Although the Boston Celtics failed to extend their five-game winning streak with the loss to the Toronto Raptors, they were able to welcome back an integral piece off their roster in guard Marcus Smart. It appears he has his superhuman regeneration factor.
Smart had been sidelined for most of December with a severe eye infection that reportedly had the potential to result in permanent damage. Fortunately, he credits his Wolverine-like healing ability for getting him back on the court with the Celtics so soon, via team reporter Amanda Pflugrad:
Marcus Smart just told me pregame that he has earned a new nickname from his teammates. They now refer to him as WOLVERINE because of his body's ability to heal and come back quickly after an injury.
— Amanda_Pflugrad (@Amanda_Pflugrad) December 31, 2019
The new nickname is certainly fitting for a player who has displayed the kind of toughness and durability that Marcus Smart has throughout his career. It is safe to say it certainly served him well this time around after significantly shortening the timetable for his return.
Smart endured his fair share of struggles in his first game back after shooting just 2-of-9 from the field in the Celtics' 113-97 loss to the Raptors. However, he managed to make up for it on the defensive end with three steals. Of course, some struggles were to be expected as he continues to try and find his footing heading into the new year.
Smart has emerged as a vital piece of this Celtics' backcourt off the bench, thanks to his tenacity and defensive prowess. Regardless, Boston will likely continue to monitor his minutes as he gets adjusted.
In 21 games so far this 2019-20 campaign, Smart is averaging a career-high in points with 11.5 markers per game. He is also putting up norms of 3.3 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.4 steals per game, all while shooting 38.0 percent from the field, 32.8 percent from beyond the arc and 83.8 percent from the free-throw line.
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