Since being inserted inserted into the starting lineup, Marcus Smart has helped the Los Angeles Lakers recapture some of its form defensively.<\/p>\n
Smart is always pestering ball handlers or putting his body in harm’s way to pick up charges. His physical style of play borders on reckless some nights, though ultimately it ends up to his team’s benefit.<\/p>\n
For example, Smart was a key cog in the Lakers’ fourth quarter comeback against the Dallas Mavericks<\/a>. He hit some clutch shots, but also rallied the team defensively in crucial moments. <\/p>\n There was a moment in the fourth quarter, however, where it looked like Smart hurt himself after deflecting a pass. After the game, he revealed his finger popped out but he popped it back in so he could continue playing. via Lakers reporter Mike Trudell<\/a>:<\/p>\n Marcus Smart said his right index finger – which he had surgically repaired last summer – popped out in the 4th quarter, but he didn\u2019t want to come out of the game, so he just bent over and popped it back in. He\u2019s about to go get it wrapped and iced up now.<\/p>\n — Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) January 25, 2026<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n \n