Latest news with #MarcusSmart
USA Today
20 hours ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Could the Boston Celtics reunite with Marcus Smart and Robert Williams III?
Could the Boston Celtics reunite with Marcus Smart and Robert Williams III? Could the Boston Celtics reunite with Marcus Smart and Robert Williams III? The Celtics are likely going to make some significant changes to their roster to cut salary as they try to get ahead of a potentially unprecedented payroll and tax bill, meaning the roster might look fairly different for what is shaping up to be a bit of a gap year as star forward Jayson Tatum recovers from a torn Achilles tendon. The folks behind the "NESN" YouTube channel put together a clip from their "Hold My Banner" show taking a closer look at rumbles such a move might not be out of the question, and what a deal bringing one of these Celtics alumni home might look like (as well as why they might do it). Take a look at the clip embedded below to hear what they had to say about the possibility of a Smart or Timelord reunion this offseason.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Wizards looking to trade former Boston Celtics guard (report)
Marcus Smart was expected to be a veteran leader on an up-and-coming Grizzlies squad, but his stint didn't end up working out in Memphis. So, at February's trade deadline, he was shipped to the rebuilding Wizards to finish out the season in what was effectively a salary dump. Smart could be on the move again this summer. Per NBA insider Matt Moore, the Wizards are looking to trade Smart to a contender, though there's been little interest thus far. That doesn't mean Washington can't eventually find a suitor as teams look for players after the draft and free agency. Advertisement Smart, 31, is in the final year of his contract, making $21.6 million for the 2025-26 season. He averaged 9.0 points, 2.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists this past season in 34 games (seven starts) between the Grizzlies and Wizards. Staying healthy has been the issue for Smart in recent seasons. But if a contender is looking for guard depth, Smart could be a formidable option. He doesn't stuff the stat sheet, but as Celtics fans know, he can elevate his game in the playoffs. Smart does have some unpredictability to his game, but when it comes to being an emotional leader, Boston fans embraced him during his time with the Celtics. Smart spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Celtics after being drafted sixth overall in 2014, making the playoffs every single year. There were impressive highs, including the 2022 NBA Finals run. But after the Celtics fell short to the Heat in the 2023 East Finals, the front office elected to go a different direction. Smart was included in the Kristaps Porzingis three-team trade with the Grizzlies and Wizards that also netted the Celtics draft assets. While the Grizzlies looked like a potential contender, they've taken step backs in recent seasons. Smart only played in 39 total games in Memphis in 1.5 seasons as he couldn't stay healthy. Advertisement It's been a minute since Smart has shown what he's able to do on an NBA court. There were some light flashes in Washington, but for a young, rebuilding team, the spotlight isn't as bright like during the Celtics' deep playoff runs. So the Wizards will look to potentially move Smart as the veteran guard will hope to build up his career again. More Celtics content Read the original article on MassLive.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to acquire $76,487,996 Boston Celtics star to bolster team around LeBron, Luka, and Austin and improve title odds
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, left, greets teammate Austin Reaves before an NBA basketball game with the Phoenix Suns, Sunday, March 16, 2025, in Los Angeles. (Image via AP Photo/Wally Skalij) The Los Angeles Lakers entered the 2025 season with high expectations after acquiring Luka Dončić to pair with LeBron James . However, their early playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves exposed glaring roster flaws. Now, the front office is eyeing upgrades, and a surprising target has emerged: former Boston Celtics defensive stalwart Marcus Smart. According to Bovada, the Los Angeles Lakers hold the second-best odds (+200) to land Smart, trailing only the Sacramento Kings (+150). With Washington likely moving on from the veteran guard, Los Angeles sees an opportunity to bolster its defense and add championship experience. Why Marcus Smart Makes Sense for the Lakers Despite limited playing time over the past two seasons (just 54 total games), Marcus Smart remains a proven difference-maker. His resume includes: - 2019-20 NBA All-Defensive First Team - 2021-22 Defensive Player of the Year - Key contributor to Boston's 2022 Finals run The Los Angeles Lakers struggled defensively last season, ranking 18th in defensive rating. Smart's ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses would immediately address this weakness. Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, center, celebrates after scoring as New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns, left, walks away and guard Austin Reaves stands by during the second half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Los Angeles. (Imagr via AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) As Matt John of Athlon Sports noted in the original report: "Smart is a former Defensive Player of the Year who helped the Celtics make multiple extensive playoff runs, including a run to the NBA Finals in 2022." Lakers' Competition for Smart While Los Angeles is a strong suitor, other teams are also in the mix: Team Odds to Acquite Marcus Smart Sacramento Kings +150 Los Angeles Lakers +200 Miami Heat +350 Dallas Mavericks +500 The Kings' slightly better odds stem from their need for backcourt defense, but the Lakers' championship pedigree could sway Smart's decision. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Undo Potential Trade Package Washington isn't expected to demand a hefty return for Smart, given their rebuild. The Lakers could offer: - A future second-round pick - A young prospect (e.g., Jalen Hood-Schifino) - Salary filler (e.g., Taurean Prince) This low-risk move would allow LA to retain flexibility for bigger trades while adding a proven playoff performer. The Bigger Picture: Lakers' Offseason Strategy Marcus Smart isn't the only piece the Lakers need, but he fits their timeline. Here's why: 1. Defensive Upgrade – Smart's tenacity would complement the offensive firepower of James and Dončić . 2. Leadership – His experience in high-pressure games would benefit a roster with title aspirations. 3. Cost-Effective – Unlike blockbuster trades, acquiring Smart wouldn't gut the Lakers' assets. The Los Angeles Lakers' interest in Marcus Smart signals a pragmatic approach to roster-building. While he won't solve all their problems, his defensive intensity and playoff pedigree make him an ideal target. If Los Angeles can outmaneuver Sacramento, this move could pay dividends in their quest for another championship. Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Might Sign $100 Million Brooklyn Nets superstar; Backups In Store Too? For now, all eyes are on the front office to see if they pull the trigger.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Wizards Receive Unfortunate Marcus Smart Trade Report on Monday
Wizards Receive Unfortunate Marcus Smart Trade Report on Monday originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Washington Wizards are among the worst teams in the NBA, and it may take them a while to become good again, pending any surprises. Even though that was the case this season, that didn't stop them from acquiring former Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart when they had the chance. Advertisement The Wizards acquired Smart primarily to acquire another asset when they agreed to take him off the Memphis Grizzlies' hands. As Washington focuses more on its rebuild, Smart may be on his fourth team in the last two years soon enough. The issue with Smart is that, ever since Boston traded him to Memphis two years ago, he has struggled to stay on the floor. Boston Celtics forward Grant Williams (12) and guard Kemba Walker (8) and center Tristan Thompson (13) and guard Marcus Smart (36) and forward Jayson Tatum (0)© Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images In the last two seasons, Smart has played a combined 54 games. That might be why trading him has been challenging for Washington. NBA insider Matt Moore reported on his Substack that the Wizards have had issues trying to trade Smart and may have to wait a while before getting a deal done. Advertisement "The Wizards would like to move Marcus Smart to a contender, but there's been little interest so far," Moore wrote. "He might be one of the guys moved in the latter days of free agency after teams strike out on other targets." Smart will be paid almost $21.6 million for the 2025-26 season, the last year of his current contract. Notably, the Celtics are trying to save money this offseason, which could lead to a reunion in Boston. The Wizards acquired Smart to get draft assets, so if the Celtics dangle that along with an expensive contract, Smart could be a Celtic again. Related: New Report on Celtics Star's NBA Retirement Decision Related: Kristaps Porzingis Named in Celtics-Suns Trade Report After Kevin Durant News This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
NBA Trade Report Surfaces After Celtics-Kings News
NBA Trade Report Surfaces After Celtics-Kings News originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Boston Celtics want to trim down their payroll for next season, as they are currently projected to be above the NBA's second tax apron for the third straight year. That's why they will likely make a few trades this offseason. Advertisement One potential trade partner is the Sacramento Kings, who could have some interest in some of the players may make available via trade this offseason. Jake Fischer reported on The Stein Line that the Kings have their eye on Jrue Holiday, who just finished the first year of a four-year, $134.4 million contract. Fischer wrote that "sources have duly linked Sacramento to various guards known to be available this summer. That list includes Holiday." Fischer also named other Celtics alumni like Marcus Smart and Malcolm Brogdon as potential trade targets. Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday© Stephen Lew-Imagn Images The Kings could use Holiday, and CBS Sacramento's Jake Gadon confirmed the team's interest, but it doesn't sound like a deal is close. Gadon reported on ESPN 1320 that the Kings have done their due diligence on Holiday, but there's a fair amount of competition for his services. Advertisement "The Kings checked in on him and wanted to see what the price is worth and everything like that," Ham said. "My understanding (is) Boston has better offers than what the Kings are offering." Holiday might be expensive and in his mid-30s, but he's a two-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion. He played a vital role in how the Celtics won their 18th title last year. He might not fetch much back for Boston, but it's clear he has a market. Related: Nuggets Predicted to Land Celtics Star After Russell Westbrook News Related: Celtics' Unexpected Kristaps Porzingis Plan Amid Trade Rumors This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
