Boston Celtics Eye Potential Reunion with $76,487,996 Washington Wizards star to support Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler

The Boston Celtics could be on the verge of reuniting with a familiar face as they navigate a crucial offseason. Amid ongoing efforts to stay below the NBA’s restrictive second apron, the Celtics are exploring ways to bolster their backcourt depth, and a return for former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart is reportedly on their radar.

Smart a Logical Depth Option After Holiday Trade

Following the trade of Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers in June, Boston’s guard rotation now leans heavily on Derrick White and Anfernee Simons. While both players are capable starters, the Boston Celtics lack experienced depth behind them — an issue the front office may soon address.According to Vishwesha Kumar of Yardbarker, Marcus Smart could be a target if his current team, the Washington Wizards, pursues a buyout.“Smart would provide much-needed leadership, defense, and familiarity at a team-friendly deal,” Kumar noted in his report. “His return would energize the fan base and stabilize a locker room that’s lost much of its core.” (H/t: Sporting News)

Journey Since Boston Celtics Exit

Marcus Smart, the former No. 6 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, spent nine seasons with Boston before being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in June 2023 as part of the Kristaps Porzingis deal.

That trade was initially seen as a bold move to reshape the roster around Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.However, Porzingis was subsequently shipped to the Atlanta Hawks in another cost-cutting trade, and Smart’s time in Memphis was short-lived. He was dealt to Washington in February 2025, where he has since been part of a rebuilding Wizards squad focused on developing young talent.

Why a Buyout Appears Likely

Given the Wizards’ youth-focused direction, a buyout for the 31-year-old guard is increasingly realistic.

With Smart on an expiring $21.6 million contract and limited trade interest due to that hefty salary, parting ways through a buyout may benefit both parties.If bought out, Marcus Smart would likely attract interest from multiple teams seeking a defensive-minded veteran on a bargain deal — and the Celtics could be at the front of that line.

Leadership and Familiarity for Young Celtics Core

Boston’s roster has experienced significant turnover in the past two seasons, losing key veterans and reshaping its identity.

A Smart reunion could bring leadership, defensive intensity, and stability to a locker room still finding its footing.He would also serve as a valuable mentor for the Boston Celtics’ younger players, including recent additions Baylor Scheierman and Hugo Gonzalez.

Marcus Smart’s 2024-25 Stats

Despite an injury-marred campaign split between Memphis and Washington, Marcus Smart’s defensive impact and veteran presence remain attractive qualities.Here’s a look at his numbers from the 2024-25 regular season:

Fan Sentiment Favors Smart Return

For a fan base still adjusting to the loss of beloved veterans, Smart’s return would likely be met with enthusiasm. His gritty playing style and defensive tenacity made him a fan favorite during his nine-year run in Boston.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could be chasing $251,019,650 Washington Wizards superstar to form Big 3 with LeBron James and Luka DoncicWhile nothing is official yet, all signs point to the Boston Celtics keeping a close eye on Smart’s situation in Washington as they seek affordable options to strengthen their depth for the upcoming season.