Marcus Smart, G, Boston Celtics

Fans of the Golden State Warriors have long wanted their team to target the defensive-minded Marcus Smart from the Boston Celtics, but unlike Miles Bridges, bringing in Smart is a little more complicated given his contract size. Since Smart is owed $12.9M this season, the Warriors would have to choose between trading either Andrew Wiggins or Kelly Oubre Jr to make the money work. 

They could hypothetically trade Kevon Looney as well, but would have to package him with two to three other contracts and that does not seem possible unless they were to work out a multi-team trade here.

If they were to acquire Marcus Smart from the Boston Celtics straight up, it would not happen until near the trade deadline as the Warriors would send either Wiggins or Oubre Jr, whichever player is underperforming and does not have a future with the Warriors. Smart is definitely a perfect fit in the Warriors’ system and alongside Stephen Curry due to his “3-and-D” play style and would make an impact immediately. 

Last season, Marcus Smart had the best statistical season of his career, averaging 12.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 4.9 assists and shooting 34.7% from three-point range. In back-to-back seasons now, Smart has been named to the NBA All-Defensive First-Team and would help the Warriors with perimeter defense greatly, especially with Thompson out.

With all of the question marks surrounding the Warriors backcourt behind Stephen Curry, Marcus Smart could be brought in and immediately be the second-best player out of all the Warriors’ guards. It makes perfect sense for Golden State to target Smart, but if a trade was to be done, it likely would not occur until near or at the trade deadline in March 2021.