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NBA rumors: Bucks, Hawks among teams that considered Marcus Smart trade
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- NBA rumors: Bucks, Hawks among teams that considered Marcus Smart trade
The post NBA rumors: Bucks, Hawks among teams that considered Marcus Smart trade appeared first on ClutchPoints .
Before Marcus Smart reached a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards and ultimately signed with the Los Angeles Lakers , several NBA contenders were actively exploring trades for the former Defensive Player of the Year . According to reporting from insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the Milwaukee Bucks , Atlanta Hawks , and Miami Heat all made v arying inquiries about Smart's availability leading up to the 2025 NBA Draft.
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The Hawks, fresh off one of the most aggressive offseasons in the league, reportedly considered absorbing Smart's $22 million expiring contract into their $25 million traded player exception generated by the Dejounte Murray deal.
While Atlanta ultimately pivoted toward acquiring Kristaps Porziņģis and signing Nickeil Alexander-Walker , their pursuit of Smart reveals concerns about whether young guard Kobe Bufkin is ready to handle full-time backup duties. Smart, a rugged defender with combo guard versatility, would've been an ideal mentor, or even long-term option, for a Hawks team squarely in win-now mode.
The Bucks and Heat were also in the mix for Marcus Smart
Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
The Bucks, meanwhile, were searching for perimeter defenders to bolster their aging core and explored a deal that would have sent Pat Connaughton 's expiring $9.4 million contract to Washington in a package for Smart or Golden State 's Andrew Wiggins . Connaughton was instead dealt to Charlotte for future second-rounders, but Milwaukee's interest in Smart underscores how highly the veteran is still regarded around the league.
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The Miami Heat also reportedly made a play for Smart, though the details of their offer remain unclear.
In the end, Washington found no acceptable trade partner and opted for a buyout, allowing Smart to join the Lakers. The level of interest in Smart before his buyout reaffirms his value as a high-impact defender and leader, and it highlights the competitive urgency across the East.
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