Marcus Smart's future with Los Angeles Lakers gets major update

Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart has a $5.4 million player option in his contract for next season that he could turn down in favor of free agency. 

Smart is predicted to decline his option, but if he does so that doesn't necessarily mean the end of his tenure with the Lakers. 

Lakers interested in retaining Marcus Smart in free agency 

According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, the Lakers are interested in retaining forward Luke Kennard and Smart, who might be looking for a raise on a new deal with L.A. 

From McMenamin: 

The Lakers are interested in retaining Marcus Smart and sharpshooter Luke Kennard, sources told ESPN. ... Smart, who was recruited to L.A. by Doncic and has until June 29 to exercise the final year of his contract at $5.4 million, enjoyed his role with the Lakers and is hoping for a new contract and a raise, sources said.

Smart is coming off of a solid season in L.A. in which he started in 54 games for the Lakers and averaged 9.3 points, 3.0 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals per performance. 

This story will be updated. 

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