Injuries completely decimated the Memphis Grizzlies during their 2023-24 campaign, as they saw a record number of players suit up for the ball club as a result of such ailments.
From minor pains to season-long afflictions, Taylor Jenkins' rotation was absolutely ravaged by bites from the injury bug, and one of the most notable names impacted by these chomps was last summer's blockbuster acquisition, Marcus Smart.
Attained via trade with the Boston Celtics in July, the hope for bringing the veteran aboard was that he'd add defensive tenacity, overall intensity, and much-needed leadership to this young and aspiring Grizzlies team.
Unfortunately, due to a nagging ankle injury, Smart was limited to just 20 games during his debut season and, in turn, was never able to showcase the key attributes that many had hoped he'd provide the team. With this, many fans and pundits have begun to wonder whether the deal to acquire his services should be seen as a regret for Zach Kleiman and company.
However, there's an argument to be made that the brakes should be pumped when it comes to such a mindset, for we have yet to see what he can bring to Memphis when fully healthy and, with Jaylen Brown's latest comments regarding his former teammate, the franchise's faithful followers may still have a reason to be optimistic.
Jaylen Brown's comments on Marcus Smart should excite Grizzlies fans
After the Celtics officially claimed the Eastern Conference crown and secured their second trip to the NBA Finals in three years, the All-Star wing described the impact that Smart's departure had on the team, and noted that his absence forced him to try and fill the vital leadership role that the guard had manned during his nine-year stint in Beantown.
"Marcus Smart, one of my brothers that got traded, he was one of the voices of our team. When he wasn't here I wanted to make sure I stepped in."Jaylen Brown
During last timeout Marcus Smart screaming at his teammates “it’s embarrassing, it’s embarrassing” among other things. pic.twitter.com/fiKziJYOmG
— Alan Horton (@WolvesRadio) November 27, 2023
Throughout the season, Smart predominantly served as a vocal leader on the sidelines, and received both praise and admiration from his teammates and coaching staff for his engagement.
Unfortunately, he wasn't able to translate this type of guidance onto the hardwood due to missing 62 games. Still, the potential he boasts as a stern and captivating voice should give Grizzlies fans and personnel alike a desire to see what he can bring to the table once fully healthy and when surrounded by a completely intact supporting cast.