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Lakers criticized after cutting ties with Marcus Smart this summer

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 11:32 PM

Last updated Sep 14, 2026

Lakers criticized after cutting ties with Marcus Smart this summer

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers made significant roster changes ahead of the upcoming season, including the release of guard Marcus Smart, who had an impactful season with the team. Smart averaged 9.3 points and 3.0 assists while being instrumental on both ends of the floor. Analysts suggest his departure will be felt as he played a key role amid injuries to other star players like LeBron James and Luka Doncic. The Lakers plan to replace him with Collin Sexton, who signed a multiyear contract during free agency, as the team focuses on building a roster that effectively supports Doncic.

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By the Numbers

•Smart was a key contributor in his only season with the Lakers.
•The Lakers did not retain any starters from their playoff matchup against Houston.
•Collin Sexton is set to join the team as a replacement for Smart.
•Smart signed with the Houston Rockets in free agency.

Latest Updates

11:32 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers Criticized for Cutting Ties With 6’4″ Wing Who Was ‘Everything’ to Team

What they're saying

"
No one yet knows how Los Angeles Lakers’ newly-added players will pan out next season, but what can be said definitively is that the team did not hesitate to overhaul the roster this summer. The goal was really as simple as this: assemble a roster that works around superstar point guard Luka Doncic. The Lakers added […] The post Lakers Criticized for Cutting Ties With 6’4″ Wing Who Was ‘Everything’ to Team appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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