There’s definite upside and watching more film I’m moving more from “cautiously optimistic” to “let’s fucking go”, but there’s also a decent bit of risk. Porzingis has a meaningful injury history, which is relevant on its own. And while Porzingis is a lot better offensively, especially as a scorer, Smart is the shot caller on defense that has done a lot to keep the rest of the defense where they need to be. They’re going to have to make adjustments on defense. His leadership is also more than just calling plays and assignments. He holds guys accountable and his teammates love him. He’s not a perfect player, but he is a big part of the Celtics current identity and has been for years.

I think they needed a shakeup, and he was the only guy you could really move, and ultimately the upside makes this a move I think you have to make. But it’s not a lock to succeed. Also, I think perception is colored by the fact that it looked damn close to getting him for Brogdon instead.