Celtics’ Ime Udoka Issues Injury Update on Marcus Smart for Game 3

The Boston guard missed Game 2 vs. the Bucks due to a right thigh contusion he suffered in Game 1.

Celtics coach Ime Udoka provided a positive injury update for Marcus Smart’s Game 3 status, per the team’s release.

On Friday morning, Udoka said the NBA Defensive Player of the Year is “probable” for Game 3 vs. the Bucks on Saturday. This does not necessarily mean Smart will play on Saturday, but there is at least a chance the Celtics can avoid missing their guard for more than just one game this postseason.

Coach Udoka says Marcus Smart’s quad is feeling much better today and he is “probable” for Game 3.

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 6, 2022

Smart suffered a right thigh contusion during Game 1 of the series on Sunday after his right thigh was hit in back-to-back plays.

Smart missed Game 2 of the series on Tuesday, in which the Celtics won 109–86 after dropping Game 1 to Milwaukee. The conference semifinals series is tied at one game a piece ahead of Saturday.

Smart after Udoka said on Tuesday that the three days of rest would be beneficial for the guard, hinting at a potential return for Game 3. 

In Game 1, Smart played 33 minutes despite his injury and finished with 10 points on 3-of-11 shooting with six assists, two steals and three turnovers.

So far this postseason, Smart has averaged 15.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 1.4 steals in five games. 

• Inside The Celtics: Marcus Smart: ‘Strong Likelihood I’m Back for Game 3’ 

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