As the Boston Celtics prepare to take on the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoffs, they’ll be without a key member of the team, at least for the first game.
Marcus Smart is expected to make the trip with the #Celtics to Milwaukee, but head coach Brad Stevens reiterated that Smart will not play this weekend.
— A. Sherrod Blakely (@ASherrodblakely) April 27, 2019
Speaking to the media earlier today, Celtics coach Brad Stevens confirmed that Marcus Smart won’t be playing at all in Game 1 or 2 , but will travel with the team to Milwaukee.
This doesn’t come as much of a surprise, as many thought Smart wouldn’t be able to play so soon after suffering an oblique injury against the Orlando Magic earlier this month.
While Smart could theoretically be out for the entire series, it isn’t impossible for him to make a return. Things seem still up in the air, however, and Smart is likely trying his best to push for an early return. If he’s even a bit healthy, the Celtics may want to look into it, as Smart is one of the key pieces to the Celtics defense, providing invaluable play and leadership in his role.
Through the season. Smart averaged 8.9 points, 4.0 assists, and 2.9 rebounds, but has served as one of the Celtic’s best defenders, especially on the perimeter.
While injured, Smart has been seen on the bench for the Celtics, often assisting the coaches in coming up with various in-game assignments thanks to his awareness.
Even though he won’t be on the court, you can count on Smart to make his presence known from the sidelines, and while the Bucks won't have to worry about playing against him just yet, his brain will always be there to help.
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