Lakers News: It’s Alleged That LA Tried To Make A Trade For The Former DPOY

The 2023–24 Los Angeles Lakers season has been filled with far too many highs and lows, which has caused a great deal of resentment within the team. As the trade deadline draws nearer next week, it has elevated them to the status of one of the more active teams.

There are several All-Star names on the market that have been connected to Los Angeles; each one can offer something unique. However, the names that come as a complete surprise always have the biggest impact.

NBA expert Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports claims that the Lakers tried to move for Memphis Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart. If they had prevailed, the previous Defensive Player of the Year would have significantly altered the composition of the Lakers roster.

Smart, one of the top perimeter defenders in the league right now, could have helped the Lakers with a major vulnerability. Anthony Davis would have benefited greatly from his point-of-attack defense, and the Lakers could have employed him in a variety of ways.

Though he is currently injured, Smart should return in a few weeks. For Memphis this season, the seasoned guard has been averaging 14.4 points, 4.3 assists, and two steals per game.

Even though Smart’s three-point shooting has declined this season, he has a history of making them. It was not meant to be, but he would have been a great asset to the squad.

Memphis respects Smart greatly and probably wants to keep him as their leader when they return to full health the next year. The Lakers front staff will have to turn elsewhere for assistance because the deadline is rapidly approaching.