2 completely different players/people/roles/etc etc et alia. And ‘reports’ said his strong goal was to remain in La La Land.
I'd have gone with Rui and not resigned Tari - or done a S&T with Tari to get an asset in return. Smart wouldn't have been on my radar, dude sucks at shooting and is just another of those Ime guys. I'd have made Grimes my priority at guard.
Smart on his salary is better than Rui on his salary. Not sure I would have done either. I would worry about Smart's age and Rui's reliance on LeBron, Reeves, and Luka for wide open looks.
Smart's contract and what he brings....those alone, are more than enough justification. But, his presence allows for FVV and his expiring getting dealt.
Rui is a bargain at 12m. Can’t believe he was had for that. I can’t believe anyone on this site would prefer Smart to Rui. He shot 44% from 3 last year for Chrissakes, is 6’8” and plays decent defense. Incredible.
I don't think Rui plays decent defense at all. I think he's a negative on defense. He's never had a positive DPM, is a poor rebounder, has always posted a high Defensive Rating, had a meh 2.0 net rating last season etc. I don't think he's a very impactful player, though his size and shooting would have certainly been welcome.