Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart has been named as a finalist for the Defensive Player of the Year award. While he is honored for the recognition, however, his focus isn't really on getting an individual honor.

After helping the Celtics take down the Nets, 115-114, on Sunday, Smart was asked about his thoughts on the DPOY. He admitted that it would be great to win the award, but in the end, what he really wants is to lift the Larry O'Brien trophy with his Boston teammates.

“I think my defense and my game speaks for itself, but I'm really focused on this next game we've got on Wednesday. It would be an honor to win it. It's an honor to be mentioned. But I'm playing for something bigger,” Smart said, per Jay King of The Athletic.

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The Celtics had the best defense in the NBA during the regular season, and it's only right for Marcus Smart to be in the DPOY conversation since he was the team's main defensive anchor. His ability to defend multiple positions and guard the perimeter has allowed Boston to thrive, especially in the second half of the season.

As he mentioned, though, winning DPOY is only secondary and he can't really focus too much on it. The primary goal has always been to win the championship, and if he is given the award as the league's best defender, it is only a byproduct of his efforts to lead the team to the title.

It remains to be seen if Smart can take home the award, but there is no doubt he has made a great case for himself.