Marcus Smart Signs Two-Year, $13 Million Contract with Houston Rockets
Guard Marcus Smart has signed a two-year, $13 million contract with the Houston Rockets, including a player option for the second year. The decision was made by Smart on Wednesday morning, with his agents informing Rockets officials. Smart, a former NBA Defensive Player of the Year, will reunite with head coach Ime Udoka in the Rockets backcourt.
Smart had previously declined a $5.4 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers, making him a free agent. He had signed a two-year, $10.5 million deal with the Lakers, including a player option for the second season. Smart had a strong season with the Lakers, leading the team in plus-minus and contributing significantly on both ends of the floor.
Recruited to the Lakers by Luka Doncic, Smart had a resurgence in his performance after two challenging seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards. He averaged 9.3 points, 3.0 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.4 steals while starting in 54 out of the 62 games he played in.
In conclusion, Marcus Smart's move to the Houston Rockets provides him with a new opportunity to showcase his skills and contribute to the team's success. With his defensive prowess and leadership on the court, Smart is expected to make a significant impact in the Rockets' backcourt alongside head coach Ime Udoka.