Marcus Smart was happy with the Lakers' improved form after defeating the Rockets.

2026-03-18 07:03

In another NBA regular season game of the 2025/26 season, the Los Angeles Lakers, relying on scores from Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reeves, ultimately defeated the Houston Rockets 100-92 on the road, extending their winning streak to six games. Marcus Smart expressed his delight at the team's improved performance and defensive impact.

Luka Doncic scored 36 points and had 4 assists for the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James added 18 points and 5 assists, and Austin Reeves contributed 15 points and 5 assists.

Los Angeles Lakers point guard Marcus Smart said, "My teammates trusted me again and gave me opportunities, which is exactly what I needed, and I went out there and made some baskets. We can become better and be at the top level offensively with a lot of talent. If we add this level of defensive performance, we will become a very dangerous team, but the question is how to maintain consistency."

"We've made a lot of progress in terms of commitment. The fact that LeBron James, at 41, is still flying around fighting for the ball speaks volumes about how we've changed. LeBron James, Austin Reeves, and Luka Doncic have done so much on offense, and when teammates see them giving their all on defense, it motivates everyone else to follow suit. If you can't do that, you can't play."

When discussing the difficulty of defending Kevin Durant, Marcus Smart said, "It definitely takes a lot of effort, especially against a team that rebounds so aggressively. It's not easy, and you have to do it again and again. Luka Doncic putting up these numbers proves how special he is on offense. He can score in three areas, draw contact, force opponents to engage in physical play and go to the free-throw line, and his basketball intelligence is outstanding."

"Seeing LeBron James dunk is definitely a morale booster, and at 41 years old, it's a wonderful thing. He takes great care of his health, arriving early for practice and leaving late, which is why he can perform like this."

Image source: Internet