Multiple trades in the NBA have shaken up the league for the upcoming 2023-24 season, and the Boston Celtics made a significant move to improve their roster. In a three-way trade, the Celtics traded Marcus Smart, who had been with the team for nine years, to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis, the 25th selection in the upcoming draft, and a first-round pick.
According to a source close to Smart, the 29-year-old point guard was shocked and disappointed to learn about the trade. Smart had a deep connection with Boston and had hoped to retire as a Celtic. The source stated, “Marcus loves Boston, he thought he would retire there. He wanted to retire there.”
During his time with the Celtics, Smart played in 581 games and had impressive averages of 10.6 points, 4.6 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals. He was recognized as the Defensive Player of the Year in the 2021-22 season, beating out tough competition from players like Mikal Bridges and Rudy Gobert. Smart also made an impact in his rookie season, earning a spot on the second All-Rookie team. Additionally, he was part of the league’s best defensive quintet in the 2018-19, 2019-20, and 2021-22 seasons.
The departure of Marcus Smart has sparked reactions from Boston legends. Cedric Maxwell, a former Celtics player who won two championships with the team, expressed his admiration for Smart and acknowledged his underappreciated contributions. Maxwell stated, “Obviously I’m a big fan of Marcus Smart, I think he’s been underappreciated, he’ll be missed, but I trust what Brad Stevens does. He’s the one calling the shots, and something the Celtics lacked was a scoring presence inside.”
The NBA trades leading up to the 2023-24 season have undoubtedly reshaped the league’s landscape, and the Celtics’ decision to part ways with Marcus Smart is a significant move that aims to strengthen their roster. As the season approaches, fans will eagerly watch how these trades impact the teams and the overall competitiveness of the NBA.
How has the departure of Marcus Smart affected the Boston Celtics’ roster composition and defensive capabilities?
Major trades in the NBA have caused a stir ahead of the 2023-24 season, and the Boston Celtics have made a notable move to bolster their roster. In a three-team trade, the Celtics traded away longtime player Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies. This decision was met with shock and disappointment from Smart, who had hoped to retire as a Celtic and had a strong bond with the city of Boston.
During his nine years with the Celtics, Smart proved to be a valuable asset on the court. He played in 581 games and maintained impressive averages of 10.6 points, 4.6 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals. In the 2021-22 season, Smart was even named the Defensive Player of the Year, triumphing over notable competitors such as Mikal Bridges and Rudy Gobert. His impact was felt early on in his rookie season, earning him a spot on the second All-Rookie team. Additionally, Smart was part of the league’s top defensive quintet in the 2018-19, 2019-20, and 2021-22 seasons.
The departure of Smart has not gone unnoticed by Boston legends. Cedric Maxwell, a former Celtics player and two-time champion, lauded Smart’s contributions and expressed his belief that Smart was underappreciated. Maxwell acknowledged Smart’s absence but placed his trust in the decision-making of Celtics coach Brad Stevens, noting the team’s need for a scoring presence inside.
The trades leading up to the 2023-24 NBA season have undeniably reshaped the league. The Celtics’ choice to part ways with Marcus Smart is a significant move aimed at bolstering their roster. Fans eagerly await the start of the season to see how these trades will impact each team and the overall competitiveness of the NBA.
“The Boston Celtics’ decision to trade Marcus Smart comes as a surprise, but it’s clear they’re aiming for a major shakeup in the upcoming season. With these multiple NBA trades, it’s exciting to see how the league dynamics will shift in 2023-24. All eyes will be on the Celtics and their moves, as they seem determined to position themselves for success.”