Sources: Grizzlies acquire Marcus Smart from Celtics as part of a three-team transaction, including Kristaps Porzingis and Tyus Jones

Posted : 22 June 2023

The Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards, and Memphis Grizzlies have reached a three-team trade agreement. Center Kristaps Porzingis is being sent to the Celtics, guard Marcus Smart to the Grizzlies, and guard Tyus Jones to the Wizards, according to sources.

As part of the deal, Memphis is sending its first-round pick in the upcoming draft, the 25th overall selection, to Boston, as well as the Golden State Warriors' top-four-protected first-round pick in 2024. The Celtics, in turn, are sending the 35th pick in the draft to Washington.

The Celtics are also including forward Danilo Gallinari and center Mike Muscala in the trade to Washington. The trade was finalized just before the deadline for Porzingis to opt in to his player option for the 2023-24 season, and he has indeed opted in.

This trade followed a series of negotiations between the Celtics and Wizards throughout the day. The original plan involved a three-team agreement with the LA Clippers, but when that fell through, the Celtics turned to Memphis to make this deal happen.

For the Celtics, this trade marks a significant shift in their team's composition. Porzingis, coming off an impressive season with the Wizards, will provide a new offensive dimension alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, as the Celtics aim to compete for another NBA championship.

The trade also has implications for the Grizzlies and the Wizards. Smart, known for his defensive skills, will be a valuable addition to the Grizzlies as they seek to rebound from last season's early playoff exit. Jones, originally expected to fill in for suspended player Ja Morant, will now take on the starting point guard role for the Wizards as their roster undergoes further changes.

This trade is part of a series of significant moves for the Celtics, who still have important decisions to make this summer, including a contract extension offer to All-Star forward Jaylen Brown.

The team will also need to adjust to the absence of Marcus Smart, a long-time player and defensive standout. The Grizzlies and Wizards, on the other hand, continue to reshape their rosters through trades and acquisitions.

Sources: Grizzlies acquire Marcus Smart from Celtics as part of a three-team transaction, including Kristaps Porzingis and Tyus Jones

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