-Ed-Mulholland-USA-TODAY-Sports-2023-06-22T124831.530
A late night breakthrough on the eve of tonight’s NBA Draft has shaken up the starting lineups of two top NBA teams.
After the Clippers stalled original talks of a potential three team trade between LA, the Boston Celtics and Washington Wizards, the Memphis Grizzlies found their way into the deal instead. Let’s break down what each side walked away with:
Celtics receive: Kristaps Porzingis, No. 25 overall pick (MEM), 2024 first-round pick (GSW)
The C’s grab an All-Star caliber big man who can instantly slot into their weak starting center spot currently held by an aging Al Horford. The former 4th overall pick can score the ball on all three levels and provide strong paint defense for a guard-loaded team. On top of this, Boston picks up two first rounders to help in their efforts to keep their championship window open. However, to make the deal happen, they were forced to ship off a major piece of their recent success.
Grizzlies Receive: Marcus Smart
As Porzingis needed to accept his player option by midnight, the Grizzlies stepped into an advantageous position as the Celtics rushed to find a third team to complete their trade. With extra leverage, Memphis was able to send two firsts (one from Golden State) in order to add former Defensive Player of the Year in Marcus Smart. Not only does this mean the Grizzlies have both of the most recent DPOY’s, but also that their backcourt is stabilized in the absence of Ja Morant, and their perimeter defense is secured after cutting Dillon Brooks. \
Washington Receives: No. 35 overall pick (BOS), Tyus Jones, Danilo Gallinari, Mike Muscala
After escaping Bradley Beal’s massive contract in a trade with Phoenix, and Kyle Kuzma hitting free agency, the Wizards are primed to commit to a full rebuild. With Porzingis ready to follow the two out the door, this trade gets Washington an extra selection in Thursday’s draft for a player they were losing anyway. In this case, something is better than nothing, and a pick just outside the first round isn’t a bad haul all things considered.
While the loss of Smart will sting Celtics fans for years to come, this trade benefits all three teams involved by filling holes and adding new dynamics to both contenders while helping Washington break their team down to begin a new era in the Nation’s Capital.
