LeBron James and Marcus Smart have engaged in fiery battles in the Eastern Conference over the last decade, but that didn’t hinder their ability to build impeccable chemistry as teammates. The two veterans have been phenomenal in tandem during Los Angeles’ 2026 NBA playoffs first-round series against the Houston Rockets, leading the team to a 2-0 lead.
In Tuesday’s Game 2, James scored 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, while Smart had 25 points, seven assists and five steals on 8 of 13 shots. Some of their best moments came when they connected on the offensive end of the floor. James reflected on his partnership with the former Defensive Player of the Year and even cited a meme in which he communicated something to Smart non-verbally.
The meme originated during Game 1 and went viral on social media, which James mentioned to reporters after Tuesday’s 101-94 win. Here’s what he said about Smart’s solid play, followed by their understanding on the court:
“He’s battle-tested. Guy’s been in the finals, multiple big playoff games, big games in his career, so I mean, he’s not afraid of the moment. He’s always been assigned with some of the best players to ever play this game … to have someone like that, it brings a lot of composure to our team as well.”
James hailed Smart’s intangibles, such as diving for loose balls and deflections, as other areas where he changes the game for the Lakers. James then cited the meme to explain his blooming chemistry with Smart, saying:
“I think you guys seen the meme after Game 1. I can look at him and he know what the hell I’m talking about.”
One of James and Smart’s best plays together came with less than a minute left as Los Angeles looked to close the game. James signaled Smart to slow down as he brought the ball up the floor before he slipped past Tari Eason, and Smart hit him with the perfect pass on the roll for the slam dunk. The Lakers stretched their lead to seven, which pretty much decided the game.
Like LeBron James, JJ Redick also hails Marcus Smart’s poise
When the Lakers acquired Marcus Smart last summer, there were significant questions about his availability and ability to perform as he did in his Defensive Player of the Year days. Smart played more than he has over the past two years, suiting up in 62 games, starting 54 times. He was also the team’s best point-of-attack defender.
His inclusion in the starting lineup was one of the key factors behind Los Angeles’ success post the All-Star break, as the team went 19-8. Smart also contributed as a playmaker and floor general across various lineups. Like LeBron James, Lakers coach JJ Redick highlighted his experience and hunger as one of the reasons for the Lakers’ success.
“I competed against him in the playoffs, so I know what kind of competitor he is,” Redick said after the game. I got to watch him as a newly retired player – compete at the highest level and play in the finals, so I knew the moment and the stage … being a Laker, was not gonna affect him.”
The Lakers will hope Marcus Smart continues to thrive on offense as that’s where they need the most help, given they are without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, who combined for nearly 60 points per game in the regular season. As for Smart’s defense, it has been consistent all year and there’s little to no doubt he will likely be the team’s best defender in every game.
