Celtics coach Brad Stevens told reporters on Saturday that injured guard Marcus Smart may return Sunday night against the Knicks at TD Garden.
Smart, who has missed the last 18 games with a left foot injury, was deemed healthy by coach Stevens on Saturday but wants the young guard to wait a day to see how he feels on Sunday before the Celtics host the Knicks.
Stevens on Smart's impending return to the lineup: "He could play as early as tomorrow night."
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 26, 2015
Smart traveled with the team on their two-game road trip to Milwaukee and Detroit and has been active in practices for over a week now.
The Celtics (17-13) could definitely use Smart's defense in the back court. Although Isaiah Thomas and Avery Bradley have performed tremendously in Smart's absence, Smart's one-on-one defense will only strengthen the back court.
Celtics are now eighth in a tight Eastern Conference -- only three games behind the Cavs for first place. C's also have a relatively light schedule this week against the Knicks, Lakers and Nets.
If Smart does return on Sunday against the Knicks, he will most likely come off the bench and his minutes will be restricted.
photo courtesy of getty images
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