Guard eyes Spurs return; defense misses his spark
Marcus Smart has missed six straight games with a lingering back strain, but JJ Redick hopes to have him ready for Wednesday’s Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinal against the Spurs. The Lakers want him healthy for the long run—and honestly, they’ve guarded him more carefully than their own rim lately.
Smart praised the team’s resilience for its strong start, saying their veterans keep emotions steady as they push through injuries. Everyone in purple and gold is ready whenever his name lights up the lineup again.
