Boston Celtics: 3 players who can help fill the void of Marcus Smart

Boston Celtics lose Marcus Smart to start playoffs: 3 players who must step up

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 02: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics celebrates during the first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at TD Garden on January 02, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

3 of 4

Boston Celtics Jaylen Brown (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Jaylen Brown’s time to shine

While Terry Rozier can fill the void from the point guard position, swing man Jaylen Brown is a player who can help give what Marcus Smart gave defensively.

He won’t be the Bulldog Smart was as far as being able to defend any position, but his perimeter defense is greatly needed now.

Like Rozier, Brown saw his minutes and production decline towards the early part of the season, but he certainly has turned it around.

Related Story. Jaylen Brown continues to soar to another level. light

Battling a couple of injuries himself, Jaylen Brown averaged 13.0 points per game in the regular season, primarily off the bench. Down from last season, but Brown has been more aggressive on the offensive end. He has used his athleticism to take the ball to the rim and has also found a consistent mid-range and three-point shot.

Defensively, he has turned up the intensity and is shining as the two-way player he was a season ago. He simply needs to continue that intensity into the playoffs.

A good Jaylen Brown whether in the starting lineup or off the bench will make the Boston Celtics a tough out in the playoffs even without Marcus Smart.

Home/Boston Celtics