Boston Celtics: Marcus Smart needed now more than ever

The Boston Celtics continued to struggle on Wednesday night. Their defense was atrocious and proved just how important Marcus Smart is to the organization.

Wednesday’s loss to the Hawks was another gut punch to Celtics fans. Just when you think things can’t get worse, they do.

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Atlanta put up over 70 points in the first half. This included Trae Young scoring 25 points along with Danilo Gallinari of all people scoring 24 points (all from behind the three point line).

All Celtics fans were left thinking about was if this would be happening if Smart was on the court.

Smart has been out with an injury that he suffered against the Lakers at the end of January. Recent reports indicate he won’t be back until after the All-Star break. That is a scary thought.

Why the Boston Celtics need Marcus Smart.

The Celtics need Smart desperately at the moment. His on the court and off the court presence would revitalize this team.

On the court, the Celtics are just not playing defense. They are letting opponents score at will.

Smart is one of the best defenders in the NBA. His efforts are desperately needed.

Also Smart gives his all on each and every play. He is willing to dive on the floor and hustle back on defense in order to make some electrifying plays. Smart can completely change the course of a game with a single play.

But there is also what Smart does off the court.

Smart is just a born leader. He isn’t afraid to be blunt and call out his teammates.

Also Smart simply cares when he is out on the court. There were times when the Celtics showed zero effort on defense and let Atlanta do their thing. If Smart is on the court that likely doesn’t happen.

With Smart being a free agent at the end of the season, Boston needs to make re-signing him a priority. Just look at how poorly they have played without him. They need Smart to hold his teammates accountable. Smart simply needs to have his agent show the C’s recent performance without Smart and he should get a new deal.

The Celtics need Marcus Smart. It’s as clear as day. It’s not a coincidence that this poor play started after he got injured.

The C’s should just re-sign him this instant to ensure that he doesn’t leave the organization. If he did the Celtics would be in major trouble.

Boston needs Marcus Smart. The All-Star break can not come soon enough for the Celtics.