Explore the latest developments concerning Smart (back) hopes.
Smart (back) hopes to play in Lakers' Cup game
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EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart was cleared to practice Tuesday after being sidelined with a back issue for the past two weeks, giving L.A. a defensive boost heading into Wednesday's NBA Cup quarterfinals matchup with the San Antonio Spurs.
"Back's feeling good," Smart said. "Felt good in practice today. So we did some tests, passed the tests. We're going to give it a shot tomorrow. See how it feels."
Smart, 31, missed the Lakers' last six games with what the team termed a left lumbar muscle strain.
Lakers Announce Major Marcus Smart Injury Update Ahead of NBA Cup Quarterfinals
The Los Angeles Lakers have received a major injury update on three-time All-Defensive Team guard Marcus Smart, a key offseason signing who has been out for the last six contests with a back lingering.
The 31-year-old has been available for 14 contests with the 17-6 Lakers so far, during his inaugural season with the franchise. When the Oklahoma State product has suited up, he's been an effective defensive presence.
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Across his 14 healthy bouts (nine starts), Smart has been averaging 9.3 points on .408/.254/.938 shooting splits, 2.9 assists, 2.3 rebounds and 1.8 steals per.
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Former Celtics guard nearing return with new team
The Lakers could be getting a boost to their lineup for the NBA Cup on Wednesday night with Marcus Smart approaching a return. The former Celtics guard has missed the past six games due to a back injury, including a game in Boston on Friday night.
“Over the last couple days, he’s [gotten] closer,” JJ Redick told reporters earlier this week. “We were hoping he’s back Wednesday, but still day-to-day.”
The Lakers fell to the Celtics 126-105 at TD Garden without Smart, Luka Doncic and LeBron James in the lineup. Before the setback, Redick spoke about the impact that Smart has been making both on the floor and on the bench this year.
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