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Marcus Smart Reveals Honest Thoughts on Being Traded To Wizards

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Gerard Angelo Samillano | Last updated Feb 11, 2025 2:03 AM ET

The Washington Wizards made some big waves during the trade deadline this season. The biggest move, of course, was sending Kyle Kuzma to the Milwaukee Bucks for Khris Middleton and AJ Johnson, along with some picks. However, an underrated pickup for the team was their trade with the Grizzlies, trading Marvin Bagley Jr and Johnny Davis for Marcus Smart.

Smart, the 30-year-old defensive-minded veteran, is expected to act as a mentor to this young Wizards team. The Grizzlies were expected to make moves in order to free up cap space for key extensions, and Smart was the casualty in this move. Speaking to Wizards reporters, Smart commented on his feelings about the trade.

""I was a little surprised, but also not at the same time," Smart said, per Chase Hughes. "I figured I'd get traded. Just didn't know where... Was a little bit surprised, it was a little last minute, but that's out of my control. I tend to not focus on things I can't control."

In two seasons with the Grizzlies, Smart averaged 11.6 points, four assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Smart is perhaps best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he developed a reputation for being a tough-nosed defender and facilitator for a top Eastern Conference contender. He is first point guard since Gary Payton to win Defensive Player of the Year honors, winning it in 2022 for Boston.

Smart is yet to suit up for the Wizards due to a finger injury he sustained two weeks ago. Even though he hasn't played yet, he's already made an impact on the team, as he was seen coaching up Jordan Poole a few days after he was trade to the team.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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