Boston Celtics to Watch: Guard Marcus Smart
The Boston Celtics season hasn’t even started, but third-year guard Marcus Smart has already found himself injured.
Marcus Smart is a big part of what the Boston Celtics want to accomplish. His improvement on the offensive end along with his defense is going to be key for the second unit. However, in the last pre-season game, Smart found himself limping off the court with another twisted ankle.
Smart’s injuries have been an issue, and when he’s healthy like he was in the playoffs last year, it’s clear that he’s a top-notch defender. If this ankle injury is something he can bounce back quickly from, then he needs to try and stay healthy the rest of the season.
So what can we expect?
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Injuries aside, let’s focus on Smart as a player. He has atrocious offensive numbers, but his defense is so good he nets a positive rating when he’s on the floor.
Before he got hurt, Smart’s shooting looked much sharper than it did last season. Granted, it was only pre-season play, but it still matters that he was able to knock down long range shots more consistently.
His nine points and four rebounds last season need definite improvement. Smart has a big body, the type of build where he can drive in the lane and draw fouls.
While he did that in college, it seems that Marcus Smart is still trying to figure that out in the NBA.
He could be ready for opening night.
Smart wont be 100%, it would be nice to have him out there. Those offensive numbers I brought up earlier will get a boost if he can stay on the court more this season. The thing about Marcus Smart though, is while his offense makes you want to yell at your TV, his defense makes up for it.
He’s probably been one of the most frustrating players to watch over the past two seasons because there’s so much bad thrown in with so much good.
I fully expect Smart to be more aggressive this season, more drives to the basket and more accurate shots. If he can elevate his offense while keeping his defense steady, Marcus Smart really boosts the Boston Celtics second unit.