Smart, the 30-year-old defensive-minded veteran, is expected to act as a mentor to this young Wizards team. The Grizzlies were expected to make moves in order to free up cap space for key extensions, and Smart was the casualty in this move. Speaking to Wizards reporters, Smart commented on his feelings about the trade.

Marcus Smart said he expected a trade, though he was a little surprised since he was moved by the Grizzlies to the Wizards right before the deadline.

Former Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart was one of the unluckiest players at the NBA trade deadline on Thursday.