Rockets' free agent signing Marcus Smart eager to play with Kevin Durant

At Houston Rockets media day, free agent Marcus Smart discussed his upcoming partnership with Kevin Durant. Smart expressed his excitement about being on the opposite side of Durant's shooting, stating, "I get to be on the other side of him taking the shots and not taking the shots over me." Durant's shooting ability, regardless of who is present, is a key factor for Smart, who noted, "Now I get to actually watch the shot and not have to worry about trying to make a miss."

A three-time All-Defensive selection and former Defensive Player of the Year, Smart will no longer have to defend Durant during gameplay, unlike in the playoffs last year. He can now focus on his defensive duties under former head coach Ime Udoka. Moreover, Smart's mentorship and basketball IQ will play a crucial role in developing Houston's young core, including players like Reed Sheppard, Bruce Thornton, and Amen Thompson.

In his last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Smart contributed as a leader, averaging 9.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, three assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game while shooting 33.1% from beyond the three-point line. For additional NBA updates, readers can tune into the BasketBaltes podcast or follow BasketBaltes on Instagram.