However, Charania’s well-respected co-worker, Bobby Marks, wisely pointed out that the Lakers need to clear space if they want to use the $5.1 million bi-annual exception to land Smart. The Lakers took a step in the right direction on Sunday by cutting ties with a recently acquired 6-foot-5 guard.

Marcus Smart was expected to be bought out by the Wizards this summer, it was just unclear where he could end up as a free agent. In a surprise move, Smart plans to sign a two-year deal with the Lakers,