Luka Doncic praised Marcus Smart’s influence after the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Miami Heat 130-120 on Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena. Doncic recorded a triple-double with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists.
“It’s unbelievable impact. I play against this guy a lot. He was always guarding me, so I know how I feel for the other team. So I’m glad he’s on my team, and the impact he has, it’s unbelievable. He’s been hustling every game, every moment, every minute, every second, so props to him,” Doncic said postgame.
Smart contributed 11 points, three rebounds, four assists, and two steals while recording his 1,000th career steal. The veteran guard has played a pivotal role in Los Angeles’ 5-2 start to the 2025-26 season.
Austin Reaves added 26 points and 11 assists, while Jake LaRavia came off the bench with 25 points. Jaxson Hayes had a perfect 7-of-7 shooting night, scoring a season-high 15 points and hitting his first career three-pointer as a Laker.
Los Angeles maintained control after an 8-0 opening run, leading 43-36 after the first quarter and 77-63 at halftime. Miami narrowed the gap in the third period, but the Lakers held a 102-98 advantage entering the fourth. LaRavia’s left-handed dunk early in the final period helped push Los Angeles ahead.
The Heat were led by Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s 31 points. Bam Adebayo and Pelle Larsson each scored 17 points, while Andrew Wiggins added 15. Miami shot 51.2 percent from the field but managed only nine three-pointers on 33 attempts.
The Lakers shot 50.5 percent from the floor and made 15 three-pointers. They outrebounded Miami 42-41 and had 33 assists to the Heat’s 29. Los Angeles played without LeBron James due to right-side sciatica and Deandre Ayton, who sat out with back spasms. James is expected to return later this month.
Smart’s early-season performance reflects his consistent defensive and playmaking contributions. Over five games, he has averaged 11.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists, shooting 44.4 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from three. His energy on both ends of the court has earned praise from teammates and opponents alike.
The Lakers will visit Portland on Monday, while Miami faces the Clippers the same night. Los Angeles is currently riding a three-game winning streak.
