Recently, the Boston Celtics added Kristaps Porzingis to their roster. So far, he feels like a perfect fit for the franchise. However, the strategic move came at a cost—the departure of their homegrown defensive star, Marcus Smart. Despite Smart’s excellent synergy with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown and his expressed desire to remain in green for the entirety of his career, destiny had alternative plans.

Smart now finds himself donning the Memphis Grizzlies jersey. Although he found some closure by reconnecting with his former teammates during his wedding, the former Celtic has yet to face them on the basketball court. Regardless, as the wait continues, a heartfelt moment occurred before the first matchup between the two teams.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown reunite with Marcus Smart

In the first face-off against their former backcourt partner and the Memphis Grizzlies this season, there was a burst of energy in the FedExForum. A heartwarming reunion unfolded during the pregame warmups, with Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum hugging and exchanging laughs with Marcus Smart.

Earlier, Smart had expressed disappointment at being traded, as he had said he wanted to be a member of the Celtics throughout his entire career. However, he is currently sidelined for the game. Smart is dealing with an ankle injury, which will keep him off the court for the upcoming weeks.

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The next showdown between the two teams will occur next year, in early February. Hopefully, the event will mark what fans have been hoping from Smart and his former teammates; an intense matchup.

Tatum expected to play beside Smart throughout his career

Even though Marcus Smart has transitioned to the Western Conference, Celtics fans continue to hold him dear to their hearts. The sudden trade for the defensive anchor took everyone by surprise, including Tatum. In a recent interview, Tatum revealed that he never anticipated Smart’s departure and had envisioned playing alongside the defensive maestro forever.

Tatum and Smart’s on-court partnership spanned six years, commencing in 2017 when Tatum joined the team. Smart played for the Celtics for a total of nine years, solidifying a presence that extended beyond the basketball court.

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At present, the Memphis Grizzlies find themselves at a disadvantage, as Ja Morant is serving a suspension. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics have strengthened their defensive lineup with Jrue Holiday. The Celtics currently dominate the league with an impressive 10-2 record. In contrast, the Grizzlies are grappling with a challenging 3-9 record.

How do you see this matchup going without many key pieces for the Grizzlies available?