The New York Knicks are staying aggressive in their offseason efforts to build a roster capable of contending for the NBA Finals next season. As part of this strategy, they’re reportedly exploring a trade for Memphis Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart, who won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022.
Knicks Considering a Move for Marcus Smart
According to Kris Pursiainen of CBS Sports, the Knicks have held internal discussions about a potential trade for Smart. He noted that while no deal is imminent, New York’s front office is open to pursuing trade talks if the opportunity arises (as reported by Athlon Sports’ Chris Phelps). Pursiainen stated, “The New York Knicks have had internal discussions about a potential deal for Marcus Smart per sources familiar with the situation. NYK has had rumored interest in Smart before. No deal is imminent but several sources indicated the Knicks are willing to be active on the market.”
Smart Could Be the Missing Piece for the Knicks
Marcus Smart is known for his strong two-way play, and he could be the final piece that propels the Knicks into championship contention. As an elite on-ball defender, he excels at guarding playmakers, especially in half-court situations. Smart’s ability to draw charges, force turnovers, and disrupt opponents’ offensive plans would greatly benefit a Knicks team that ranked among the lower half of the league in steals last season.
Despite his relatively low three-point shooting percentage of 31.3% in the 2023-24 season, Smart has a reputation for getting hot from beyond the arc, making him a valuable offensive asset when he’s on a streak. His confidence grows with each successful shot, making him a dangerous scoring threat when he’s in rhythm.
Smart’s passing abilities further round out his game, making him one of the top backup point guards in the NBA. If injuries affect the Knicks’ lineup, particularly involving star player Jalen Brunson, head coach Tom Thibodeau could rely on Smart’s experience, including his role in leading the Boston Celtics to the NBA Finals in 2022.
What the Knicks Might Offer in a Trade for Smart
It’s likely that the Knicks will keep core players like Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Josh Hart out of trade discussions. However, players such as Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride, and Cam Payne could be considered potential trade assets to acquire Smart.
The Knicks’ front office, led by Leon Rose, will need to assess whether adding Smart to the roster provides more value and boosts their title hopes compared to keeping their current second-unit players. Smart’s versatility, defensive prowess, and experience make him a valuable addition to any team looking to compete at the highest level.
Smart is under contract with the Grizzlies for $41.79 million through the 2025-26 season, which means the Knicks would need to include additional players in a trade to match his salary. Robinson’s contract, worth $27.2 million over the next two years, could be a key component in making the deal work, allowing the Knicks to maintain financial flexibility to pursue other veteran talent in free agency.
