Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart emphasized focus and composure as key factors in Tuesday’s 110-101 win over the New Orleans Pelicans at crypto.com Arena.
“Just staying locked in. It’s been a long time since we’ve been in that position and had to fight back to get a victory,” Smart said about the team’s eight-point deficit with seven minutes left.
He reflected on the impact of collective effort: “Nights like this can change the trajectory for teams and players… Hopefully this win in the fashion we wanted kicks our confidence up.”
Smart credited instincts and sacrifice on both ends, saying, “That first play on the sideline… definitely instincts. My mind works in that way, and my teammates trust me to make the play.”
Discussing guarding Zion Williamson, he added, “He’s strong and athletic… you have to be willing to put your body there, take a charge, take an elbow to the face… Jaxson took about four shots to the face, I took about two, AR hurt his arm. We were all in there sacrificing our body.”
Experience played a major role, according to Smart: “For me, definitely a little bit of both—experience and patience… We have more time than we in our minds usually think. Just calm down and do what you’ve been trained to do.”
He highlighted the contagious effect of defensive energy: “Jaxson came in and changed the game on that end… that type of play is contagious. Any given night, it could be anybody. Tonight it was Jaxson.”
Smart also compared the comeback to early-season victories: “It felt like early in the year… even though we were down and things were looking a little shady, nobody on the bench panicked. That’s what you need in chaotic moments.”
Looking forward to a tough schedule, he stressed focus on one game at a time: “We’re aware of the standings, but we have to focus on one game at a time… next game in Denver, handle business, and give ourselves a chance to catch a good rhythm.”
The veteran contributed a complete stat line with 10 points, seven assists, four steals, and three blocks. He connected with Luka Doncic from deep in the closing minutes to seal the comeback, while Austin Reaves sparked the rally with a key 3-pointer.
The Lakers overcame 21 turnovers and an eight-point deficit with just over seven minutes remaining, responding with 14 straight points and finishing on a 24-7 run. Deandre Ayton added 13 points and eight rebounds, helping Los Angeles dominate the boards 48-41.
