Lakers reportedly lost to Nuggets for NBA champion in free agency, leading to Marcus Smart deal originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart gave a worrying update regarding his recovery from Achilles tendinopathy.

Marcus Smart’s showing at practice caught the eye of both Austin Reaves and JJ Redick, who are counting on him to play a key role for the Lakers this season. Bringing in the former Defensive Player of the Year was one of the standout decisions of LA’s offseason.

Head coach JJ Redick clarified the situation, telling reporters that Smart’s absence was due to illness rather than the Achilles issue. “JJ Redick said Marcus Smart has flu-like symptoms and stayed home from practice today,” reported Jovan Buha of Buha’s Block.

The Los Angeles Lakers are eager to see what Marcus Smart can do on the floor this upcoming season. The Lakers needed more defensive talent on the roster, so signing Smart in free agency was a no-brainer.