concluded, the Lakers waived Goodwin to make room for Smart. The team also waived guard Shake Milton on Sunday.

Smart agreed to a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards on Saturday after spending his first two seasons without a postseason appearance following stints with the Memphis Grizzlies and Wizards. He previously made nine straight playoff appearances in his first nine seasons with the Boston Celtics.

Smart reportedly plans to sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Lakers, hoping to return to the playoffs.