Jayson Tatum was the star in the Celtics narrow 116-115 win over Portland, but it was reassuring to see Marcus Smart back to himself. This double-hustle play in the second quarter reassured Boston fans that The Wolverine had not been tamed. It was a diving (what else!)_near-steal close to the Celtics basket, followed by a run-the-entire floor for a major theft that really got our attention.
.@JetBlue Play of the Game: Marcus Smart’s energy is unmatched ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/Y27XXM4wVv
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 14, 2021
Beyond his usual in-your-shirt defense and hustle, Marcus stat line was back where it should be. He was under control and never tried to put up major points.
36 minutes - 13 points - 4 rebounds - 7 assists - 2 steals - one block - 4-of-9 FG - 3-of-5 on 3's
Smart's main value to his team may be the disruption he causes opposing players. I have argued repeatedly in the past that Boston lacks toughness, and over a short span in the schedule, It was obvious that The Wolverine's ferocity was missing, and Marcus appeared rather docile - for him. Not in this game!
Marcus Smart is a fucking menace. pic.twitter.com/sMuxgB9U61
— Efrain Ramos (@efraincarmelo) April 14, 2021
With the win, Boston has moved into the fifth slot in the East with a 29-26 record. Celtics fans are hoping that their team is peaking just at the right time. The victory versus Portland came about with a balanced, team effort. When they play like they did last night, they are capable of beating any team in the league.
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