Marcus Smart is doubtful Wednesday and he should take his time with a return


Marcus Smart helped off the court in New York | Photo: Rick Scuteri/USA TODAY Sports

Marcus Smart got hit in the left oblique during the Boston Celtics last game and did not return. This is the same area that caused him to miss some time last season.


With Gordon Hayward still out, I’d normally be more disappointed with an injury to a key player. But with the beating Marcus has taken so far this season, it isn’t a bad thing that he is practically forced out of the lineup. He needs some time to heal up for when it matters most.

In the same game where he hurt his oblique, he also got poked in the eye. He’s been dealing with a left knuckle issue for a while that he’s been pushing through. He dealt with lower body issues for Team USA and early on in Celtics camp. He was also sent home today from practice due to an illness.

Get this man some rest!


The Marcus we know and love will continue to try to play until he can’t. Since he’s still sore from the oblique, while dealing with being sick, the Wednesday match-up versus the Miami Heat is a perfect opportunity for him to sit out.

I’m not a doctor, but he should sit out more than one game. I’d rather him miss games in December than being worn down when it counts. He’s so important to the Celtics success, but the team can withstand a stretch without him.

The Celtics also have some scheduling help when they have five days off between their game against the Philadelphia 76ers on December 12th before going to Dallas on December 18th. This will help the whole team with some built-in rest.

Brad Wanamaker has stepped up in a big way with Hayward being out. He is now legitimate back-up point guard in the NBA. He can take on even more responsibilities if Smart misses significant time.


I assume Grant Williams will get an extended look to make #winningplays as well.


I can’t wait for the Celtics to be full strength when the world is watching them on Christmas Day in Toronto. Until then, rest Marcus. It’s okay.

You can follow me on Twitter @Mike_Auc.