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Marcus Smart recorded seven steals, matching a single-game defensive mark only previously reached by Kobe Bryant (2006) and Eddie Jones (1996) over the last 29 years in Lakers history.

On a night where the Los Angeles Lakers needed defensive edge, Marcus Smart delivered one of the most dominant defensive performances the franchise has seen in nearly three decades.

Smart finished the game with seven steals, joining an exclusive statistical tier only shared by Kobe Bryant (2006 vs. Knicks) and Eddie Jones (1996 vs. Cavaliers). For nearly 30 years, no Lakers player has eclipsed that number — until tonight.

From the opening minutes, Smart imposed himself on the game. His anticipation of passing lanes, his ability to read an offensive setup before it unfolded, and his relentless on-ball pressure repeatedly forced Charlotte into mistakes and rushed decisions.

But these steals weren’t empty highlights — they came at critical momentum swings.

Every takeaway triggered energy, fast-break scoring chances, and defensive identity reinforcement. Los Angeles fed off his intensity.

This is precisely why the Lakers pursued Smart this offseason.

They weren’t just adding a guard — they were adding someone who sets a defensive standard.

Smart’s leadership, communication, and physical tone have reshaped how the Lakers operate on that end of the floor. He defends with purpose, and tonight, he defended with history on the line — even if unintentionally.