Marcus Smart says Lakers offer lacked value and security

Marcus Smart said the Los Angeles Lakers’ contract offer did not reflect his performance or provide the security he wanted, prompting him to leave for the Houston Rockets, where he signed a two-year, $12.4 million deal with a player option for the second season. He also cited a desire to play closer to home and Houston’s family connections. In an interview, Smart said the Lakers’ proposal fell short compared with offers he saw given to other players. He declined to disclose its length, value or guarantee terms. The Lakers’ offer therefore cannot be directly compared with his Houston contract, and the available reporting does not establish whether Houston offered more money. Smart described his decision as a choice between a substantial paycheck over fewer years and a more moderate salary with a longer term and an option. He said Houston gave him an opportunity to pursue what he believed he had earned. The Rockets’ contract includes a player option for its second season, but the specific guarantees were not detailed in the reports. The Texas native also said playing nearer to home appealed to him. Reports cited relatives and friends in Houston as part of the city’s draw.