Boston Celtics shake up squad with big trade for Kristaps Porzingis ahead of NBA draft
- Rob McCarthy
- 22 June 2023
The Boston Celtics have looked to shake up their roster ahead of next season after reportedly trading for centre Kristaps Porzingis while also sending Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Boston Celtics have looked to shake up their roster ahead of next season after reportedly trading for centre Kristaps Porzingis while also sending Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Celtics will also receive two first-round picks, including the 25th selection in Thursday night's NBA Draft, while moving Smart, Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala as part of the three-team deal.
Porzingis joins the Celtics on the back of the best year of his career with the Washington Wizards, having completely bounced back from his struggles while at the Dallas Mavericks.
The 7'3 shooter averaged 23 points, eight assists and two blocks a game during the 2022 season.
Porzingis is only joining the Celtics on a one-year deal as they look to prioritise Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown over the next two years.
However, deciding to part ways with Smart will be a tough call for the Celtics.
Drafted in 2014, Smart became an instant fan but has been linked with a move away for the past few seasons.
A trade was always a possibility this season, with the Celtics having too many options at the point guard position - especially after the emergence of Derrick White.
And while it looked as if Smart would be staying ahead of the trade deadline, an hour before a three-team trade with the Wizards and Clippers was announced.
It had been heavily reported that the Clippers would take Malcolm Brogdon while still sending Porzingis to Boston. However, the Clippers pulled out of that deal.
The Grizzlies will be acquiring a perfect compliment to star men Ja Morant and Desmond Bane at the guard positions, with Smart more than capable of taking care of the defensive load.
The Wizards, meanwhile, have given away a few picks to make the move happen, as they look to rebuild their roster.
