In Second Try at Restricted Free Agency, Kings Preparing Offer Sheet for Marcus Smart
The restricted free-agent guard could find himself on Sacramento’s radar.
Feb 8, 2017; Sacramento, CA: Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart during the third quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. The Kings defeated the Celtics 108-92. (Photo Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports)
Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY SportsBy Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Sacramento Kings are preparing an offer sheet for Boston Celtics restricted free agent point guard Marcus Smart, according to A. Sherrod Blakely of NBC Sports Boston. Jason Jones of the Sacramento Bee tweeted that there's "nothing to report" in terms of the Kings' interest in Smart, but even if they are interested, it still appears to be in the early stages.
This would be the Kings' second attempt to sign an RFA to an offer sheet, a relatively rare move in the NBA. They previously tried to sign guard Zach LaVine away from the Chicago Bulls for four years and $78 million, but Chicago exercised its right to match the offer.
Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY SportsBoston Celtics guard Marcus Smart (36) reacts during the second half against the Philadelphia 76ers in game five of the second round of the 2018 NBA Playoffs at the TD Garden.
Smart's expected offer sheet from the Kings, however, would be closer to the $12-14 million range. The RFA recently said he feels he's worth more than that range as a free agent, and reportedly is also upset about the lack of communication from the Celtics on a new deal.
The C's have already extended a $6.1 million qualifying offer, which Smart was reported to be likely to accept. The Kings sending an offer sheet would certainly change things. Danny Ainge would have the right to match Sacramento's offer if it's within his accepted range, but he's no guarantee to do that.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
