Tue Feb 25 02:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Veteran Guard Marcus Smart Begins Wizards Career Off the Bench
**Washington, D.C. –** Marcus Smart, acquired by the Washington Wizards in a three-team trade earlier this month, made his debut for the team Friday night, but not in the starting lineup. The veteran guard, known for his starting role in previous seasons, came off the bench in a 104-101 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Smart played just 17 minutes, contributing five points, two steals, a rebound, and an assist. His limited playing time reflects the Wizards’ focus on developing younger players, even as Smart brings significant experience and talent to a rebuilding team. Fellow trade acquisition Khris Middleton started the game, while Smart played behind rookie Kyshawn George.
The Wizards acquired Smart from the Memphis Grizzlies in a deal that involved a first-round pick and other players. While Smart’s substantial contract ($77 million over four years) and established career suggest a starting role, he seems prepared to embrace a mentorship role with the young Washington squad. “It’s a fresh start,” Smart said earlier this month. “You get to come in to a rebuild where they’re looking for that help and looking for that advice and experience. I’m the one who can come in and help with that.”
Despite his reduced role, Smart’s performance this season averaged 8.5 points and 3.6 assists in 20 games before joining the Wizards. His future role with the Wizards remains to be seen, but his willingness to contribute to the team’s development is clear.
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