Sacramento Kings: 3 options for saving the 2018 offseason
2. Make a Smart move
Sending Marcus Smart an offer sheet seems like a no-brainer at this point. Yet, it looks like the Kings have taken their time to make this transaction, which could come back to haunt them pretty soon:
Celtics GM Danny Ainge and Happy Walters, the agent for restricted free agent guard Marcus Smart, are now seriously engaged in contract talks, league sources tell ESPN. Potential deal range is in the four-year, $46M-$50M range, sources tell ESPN. Talks ongoing.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 18, 2018
If the Kings are hesitating because Smart only shot 30.1 percent from the 3-point line last season, that’s not a good enough reason. While he lacks shooting, he compensates for it with tenacious defense and intense leadership. The Kings need those attributes more than anything else.
Smart is only listed at 6’4″, but has shown his ability to defend multiple positions — even in the post, if need be.
Kings head coach Dave Joerger has been known to have an affection for a feisty player like Smart, so how is it possible that the Kings haven’t already kidnapped Smart and locked him up at the Golden 1 Center?
Whatever the reason may be, it can’t possibly be logical. If Smart and the Boston Celtics come to an agreement soon, the Kings will regret letting this opportunity slip. Now is the time to capitalize.