Wizards Explored Trades for Marcus Smart Before Lakers Buyout

Before signing with the Los Angeles Lakers, Marcus Smart was the subject of multiple trade discussions involving the Washington Wizards and several NBA teams, including the Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, and Atlanta Hawks. Notably, the Wizards and Heat explored a trade framework that would have sent Terry Rozier to Washington in exchange for Smart. Despite the interest, the Wizards ultimately chose to buy out Smart's contract rather than pursue a trade, allowing him to join the Lakers as a free agent. Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year, is expected to provide the Lakers with veteran defensive expertise and backcourt leadership alongside stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic. The trade talks underscore Smart's value as a defensive anchor, while the potential Rozier move signals the Heat might be willing to part ways with him soon. Celtics fans will see Smart suit up for a rival team but only a few times a year, as the Lakers and Celtics are unlikely playoff foes next season.