Marcus Smart is set to enter free agency after declining his $5.39 million player option for the 2026-27 season with the Los Angeles Lakers.
The veteran guard revived his value after betting on himself last offseason, signing a one-plus-one contract with Los Angeles following a buyout with the Wizards.
Despite dealing with injuries over the previous two years, Smart appeared in 62 games and averaged 9.3 points, 3.0 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.4 steals while reestablishing himself as one of the league’s top perimeter defenders.
His production increased during the playoffs, where he started all 10 games and averaged 12.9 points, 5.1 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.4 steals while taking on a larger role with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves missing time.
Smart is expected to attract significant interest on the open market. A return to the Lakers remains possible.
However, the Rockets have repeatedly been linked to the former Defensive Player of the Year, with reports indicating Houston could pursue him with a three-year contract offer that would reunite him with former Celtics coach Ime Udoka.
Lakers’ Marcus Smart To Become Free Agent https://t.co/lXWDUzBGvn
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) June 29, 2026
