After finding themselves entering an early offseason following a regular season that was riddled with injuries and record-breaking starting lineups, the Memphis Grizzlies have several decisions to make regarding the future of the team's lineups, including the essential starting backcourt.
Naturally, when discussing the makeup of Taylor Jenkins' rotation, there will always be a strong emphasis on maximizing the potential and strengths of starting point guard Ja Morant.
The superstar has helped redefine the franchise as more than just a small market team that plunges into the deep end within the intense Western Conference.
Just under a year ago, the Grizzlies traded with the Boston Celtics to acquire 2021-2022 Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart to bolster their backcourt, hoping to build off of the intense defensive prowess of the team.
In trying to solidify the backcourt rotation, Memphis additionally brought in veteran Derrick Rose to add to their depth and supplement guards such as Desmond Bane and Jordan Goodwin.
Within all of this, there is the clear question as to how the team should approach not only a starting lineup and the potential bench unit but also how much value they view Smart to have and how other teams perceive him.
Among candidates that will reasonably inquire about the trade cost for the combo guard, key playoff teams in both conferences will likely join the hunt, including one prominent Eastern Conference team potentially looking to shake up its backcourt.
Where will Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart be at the start of next season?
It's entirely feasible to view Smart as a cornerstone piece on a team with championship hopes -- A crafty and energetic defender who can also help facilitate an offense to best capitalize on the strengths of a team.
However, should other teams inquire about Smart's availability, the Grizzlies would be wise to field calls if there is a substantial trade package possibility.
With that being said, there are merits to both keeping and trading the 30-year-old, as he'll be entering his eleventh season and his recent DPOY honors can help to magnify his potential value on the trade block.