The Los Angeles Lakers need Marcus Smart in the starting five because he can guard dynamic scorers and is making open 3-pointers. He opened the game against the Jazz on Thursday night with Austin Reaves out and played a crucial role in the win. The Lakers desperately need his defense, toughness, and energy. He isn’t going anywhere, despite rumored interest. Head coach JJ Redick must start him moving forward.
Injuries have been a problem for Smart. He played just 54 games in the last two seasons combined and has already missed nine of the first 26 contests in his inaugural season with the Lakers.