The Boston Celtics have opened up the 2023 offseason with surprise fireworks, sending veteran guard Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies while reeling in former All-Star Kristaps Porzingis and draft equity according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. This marks a massive shake-up for a Celtics team that came up short this spring in seeking a repeat trip to the NBA Finals.
Along with Porzingis, Boston will receive the No. 25 pick in Thursday’s draft from Memphis as well as a 2024 first-rounder from the Grizzlies via Golden State. Marcus Smart, the longest-tenured member of the Celtics, is headed to Memphis. Boston is sending the No. 35 pick in this year’s draft, Danilo Gallinari, and Mike Muscala to the Wizards. Memphis point guard Tyus Jones will be also be routed to Washington.
The 7’3″ Porzingis represents a huge injection of talent for Boston’s frontcourt. He spent last season posting career highs across the board with Washington, and the 27-year old gives the Celtics a new and dynamic weapon alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Marcus Smart’s departure, meanwhile, leaves a notable hole in Boston’s guard rotation and in the locker room.
The 2023 NBA draft could be key to any big moves made by Boston or they could have a quiet night picking No. 35; we explore that range. https://t.co/6SOlrEZ3EW
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) June 21, 2023