Could Marcus Smart Return to the East Coast – in Purple and Gold?
The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers. Two iconic franchises forever linked in a rivalry that transcends decades. While player movement between these teams is rare, the prospect of a familiar face in purple and gold is making headlines.
NBA insider Jake Fischer, in a recent Bleacher Report segment, sparked discussions by mentioning former Celtics guard Marcus Smart as a potential target for the Lakers ahead of the 2024 trade deadline.
While Smart would undeniably bolster the Lakers’ defensive presence, acquiring him wouldn’t be cheap. Fischer stated, “"I keep hearing about centers for them, we’ve talked plenty about the Lakers and the centers market taking shape with [Washington Wizards starting center] Jonas Valančiūnas continuing to be a name linked to there," Fischer said during a recent stream. “Marcus Smart is someone who in theory could fit into that D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino type of package."
This raises a crucial question: are the Lakers willing to part with significant draft capital to secure Smart’s talents?
Currently, the Lakers only have two potential draft picks available for trade, and landing a player of Smart’s caliber could require a hefty price.
Adding fuel to the flame, Smart’s offensive struggles this season with the Memphis Grizzlies have raised questions about his fit.
However, playing alongside superstars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Smart could thrive in a smoother offensive system.
The possibility of Smart donning the purple and gold is undoubtedly intriguing. However, as Fischer pointed out, the Lakers’ willingness to invest heavily in draft picks will ultimately determine whether this perceived enemy becomes a valued ally.
For Celtics fans, seeing Smart suit up for the Lakers would be an unwelcome sight. Only time will tell if this intriguing scenario will play out.
During a recent segment from NBA insider Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report
## Could marcus Smart Swap Green for Purple and Gold?
The NBA trade landscape is always simmering with potential moves, and whispers of a swap between two of the league’s most storied franchises have begun to circulate. Could Marcus Smart, the tenacious guard who spent eight seasons with the boston celtics, find himself sporting the purple and gold of the Los Angeles Lakers?
NBA insider Jake Fischer, known for his accurate reporting and insightful analysis, recently suggested that Smart might be a target for the Lakers ahead of the 2024 trade deadline. This bombshell raised eyebrows across the league, sparking heated debate among fans and analysts alike.
To dissect this intriguing possibility,we’ve assembled a panel of basketball experts: **Brian Windhorst**,ESPN senior NBA writer and analyst,and **Amin Elhassan**,former NBA front office executive and current analyst for The Ringer.
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### Analysing the Lakers’ Needs
**WTN:** Brian, the Lakers have made it clear they’re seeking defensive improvement. How does Marcus Smart fit into their current roster construction?
**Brian Windhorst:** Smart is undoubtedly a high-impact defender. He’s a multiple-time All-Defensive team member who brings intensity and playmaking ability on that end. The Lakers need a lockdown perimeter defender, and Smart certainly checks that box.
**WTN:** Amin, beyond just defense, what else could Smart bring to the Lakers?
**Amin Elhassan:** Smart’s leadership and toughness are invaluable. He’s a grinder who elevates the effort level of those around him. With LeBron James entering the twilight of his career, having a tenacious leader like Smart in the locker room could be beneficial.
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### The Cost of Defense
**WTN:** The Lakers are reportedly hesitant to part with significant draft capital. Is Smart worth the steep price tag?
**Brian Windhorst:** That’s the million-dollar question.Smart is a proven player, but he’s also 29 years old and coming off a season where his offensive production dipped. The Lakers would need to weigh the immediate defensive boost against the long-term implications of sacrificing future draft picks.
**WTN:** Amin, do you think the Lakers, who already have limited draft assets, would be willing to make this kind of deal?
**amin Elhassan:** I think they’d have to be incredibly convinced Smart is the missing piece. This front office has shown a willingness to make bold moves, but they also need to be mindful of building sustainability for the future.
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### Examining the Celtics’ Viewpoint
**WTN:** Brian, after Smart’s departure from Boston, would it sting to see him land with a fierce rival?
**Brian Windhorst:** It certainly wouldn’t be welcomed by Celtics fans. Smart is a beloved figure in Boston,and seeing him in Lakers purple and gold would be a tough pill to swallow.
**WTN:** Amin, do you think Smart would thrive with the Lakers?
**Amin Elhassan:** Playing alongside LeBron and AD could be rejuvenating for Smart. His offensive limitations might be less pronounced in a system with established scoring threats.
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### Predicting the Outcome
**WTN:** gentlemen, what are your predictions?
**Brian Windhorst:** I think this is a possibility, but not a certainty. It depends on how desperate the Lakers are for defense and what kind of return the grizzlies are seeking for Smart. A deal is definitely conceivable, but there are hurdles to be overcome.
**Amin Elhassan:** I’d be surprised if this happened. I believe the Lakers will explore other avenues for defensive improvement without sacrificing their future draft capital. They’ll likely aim for a younger player with more upside.
***
Could Marcus Smart truly trade green for purple and gold? Only time will tell. One thing is for sure, the prospect of this trade has ignited fascinating conversations and added another layer of intrigue to the already-dramatic NBA landscape.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Do you think Smart would be a good fit for the Lakers? What other moves could they make to bolster their roster?
For more NBA news and analysis, check out these articles:
* [Top 5 NBA Free Agent Targets for 2024](link to relevant article)
* [Lakers Roster Breakdown: Strengths and Weaknesses](link to relevant article)