Luka Dončić is evidently a playmaker on and off the court. Bringing Marcus Smart to the Los Angeles Lakers was a team effort, one in which Dončić played a meaningful role. On Tuesday, Smart spoke with reporters for his introductory Lakers news conference and credited the recruiting efforts of Dončić as one reason why he's in Los Angeles after reaching a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards.

It's clear from the offseason moves made by general manager Rob Pelinka that the Los Angeles Lakers are going all-in on an NBA championship in 2025. With star forward Luka Doncic exercising his $52.6 million player option for next season,

After two seasons derailed by injuries, Smart is eyeing a bounce-back with the Lakers: "I think there's no ceiling."

In fact, "there were whispers in league circles about LeBron James having eyes for Dallas," Hollinger reports. But the four-time NBA MVP was not willing to pass on $52.6 million with the Lakers for a non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign.

The Lakers remain the heavy favorites to retain James, but the DraftKings odds on LeBron staying in L.A. have changed significantly over the last few weeks.