When news broke that Marcus Smart would be traded away from the Boston Celtics in a deal that would eventually land them Christaps Porzingis, the basketball world was dumbfounded. Not only was the balance of power suddenly shifting in the Eastern Conference, but the Celtics were sending one of the faces of the franchise to a different city; Smart’s days as the team’s vocal leader are officially over.
Since entering the NBA nine years ago, Smart has been one of the main reasons why the Celtics never missed the playoffs during his tenure. However, the Celtics were unable to obtain the coveted championship glory; They lost in the Eastern Conference Finals four times and the NBA Finals once during that time period. After a disappointing seventh home game defeat to the Miami Heat this postseason, Boston management knew it was time for a change.
Marcus Smart is a seasoned veteran who competes aggressively on both ends of the floor. His presence will add seasoned leadership to an already talented Grizzlies squad.
Although Smart doesn’t have a championship ring, he brings plenty of experience to a young Memphis Grizzlies team that could use some veteran leadership. The Grizzlies are a team full of talent and entered the 2023 season with championship ambitions of their own. Unfortunately, their season ended in disappointment as they suffered a first-round defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.
In executing the deal to make Smart a part of the team, Memphis management no doubt hoped his veteran presence would help the young ballclub over the hump and out of the Western Conference to make its debut in the Finals next season. Let’s take a closer look at the ways Marcus Smart will be an asset to the Memphis Grizzlies next season.