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.

Veteran guard Marcus Smart is the newest Los Angeles Laker after (1) the Washington Wizards bought out his contract, and (2) Lakers superstar Luka Doncic pushed to get him over to La La Land and into the Purple and Gold.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Smart admitted that Doncic actually reached out to him a few times and convinced him to come join him, James, Austin Reaves and company. More Basketball: Caitlin Clark Trolls Kelsey Plum After Getting Shaded at All-Star Game