The majority of the most intriguing NBA free-agency dominos have already fallen, but a few remain. Where will Clint Capela end up? Isaiah Thomas? How about Marcus Smart?
Smart, 24, was the heart and soul of the Celtics last season. He played 29.9 minutes per game and averaged 10.2 points, 4.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game. Most importantly, he is one of the best perimeter defenders in the league, and though he’s only 6-foot-4, he has the strength to switch onto post players.
Thus, one would think he’d command a decent offer on the restricted free-agency market. But he has not received the attention he expected he would. Per a new report, there is a “strong sense” around the league that Smart plans to defer his free agency to 2019 by opting into the final year of his contract with Boston.
“While no deal is imminent, two NBA officials whose teams have had some level of interest in Marcus Smart are getting a strong sense that he will sign the $6.1 million qualifying offer made by the Celtics and become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2019,” writes A. Sherrod Blakely of NBC Sports Boston. “His restricted free agent status has been the main reason why teams have been reluctant to give Smart an offer sheet, fearful that the Celtics will match it, according to one official.”
The Celtics have long made it clear they would like to bring back Smart, but they have to be cautious. Their cap situation is going to get really interesting in the coming years, as Jaylen Brown’s rookie deal and the currently affordable contract of Kyrie Irving expire.
Boston’s Future
The Celtics seem content to bring back essentially the same team that fell in seven games in the Eastern Conference Finals last season. Danny Ainge and company added Robert Williams in the draft, but have otherwise been silent.
Though the Celtics have had a low-key summer, don’t rule out the possibility of a trade for Kawhi Leonard. Our Chris Sheridan recently discussed Kawhi’s future — and a potential move to Philadelphia — on the Sports Betting Tips podcast.
