Lakers star Luka Dončić made a direct recruiting pitch to Marcus Smart this week that resonated with the veteran guard, league sources tell @TheSteinLine, after Smart's agent Jason Glushon was granted permission by the Wizards to explore potential post-buyout landing spots. https://t.co/x30X5xOpMR

While he was initially shocked over the trade that sent him to Los Angeles in early February, he has seemingly gotten over those emotions. According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, he has given several signals that he intends to stay with the Lakers long term, including his assistance in recruiting center Deandre Ayton and now guard Marcus Smart.

With a determined mindset, Luka Doncic is entering a defining season in Los Angeles. The 25-year-old star, now in his second year with the team, will likely lead the franchise into a new era of success.