The Los Angeles Lakers agreed to a two-year $12 million bargain with Jake LaRavia on the opening night of free agency, but the addition of Marcus Smart will limit his minutes and production. They need a strong point of attack defender, and Smart will be asked to fill that role. There will be plenty of regret, including being forced to play the veteran over the blossoming young forward.
Smart is not the Defensive Player of the Year fans remember from his day in Boston. His lack of games has covered for his decline. He struggles defending at the point of attack and is an inconsistent shooter.