Wizards’ Marcus Smart Guides Young Teammates in Defensive Skills

WASHINGTON — In his first day as a Washington Wizard, Marcus Smart quickly engaged with his new teammates. Less than 24 hours after being traded from the Memphis Grizzlies, Smart answered questions from young players Bilal Coulibaly and Bub Carrington about improving their defensive play.

During a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Feb. 7, Coulibaly sought advice from Smart on guarding superstar Donovan Mitchell, while Carrington wanted tips on defending Darius Garland. Smart, the NBA’s 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, shared invaluable insights despite the Wizards losing the game, 134-124.

“Myself and the Wizards want me to really solidify myself on the defensive end, and (with Marcus) that’s someone who has solidified himself on the defensive end since he walked in the league,” Carrington told The Athletic after the game. “He’s really good at it, really crafty at it. So I definitely want to pick his brain from day one.”

The Wizards acquired Smart as part of a strategy to bolster their roster with seasoned veterans along with promising young talent. Alongside Smart, they also brought in former Milwaukee Bucks All-Star Khris Middleton. Washington’s management prioritized experienced players to serve as role models for their first- and second-year players.

Smart, 30, reflected on his own rookie experience with the Boston Celtics during the 2014-15 season, where veterans like Rajon Rondo and Jameer Nelson mentored him. “The vets are key. They’re the ones that the young guys see when they first come in,” Smart stated. “Having vets like me who love to teach is definitely important.”

Throughout his 11-season career, Smart has made defensive prowess his hallmark, claiming the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022. Coulibaly, now in his second year with the Wizards, expressed admiration for Smart’s reputation as a tough defender, recalling their previous encounters on the court.

“He’s a DPOY,” Coulibaly said, smiling. “I’m trying to get one of those awards at some point.” Coulibaly added that Smart’s strength and tenacity were pivotal in establishing his reputation in the league. “I remember some center trying to post him up. He wasn’t moving,” Coulibaly said.

Smart’s experience includes reaching the NBA Finals with the Celtics in 2022 and winning the Defensive Player of the Year accolade, a rarity for guards. Middleton, meanwhile, is a three-time All-Star who played a crucial role in the Bucks’ championship run in 2021 and won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA that same year.

Both players participated fully in their first practice with the Wizards on Wednesday, though Coach Brian Keefe did not confirm if they would play in the upcoming game against the Bucks. Middleton emphasized his desire to contribute positively to the team, saying, “I’m here to be a basketball player, to win games, help win games however I can.”

Washington guard Jordan Poole, who has had multiple encounters with Smart on opposing teams, acknowledged the shift from rival to teammate. “He has the utmost respect being a Defensive Player of the Year,” Poole said. “I want to pick his brain a little bit, see how he guards.”

Poole views Smart’s presence as a significant benefit not only for himself but also for young players like Coulibaly and Carrington. “Great move. I’m really excited just for that. His energy, his toughness, and his winning mentality are something we can all learn from,” he said.

Smart’s impact may not result in immediate wins, but his leadership and experience may foster long-term growth for the Wizards’ core moving forward.