Boston Celtics: 3 players bound for bigger roles in 2021-22

By Mark Nilon | Sep 30, 2021

CANTON, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 27: Aaron Nesmith #26 of the Boston Celtics poses for a photo during Media Day at High Output Studios on September 27, 2021 in Canton, 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 Omar Rawlings/Getty Images) /

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Boston Celtics David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /

Boston Celtics player No. 2) Marcus Smart

For the first time in his seven-year career, Marcus Smart comes into a season being viewed as the top option to run the show for the Boston Celtics.

Gone are the days of Rajon Rondo, Isaiah Thomas, Kyrie Irving, and Kemba Walker — the point guard position is now Smart’s to lose and, according to NBC Sports Boston’s Chris Forsberg, it would appear as though the 27-year-old is one of four players “locked into starting spots” heading into the year.

With this, it’s evident that the long-time second-option in the backcourt will now be tasked with being the predominant floor general, and many are expecting big things.

Last season, we saw Smart hold this exact position during the C’s first 11 games while Kemba was still sidelined from his offseason knee procedure.

During this time span, the veteran posted sound all-around averages of 12.4 points, six assists, and 1.5 steals per game on 37 percent shooting from deep while helping to guide the Celtics to an 8-3 record along the way.

Now with his role expected to increase, many anticipate a similar stat line, only this time for an entire season rather than for just a handful of outings.

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