3 Grizzlies who could be sent to Rockets in trade for No. 3 pick in NBA Draft

Marcus Smart

While there are no true indications that the Grizzlies are even interested in moving him, some seem to believe that Marcus Smart could be a highly sought-after talent on the trade market should he be shopped, and, interestingly enough, for some time now the Rockets have been viewed as an organization that could benefit from attaining his services.

From his already established relationship with coach Ime Udoka (served as headman of Celtics in 2021-22 while Smart was lead guard) to his proven leadership and ample postseason experience, if Houston's goal is actually to look for players who can immediately help aid in winning, there may not be many better-fitting options than Smart.

Though he may have been limited to just 20 games this past season due to injuries when on the hardwood the 30-year-old still seemed to display his nitty-gritty, two-way style of play that has made him a household name among his respective team's fanbases throughout his decade-long career.

In 30.3 minutes a night during his debut campaign in Grind City, the veteran went on to post solid averages of 14.5 points, 4.3 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.1 steals.

Of course, what he's most known for are his efforts on the less glamorous side of the ball, as Smart's a three-time All-Defensive First-Team selection and 2022's Defensive Player of the Year award. These kinds of intangibles and talents would fit in brilliantly on this Rockets team that just ranked in the top 10 in defensive rating, fifth in opponent field goal percentage, and first in opponent three-point shooting.

With a sense of familiarity already in place for how coach Udoka likes a team to operate and the team's desire to add on extra win-now talents, Houston may be hell-bent on adding Smart in any trade for the third overall pick and, if the Grizzlies covet it bad enough, it may be worth parting ways with him for.