Marcus Smart’s time in Washington might be over soon. After acquiring Cam Whitmore from the Houston Rockets for two second-round picks, the Wizards are undergoing a youth movement and are expected to explore a buyout of Smart’s $21.6 million contract.
Whitmore, who turns 21 this week, is returning to the DMV area with a chance for an expanded role, and the Wizards are pivoting fully into development. That leaves little room for a 31-year-old veteran who has played just 54 games over the last two seasons due to injury.
If bought out, Smart becomes one of the most attractive veteran-free agents on the market. Despite his recent injury history, the former Defensive Player of the Year still brings elite perimeter defense, leadership, and toughness.
He averaged 9.0 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists last season, shooting 39.3% from the field and 34.8% from deep. Here are five potential landing spots — including two of his former team’s biggest rivals.
1. Boston Celtics
After stunningly trading him to Memphis in 2023 following his DPOY season, the Celtics may welcome Smart back as they pivot away from title contention.
With Jayson Tatum expected to miss significant time and the team shedding major contracts like Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, Boston could be eyeing a soft reset.
Smart would provide much-needed leadership, defense, and familiarity at a team-friendly deal. His return would energize the fan base and stabilize a locker room that’s lost much of its core.
2. Los Angeles Lakers
What better plot twist than Smart joining the Celtics’ biggest rivals? The Lakers are in desperate need of a defensive-minded guard who can complement or back up Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Smart’s grit and playoff experience make him a natural fit, and head coach JJ Redick would value his vocal leadership.
While the Lakers continue retooling after the Anthony Davis exit, Smart could be the veteran glue guy that bolsters their perimeter defense and toughens their identity.
3. Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets have quietly reshaped their roster this summer, trading Michael Porter Jr.’s large contract for Cam Johnson, bringing back Bruce Brown, and signing Tim Hardaway Jr. Smart would be a low-risk addition to strengthen their bench.
With Jamal Murray often battling injuries and Nikola Jokic needing defensive-minded players around him, Smart could thrive as a secondary ball handler and defensive anchor off the bench in a system that doesn’t require him to carry heavy scoring duties.
4. Detroit Pistons
Detroit has amassed plenty of young talent but lacks veterans who bring winning habits and a defensive edge. Marcus Smart would be perfect in this role. He can mentor players like Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, and Jaden Ivey while holding everyone accountable.
Smart would bring the kind of toughness and professionalism needed to help build the Pistons’ culture.
5. Miami Heat
The Heat are retooling after losing Jimmy Butler to the Warriors and Duncan Robinson in free agency. Erik Spoelstra still values defense, and Smart fits the “Heat Culture” perfectly.
As Miami looks to reestablish itself post-Butler, Smart could serve as a vocal locker room leader while contributing on the court. In a system that values effort, communication, and hustle, Smart would thrive.
If Washington moves forward with a buyout, expect these five teams, especially the Celtics and Lakers, to make strong plays for the gritty veteran.
