By Sunday 
With Luka Doncic sidelined by a sprained finger and leg contusion — and LeBron James also out of action — the Los Angeles Lakers are scrambling for answers. Enter Marcus Smart.
The defensive bulldog and former Celtics guard is stepping into the starting lineup for the first time in a Lakers uniform, taking Doncic’s place in Sunday night’s clash against the Sacramento Kings.
Sure, Smart’s 6.0 points per game on 50% shooting don’t scream “offensive threat,” but his real value lies in the grit, hustle, and defensive IQ that made him a Defensive Player of the Year back in Boston.
As the Lakers turn to Austin Reaves for offensive leadership, Smart’s job is clear: keep the Kings’ guards in check and bring that trademark fire to a team missing its star power.
The stage is set, and with injuries mounting, one thing’s certain — it’s Smart time in Los Angeles.