The Los Angeles Lakers were aiming for their third straight win as they hosted the Miami Heat at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday. The Lakers employed a well-balanced attack to take a double-digit lead, 77-63, at halftime.
Marcus Smart made his presence felt in the way he knows best: playing defense. With 8:30 left in the second quarter, the Heat went on the break, looking for a quick bucket. Jaime Jaquez Jr. appeared to have a clear layup, but Smart ran him down for an impressive chasedown block. Somewhere out there, LeBron James was surely nodding in approval.
The 31-year-old Smart, acquired by the Lakers in the offseason to bolster their defense, delivered an impressive effort. The veteran guard has responded with his renowned grit—qualities that earned him the Defensive Player of the Year award and three All-Defensive First Team selections.
While Smart, who signed a two-year contract worth $11 million, has been hampered by injuries in recent years, he remains one of the league’s best enforcers. Together with Gabe Vincent, he could form a disruptive duo against opposing backcourts, a strategy that coach JJ Redick favors.
The Lakers are still playing without LeBron James, who is sidelined with a sciatica injury. Deandre Ayton also missed the game against the Heat due to back spasms.
As of writing, Los Angeles continues to lead Miami in the third quarter.
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