Marcus Smart was scheduled to play in an exhibition game in South Africa on August 1st, but according to the Boston Globe, the Boston Celtics point guard won't be able to compete after dislocating two of his fingers in a summer league game last Thursday.
"Injured Celtics guard Marcus Smart is expected to miss an Aug. 1 exhibition game in South Africa, according to a league source. Smart dislocated two fingers in his right hand on Thursday night. Smart, guard Evan Turner, and coach Brad Stevens were to be among a contingent of NBA players and coaches taking part in the first NBA game played in Africa. But Smart will now stay in Boston as his fingers heal. Smart has not been available to speak to reporters since suffering the injury. One source said the guard is disappointed about missing the game in Africa but relieved that his injury is not more serious."
None of this should be a surprise. Smart's fingers will likely take weeks to heal, and there's little to no chance the Celtics want him competing in an exhibition game after what happened in Las Vegas regardless of how quickly he's able to get back on the court.
The trip to Africa is important for the league and everyone involved, though. And it would be nice if Smart still makes the trip, even if not to play.
(h/t: Boston Globe)
Photo Credit: Mark L. Baer/USA TODAY Sportsi
