Memphis star linked to a potential trade to the Lakers

For plenty of significant reasons, the Memphis Grizzlies brought Marcus Smart at their side from last year's offseason.

Even though the trade stung Smart as it meant his departure from his beloved Boston Celtics team, the Grizzlies were compelled to acquire the veteran guard due to what he brings to the table. Beyond the leadership and veteran presence that Marcus provides, Memphis felt convinced to add Marcus for his impact, especially defensively.

As the Grizzlies vie to go all-in and compete for next season, they believe Marcus will be a major puzzle piece for their potential championship puzzle. But if this lofty goal doesn't turn into reality, they might consider trading the 30-year-old for another Western Conference team.

Smart a potential trade target for Lakers?

In his recent piece for Bleacher Report, Eric Pincus unveiled his list of possible players that the Los Angeles Lakers could get linked on throughout the 2024-25 season. And among the 12-man list, he identified Marcus Smart as a probable candidate.

“The Grizzlies hope to put a desolate 2023-24 season behind them and resume their playoff chase. The team went from 51 wins to 27 with injuries and off-court issues (most notably with star guard Ja Morant). With that in mind, Smart isn't currently available. But if the team hits a roadblock, Smart could become available at the deadline based on his age, salary, and position, as the team is heavily invested in Desmond Bane and Morant. Jaren Jackson Jr. will also be due a new deal starting in 2026-27,” Pincus wrote .

Not a move to consider for Memphis

The forthcoming NBA campaign would mark the first season that Memphis's core, bannered by Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, and Smart, will be healthy and available to play. In this case, the Grizzlies will certainly go for an all-out approach, and dumping the veteran guard appears unlikely unless it would be badly needed by the team. Besides, doing a transaction with a Conference rival would be a head-scratching move to consider for Zach Kleiman.

For now, it's safe to assume that Smart would not go anywhere as the Grizzlies are heavily invested in the things he can contribute to the promising squad in delivering a statement season.

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