76ers trade for former public enemy No. 1 in this risky proposal

76ers trade for former public enemy No. 1 in this risky proposal

*This trade cannot be made until after Dec. 30, 2023

In this trade proposal, the Philadelphia 76ers acquire veteran guard Marcus Smart and young forward Jake LaRavia from the Memphis Grizzlies for forward Marcus Morris Sr., center Mo Bamba, the 76ers’ unprotected first-round pick in 2026 and and their top-10 protected first-rounder in 2028.

Without Ja Morant due to a 25-game suspension, the Grizzlies have absolutely sputtered out of the gates to begin the season, having lost their first six games despite a so-so schedule. The team has struggled to conjure up much offense without their superstar and their trademark defense has visibly declined due to injuries to Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke.

Smart was Memphis’ big offseason acquisition, and while the veteran has been one of their steadier hands this season, the former Defensive Player of the Year has taken on a much bigger burden offensively, which has affected his defense. More so, he is owed significant money over the next three years, affecting the franchise’s ability to lure in external help.

Of course, Smart is public enemy No. 1 for 76ers fans due to his notoriety as a pest and his long ties with bitter rivals Boston Celtics, but ultimately, how can he move the needle for the team even at the stated cost?