Free agent guard Marcus Smart has agreed to a two-year, $13 million contract with the Houston Rockets, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal includes a player option for the second season, marking a significant roster addition for head coach Ime Udoka as he looks to bolster the team’s backcourt depth.
How Marcus Smart’s Move to Houston Came Together
Smart’s agents, Jason Glushon and Josh Ketroser, finalized the agreement with Houston Rockets officials on Wednesday morning. The move follows Smart’s decision to decline his $5.4 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers, which allowed him to enter the free agency market. This transition reunites Smart with Udoka, with whom he previously worked during their time in the Eastern Conference.
Marcus Smart led the Los Angeles Lakers in plus-minus last season, as the team outscored opponents by 256 points during his time on the floor.
Why the Rockets Targeted a Former Defensive Player of the Year
The Rockets’ interest in Smart stems from his proven ability to impact games on both ends of the floor, particularly in high-leverage situations. Despite two difficult seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards, Smart’s recent stint in Los Angeles highlighted a return to form. During the 2026 postseason, he averaged 2.4 steals per game, ranking third among all active players.
His performance in the 2026 first-round series against Houston served as a catalyst for the Rockets’ front office. When Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves were sidelined for Game 3, Smart recorded 21 points, 10 assists, and five steals. That performance, which included a critical late-game steal to force overtime, underscored his value as a veteran leader who can manage a backcourt under pressure.
Comparison: Smart’s Evolution Across Recent Seasons
Smart’s career trajectory over the last three years shows a clear shift in role and output. After his time with the Grizzlies and Wizards, he signed a two-year, $10.5 million deal with the Lakers—a contract he ultimately cut short by declining his second-year option. His new $13 million deal with Houston represents an increase in total value and a strategic pivot to a team where he expects to play a significant role in the rotation.
| Team | Key Stat |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles Lakers | 2.4 steals per game (2026 Playoffs) |
| Houston Rockets | Primary backcourt rotation (Upcoming) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the terms of Marcus Smart’s new contract?
Marcus Smart signed a two-year, $13 million deal with the Houston Rockets, which features a player option for the second season.
Why did Marcus Smart leave the Los Angeles Lakers?
Smart declined his $5.4 million player option with the Lakers to become an unrestricted free agent, eventually opting to join the Rockets to reunite with head coach Ime Udoka.
What was Smart’s impact during the 2026 playoffs?
He was a defensive force for the Lakers, finishing third in the league with 2.4 steals per game and putting up a 21-point, 10-assist performance in a crucial Game 3 against Houston.
Watch how the Rockets utilize Smart alongside their existing young core. His ability to facilitate the offense while maintaining elite defensive pressure often dictates the pace for his teams.
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