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Denver Nuggets: Why they should try for Marcus Smart

By Mathew Huff

BOSTON, MA - DECEMBER 13: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics shoots the ball against the Denver Nuggets on December 13, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - DECEMBER 13: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics shoots the ball against the Denver Nuggets on December 13, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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The Denver Nuggets could still make moves in this off season.

The Denver Nuggets have had a busy off season so far to say the least. However, they could make even more moves if they get really ambitious.

One player who they could make a move for is the Celtics’ defensive anchor, Marcus Smart. While the Nuggets have plenty of guards already, there is nothing preventing them from moving a few of them to the wing spot from time to time.

After all, Will Barton is going to be starting at small forward for the team next season already. What Marcus Smart would bring to the table is something the Nuggets have really needed for the past couple of seasons. He has a ton of grit and is one of the most intense defenders in the league.

Just imagine the one two defensive punch of having Gary Harris and Marcus Smart on the same squad. Per basketball reference, Smart had a defensive rating of 104 to go along with 1.3 steals per game. He also possessed a steal percentage of 2.2% last year as well.

For whatever reason, the Celtics still have not signed Smart so far, so this is a golden opportunity for the Nuggets. They are still in the financial hole, however, a sign and trade for Smart could actually alleviate some of this financial pressure.

If the Celtics are willing to take on the contracts of Kenneth Faried and Darrell Arthur, then it could be a win win situation for both teams. Denver was a middle of the road pack defensively last season, so bringing in Smart could elevate them to a top 10 defensive team in the whole league.

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Smart has a tough willed mind set and would bring some much needed toughness to this young Denver Nuggets squad. The Nuggets should give serious consideration to Marcus Smart.