The NBA offseason is always a whirlwind of trades, signings, and surprises, and this summer, all eyes are on Marcus Smart. The former Boston Celtics standout, known for his relentless defense and fiery spirit, finds himself at a crossroads with the Washington Wizards. With a roster crunch and a hefty $21.6 million expiring contract, Smart could soon hit the free agency market, drawing interest from top contenders like the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks. What does the future hold for the 2021-22 NBA Defensive Player of the Year? Let’s dive into Smart’s journey, his potential fit with playoff teams, and why his next move could shake up the Eastern Conference.
Marcus Smart’s Rollercoaster Journey
Marcus Smart’s career has been a testament to grit and determination. Drafted sixth overall by the Celtics in 2014, he spent nine seasons in Boston, becoming the heart and soul of the team with his tenacious defense and clutch plays. Named the 2021-22 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Smart was a key piece in the Celtics’ 2022 NBA Finals run. However, in June 2023, he was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in a blockbuster deal that brought Kristaps Porzingis to Boston. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his time in Memphis, limiting him to just 39 games over one and a half seasons, averaging 9.0 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists last season.
In February 2025, Smart was traded again, this time to the Washington Wizards in a multi-team deal. Now, with the Wizards holding 17 players under contract for the 2025-26 season—two over the NBA’s 15-player roster limit—Smart’s $21.6 million expiring deal makes him a prime candidate for a trade or buyout. The Wizards’ focus on developing young talents like Bilal Coulibaly and Alex Sarr further suggests that Smart, at 31, may not fit their long-term plans. His recent injury history, including a right index finger injury, a sprained ankle, and a shoulder issue, has raised questions about his durability, but his defensive prowess and veteran leadership remain undeniable.
A Hot Commodity for Contenders
Despite his injury-plagued recent seasons, Marcus Smart’s reputation as a defensive stopper and locker room leader makes him an attractive target for playoff-bound teams. The Los Angeles Lakers, looking to bolster their backcourt around Luka Dončić and LeBron James, have reportedly held “preliminary conversations” about acquiring Smart if the Wizards move him. The Lakers’ interest stems from their need for a gritty defender who can complement their star-heavy lineup, especially as they aim to maximize LeBron’s championship window.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks, fresh off ending Boston’s title hopes in the 2025 playoffs, are also “monitoring the situation,” according to the New York Post. The Knicks, now coached by Mike Brown and boasting a formidable starting five with Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Mikal Bridges, see Smart as a potential spark off the bench. In a weakened Eastern Conference—where stars like Jayson Tatum and Damian Lillard are sidelined by injuries—Smart’s defensive tenacity could be a game-changer for a Knicks team with “Finals or bust” expectations.
A buyout seems plausible, as the Wizards prioritize youth and roster flexibility. However, Smart’s $21.6 million salary for the 2025-26 season, the final year of his four-year, $77 million extension, limits his buyout eligibility for teams like the Lakers, Knicks, and Celtics, who are restricted from signing players above $12.8 million due to salary cap rules. A trade involving his expiring contract could be more likely, allowing Washington to acquire assets while sending Smart to a contender.
Why Smart Still Matters
Even if Smart’s offensive output has dipped in recent years (31.7% from three in Memphis), his value lies in his intangibles. As a three-time NBA Hustle Award winner and two-time All-Defensive First Team member, Smart brings a unique blend of toughness, playmaking, and leadership. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opponents’ game plans makes him an ideal fit for playoff teams needing depth. For the Knicks, Smart could alleviate pressure on Jalen Brunson by handling secondary ball-handling duties and locking down opposing guards. For the Lakers, he could provide the defensive grit to complement their offensive firepower.
Smart’s emotional impact also can’t be overstated. His “control what I can control” mantra, shared after a tough loss to the Celtics in April 2025, reflects his resilience amid a challenging two years. Fans and teams alike admire his heart, making him a fan favorite wherever he goes. On a platform like Facebook, where passionate sports discussions thrive, Smart’s story of perseverance and potential redemption with a contender is sure to resonate.
Marcus Smart’s journey from Boston’s heart and soul to a potential free agent is a reminder of the NBA’s unpredictable nature. With the Wizards likely to part ways via trade or buyout, Smart’s next chapter could see him join a contender like the Lakers or Knicks, where his defensive prowess and veteran presence could tip the scales in a wide-open Eastern Conference. At 31, Smart still has plenty to offer, and his story is far from over. As the 2025-26 season approaches, keep an eye on this defensive dynamo—his next move could redefine the playoff race. Share this story with your friends, and let’s debate: where do you think Marcus Smart will land.