The Boston Celtics managed to win a close one over the Oklahoma City Thunder, thanks to a concerted team effort. Marcus Smart held up the fort on defense, making a key steal to help the Cs win.

Kemba Walker was more than thankful that Smart was there to help the team win on defense. He's so happy with the guard's efforts that he thinks he should easily win Defensive Player of the Year at the end of the season.

Celtics on NBC Sports talked to Kemba after their win at the Chesapeake Energy Arena and asked him about Smart's contribution to the victory. His statement virtually said that Boston would be in a tough spot without him.

“That's what he's there for, man. He brings a different type of energy to our ball club. We love him out there. Defensive Player of the Year, no question. With players like that, there's not many players making plays like that in clutch situations,” Walker said of Smart.

Smart only played 22 minutes and scored seven points, but it was on defense where he did his most damage. He finished with a game-high four steals, a number that you don't usually see happen in an NBA game.

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Kemba Walker himself carried the game on offense, finishing with 27 points, four rebounds and one assist for the Celtics. Jayson Tatum backed him up with 26 points, 11 rebounds and an assist, while the rest of the starters also scored double-digit figures.

The Celtics are playing good basketball and should be able to make a lot of damage in the Eastern Conference. As long as Marcus Smart performs well defensively, they have a shot at making the NBA Finals.