There had been reports over the past few weeks that the New York Knicks had interest in Washington Wizards guard Marcus Smart if he were bought out.
On Saturday, that became a reality, as Smart was bought out of his deal with the Wizards.
According to reports, the former Defensive Player of the Year Award winner has taken a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Prior to that agreement, Stefan Bondy of the New York Post reported that the Knicks had expressed interest in Smart, noting that they had checked in on him, but he was seeking a job where he could secure guaranteed playing time.
“Knicks had checked in on Marcus Smart but my understanding is he desired a spot with a clearer path to playing time. Smart is reportedly headed to the Lakers after agreeing to a buyout with the Wizards,” he wrote.
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It isn’t that Smart wouldn’t have played for the Knicks, but with New York having an above-average backcourt and Jalen Brunson running the point guard position full time, the fit isn’t as clean as it is with the Lakers.
Ultimately, there’s a good chance that Smart could be a potential starter in Los Angeles. He’s had some injuries throughout the past few years, but when he’s on the court, he brings many little things that a team needs to win.
The Knicks still have an open roster spot, so the hope is for them to figure something out in the near future.
