The Memphis Grizzlies have suffered more injuries than any other team in the league this season.
Their campaign was already in a tough spot, with All-Star guard Ja Morant set to miss the first 25 games with a suspension, and they’ve had some tough luck throughout the course of the year.
Morant was barely able to play before being shut down for the year, and almost every starter has had to miss time with an ailment.
With that in mind, the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly reached out to them in an attempt to trade for Marcus Smart, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports (via Dime Alerts).
Bucks and Lakers have phoned Memphis about obtaining Marcus Smart; per @JakeLFischer
“Grizzlies have shut down any overtures for the veteran guard”
[via https://t.co/51Rfe5RVzm…] pic.twitter.com/YjzB78IvON
— Dime Alerts (@dimealerts) February 2, 2024
Nonetheless, Taylor Jenkins’ team has shut down any potential inquiry about the former Defensive Player of the Year.
Even despite the injuries and their subpar record, the Grizzlies continue to fight hard in every single game.
Moreover, they’ve made it a close game in several losses, showing a bright future and plenty of depth at almost every single position.
That’s why ‘it’s not a surprise to see that they have no interest whatsoever in blowing the roster up, as they have plenty of faith in the future of this team once they get back to full strength.
Smart has also missed time with injuries, but he’s still one of the best defensive players in the league, not to mention someone who provides some much-needed veteran leadership and a strong presence in this locker room.
The Grizzlies will be just fine, and they’re going to add another top-10 pick to that already impressive core.
NEXT: Grizzlies Sign Former Lakers Guard