Could the Boston Celtics Reunite with Marcus Smart Before the February 6 Trade Deadline?
As the February 6 trade deadline approaches, the Boston Celtics are making headlines with the possibility of reuniting with Marcus Smart, a player they traded away to the Memphis Grizzlies in 2023. Despite adding Jrue Holiday, who played a key role in the Celtics’ championship run last season, things have been a bit off in Boston this year, leading to speculation about whether Smart could make a return.
Holiday, although still a superior player compared to Smart, has not looked like his former self this season. At 37 years old, Holiday is signed through 2027-28 with a player option worth $37.2 million, which has some questioning whether the Celtics want to remain tied to him for the long term. If General Manager Brad Stevens is considering trading Holiday, it would likely be in a deal that creates more cap space or helps the Celtics build for the future.
In a potential trade scenario, the Celtics could send Jrue Holiday to Memphis in exchange for Marcus Smart, along with two promising players: Santi Aldama and Jay Huff. Aldama, a 24-year-old seven-footer, would fit well into Boston’s system as a stretch-big and offer valuable insurance against injuries to Kristaps Porzingis or Al Horford. Huff, also a stretch-big, could provide similar support.
The financial aspects of this deal also make sense for Boston, as Aldama’s contract is expiring, and Smart’s contract ends after next season. Huff’s affordable deal over the next three years would further help the Celtics create more cap space.
While trading Holiday right now might not be ideal for the Celtics, it’s a move that could ensure they get decent value in return before committing to his lengthy contract. The return of Smart to Boston would likely ignite the fanbase and give the team a much-needed boost of energy, especially with Smart’s defensive prowess and leadership qualities.
However, it’s important to note that this trade scenario might not be the best option financially for the Celtics if Aldama demands a high salary in the offseason. While the Celtics should probably stick with Holiday for now, the unpredictable nature of the NBA means that anything is possible before the trade deadline.
