Luka Doncic commends Marcus Smart as a defensive challenge and highlights his Celtics legacy
In a recent interview with Wall Street Journal Magazine, Luka Doncic, the Slovenian basketball sensation, offered heartfelt accolades to Marcus Smart, one of the most formidable defenders in Boston Celtics history. The Celtics, a franchise long celebrated for its tenacious perimeter defense, has seen various players embody this ethos over the years. Currently, Derrick White holds down the fort, with notable contributions from Jrue Holiday, Avery Bradley, and Rajon Rondo in more recent seasons. However, it was Smart who truly caught Doncic’s attention.
Smart as a Defensive “Headache”
Doncic described Smart as a significant challenge on the court, referring to him as a “headache.” Among guards, Smart was the sole player Doncic named, emphasizing the unique impact he has had on opposing players. The only other player Doncic mentioned was Herbert Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans, who has also made a name for himself as an All-Defensive First Team player. This endorsement from Doncic underscores the respect he has for Smart’s defensive prowess.
A Legacy of Excellence
Smart’s credentials are impressive. He stands out as one of only six guards in NBA history to win the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award, a feat only matched by Sidney Moncrief, who is the only player to have won it multiple times. Smart claimed the DPOY title for the 2021-22 season, marking the first time a guard had achieved this honor since Gary Payton did so during the 1995-96 season. Beyond this, Smart’s three All-Defensive First Team selections further solidify his status as one of the elite defenders in the league.
Throughout his tenure with the Celtics, Smart has consistently risen to the occasion, often taking on the league’s brightest stars in crucial moments. His defensive matchup against Stephen Curry during the 2022 NBA Finals is a testament to his capability and determination. Additionally, Smart has made history as the only player to win the NBA’s Hustle Award more than once since its inception in 2017, securing this accolade three times.
Smart’s Impact on the Celtics
In his nine seasons with Boston, Smart has established himself as a cornerstone of the franchise’s defensive identity. He currently ranks fourth on the Celtics’ all-time steals list with 914, a remarkable achievement for a player standing just 6-foot-3. Moreover, he holds the 23rd spot in franchise history for blocks, totaling 214.
Now that Doncic and Smart are teammates in Los Angeles, the former will undoubtedly find relief in collaborating with Smart rather than facing him as an opponent. As both players gear up for the upcoming season, the addition of Smart to Doncic’s roster is expected to bolster the team’s defensive capabilities significantly.
