5 reasons the Boston Celtics can win 2022 NBA Championship

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 16: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks on in the fourth quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on March 16, 2022 in San Francisco, California. 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

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Celtics playoff predictions, Marcus Smart

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 16: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics guards Jordan Poole #3 of the Golden State Warriors in the fourth quarter at Chase Center on March 16, 2022 in San Francisco, California. 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

3. Marcus Smart can be a defensive difference-maker

Guards who only shoot 32% from three struggle to be offensive pluses in the playoffs. Fortunately for Smart, his ability to guard a variety of players one-on-one more than makes up for his offensive shortcomings.

Smart’s best asset in a playoff series is his willingness to doggedly defend the opponent’s best guard. He’s a great matchup against point guards and he also possesses the strength to hold up against most shooting guards and a lot of small forwards. Even on the rare occasions that Smart can force a stop, he gives his team a boost by draining energy from the other team’s offensive superstar.

Smart should see a lot of team as the nominal point guard in big Celtics’ lineups during the postseason. Dennis Schroder is too weak defensively to deploy in high-leverage situations. Giving his minutes to Smart will only increase Boston’s defensive effectiveness.

Smart needs to keep his emotions in check to give his team the maximum output during the postseason but he’s matured nicely at this stage of his career. He won’t light up the score sheet but his ability to torment opposing guards is a huge plus for Boston in any potential playoff series.

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