Could a Marcus Smart Trade Be on the Horizon for the Memphis Grizzlies?
The Memphis Grizzlies are facing a crucial decision regarding one-time Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Smart. While he boasts championship experience and undeniable defensive prowess, Smart’s $76 million contract raises eyebrows considering his current role as a bench player.
Adding to the complicated equation, Smart has struggled with) injuries over the past two seasons, appearing in only 29 games combined – 20 in 2024 and 9 in 2025. This lack of availability makes his price tag even harder to justify.
As a result, speculation surrounding a potential trade involving Smart is building.
A Proposed Trade with the Washington Wizards…
One intriguing trade idea stems from Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale, who envisions a deal that would send Smart, along with John Konchar and Vince Williams Jr., along with a 2025 first-round pick (top-eight protected through 2027; turning into second-round picks if not conveyed) to the Washington Wizards. In return, the Grizzlies would receive Kyle Kuzma and Patrick Baldwin Jr.
Let’s dive into the details of this proposed trade agreement:
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Contracts: From a salary perspective, Kuzma is earning $90 million over a four-year contract. This is outset a significant expense for Memphis, but immediately addresses the need for a healthy wing player.
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On-Court Strengths and Weaknesses:
While Kuzma offers a robust offensive presence and demonstrates notable athleticism, he lacks the intangible element of leadership that Smart brings to the court. On the other hand, Baldwin Jr. presents an intriguing prospect with great potential.
Would This Trade Benefit the Grizzlies?
On paper, the trade offers some potential for Memphis. Kuzma would bring a much-needed scoring punch to the lineup while Baldwin Jr. could develop under the Grizzlies’ system.
However, the Grizzlies need to carefully weigh the high financial commitment. While Kuzma offers valuable offensive production, the trade could leave them financially constrained if they need to pursue other crucial players in the future.
Is Marcus Smart’s recent injury history and $76 million contract a cause for concern for the Memphis Grizzlies, potentially leading to a trade?
## Could a Marcus Smart Trade Be on the Horizon for the Memphis Grizzlies?
**Host:** Joining us today is basketball analyst, Sarah Jones, to discuss the potential future of Marcus Smart with the Memphis Grizzlies. Sarah, thanks for being here.
**Sarah:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** Let’s dive right in. The Grizzlies acquired Marcus Smart just this past June in a three-team deal [1](https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/37896379/grizzlies-acquire-marcus-smart-celtics-3-team-deal-involving-kristaps-porzingis-tyus-jones-sources-say). While he brings a winning pedigree and a ferocious defensive presence, there are certainly questions surrounding his $76 million contract and his recent struggles with injuries. Does his role as a bench player raise red flags for Memphis?
**Sarah:** Absolutely. Smart is a phenomenal defender, there’s no doubt about that. A true champion who brings leadership and experience to any team. However, paying a player of that caliber to come off the bench is a big financial commitment, especially given his history of injuries. The Grizzlies need to weigh the benefits of his experience against the risk of his contract and potential for further injury concerns.
**Host:** Exactly. And his limited availability due to those injuries over the last two seasons must be a major concern.
**Sarah:** It’s a huge concern.
It throws a wrench into any long-term plans. The Grizzlies are a young team with championship aspirations, and they need players who can be counted on night in and night out. Smart’s inability to stay on the court consistently poses a serious problem for their playoff hopes.
**Host:** So, do you think a trade is becoming increasingly likely for Smart?
**Sarah:** It wouldn’t be surprising. The Grizzlies need to make tough decisions to optimize their roster and contend for a title. If they could find a trade partner willing to absorb Smart’s contract and provide them with a player who fits their needs better, I think they’d seriously consider it.
**Host:** Intriguing. Well, Sarah, thank you for your insightful analysis. This is certainly a situation worth keeping an eye on as the season progresses.
**Sarah:** My pleasure.
