The Lakers could cultivate a formidable defense by acquiring two elite point guards proficient in the 3-and-D archetype through strategic trades.
The Los Angeles Lakers may need to acquire more elite players with playoff experience to secure another championship in the 2024-25 season. A recent report has highlighted two potential guard targets who could enhance their roster: Marcus Smart from the Memphis Grizzlies and Malcolm Brogdon from the Washington Wizards.
In a piece by Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, he argues that pursuing Smart and Brogdon would be beneficial for the Lakers. Pincus emphasizes the need for improved backcourt defense, highlighting Smart as a tough, physical defender with considerable postseason experience. He notes that if the Grizzlies encounter difficulties, Smart might become available at the trade deadline due to his age, salary, and position, especially as Memphis invests heavily in players like Desmond Bane and Ja Morant. Additionally, Jaren Jackson Jr. will require a new contract starting in 2026-27.
Smart, the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, brings an aggressive playing style and proficiency in three-point shooting, finishing in traffic, and creating opportunities for teammates. His presence could significantly bolster the Lakers’ defense, which ranked 16th in the league last season. The team struggled with transition defense, allowing the fourth-most fast-break points, and was among the bottom in assists.
Brogdon, a former member of the 50-40-90 club in 2019, could also be an asset for the Lakers, capable of averaging eight assists in a game and serving as a reliable ball handler alongside LeBron James. As the 2023 Sixth Man of the Year, he could excel in either a starting role or coming off the bench for head coach JJ Redick. Like Smart, Brogdon is a high-IQ perimeter defender, which would greatly benefit the Lakers’ defense.
Both Smart and Brogdon have experience reaching the Conference Finals, with Smart even playing in the 2022 NBA Finals, making them valuable assets to support LeBron James and Anthony Davis in guarding elite playmakers in the Western Conference.
