Some people found it odd when new Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart said that he has yet to hear from star forward LeBron James. There’s reportedly a reasonable explanation for why James hasn’t contacted Smart, however, and fans seemingly don’t have to be worried about the lack of communication.
Marcus Smart also said that he has yet to hear from LeBron James
— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) July 23, 2025
One Lakers source told Hoops Wire that James and Smart haven’t been in touch yet because the former is on vacation.
“He’s on vacation,” the source told Hoops Wire. “Calm down. LeBron is allowed to enjoy his summer. He doesn’t have to be about us (the Lakers) and basketball all the time. He’ll connect with Marcus when he’s back.”
Fellow Lakers newcomer Deandre Ayton also indicated earlier this month that he hadn’t yet heard from James either. It’s unclear if that’s still the case.
Smart’s introductory press conference was held not long ago after he agreed to sign a two-year deal with the storied Lakers franchise following a buyout with the Washington Wizards. He brings an impressive two-way skill set along with a wealth of playoff experience to the table in Los Angeles.
Regarding Smart’s playoff experience, he and James ran into each other in the playoffs on multiple occasions when Smart played for the Boston Celtics and James played for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Celtics and Cavaliers met in back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals in 2017 and 2018 (after also meeting in the first round in 2015). James’ Cavaliers won each series.
Smart has been on the other end of some incredible individual performances from James, and he’s likely now glad that he doesn’t have to worry about guarding the 40-year-old.
The former Defensive Player of the Year could very well play a significant role for the team in the coming 2025-26 season. Lakers insider Jovan Buha said in light of Smart’s decision to sign with the Lakers that Los Angeles should start him over forward Rui Hachimura.
There is a compelling argument for Smart to be in the opening lineup, as his defensive abilities would help L.A. significantly on that end of the floor.
In all likelihood, Smart will be in contact with James sooner rather than later. It should be exciting to see them share the floor once the coming 2025-26 season starts up, and with any luck, Smart will thrive in his maiden season in Los Angeles.
