Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart, who has been sidelined for six games due to a left lumbar muscle strain, is cleared to practice and expects to play in the upcoming NBA Cup quarterfinals against the San Antonio Spurs. Smart, 31, who signed with the Lakers this summer, has been an effective defensive presence when healthy, averaging 9.3 points, 2.9 assists, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game. His return is anticipated to boost the Lakers' defensive capabilities, which currently rank 21st in the NBA with a rating of 116.2. Smart expressed confidence in his health after passing practice tests and plans to participate in the game, which is crucial as the Lakers aim to advance to the semifinals in Las Vegas. The Lakers are also monitoring the potential return of center Victor Wembanyama for the Spurs, who has missed the last 11 games. The game is a knockout round, with a victory offering a chance to compete for a $530,000 prize per player.