The Los Angeles Lakers are definitely one of the teams to watch early in this NBA season. A quarter of the way through the year, they find themselves at 16-6 and tied for the 2nd seed in the Western Conference.
They do currently find themselves in the midst of a little bit of a slump, however, specifically on the defensive end.
Through a bad loss to Oklahoma City and two embarrassing losses to Phoenix and Boston, the Lakers have sent the message that they struggle with younger, athletic teams.
One reason this could be the case is the simple fact that the overall Lakers roster lacks a boost of athleticism. One other reason would be the current loss of defensive specialist Marcus Smart.
Smart has been out of the lineup managing a back injury for the last five games and will miss tonight's game against the 76ers as well. Today, JJ Redick gave everybody an update on his eventual return.
Marcus Smart could be back this week
While speaking to the media prior to the Lakers' game against the Philadelphia 76ers, head coach and former Sixer JJ Redick gave an update on Marcus Smart.
Redick revealed that Smart is still day-to-day but that they're hoping that he can return to the lineup as early as Wednesday when the Lakers take on the Spurs in the NBA Cup Quarterfinals.
JJ Redick on Marcus Smart, who’s progressing, but remains out tonight: “We’re hoping he’s back Wednesday, but he’s still day to day.”
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) December 7, 2025
Marcus Smart being reintegrated back into this lineup would do wonders for the team's defensive efficiency, taking a step back to normal.
If his return doesn't alter the performance all that much, it might be time to seriously explore a trade for a defensive-minded difference maker.
More: Lakers reportedly have interest in trading for one of the NBA's best defenders
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