The New York Knicks have filled out their roster this offseason, acquiring depth pieces while gearing up for a deep playoff run in a wide-open Eastern Conference.
However, they may not be done adding to their backcourt group amid speculation that Marcus Smart could be bought out by the Washington Wizards.
Smart is on an expiring $21.6 million deal, and a buyout would make sense for both sides — the former No. 6 overall pick could latch on with a contending team, while the Wizards continue a youth movement alongside other veteran options in Khris Middleton and CJ McCollum.
MORE: Celtics could target reunion with former No. 6 overall pick if bought out
According to Atticus O’Brien-Pappalardo of DailyKnicks.com, Smart would be an ideal fit with New York, bringing defensive energy and a veteran spark to the club.
“The Celtics dealt Smart to Memphis as part of a trade to land Kristaps Porzingis, and he has only appeared in 54 games over the last two seasons while battling injuries,” O’Brien-Pappalardo wrote. “So, while his best days may be behind him, he brings some intriguing talents to the table.”
Those intriguing talents earned Smart Defensive Player of the Year honors in the 2021-22 campaign. While the 31-year-old hasn’t made much of an impact on the court since being traded from Boston, he could potentially revitalize his career as a bench contributor for the Knicks.
The Oklahoma State product could also serve as a mentor for some of the club’s younger backcourt options, including Miles McBride and Tyler Kolek.
Smart may no longer be the force he once was, but he’d still be a viable option for several playoff-caliber teams should he hit the open market.
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