The Boston Celtics got some serious revenge against the Miami Heat on Thursday night.
They positively smoked the Heat in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, beating the number one seed, 127-102.
It was a strong showing by the Celtics made all the more impressive by the fact that it was accomplished in Miami.
If the Celtics can play like this for just three more games, they’ll be going to the NBA Finals.
The entire team played well but one major factor in Thursday’s victory was Marcus Smart.
Smart, who sat out Game 1, was back in a big way, scoring 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 12 assists.
That means that the Celtics are now 4-0 when Smart scores more than 20 points in the playoffs.
They are also 6-0 when he takes more than 12 shots.
It’s becoming very obvious that Smart is a major key to success for the Celtics.
Wicked Smart
Smart has long been known as one of the most consequential players on the Celtics’ roster.
For his career, he averages 10.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.
But he’s more than just a scorer – he’s an incredible defensive player as well.
There is a reason why he won this year’s Defensive Player of the Year Award, he really is that valuable when it comes to defending his team.
Thursday night was a prime example of just how valuable Smart is for his squad.
He was all over the floor and was dictating the speed and flow of the team.
For some time, it felt like all plays were moving through Smart – and that was working out very well for the Celtics.
The team is filled with a couple of superstars but no one should ever sleep on Smart.
More must-reads: