Wed Oct 22 02:30:00 UTC 2025: Lakers’ Marcus Smart to Debut Tuesday Against Suns, Doncic Also Set to Play; LeBron Still Sidelined
Los Angeles, CA – Lakers fans will finally get their first look at new acquisition Marcus Smart when the team takes on the Phoenix Suns in a preseason matchup on Tuesday, according to Lakers coach JJ Redick. Smart, who has been sidelined with an Achilles issue throughout training camp, has been cleared to play.
Joining Smart on the court will be Luka Doncic, who is also set to make his preseason debut against the Suns. The anticipated appearances should bring a boost to the Lakers as they prepare for the regular season.
However, the news isn’t all positive for Los Angeles. LeBron James remains sidelined due to sciatica on his right side and is expected to miss the next few weeks.
Smart, the 2021-22 Defensive Player of the Year with the Boston Celtics, signed with the Lakers this summer after a buyout from the Washington Wizards. Doncic was a strong advocate for bringing Smart to Los Angeles, hoping the defensive star can return to his previous form after struggling with injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons.
The two-year deal, which includes a player option, places Smart back in the national spotlight, reminiscent of his time in Boston. While his role on the team is yet to be fully defined, the Lakers are hopeful that Smart can bring his playoff experience and elevate his game in Los Angeles.
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