Celtics Linked With Return of Former Fan Favorite

This summer has been one of change for the Boston Celtics. Brad Stevens has made multiple moves since the offseason began, as he begins retooling what had become an aging roster.

Boston isn’t going to be a contender next season. Jayson Tatum will likely miss the entire year due to an Achilles tendon tear. As such, Stevens appears to be searching for some diamonds in the rough, in the hope of uncovering some cost-controlled talent who can make an impact on a contending roster.

Nevertheless, Joe Mazzulla may need some additional veterans in the rotation. Boston lost Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet at the start of the offseason. Al Horford is likely next out the door. That’s where Marcus Smart comes into the equation. The former Defensive Player of the Year is expected to be available on the trade market.

According to Jake Weinbach, Smart could reunite with his former team.

“A potential reunion between Marcus Smart and the Celtics would not be off the table,” Weinbach reported via X. “The Wizards, who now carry 17 players on the active roster, are expected to offload key veterans to make room for younger assets and would reportedly prefer to send Smart to a desired location.”

Smart was a fan favorite throughout his tenure in Boston. He proved himself to be one of the best defensive guards in the NBA. Furthermore, his perimeter shooting took a significant leap during the final years with the franchise.


Smart’s Injury Issues Are a Concern

Since leaving the Celtics, Smart has struggled with a string of injury issues. He played in just 20 games for the Memphis Grizzlies before being sent to the Washington Wizards, where he suited up just 34 times.

Smart’s style of play leaves him susceptible to getting hurt. At 31 years old, his body is likely starting to hold him accountable for years of aggressive defense and putting his body on the line.

However, if Smart can remain healthy, he will be a major boost to Boston’s second unit, or even the starting lineup.


Smart’s Contract Could be a Problem

Another stumbling block the Celtics could face is Smart’s $21.5 million salary. Yes, he’s on an expiring contract, but it’s been clear by Boston’s recent moves that they don’t want to be in the second luxury tax apron this season.

Therefore, the franchise would need to send out a sizable contract to make the money work. Anfernee Simons would make the most sense; however, Stevens and Joe Mazzulla would need to be certain that Smart is a better fit with the current rotation.

Nevertheless, re-acquiring Smart would come with some hurdles to clear. Boston would be highly unlikely to attach picks to a deal for a veteran guard on an expiring deal. Furthermore, Simons would be a big enough trade piece to warrant the trade occurring straight up.

The majority of Celtics fans would likely welcome Smart back with open arms. Whether the Celtics have any interest in bringing him back to the TD Garden will remain to be seen. However, there are far worse options available.

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