In a stunning turn of events, Marcus Smart has officially joined the Los Angeles Lakers on a two-year, $11 million deal following his buyout with the Washington Wizards. What makes this move even more electrifying? Smart revealed that Luka Dončić personally reached out to him not once, but twice, urging him to come to Los Angeles and be part of something special.

In an exclusive interview, Smart shared the pivotal moments that led to his decision, emphasizing the allure of teaming up with two of basketball’s brightest stars: Luka and LeBron James. “When you get a guy like Luka calling you, checking in, trying to see if you want to join something special, that meant a lot,” Smart stated, highlighting his respect for Dončić’s game.

Their relationship, while not deeply rooted, blossomed through mutual admiration on the court. Smart recounted how his agent first informed him of Luka’s interest, a moment that shifted from skepticism to reality. “It’s no longer what ifs. It’s real,” Smart said, underscoring the significance of Dončić’s recruitment efforts.

Luka’s competitive spirit shone through in their conversations, with Smart noting that the young superstar didn’t need to say much; his reputation and talent spoke volumes. Having faced the “Luka Magic” as an opponent, Smart is now eager to be on the same side, ready to contribute to the Lakers’ championship aspirations.

As the Lakers gear up for the upcoming season, the combination of Smart’s defensive prowess and the offensive brilliance of Dončić and James promises to be a game-changer. With the NBA landscape shifting, all eyes will be on Los Angeles as they look to reclaim their place at the top.