Luka Dončić is evidently a playmaker on and off the court. Bringing Marcus Smart to the Los Angeles Lakers was a team effort, one in which Dončić played a meaningful role. On Tuesday, Smart spoke with reporters for his introductory Lakers news conference and credited the recruiting efforts of Dončić as one reason why he's in Los Angeles after reaching a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards.

Discover why Marcus Smart selected the Lakers over other teams, citing LeBron James and Luka Doncic as major influences.

Marcus Smart explains the role Luka Doncic played in recruiting him to the Lakers on Watch ESPN, first streamed on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.