The rumors of Marcus Smart’s potential return to the Boston Celtics are heating up, and for good reason.

The Wizards, where Smart currently plays, are expected to shift toward youth and could move veterans like Smart to preferred destinations.

Smart spent nine years in Boston, becoming the emotional leader, defensive anchor, and fan favorite of a team that came close to multiple Finals runs.

A return to TD Garden would electrify Celtics Nation—and with Boston’s championship window open, bringing back Smart could be the missing piece.