Boston Celtics Announce Marcus Smart's Replacement

Speaking recently with the media, Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla announced that Derrick White will replace Marcus Smart as the team's starting point guard next season. Smart, who was dealt to the Memphis Grizzlies earlier this offseason, started at point guard in every game he played last season.

Joe Mazzulla said Derrick White will be the #Celtics starting point guard.
— gary washburn (@GwashburnGlobe) July 26, 2023

Rather than pursuing an outside option to fill Smart's role, the Celtics will make this move internally, sliding White over from his shooting guard position to the point guard spot. White is a very versatile player, and has played on the ball quite a bit during his career.

For Smart, his role also projects to change with the Grizzlies, since they already have their starting point guard in Ja Morant. Smart will likely start at that spot while Morant serves his 25-game suspension, but once the star point guard returns, Smart projects to move off the ball.

Smart's ability to play off the ball is primarily what makes him such a great fit offensively for this Grizzlies team. Having played next to two stars in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Smart has spent a lot of time off the ball the last several years. A willing shooter, Smart isn't the most accurate threat from beyond the arc, but he has attempted around six threes per game over the last several seasons, which keeps opposing defenses honest.

Memphis Grizzles GM Gets Honest About Current Roster

Warriors and Lakers Expected to Show Interest in Former Grizzlies Star

NBA Rookie Reveals Advice from Ja Morant and Other Stars

Related Articles