The Case For Marcus Smart
By Mike Garcia
How does he fit the team?
Mar 21, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys guard Marcus Smart (33) and forward/center Kamari Murphy (21) head for the bench in the second half of a men
He would fit the Laker team very well. The Lakers want to grab a championship window in the next two years just before Bryant’s retirement. He can impact the game immediately on the defensive end. Offensively, he may not be considered a top-three option, but he is willing to attack the basket and draw fouls. He won’t be timid at the NBA level.
He can also provide leadership in the locker room. He leads by example for the Oklahoma State team. Guys like Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher have built reputations of leadership based on the work ethic.
At the same time, after Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant have retired, he can lead a new team. He’s willing to do what it takes to win games, even if it isn’t always a game winning shot. He’ll take charges. He’ll draw fouls. He’ll dive on the floor. He’ll get respect from management, coaches, and teammates alike. That kind of leadership is tough to find, but it’s inherent in Marcus Smart. No one can teach fire.