Marcus Smart may land in the Lakers’ starting five to fix a leaky defense, replacing Rui Hachimura in a move scouts say could raise the team’s ceiling on that end. The idea hinges on Smart’s ability to chase multiple position players and act as a primary disruptor as LeBron James and the offense operate around him. Rui would likely slide to a bench role, where his offense could shine without bearing heavy perimeter duties, while Ayton anchors the middle alongside Smart. The debate centers on spacing, since Smart’s 3-point shooting has been a weakness, and the Lakers’ 17th-ranked defensive rating last season underscored how much a return to form on the perimeter could mean for their ceiling. The discussion also weighs LeBron’s aging workload and whether this lineup improves late-season stamina and defensive intensity without sacrificing offensive rhythm.

The piece notes the hypothetical group would feature Luka Doncic among the starting lineup examples, highlighting the tension between elite offense and lockdown defense when guarding teams with top guards and wings. Smart’s presence would free Austin Reaves and LeBron to focus more on scoring while allowing Deandre Ayton to anchor the rim and help rotations. If Redick can tailor lineups to optimize Smart’s defense while mitigating his 3-point gaps, the Lakers could rebut questions about their championship caliber and build a more resilient regular-season identity.