The Los Angeles Lakers are building momentum as the NBA season progresses and a significant factor in their recent success has been a renewed commitment to defense. Following a 100-92 road win against the Houston Rockets on Monday, guard Marcus Smart emphasized the importance of consistent defensive effort, stating a stark reality for the team: “If the stars don’t defend, everyone has to. Otherwise, you don’t play.” This message underscores a shift in mindset for a Lakers team aiming for championship contention.
The Lakers have won nine of their last ten games, currently holding the third seed in the competitive Western Conference, according to web search results. Their recent six-game winning streak, culminating in the victory over Houston, has been fueled by a defensive intensity that forced 24 turnovers from the Rockets and limited them to just 12 points in the fourth quarter. The defensive plan, particularly against a scorer like Kevin Durant, was clear, as Smart explained: “Exactly that: to take the ball out of his hands. He’s so strong he can create a shot over anyone and get to his spots. We had to make everything as difficult as possible.”
👊 A Team Effort on the Defensive End
Smart was quick to credit the collective effort, noting, “It was a team effort. We continued to trust each other and assist each other.” This emphasis on teamwork extends beyond individual assignments, highlighting a broader commitment to defensive principles. The Lakers’ improved defense isn’t solely about individual brilliance. it’s about a unified approach to disrupting opponents and creating opportunities for turnovers.
According to Smart, sustained defensive performance is the key to unlocking the Lakers’ full potential. “We can be really, really quality,” he said. “Our offense is among the best in the league, but adding defense like this makes us a really dangerous team.” However, he acknowledged the necessitate for consistency, adding, “We have to be more consistent. It’s something we’re working on every day.”
🌟 Leadership Sets the Tone
The progress on defense, Smart noted, is directly linked to the leadership within the team. “We’ve grown a lot in this aspect, exponentially,” he stated. He specifically pointed to LeBron James, 41, diving for loose balls as an example. “You have LeBron James, 41 years old, diving on the floor – that says everything.”
Beyond James, Smart highlighted the contributions of other key players. “You have Luka [Dončić] taking charges and getting steals, AR [Austin Reaves] sacrificing, everyone holding their man. We’re trying to raise the level, especially defensively.” This commitment from the Lakers’ stars is setting a standard for the entire roster, reinforcing the message that defense is a non-negotiable aspect of their identity.
The Lakers’ defensive mindset is a direct reflection of their stars leading by example. Smart’s assertion that players who don’t prioritize defense will not see playing time underscores the seriousness with which the team is approaching this aspect of the game. It’s a clear message that defensive effort is paramount, regardless of offensive talent.
🪄 “Luka Magic, Baby”
While defense was the story of the night, the Lakers also benefited from strong offensive performances, particularly from Luka Dončić. Smart praised Dončić’s ability to score against tough defenses, saying, “Luka Magic, baby. We all grasp it. I’ve experienced it as an opponent… and now as a teammate.” He added, “It’s not easy to score like that against a team like that. That shows how special he is.”
The Lakers and Rockets will face off again Wednesday night at the Toyota Center, with the tie-breaker on the line. Smart emphasized the need for a strong mentality heading into the rematch. “We’re two teams that are fighting. We have to have the right mindset,” he said. “And above all, we have to punch first.”
The victory in Houston wasn’t just another win for the Lakers; it was a demonstration of their ability to win even on nights when their offense struggles, relying on defense and teamwork. Now, the challenge is to replicate that performance against the same opponent, in the same environment, with the same intensity.
📅 Next Game
The Los Angeles Lakers will return to action tonight (2:30 AM CET) between Wednesday, March 18th and Thursday, March 19th to face the Houston Rockets again at the Toyota Center.
In the cover photo: Marcus Smart during the game between the Rockets and Lakers on March 16, 2026 at the Toyota Center in Houston. (Credit: Joe Murphy, NBAE via Getty Images)
The Lakers’ continued success hinges on maintaining this defensive intensity and commitment. The rematch against the Rockets will be a crucial test of their resolve and a further indication of whether they can translate this improved defense into a deep playoff run.
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