The Boston Celtics and their fans welcomed back Marcus Smart for the first time tonight as the Memphis Grizzlies came to town, and Jayson Tatum reflected on the stunning trade that led to Smart’s departure.

“It was tough, it was shocking to see that,” Jayson Tatum said, via Sara Jane Gamelli of Ball Is Life. “The business of the NBA, losing teammates that I spent every season — been through so many ups and downs it was tough. It was tough it was like losing a brother. It was tough to see him get traded.”

The Celtics secured a commanding 131-91 victory against the Grizzlies, who were without the services of Marcus Smart due to injury. Tatum achieved a total of 34 points, along with eight rebounds and seven assists, resulting in a victory. A tribute film was displayed by the Celtics in honour of Smart, and the audience responded with a vigorous and enthusiastic applause.

The Grizzlies have experienced several injuries this season, with Smart being one of the affected players. Ja Morant will be unavailable for the remainder of the year, and it is probable that Memphis will aim for a lottery pick before embarking on a reset for the upcoming season.

Initially, it was believed that the Celtics would retain Smart and secure Kristaps Porzingis through a trade. However, negotiations with the Washington Wizards and the Los Angeles Clippers failed because of concerns regarding Malcolm Brogdon’s physical condition. However, the three-team trade involved the Celtics, Wizards, and Grizzlies, with the condition that Smart would be sent to Memphis in order to finalise the deal and bring Kristaps Porzingis to Boston.