It appears the NBA isn’t buying Marcus Smart’s “freak accident” excuse either, as the league announced a one game suspension for the Celtics guard today, without pay.
Smart was ejected in the fourth quarter of last night’s game after he blasted Matt Bonner in the jewels. He’ll miss tomorrow night’s game against Detroit, which leaves the Celtics really shorthanded since Isaiah Thomas is still not expected to return until later in the week.
It’s possible Thomas could come back tomorrow, which would help soften the blow. But don’t expect the Celtics to rush him back just for that. If Thomas can’t go tomorrow, I’d expect the Celtics to start Phil Pressey. They just recalled James Young from the D-League, so I’m guessing that’s the plan and Young addresses the lack of depth.
This could be a huge blow to the Celtics playoff chances. The C’s are currently tied with Indiana for 8th. The Pacers play Brooklyn tonight, so its possible Boston will need the win Sunday to stay tied. With just 14 games left in the regular season, all losses are magnified.
