Marcus Smart is already proving his worth, giving this Los Angeles Lakers team its much-needed edge. The former Defensive Player of the Year is leading by example and setting the standard. He revealed his motto that he wants the team to take to heart: “The toughest team sets the rules.”
Early Signs of Leadership
In a season-opening loss where the Lakers looked flat and turnovers piled up, Smart was one of the few sharp points: diving after loose balls, barking instructions, leaning into physicality—even at the cost of four fouls in 12 first-half minutes. It wasn’t pretty, but it was purposeful. Smart is leading by example—on defense, with energy, and with his voice.
Impact That Lives Beyond the Box Score
Then came a rematch against the Minnesota Timberwolves, a team that bullied the Lakers out of the playoffs last spring. Smart’s box score didn’t jump off the page—just three points on 1-for-2 shooting and two steals. But his impact was enormous: the Lakers were +24 when he was on the court. Smart stated, “Unfortunately, my stats aren’t going to do me any justice.”
“Stats aren’t going to do me any justice.” Marcus Smart, who went 1-for-2 against the Wolves with 2 steals and 1 rebound, speaks about how he aims to make an impact by setting the tone. LAL outscored MIN by 24 points in the 21 minutes he played. pic.twitter.com/C5RR3ctBOV
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 25, 2025
That quote captures the core of what Smart brings: leadership that isn’t measured purely in points. He’s vocal, physical, and refuses to wait his turn—he sets the tone. He commands the defense, communicates constantly, and makes the extra hustle plays that lift the whole unit.
Why Smart Belongs in the Starting Lineup
If the Lakers want energy from the very first possession, Marcus Smart needs to be in that starting lineup. He brings toughness, accountability, and a level of intensity this roster has been missing. On a team full of stars, having someone who provides that backbone actually matters.
Smart’s not just loud for the sake of being loud. He’s got the actions and accolades to back it up. He’ll bark out instructions, then immediately dive on the floor to prove his point. That combination of voice and action is rare.
The Lakers aren’t always going to look perfect. They’ll have nights where shots aren’t falling or the offense looks clunky. But with Smart setting the tone, they’ll show up ready to compete, to scrap, and to fight for every possession. Smart doesn’t just fit the culture; he’s helping shape it.
