Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart has been on a minutes restriction since coming back from a calf injury. It's a relatively new sight for fans, as they're used to seeing the guard grind it out for almost the entirety of the game. According to head coach Brad Stevens, however, Smart's minutes ultimately depends on his health.
Per Jared Weiss of The Athletic, Stevens highlighted the importance of Smart's presence early in the game. Smart is currently on a restriction of 20-22 minutes per game, as well as being relegated to the bench. Stevens shared that once he's medically cleared, Smart will get his starting job back.
Brad Stevens was asked if Marcus Smart could continue in a 6th man role and he responded by saying they gave up 21 points in the first five minutes, so they could use his energy a bit earlier. Stevens confirmed Smart will start once he is medically cleared to play more minutes.
— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) March 15, 2021
Moreover, Brad Stevens seems to have accepted the reality that they'll be playing small ball for the time being.
Stevens said Smart will return to the starting 5 when minutes restriction is lifted. That means Cs will be smaller. There will be fewer minutes for the centers.
Stevens: “We’re going to be in a situation more now where one of those guys isn’t playing as much as we’re smaller”
— Jay King (@ByJayKing) March 15, 2021
Marcus Smart has been one of the critical pieces of Stevens' system over the past few years. Analysts say that he might even be the most important player for the Celtics now.
Smart was sidelined for a total of 18 games due to a left calf strain. The team dearly missed his services, as they went 9-9 without him. It's a pretty decent win-loss record but not up to par with the Celtics' standards.
After all, the franchise has made it to the postseason six straight times. They're not necessarily in danger of missing the playoffs. The Celtics and their fans are not just used to losing that much at this point in the season.
The Celtics faithful may need to be a little more patient for their team to ramp up the wins. Smart needs more time to heal and rest up.
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