Boston Celtics: 3 players that will give the Warriors trouble in NBA Finals

Boston Celtics player No. 2) Marcus Smart

Marcus Smart has the chance to be one of the most important players on both sides of the ball this series. As the Defensive Player of the Year, his impact on that end is well-known. Against the Warriors’ motion offense, running their shooters off countless screens in every half-court possession, Smart’s stamina will be tested.

However, his screen navigation is one of the best in the league, as his combination of agility and strength will limit Golden State’s opportunities at open looks from beyond the arc. Additionally, if any of those screens are even slightly illegal, his flopping expertise can easily sell the call, creating a turnover by himself.

On the other end, his offensive role has not been mentioned enough. Smart missed multiple open treys down the stretch of Game 7 when he had a chance to put things away, but made huge shots throughout the series as a whole, finishing with 24 points. Against Golden State in particular, when he’s the main point guard on the floor, Steph Curry will likely guard him.

If not, Jordan Poole would take the assignment if the Warriors go to a two-guard lineup or Steph needs a rest. Smart has the physical advantage in both of those matchups, and he’s shown a liking to just backing down his matchup when there’s a clear size disparity.

Against Milwaukee, Smart even succeeded in backing down Jrue Holiday in late-game possessions to create easy looks for himself and others. In a series between two of the best defenses in the league, a Smart floater from five feet away over the likes of Curry or Poole is probably an above-average shot in a halfcourt possession.

Don’t be surprised if coach Ime Udoka looks to take advantage of Smart’s physicality early on, thrusting him into the post for set plays in Game One.