The Memphis Grizzlies have agreed to trade Marcus Smart and a 2025 first-round pick to the Washington Wizards in a multi-team deal that also includes the Sacramento Kings, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The move gives Memphis much-needed roster flexibility as they continue to retool following a disastrous season plagued by injuries.
Trade Details
Washington Wizards Receive: Marcus Smart, Colby Jones, Alex Len, 2025 First-Round pick
Sacramento Kings Receive: Jake LaRavia, Marvin Bagley III, Johnny Davis
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Three Second-Round picks
Smart, who was acquired last offseason from the Boston Celtics, has struggled to stay on the court, playing in just 39 games across two seasons due to persistent injuries. This season, he has appeared in only 19 games, averaging 8.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while shooting 35.8% from the field and 32.2% from three-point range.
Despite his defensive prowess and leadership, his $21.6 million salary for next season became a trade asset rather than a long-term piece for the Grizzlies’ future.
By offloading Smart’s contract, Memphis now has the financial flexibility to make key roster decisions, particularly regarding Jaren Jackson Jr., who enters the final year of his $23.4 million deal this offseason. The Grizzlies could potentially renegotiate and extend Jackson’s contract, ensuring the former Defensive Player of the Year remains a core part of their future.
As part of this trade, Sacramento is sending Alex Len, Colby Jones, and their 2028 second-round pick to Memphis in exchange for Jake LaRavia. Len provides depth in the frontcourt, while Jones adds a young wing option for the Grizzlies.
Memphis is also receiving Marvin Bagley III and Johhny Davis from the Wizards, adding much-needed frontcourt depth. The former No. 2 overall pick has struggled to find consistency in his career, but he remains an intriguing offensive talent who could thrive in a bigger role with the Grizzlies. Johnny Davis, the 10th overall pick in 2022, has struggled to find his footing in Washington but gets a fresh start with Memphis.
For Washington, adding Smart brings defensive intensity and veteran leadership to a rebuilding team. With Jordan Poole already on the roster, it remains to be seen how they will integrate Smart, or if they will explore another move before the deadline.
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