It has been a challenging 2017-18 NBA season for Marcus Smart as he only appeared in 54 regular season games and has not appeared in the first round of the playoffs for the Boston Celtics. However, prior to Game 4 against the Milwaukee Bucks, the 24-year-old could be returning soon.
According to Chris Forsberg of ESPN, Smart will have his thumb injury re-evaluated on Apr. 24 and could return as early as a potential Game 6 against the Bucks:
“Right now, [a Game 6 return is] the plan and we're still on the same track,” Smart said before Game 4 on Sunday. “I've been doing everything but contact, so I will be able to go and start that.”
Following surgery, Smart ultimately believes his thumb is ready for contact:
“The surgery did its job,” said Smart, who injured himself March 11 while diving for a loose ball in a game against the Indiana Pacers. “Thumb is holding up well. I feel ready, I feel strong enough to get back out there. I'm just waiting on the OK.”
Smart, who has not played since Mar. 14 against the Washington Wizards, would provide the Celtics a much-needed boost. While Boston is looking to take a commanding 3-1 series lead against Milwaukee, they are without Kyrie Irving for the remainder of the season. In Irving's place, Terry Rozier has stepped up significantly, averaging 18.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 6.7 assists in 36.3 minutes.
Considered one of the favorites to represent the Eastern Conference in the 2018 NBA Finals, most basketball fans have changed their stance due to the injuries. However, with Smart potentially coming back soon, he could play a pivotal role in helping the Celtics advance to the next round.
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