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How the Return of Marcus Smart Impacts the Boston Celtics

By Andy Goffin

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 11: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics looks on before a game against the Indiana Pacers at TD Garden on March 11, 2018 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 Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 11: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics looks on before a game against the Indiana Pacers at TD Garden on March 11, 2018 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 Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /
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Brad Stevens has announced that if Marcus Smart feels ready to play, then he is physically cleared to rejoin the Celtics’ lineup

Heading into a crucial Game 5 against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Boston Celtics are hopeful for the return of their fiery point guard Marcus Smart. After dropping two in a row on the road, the team could use a significant boost that could provide defensive energy and leadership.

While the series might not be dramatically changed by the return of Smart, it has the potential to be climactic in raising the intensity level for the Celtics as a whole back at home. As the NBA’s strongest defense, the Celtics have consistently been plagued by injuries, but have shown significant resilience so far in the playoffs.

But in a series that now stands as a best of three, anything can happen. In Game 4, the Celtics almost pulled out a victory. Down 20 at one point, they fought back after a brutal first half. If Smart can be the difference maker in leading a strong first half, he could be what would make for a complete 48-minute victory for the Celtics.

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Defensively, Smart crucially helps the matchup issues that have dominated the team all series long. Smart has guarded all five positions in his career, and his versatility is a massive upgrade against the long, athletic Bucks offensive stars. Khris Middleton continues to be near unguardable, but when he looks up and sees an elite defender in Smart guarding him (as opposed to a less reliable defender like Shane Larkin), he may reconsider his approach.

Smart also takes some of the point guard duties off Terry Rozier, who has struggled as of late after two spectacular performances in Games 1 and 2. Rozier would be able to take more high-percentage shots particularly off catch-and-shoot. In addition, the rivalry of Rozier and Eric Bledsoe would be more relaxed for Rozier with Smart taking some pressure off Rozier on the defensive end.

While Smart is not always the best presence on offense, he would create spacing for other bright young stars. His playoff experience has shown that he might be able to impact the Celtics with his three-point shooting. Additionally, his passing skills are underrated which coincide well with his critical leadership skills.

Smart’s mother has been recently diagnosed with cancer, and she has asked Smart to play for her. It brings her joy to see him shine on the court, and Smart has vowed to fight for his family. As Celtics fans are excited for Smart’s return, they also continue to keep her in their prayers.

Next: Boston's home court can't be the difference

The Celtics are preparing for their toughest game of the series thus far, and they might return their electric glue-guy. Playing in front of the home crowd will only help boost the energy of the Garden in the hopes of taking the series lead. With Smart back, the Boston Celtics have a chance to turn around the momentum of the series.

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