Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed that Marcus Smart participated fully in Thursday’s practice, signaling that he is trending toward playing this weekend. Smart had missed Wednesday’s session due to flu-like symptoms but returned to the court energized and without restrictions.
“Loved his energy,” Redick said. “We had a lighter day in terms of intensity but still played some live, and guys got after it. His availability will depend on how he recovers from today and Saturday’s practice.”
Smart described his training camp so far as a “roller coaster,” citing both the illness and ongoing Achilles tendonopathy management. “The staff is doing a great job of controlling what we can,” he said, noting that careful monitoring and strengthening exercises have helped him remain optimistic.
Redick also touched on how the team is adjusting during training camp. “Deandre got a couple days with Luka last week. No one’s gotten time with LeBron yet. He’s been on the court with the team—that’s just reality,” he said.
For Smart, the mental side of recovery has been equally important. “You tend to feel better than you are sometimes,” he said. “Just making sure I’m not putting myself at extra risk is key. With the work I’m doing, I’m confident it will hold up.”
The veteran guard highlighted his role as a leader for younger players. “Everybody at some point has come up to pick my brain,” Smart said. “Even some of the older guys. For us to be great, we all have to communicate and learn from each other.”
Smart also praised Deandre Ayton for his engagement. “He’s been really good coming to me, asking what he can do, what he sees. That’s big. It shows he’s ready to put in the work,” he said.
Redick emphasized that Smart’s return will be approached cautiously, balancing preparation with recovery. “We’re taking it day by day,” the coach said. “It certainly seems like he’s trending toward playing, but with injuries or illnesses, you never know how he’ll respond.”
The Lakers have a chance to see Smart back in action this weekend, depending on his response to the remaining preseason practices.
