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Update: Smart is officially doubtful to return Saturday with a knee injury.
Boston Celtics point guard Marcus Smart was helped to the locker room Saturday against the San Antonio Spurs after appearing to suffer a leg injury. Smart has been a steady presence for the Celtics at the point guard position and is a key for Boston’s defensive structure. He had five points, four assists and two rebounds in 22 minutes of action prior to the injury.
Marcus Smart is being helped back to the locked room after what appeared to be a knee-to-knee bump while attempting to get through a screen.
— Marc D'Amico (@Marc_DAmico) January 8, 2023
Smart is the reigning Defensive Player of the Year and has settled into his role as a distributor this season. He’s never been an efficient shooter but Smart’s playmaking chops have helped Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown reach another level of play.
If Smart is out for an extended period of time, the Celtics will lean on Malcolm Brogdon and Derrick White in the backcourt. Payton Pritchard will take on a bigger role off the bench as well, although Brogdon and White will get the first shots at securing the starting job if Smart is sidelined indefinitely.