Marcus Smart accumulating four fouls in just 12 minutes during the first half was not part of the game plan on Tuesday. However, the Lakers‘ guard found significance in those frustrating calls.
The Lakers signed the 31-year-old guard mainly for his relentless competitiveness, and having Smart establish a physical standard was an effective way to kick off the season, even if the initial result wasn’t favorable.
Smart remarked, “The toughest team sets the rules.” He elaborated, “In my 12 years in the league, that’s been the approach. The more physically assertive team tends to gain momentum. We aim to be the toughest team from beginning to end.”
Now, the Lakers have a chance to gauge their toughness against the squad that eliminated them in the playoffs last year, facing off this Friday at 7 p.m. at Crypto.com Arena, revisiting last year’s first-round series.
Coaching staff, including JJ Redick, has been analyzing film from last year’s five-game playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. While not necessary to motivate the team, the footage may provide a unique incentive for refining their game along with integrating three offseason signings.
The Timberwolves (1-0) continue to excel with standout 24-year-old guard Anthony Edwards and possess a robust lineup featuring Julius Randle, Rudy Gobert, and Naz Reid. Meanwhile, the Lakers—missing star LeBron James (sciatica)—are focused on building chemistry with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, as they also welcome free-agent signings Smart, Deandre Ayton, and Jake LaRavia.
Some of Ayton’s connections with his new guards faltered in their opener, which saw the Lakers commit 20 turnovers in a loss to the Golden State Warriors. Reaves emphasized that building both offensive and defensive chemistry will naturally progress over the season and can’t be rushed.
Smart has been assigned the role of a primary defensive communicator, alongside Ayton and guard Gabe Vincent. This role fits the veteran, who has quickly emerged as a vocal leader in the locker room. With his aggressive court presence, diving for loose balls and trying to draw offensive fouls, Smart aims to set a competitive example against even the most physical teams.
Austin Reaves Managing Ankle Injury
Reaves participated partially in Thursday’s practice after experiencing an ankle tweak during Tuesday’s game, according to Redick. Following a strong performance of 26 points and nine assists against the Warriors, his participation in live play was limited. Redick expressed optimism about Reaves’s chances to play on Friday.
Meanwhile, Doncic fully practiced on Thursday after appearing to sustain a groin injury during the season opener. He downplayed the injury after the game, following a remarkable performance where he scored 43 points.
