Marcus Smart Calls Lakers Contract Disrespectful After Signing with Rockets

Marcus Smart, who played one season with the Los Angeles Lakers, called the team’s contract offer disrespectful. He has since signed a two‑year, $12.4 million deal with the Houston Rockets that includes a player option. The move highlights how veteran players weigh security, pay and fit when enteri…

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 24 Sep 2026 02:12:22 GMT

Marcus Smart’s brief stint with the Los Angeles Lakers ended when the franchise presented him with a contract he described as “disrespectful.” After one season in Los Angeles, the 32‑year‑old guard signed a two‑year, $12.4 million deal with the Houston Rockets, his home‑state team, that includes a player option for the second year.

What Happened

Smart joined the Lakers for the 2023‑24 season after opting out of a two‑year, $10.5 million contract with the Boston Celtics. He was expected to provide depth off the bench but emerged as a defensive anchor, starting in the playoffs and posting a defensive rating of 116.9. Despite his contributions, the Lakers’ offseason overhaul saw the team commit large sums to new players such as Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler.

When the Lakers presented Smart with a new deal, he felt the offer did not reflect his performance. In an interview with Varun Shankar of the Houston Chronicle, Smart said, “First off, I played so well that the offer that was ultimately given didn’t match the way that I played.” He added that the contract lacked the security he desired and that other players with less production were receiving comparable offers.

Why the Offer Was Disliked

Smart’s criticism centered on two main points: the salary level and the lack of guaranteed terms. The Lakers’ offer was a two‑year, $10.5 million contract with no player option, which Smart felt undervalued his defensive impact. He also noted that the contract did not provide the long‑term security he sought, especially given his age and the physical demands of the NBA.

In contrast, the Rockets’ proposal offered a higher total value—$12.4 million over two years—and included a player option for the second year. This structure gives Smart more flexibility and a chance to negotiate a new deal in the future if his performance warrants it.

Smart’s Decision to Join the Rockets

Smart’s move to Houston was influenced by several factors. First, the Rockets’ roster already features offensive playmakers such as Kevin Durant, Alperen Şengün, Amen Thompson and Fred VanVleet, allowing Smart to focus on defense. Second, the contract’s structure offers a decent paycheck with the potential for a player option, giving him a sense of control over his career trajectory. Finally, returning to Texas—where he grew up in Flower Mound, a suburb of Dallas—provides personal comfort and proximity to family.

Impact on the Rockets and the League

Smart’s addition strengthens the Rockets’ defensive core. At 6’6” and 200 pounds, he brings elite perimeter defense, averaging 1.4 steals per game last season. His presence is expected to bolster the Rockets’ second unit and provide veteran leadership for younger teammates. The move also signals to other free agents that the Rockets are willing to offer competitive, player‑friendly contracts.

What’s Next for Smart and the Lakers

Smart’s contract with the Rockets includes a player option for the second year, meaning he can choose to re‑sign for a third season if the fit proves successful. If he performs well, the Rockets may offer a more lucrative deal. For the Lakers, the decision to pass on a veteran defensive stalwart reflects their focus on building a young core around new acquisitions. The franchise’s strategy remains to prioritize long‑term growth over short‑term veteran presence.

Key facts

Smart felt the Lakers’ offer undervalued his defensive contributions.
He signed a two‑year, $12.4 million deal with the Rockets, including a player option.
The Rockets’ roster allows Smart to focus on defense while teammates handle offense.
The Lakers are prioritizing a young core over veteran depth.
Smart’s move may set a precedent for future free‑agent negotiations.

Why it matters

The story illustrates how veteran players assess contract offers based on performance, security, and fit—key considerations for teams and free agents alike.