Celtics’ Marcus Smart probable to return for Game 2

May 19, 2022 World Sports

Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart is probable to return from a right mid-foot sprain for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals, the team announced Wednesday. Boston was without Smart and veteran center Al Horford for its 118-107 loss to the Miami Heat in Game 1 on Tuesday. Horford entered the NBA’s Health and Safety Protocols and is listed as doubtful for Thursday’s Game 2 (8:30 ET, ESPN).

Additionally, the Celtics announced Wednesday that coach Ime Udoka is dealing with a non-COVID illness.

Boston was already bracing for Smart — the league’s Kia Defensive Player of the Year — to be out for Game 1, after he injured his foot on Sunday in Game 7 of Boston’s East semifinals win over Milwaukee. But losing Horford was a surprise blow to the Celtics, adding to the team’s lineup dilemma.

Udoka said Tuesday he initially found out about Horford’s status around 5 p.m. that day, or roughly 3 1/2 hours before tip-off. He would not say if Horford tested positive.