Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart is always ready to take on the challenge of guarding Stephen Curry, but that doesn't mean it gets any easier going up against the Golden State Warriors superstar.

Smart admitted as much heading to the Celtics' Wednesday showdown with the Warriors, highlighting that Curry will always make his defenders run all over the floor. Despite that, though, he said he loves matching up with the Warriors star and get his cardio in.

“If you aren't ready for a battle, don't step in the gym. You know he's going to make you work and run all over the floor,” Smart said, per NBA insider Keith Smith.

Marcus Smart is one of the better defenders in the NBA, and he is a major reason why the Celtics have the best defensive rating in the NBA today. He is averaging 1.7 steals per game this season while guarding the best guard of the opposing team.

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Of course, defending against Stephen Curry is easier said than done. The last time the Celtics and Warriors meet, the Dubs sharpshooter put up 30 points on 8-of-21 shooting, including 5-of-14 from 3-point territory. Even if he struggles, he still finds a way to score–and he does so in bunches.

Not to mention that Klay Thompson was still not with the Warriors at the time. Imagine how open he'll be with another shooting threat alongside him.

It's up to Smart and the Celtics to contain Curry and the Warriors' other weapons. However, it certainly won't be easy.