Veteran guard Marcus Smart is the newest Los Angeles Laker after (1) the Washington Wizards bought out his contract, and (2) Lakers superstar Luka Doncic pushed to get him over to La La Land and into the Purple and Gold.

The 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year says Doncic reaching out “meant a lot,” adding that the chance to play alongside LeBron James was also part of the appeal.

New Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart is relieved he no longer has to guard Luka Doncic, who he had some battles with over the years.

Smart signed a two-year deal with the Lakers, but he actually wanted to sign with another Western Conference team initially. Luka Doncic helped change his mind to help bring him to LA. More news: LeBron James Reportedly Wanted to Join Mavericks, Team Up With Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis

Veteran NBA guard Marcus Smart provides some details on how Luka Doncic tried to convince him to come to the Lakers.

During a recent YouTube video from the "A.M. Hoops" channel, the host explored Smart's struggles since leaving Boston, looking into what's caused his injuries, and whether he can bounce back to become the player everybody grew to love during his tenure with the Celtics.

The Los Angeles Lakers made a big roster move recently, signing veteran guard Marcus Smart to a two-year, $11 million contract. Smart may not be the player he once was during his prime with the Boston Celtics,

Luka Doncic reportedly helped recruit Smart, and on Tuesday, the guard talked about how much he appreciated Doncic telling him that he should come to Los Angeles.