Grizzlies reportedly 'had interest' in this four-time NBA champion

According to Marc Stein, the Memphis Grizzlies held interest in Draymond Green before acquiring Marcus Smart. 

"I'm told that the Grizzlies' pre-Smart interest in Green was genuine," Stein wrote. "And it's fascinating to simply consider the idea of Green engaging Memphis in free agency conversations after the teams' past battles."

While Green is the more distinguished player in terms of career success, Smart is the better choice for Memphis. Both players possess a team-first mentality. 

Smart, however, also engrains himself in the city and its culture. Green will look to aggravate and antagonize opponents. Smart will earn their respect due to his hard-nosed play.

Smart is also four years younger than Green, which will allow him to remain at the top of his game for the duration of his current contract. Furthermore, the guard position is an area that needed strengthening for Memphis. Ja Morant will miss a significant portion of the season. 

Memphis will also be pairing the 2022 and 2023 Defensive Player of the Year together next season in Smart and Jaren Jackson Jr., giving their perimeter and interior defense a significant boost. 

Green has been outspoken regarding the Grizzlies' bravado in recent seasons. Smart has been complimentary of what Memphis has been building. As such, it's safe to assume Memphis made the right decision in acquiring Smart. 

By doing so, the front office also did right by Tyus Jones. The veteran ball-handler has earned an opportunity to be a starting guard in the NBA and will now get the chance with the Washington Wizards.

Smart was a fan-favorite in Boston. The veteran guard will likely become a fan-favorite in Memphis, too. Green would also have commanded a larger salary than what Smart currently earns, despite a similar level of impact. 

Smart might not have been the flashy name that Draymond is, but he makes far more sense for Memphis. Right now, the Grizzlies need a leader and calming presence. Smart provides that and more.