Boston Celtics news: Marcus Smart ahead of Evan Turner
Marcus Smart is leading Evan Turner for the backup point guard job with the Boston Celtics
In the offseason, the Boston Celtics didn’t make many moves but they made two that drew very different reactions.
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The selection of former Oklahoma State Cowboys’ Marcus Smart with the sixth-overall pick has drawn a lot of praise while the signing of former Philadelphia 76ers and Indiana Pacers’ guard Evan Turner. Reports have indicated the two will battle for the backup point guard job behind Rajon Rondo.
According to A. Sherrod Blakely of CSN New England, Marcus Smart has already moved ahead Evan Turner.
"Celtics coach Brad Stevens is quick to caution not to read too much into these early preseason lineups.But the early readings indicate that rookie Marcus Smart has moved ahead of Evan Turner in the battle to see who will be the team’s replacement point guard for injured Rajon Rondo (left hand).In fact, the only thing that could potentially keep Smart from starting Monday night in the preseason opener against Philadelphia is a groin injury which kept him out of practice on Sunday."
That means Marcus Smart would likely be the opening night starter as Rajon Rondo rehabs from his hand injury.
Marcus Smart averaged 18.0 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game last season and shot 42.2% from the field, 29.9% from beyond the arc and 72.8% from the charity stripe for the Cowboys last season. Turner averaged 14.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game while shooting 42.5% from the field, 32.1% from beyond the arc and 81.3% from the charity stripe last season.
Be sure to check FanSided’s official NBA page to keep up to date on the latest news and rumors from around the league as we get you ready for the start of the 2014-2015 season.
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