“If I’m the Boston Celtics I’m drawing a line at that guy” - Brian Scalabrine believes Celtics shouldn’t include 3-time All-Defensive player in a potential deal for Kevin Durant
Brian Scalabrine believes the Boston Celtics shouldn't include Marcus Smart in a potential trade for Kevin Durant.
According to reports, the Celtics offered Jaylen Brown, Derrick White and a draft pick to the Brooklyn Nets for Durant. The Nets declined the offer and made a counter proposal to include Smart, another rotation player and draft picks.
The Nets and Celtics entered trade discussions for Kevin Durant, per @ShamsCharania
Boston reportedly offered Jaylen Brown, Derrick White and a draft pick for Durant, but the Nets also wanted Marcus Smart, more draft picks and potentially one more rotation player https://t.co/qTvOQezcx3
On Sirius XM NBA Radio, Brian Scalabrine said he feels the reigning DPOY's value to the Celtics makes him untouchable.
"If I'm the Boston Celtics, I'm drawing a line at that guy. No way! A lot of people want to sit there (and say) he's polarizing to people, but not polarizing to me. You know, highly value the defensive end of the floor."
He added:
"The people out here, I don't think they understand how valuable he is defensively. I think the fans get it, but I don't know, I don't think that people who have a voice out here, like the radio people and people on TV out here, I don't think they understand how valuable that is to today's NBA.
"If I'm the Boston Celtics, I am drawing the line at [Marcus Smart]."
@Scalabrine tells @TheFrankIsola why he wouldn't include the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year in a trade for Kevin Durant. https://t.co/WWjDUAgdLu
Should Boston Celtics stick with Marcus Smart or trade for Kevin Durant?
Marcus Smart is one of the top defensive players in the NBA and the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. He can guard all positions and also act as a leader.
@smart_MS3Marcus Smart took COMMAND of the #Celtics defense in Game 1 🗣️Checkout some of his and Ime Udoka's mic'd up moments here ⬇️ @smart_MS3 https://t.co/8jYHciwLY1
Smart was instrumental in the team's run to the NBA Finals last season. He also stepped up offensively when needed, especially during the playoffs.
The Celtics already run the risk of losing an All-Star in Jaylen Brown to land Kevin Durant. Parting ways with Smart as well could severely hamper their playing style next campaign.
Defense. IQ. Leadership Ability. #KiaDPOYs
Those are just a few of the similarities between Marcus Smart and Draymond Green. After being compared earlier today take a look at Smart & Green's eerily similar plays! https://t.co/tREpedjhqq
There aren't many players that can replicate what Marcus Smart does on a basketball court.
Meanwhile, Kevin Durant is 34 and does not have too many years in front of him. He has also dealt with several injuries over the last few years. When fit, he is as lethal as ever on the court, but Boston should avoid jeopardizing their depth and defense by including Smart in a potential deal.