New York State of Mind: 3 Celtics standouts in 3-point barrage vs Knicks
Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart did all the little things
With everyone hitting 3’s, you know Marcus Smart got in on the action.
In scoring 13 points on the night, the Boston Celtics guard was 3-of-5 from beyond the arc, but it was his 11 assists and defensive hustle that makes him one of the standouts of the night.
The reigning NBA defensive player of the year is asked to do a lot on this Celtics team, like guard players like Julius Randle. With his defensive intensity, he holds his own against bigger players which helps the team play small. He also showcases his playmaking ability on a nightly basis.
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In dishing out 11 assists, Smart benefitted from his team knocking down shots. From Jayson Tatum to Jaylen Brown to Sam Hauser, the Celtics vocal leader called the team’s 3-point onslaught a thing of beauty.
"“It felt amazing,” Smart said following the game, via ESPN. “(Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla) was just preaching to us,” Don’t get tired, we’re playing the right way.’ I think every coach preaches that, but to see it actually happen in action is a thing of beauty.”"
Smart went on to say that it was good for the team to be making shots. It was also good for the team that Smart had his shot selection under control as he tends to turn into Steph Curry with 3-point attempts when he knocks down a couple. Stick to defense and dishing out dimes and Smart helps this team win more than he hurts them when he takes too many shots.