While other teams like the Suns and Bucks reportedly pursued Smart as a free agent, turns out, Luka Doncic helped recruit Smart to Los Angeles. Per ESPN’s Shams Charania, Doncic "reached out to Smart and made it clear that he wanted to play with the two-way stalwart."

Dončić helped secure commitments from Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart after both unexpectedly hit free agency via contract buyouts.

Luka Doncic reportedly pitched the Los Angeles Lakers to Marcus Smart before it was reported that he is planning to sign with LA.