NBA Trade Breakdown: Porzingis Swaps Skies for Celtics, Smart's Tenacity Transfers to Memphis, Wizards Secure Jones in Three-Team Trade!

The reported trade:

Celtics get - Kristaps Porzingis, No. 25 overall pick, 2024 first-round pick

Grizzlies get - Marcus Smart

Wizards get - Tyus Jones, Danilo Gallinari, Mike Muscala, No. 35 overall pick

Grades:

Celtics: A

What a haul for Marcus Smart! Throughout his time with the Celtics, Smart proved to be an invaluable asset, contributing significantly to multiple Eastern Conference Finals appearances and even an NBA Finals run. He holds the distinction of being the longest-tenured member of the current Celtics squad. Known for his exceptional three-point shooting and defensive prowess, Smart's ability to guard multiple positions is a crucial attribute for any team aspiring to make a deep playoff run.

However, with the addition of Porzingis alongside Brown and Tatum, the Celtics now boast a legitimate third scoring option, who can even step up as the second option on occasion. Porzingis brings a diverse skill set as a scorer across all three levels and is also capable of holding his own on the defensive end, particularly with his rim protection abilities. With Porzingis joining the mix, Boston's frontcourt becomes even more competitive, featuring the likes of Williams and Horford, potentially necessitating a shift in their roles, possibly to the bench.

In an impressive move, the Celtics managed to secure two first-round picks in addition to Porzingis. This is particularly significant considering the depth of talent in this year's draft class, widely regarded as one of the strongest in recent years. Owning the 25th pick, Boston now has the opportunity to select either a ready-to-contribute starter or a promising prospect for the future.

Wizards: C

The offseason for the Wizards has certainly been intriguing. Surprisingly, they managed to execute trades involving their two top players, Beal and Porzingis, and in return, they acquired just a single first-round pick. Additionally, they have taken on three expiring contracts belonging to Muscala, Gallinari, and Jones, signaling their intention to clear cap space for the upcoming year.

Among the new acquisitions, Jones stands out as the most captivating piece. At 27 years old, he is a dependable point guard who has demonstrated his abilities when given the opportunity. During his time with the Grizzlies, the team achieved a winning record in games where Ja was absent, largely due to Jones leading the charge. Considering the circumstances, he is likely to be given the first opportunity to secure the starting role ahead of Monte Morris and Delon Wright, assuming Chris Paul is not part of the team in the following season.

Jones will have a chance to either build out a longer tenure with Washington or play out his contract year for a bigger deal next year.

Grizzlies: B

Grizzlies needed an adult in the room and a reliable defender who can guard the opposing team’s best perimeter player (with Brooks departure). They found just that and more in Marcus Smart, whose presence will significantly bolster their defensive capabilities. Additionally, with Morant facing a suspension of 25 games, Smart will step in as the primary ball handler during that period. Once Morant returns, the Grizzlies could potentially field a starting lineup consisting of Morant, Bane, and Smart, supported by JJJ and Adams.

While Tyus Jones' consistent and reliable play will be missed, the acquisition of Marcus Smart brings its own set of advantages. Smart's defensive skill set is precisely what prompted this trade, and his abilities on that end of the court will be instrumental for the Grizzlies, particularly in a potential playoff run. Now the Grizzlies have two DPOY’s in JJJ and Smart to throw on opposing teams.

There will be more dominos that fall tomorrow! Stay tuned!