When the news broke that Marcus Smart had officially signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, it sparked more than just excitement across Laker Nation—it stirred up a little drama, too. Surprisingly, it wasn’t about Smart’s talent or fit with the team. Instead, it had everything to do with who didn’t reach out to him.
That’s right—LeBron James, the face of the Lakers, didn’t call Smart to welcome him aboard. And it didn’t go unnoticed. During his press conference on Tuesday, Smart made it clear that while he was pumped to be joining L.A., he hadn't heard a peep from LeBron.
Let’s rewind a bit.
✅ Luka’s Call: The Game-Changer
Apparently, the real MVP of this signing wasn’t wearing purple and gold—yet. It was Luka Doncic. The Dallas Mavericks superstar had a significant hand in making this move happen. Reports say Luka personally encouraged Smart to consider signing with the Lakers after his contract was bought out by the Washington Wizards.
Smart himself acknowledged that Doncic’s push meant a lot. That kind of endorsement doesn’t come lightly, especially from someone who knows what it’s like to carry a franchise. Luka’s influence may not just be limited to Dallas—he’s quietly shaping the league’s landscape, and this was a subtle power move that shouldn’t go unnoticed.
Talk about a curveball. Usually, it’s the guys already on the team doing the recruiting. Not this time.
😬 LeBron’s Silence: A Vacation or a Vibe?
While Luka was busy recruiting, LeBron was apparently… off the grid. Literally.
Deandre Ayton, who also recently committed to the Lakers, shared a similar story. No call. No text. No “Welcome to L.A.” That radio silence got folks buzzing. Is LeBron detached from the team’s offseason hustle? Is he thinking about leaving? Or is he just enjoying a well-earned break?
One insider tried to cool the speculation, telling Hoops Wire via Lakers Daily:
“He’s on vacation. Calm down. LeBron is allowed to enjoy his summer. He doesn’t have to be about us (the Lakers) and basketball all the time. He’ll connect with Marcus when he’s back.”
Fair enough. After two decades in the league and carrying the Lakers on his back more times than not, the man deserves a Mai Tai and some quiet beach time. But still—it’s Marcus Smart we’re talking about. A quick phone call wouldn’t have hurt, right?
🔥 Why Smart Matters So Much
Let’s be clear: Marcus Smart isn’t some washed-up role player clinging to a few final minutes in the league. Even if he's not the Defensive Player of the Year anymore, the guy is still a tenacious, hard-nosed, high-IQ player with the grit every championship team needs.
Here’s why Lakers fans should be hyped:
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Defensive Versatility: Smart guards everything from point guards to small forwards. His ability to switch and pressure the ball is exactly what L.A. has missed.
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Veteran Experience: He’s been through deep playoff runs, tough matchups, and emotionally charged battles. That leadership will be crucial.
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Basketball IQ: Smart isn’t just a hustler—he’s a thinker. He knows how to direct traffic on both ends and make the right plays under pressure.
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Ball Handling and Playmaking: With LeBron aging and often forced into playmaker duties, Smart offers a much-needed break. He can run the offense when needed and keep things flowing.
If the Lakers are hoping to ease the burden on LeBron and Anthony Davis, bringing in guys like Smart is step one. The Lakers haven't had many glue guys like this recently—players who do the dirty work and think like a coach on the floor.
🤔 Should Fans Worry About LeBron?
Now let’s tackle the elephant in the room: Is LeBron checked out?
Some fans and insiders are whispering about it. First no communication with Smart, then Ayton. Is he slowly distancing himself from the organization?
Maybe. Maybe not.
It’s important to remember that LeBron is turning 40 this season. His focus is likely shifting—not just on how to win another ring, but on how to sustain himself through another grueling season. That might mean delegating more, trusting the front office, and focusing on recovery and family during the offseason.
Also, let’s not forget that LeBron’s strategic silence might just be… strategy. He’s a master at using timing and narrative to create energy. Maybe he’s saving that conversation with Smart for the right moment—training camp, locker room, preseason bonding. Who knows?
🎯 The Bigger Picture for the Lakers
Whether or not LeBron called, the Lakers made a smart move—pun very much intended.
Smart brings toughness, playoff experience, and unselfish basketball to a team that’s been aching for those qualities. Over the past few seasons, L.A.’s rosters have been full of big names but lacking chemistry and basketball sense. Smart could be the connective tissue that helps bind this version of the Lakers together.
Plus, with guys like Ayton also coming in, the Lakers are subtly re-tooling. It’s not a rebuild—but it is a reshaping of identity. No more all-flash, no-defense lineups. These additions suggest a more blue-collar, defense-first approach—and Smart is perfect for that.
📢 What’s Next?
Here’s what fans should watch for over the next few months:
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LeBron’s Return: Will he finally speak on Smart’s signing? Maybe offer some public support?
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Chemistry Building: How will Smart, Ayton, LeBron, and AD mesh? Preseason and camp will tell us a lot.
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Leadership Shifts: Could Smart take on a vocal leadership role, especially if LeBron starts to take a backseat?
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Lineup Rotations: Will Smart start or come off the bench? And how does he impact the minutes of D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves?
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