Irving was AWOL emotionally much of this season in Boston. Of course he tried to lead, in his way. No one’s saying he didn’t. But it didn’t work. And the not-working was obvious, even though Irving is loath to explain himself and his methods to outsiders. His teammates defended him Thursday — “that’s just a bullshit statement to say that his leadership killed us,” Marcus Smart said, per The Athletic’s Jared Weiss — and, it’s true, no one person should get the blame for what happened.
Marcus Smart Rumors
All NBA Players
Position: G
Born: 03/06/94
Height: 6-4 / 1.93
Weight:225 lbs. / 102.1 kg.
Salary: $11,160,716
Born: 03/06/94
Height: 6-4 / 1.93
Weight:225 lbs. / 102.1 kg.
Salary: $11,160,716
Scott Souza: #Celtics Marcus Smart on Brad Stevens this season: It wasn’t easy for him. But, like I said, it happens. He has to go through his trials and tribulations himself. He’s a young coach. He’s a great coach. It’s only going to make him better. @CelticsCLNS @CLNSMedia
Chris Forsberg: Marcus Smart on notion that Kyrie’s leadership hurt chemistry of the Celtics. “Bullshit. … That’s just a bullshit statement to say his leadership killed us.” Said he hasn’t talked to Kyrie about coming back but supports whatever he chooses to do. “I love Kyrie, as a brother.”
Brian Robb: Marcus Smart on if he’s talked to Kyrie about re-signing: “No I have not. If he wants to talk about it, he will. It’s his decision. It’s not for me to ask. It’s not really my business. I love Kyrie as a brother. I talk to Kyrie and wish nothing but the best…it’s his decision.”
Scott Souza: #Celtics Marcus Smart said he wishes this team could push a do-over button on the season, said it’s the most talented team he’s been with & would be happy to give it another shot with most of the same pieces back next year. @CLNSMedia @CelticsCLNS
Chris Grenham: Marcus Smart: “We didn’t give ourselves the right opportunity to do something great. … It’s nobody’s fault. It happens.”
Adam Himmelsbach: Marcus Smart is the winner of the 2018-19 Jeff Twiss Award, presented by the Boston chapter of the Pro Basketball Writers Association to the Celtic who goes above and beyond his regular media responsibilities with exemplary professionalism and kindness. @Marcus Smart
