The Boston Celtics made a big move this week by trading away guest guard Marcus Smart, Danilo Gallinari and two other players in a three-team deal that landed them Kristaps Porzingis.
On paper, it’s an interesting trade, as Porzingis is an All-Star level player and one of the best big men in the NBA – when they’re healthy.
But Porzingis’ recurring injury problems over the years make this trade risky for Boston.
Additionally, Smart, who won Defensive Player of the Year honors last season, is a defensive threat and, in some ways, was the heart and soul of the Celtics.
Jason Tatum and Al Horford, among others, could fill the leadership void created by Smart’s departure to the Memphis Grizzlies, said Brad Stevens, a former Celtics head coach who now serves as an executive in their front office.
When asked about the leadership void after Marcus Smart was traded, Brad Stephens praised Tatum and Horford among others and said, “We’ve got a number of people filling that void with Marcus and they’re just going to have to be better.”
– Jared Weiss (Jared WeissNBA) June 23, 2023
Without Smart, the Celtics should move Malcolm Brogdon, who just won his sixth Man of the Year award, to the starting lineup.
Their starting lineup, which should now include Brogdon, Tatum, Porzingis, and Jaylen Brown, will be among the most talented and impressive in the NBA.
However, this trade would also allow them the kind of depth needed to win championships.
Smart has been a full-time starter with Boston for the past five seasons, and although an inept offensive player, has grown into a capable facilitator on the side.
And now the Grizzlies will be given a fearsome guard trio alongside Ja Morant and Desmond Bane.
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