Marcus Smart reveals rival teams’ scouting plan for LA

LOS ANGELES – With a little more than a quarter of the season played, c Los Angeles Lakers are fighting for the top spot in the Western Conference standings at 17-7. But even with their solid record, The Lakers defense was bad. The team’s defensive struggles have intensified over the last five games in which they have gone 2-3. For a veteran guard Marcus Smartthe scouting report was released in terms of how to beat the Lakers.

After the team’s practice Saturday, Marcus Smart talked about how rival teams have come up with a blueprint to beat the Lakers in recent games.

“We’ve got to be able to guard. The scouting report against us is that we don’t guard people. If we’re going to be great in this league and do what we’re trying to do, you’ve got to be able to guard, especially in the West,” Smart said. “These guys are no joke, and they’re coming, especially when you have the ‘Lakers’ on the jersey. They’re definitely coming with everything they’ve got.”

The Lakers’ latest setback came during their NBA Cup quarterfinal loss to the San Antonio Spurs last Wednesday. The Lakers gave up a season-high 132 points to the Spurs. That loss prompted a film session later this week by the coaching staff, highlighting the defensive issues.

One of the key areas the Lakers have struggled with is physical activity. Other teams were more physical with the Lakers. That was certainly an issue during the team’s loss to the Phoenix Suns on Dec. 2, just prior to their recent road trip. It’s also something Smart feels it can take the lead on.

“A lot of it is my job. I’m trying to set the tone with the guys, give them a little bit of encouragement and a little bit of confidence in that direction. We’re playing against some of the best talent in the world,” Smart said. “Confidence can be shaken on that end when you’re going up against guys who have scored the ball at the rate guys have scored here.”

“For guys that aren’t used to it, my job is to make sure they have their confidence knowing that we’ve got their back, they’ve got our back,” Smart continued. “No matter what happens, we’ll always be there to pick each other up.”

When it comes to defense, Smart is among the top six players on the roster as far as the regular rotation goes, with a 116.8 defensive rating, according to StatMuse.

Smart was a welcome addition in terms of toughness and he brings defensive energy. He appeared in 15 games, including nine starts, logging just over 26 minutes per game. He averaged 10.4 points, 2.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.7 steals while shooting 42.9 percent from the field.

As the Lakers continue to try to fix their defensive issues, Smart will surely be at the forefront of those efforts.