NBA free agency opens up at 6 p.m. Monday, and with it comes a slew of trade rumors. That could have a longstanding effect on the Celtics’ roster — including Marcus Smart.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, Celtics president Brad Stevens has been “frustrated by Smart’s unpredictable play in recent years.” With Smart entering the final year of his contract, Mannix reports “it’s more likely Stevens will look to trade Smart before the start of the season.”
If such a move materializes, it’ll have a huge impact on the roster that goes beyond the on-court product. Smart’s the longest tenured Celtic who grew into a fan favorite, billed as the emotional leader of the locker room.
But if the Celtics don’t think they can re-sign Smart to a long-term deal, it makes sense to deal him now instead of letting him walk next summer. Smart has one year and $13.8 million left on his contract, meaning he’s a desirable expiring contract who should bring some identity to a potential new team.
Mannix reported that the Celtics have shopped Smart in the past, though the price tag of multiple first-round picks was pretty high. That was under a different regime with Danny Ainge in charge, though. If Stevens is seriously looking to move Smart, the suitors should be there with a decent package coming the Celtics’ way.
The Celtics’ current roster could use a more established point guard as only Marcus Smart and Payton Pritchard are the viable options. But the team is right up against the cap with few options remaining. If Smart is moved, that could give the Celtics more financial flexibility while bringing back a solid return.
There are multiple moving pieces in a potential Smart trade. With the recent acquisition of Josh Richardson from the Mavs, there appeared to be at least one conclusion: One of either Smart or free agent Evan Fournier would no longer be with the Celtics next season.
While the Celtics are shying away from Fournier’s expensive price tag, there are other options elsewhere if moving Smart is on the table. A potential sign-and-trade for Lonzo Ball materializes, though there are still obstacles to sift through in such a move.
Mannix reported Spencer Dinwiddie is a potential point guard option for the Celtics, but he’s looking like he’s going to be even more expensive than Fournier and other free-agency options.
Regardless of rumors, it’s shaping up to be a busy offseason for the Celtics, just as co-owner Wyc Grousbeck warned. Stevens is in charge now and he’s looking to get Boston back in title contention.
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August 02, 2021 at 11:03PM
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Celtics’ Marcus Smart ‘more likely’ to be traded before start of season; Brad Stevens has grown ‘frustrated’ - MassLive.com
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