The Houston Rockets are believed to maintain an interest in Memphis Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart as part of a move down the 2024 NBA draft board, according to The Athletic's Kelly Iko.
Iko reported Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams was also floated by one Western Conference executive as a theoretical target for the Rockets, who have the third overall pick.
The Rockets are coming off a 41-41 season. The hiring of head coach Ime Udoka and the signings of Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks had the intended effect of quickly moving the franchise forward following three listless years.
Now, Houston is looking to take another step forward.
HoopsHype's Michael Scotto reported on June 15 the team is "open to moving the No. 3 overall pick for a player who can help the franchise win now and elevate to a playoff team and sustainable success as a playoff team going forward."
Appearing on Get Up on Wednesday morning, ESPN's Brian Windhorst said the Rockets could aim as high as Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant.
Get Up @GetUpESPN"[The Houston Rockets] are interested in tempting the Suns to try to trade them Kevin Durant NOW."<br><br>—<a href="">@WindhorstESPN</a> says all eyes should be on the Rockets at tonight's draft 👀 <a href="">
Smart would obviously be a much less impactful addition, albeit one who would carry a much lower cost as well.
Iko reported on June 20 both Udoka and general manager Rafael Stone are "fans" of the 30-year-old guard, who played under Udoka for a season with the Boston Celtics.
Considering Houston already has Brooks, one could question the sense in adding another veteran who's more of a defensive specialist and struggles to space the floor. Houston ranked 23rd in three-point percentage (35.2), so Smart, a career 32.3 percent three-point shooter, won't help much in that regard.
But the 6'3" guard would certainly add depth to the backcourt and provide plenty of perimeter defense when Fred VanVleet isn't on the floor.
Based on the reporting, Houston is casting a wide net in prospective trades, so the speculation surrounding Smart could come to nothing.
