The Los Angeles Lakers have made significant moves in free agency, securing both Jake LaRavia and Deandre Ayton on two-year contracts. However, they are not finished with their roster reshaping, as they are now eyeing potential trades, particularly for a top defensive wing. NBA analyst Jake Weinbach has suggested a trade that would send Marcus Smart from the Washington Wizards to the Lakers in exchange for Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, a 2032 second-round pick, and cash considerations.

Smart, the 2021-22 Defensive Player of the Year, has struggled with injuries recently, playing only 54 games in the past two seasons. Nonetheless, his defensive prowess could address a critical need for the Lakers, who boast a strong offensive lineup that includes stars like Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, but lack defensive depth. The Wizards, on the other hand, may wish to offload Smart to pursue younger assets, especially given that both Vincent and Kleber are on expiring contracts.