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[Saba Sports News] Any hard feelings between Marcus Smart and the Boston Celtics seem to have faded.
Smart’s departure from Boston wasn’t entirely smooth. The Celtics traded the 30-year-old to the Memphis Grizzlies last year as part of the deal that brought Kristaps Porzingis to Boston. Shortly after, Smart expressed feeling hurt by how the trade was handled.
During the Grizzlies’ media day on Monday, Smart reflected on his former team. While he admitted he wished he could have been part of Boston’s title run, he was genuinely happy for his former teammates.
“I was probably the most excited person for them,” Smart said. “I understood what they were working for. I spent nine years in the trenches with them, fighting for that goal. We went through a lot together—blood, sweat, and tears. Of course, I wish I could’ve been a part of it, but they deserved it.”
Smart, drafted 6th overall by Boston in 2014, became a fan favorite for his gritty play during his nine seasons with the team. When he returned to Boston as an opponent, fans showed him plenty of love.
In 581 games with the Celtics, Smart averaged 10.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists.