When the Boston Celtics traded Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies, the move shook most of Beantown to its core. The rabid Boston fanbase will miss the unmatched energy, hustle, and leadership that helped Smart become the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2022.
While Smart made a name for himself with his tenacious defense, the Celtics may miss his evolution as a passer more than anything. Fortunately, Boston has the pieces to trade for a player that can match Smart’s playmaking.
That player is Mike Conley.
Ever since Memphis drafted him in 2007, Conley has established himself as one of the most consistent point guards in the league.