Marcus Smart highlighted the Lakers’ defensive intensity as a key factor in Tuesday’s 111-103 win over the Pelicans. “For us, just an understanding… we want to win, and when we got a game where it’s winnable and it’s close… that sense of urgency goes through the roof,” Smart said.
Smart emphasized the team’s commitment late in games, noting that their defensive focus extends even when contests are not tight. “Even when it’s not close, we’re still trying to lock in… that’s kind of been something positive for us,” he explained.
The guard praised LeBron James’ impact during critical moments, particularly the fourth quarter. “Just him being him, what he’s been doing his whole career… putting the team on his back, taking control of the game, whether that’s scoring for himself or creating for others,” Smart said.
Smart also reflected on playing alongside both LeBron and Luka Doncic. “You can see me laughing at them too a lot and just the stuff they do… Luka hits that shot clock violation in front of their bench, and then you see LeBron, the way he goes off, back to back, points, shooting threes, getting to the basket… still running through the passing lane, at this age… it’s crazy for me playing against these guys and now playing with these guys,” he said.
Defensive efforts by teammates Dalton Knecht and Luka were also praised for setting an example. “It’s everything… Dalton taking his first career charge, Luka doing the same… giving that effort energizes everybody else and helps bring up our urgency,” Smart said.
Smart credited the team’s defensive mindset as essential to maximizing their talent. “We ask a lot on the offensive end, obviously, and we’re demanding a lot on them defensively as well… to see him giving that effort, it only energizes everybody else,” he said.
The Lakers, now 23-11, overcame a Pelicans team led by Trey Murphy’s 41 points, using an 18-4 fourth-quarter run that included key contributions from James, Dalton Knecht, and Deandre Ayton.
