There is controversy surrounding situation of Marcus Smart with the Memphis Grizzlies. Although he made $76 million, Smart seems to be a bench player, leading to doubts about his contract’s worth. Furthermore, injuries have restricted him to participating in only 29 games in the past two seasons, with 20 games played in 2024 and just 9 in 2025.
A Trade Proposal Emerges
Dan Favale from Bleacher Report proposed a trade involving Smart. The agreement would send Smart, John Konchar, Vince Williams Jr., and a protected 2025 first-round selection to the Washington Wizards for Kyle Kuzma and Patrick Baldwin Jr. Kuzma, a more resilient athlete, is signed to a $90 million, four-year deal.
The Kuzma Advantage
Having Kuzma as a wing player would provide the Grizzlies with the necessary dependability. His ability to score and adaptability may enhance the team’s success, particularly with Ja Morant as the offensive leader. On paper, this trade enhances Memphis by fulfilling their requirement for reliable contributors.
Smart’s Intangibles Are Irreplaceable
Although Kuzma is reliable, he doesn’t have the leadership and defensive skills that Smart offers. The Grizzlies might regret losing Smart’s fierce competitiveness and motivation to inspire his teammates if they go forward with the trade.
Is the Trade Worth It?
This possible decision showcases Memphis’ dilemma: focus on steady output or retain a leader with a wider influence than just statistics. Currently, the Grizzlies need to carefully consider their choices. If Smart can recover and earn a more significant position, there may no longer be a need to trade him.
The Grizzlies are unsure about future of Marcus Smart, but it’s obvious that whatever choice is made will have a big impact on the team’s performance this season.
There is controversy surrounding situation of Marcus Smart with the Memphis Grizzlies. Although he made $76 million, Smart seems to be a bench player, leading to doubts about his contract’s worth. Furthermore, injuries have restricted him to participating in only 29 games in the past two seasons, with 20 games played in 2024 and just 9 in 2025.
A Trade Proposal Emerges
Dan Favale from Bleacher Report proposed a trade involving Smart. The agreement would send Smart, John Konchar, Vince Williams Jr., and a protected 2025 first-round selection to the Washington Wizards for Kyle Kuzma and Patrick Baldwin Jr. Kuzma, a more resilient athlete, is signed to a $90 million, four-year deal.
The Kuzma Advantage
Having Kuzma as a wing player would provide the Grizzlies with the necessary dependability. His ability to score and adaptability may enhance the team’s success, particularly with Ja Morant as the offensive leader. On paper, this trade enhances Memphis by fulfilling their requirement for reliable contributors.
Smart’s Intangibles Are Irreplaceable
Although Kuzma is reliable, he doesn’t have the leadership and defensive skills that Smart offers. The Grizzlies might regret losing Smart’s fierce competitiveness and motivation to inspire his teammates if they go forward with the trade.
Is the Trade Worth It?
This possible decision showcases Memphis’ dilemma: focus on steady output or retain a leader with a wider influence than just statistics. Currently, the Grizzlies need to carefully consider their choices. If Smart can recover and earn a more significant position, there may no longer be a need to trade him.
The Grizzlies are unsure about future of Marcus Smart, but it’s obvious that whatever choice is made will have a big impact on the team’s performance this season.
