Miami Heat Rumors: Marcus Smart could be a trade target this offseason

The Miami Heat are reportedly interested in trading for Boston Celtics’ guard Marcus Smart, according to Five Reasons Sports Network and Adam Borai.

Five Reasons Sports tweeted out this information on July 31st. They stated that people should “monitor the name Marcus Smart” and that “the Heat have interest.”

Could the Miami Heat pull off a trade for Marcus Smart this offseason?

Miami is in need of guard depth this offseason, and Smart could be one to provide it. The combo guard is best known for his elite-level defensive ability.

Smart has been selected to the All-Defensive First-Team twice. His style of play would fit in super well with the Heat as he leaves it all on the floor.

Though he plays traditional defense very well, Smart is arguably best known for his hustle plays and energy. He constantly dives on the floor, gets into the faces of opponents, and does whatever it takes on the defensive end.

Last season, Smart averaged 13.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game for the Celtics. He shot 39.8% from the field and 33.0% from three-point range.

Though he has played primarily shooting guard for the past few seasons, Smart actually began his career as a point guard. In fact, he has been one of Boston’s best playmakers in recent seasons.

If the Miami Heat were to make a deal to acquire Smart, he would be a very valuable asset in their backcourt. He could either take over as the starting one or run alongside a star point guard at the two.

Kyle Lowry’s free agency decision will likely have a huge impact on Miami’s offseason, including a trade like this. Smart and Lowry could certainly co-exist, but Smart could also be seen as a backup plan if Lowry decides to sign elsewhere.

In addition, the Heat would have to send back assets in return for Smart, which is where things get interesting. The Boston Celtics are trying to win now as well, so they would likely want a haul for their supposed captain.

A sign-and-trade with Duncan Robinson or Kendrick Nunn could be possible options. Other than that, there’s not much the Heat have to offer Boston.

It will be very interesting to see how this plays out. If the Miami Heat did manage to pull off a deal for Smart, his energy and charisma would make the city fall in love with him instantaneously.