The Celtics have to play the rest of the regular season and at least some of the playoffs without Marcus Smart. The point guard will undergo surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
However, a source also tells Wojnarowski that there’s “hope” that Smart can return “sometime in the playoffs.”
Smart injured his thumb during the Celtics’ loss to the Pacers last Sunday when he went to dive for a loose ball. He’d previously lacerated his hand in a separate incident, after he struck a glass picture frame in his hotel room. Smart was able to return to Sunday’s game with his thumb taped, but now the C’s have found enough damage to opt for the surgery.
BOSTON, MA – NOVEMBER 05: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics reacts after a three point basket late in the second half against the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden on November 5, 2014 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images)
Smart’s injury is a big blow for the Celtics defensively, for sure. Also, his hustle and competitiveness are invaluable qualities for any team trying to win a playoff series. He’ll be missed in those areas, especially as the team likely has to make it through at least the first round of the NBA Playoffs without him.
Offensively, Smart is averaging 10.2 points per game on just 36.7 percent shooting from the field. But of course, the way his loss will really sting is with all the other things he can do well.
— By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.