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.

Before Marcus Smart landed with the Los Angeles Lakers, the New York Knicks were very much in the mix to sign the veteran guard. However, the latest reporting has revealed why Smart ultimately passed on New York.