Marcus Smart is feeling good, thinks Celtics defense gives them a chance

Marcus Smart says he’s feeling good after his positive test for coronavirus back in March. Smart also said he’s feeling good about the Celtics chances when the season restarts.

On his positive test and people taking COVID-19 seriously, Smart said “I had no symptoms, so it was surprising. I was skeptical at first because I felt nothing. I’ve heard other cases where people are really having trouble. For me, my mindset was that I’d rather be safe than sorry. I wanted to do my part of staying inside, washing my hands and keeping my distance from people.”

Smart was asked about donating plasma to help scientists as they search for a vaccine. He said “It was very humbling to know that somewhere, someone may use my plasmas to help save lives.”

Smart went on to encourage anyone who has the antibodies to donate plasma in hopes that it will help others.

On the long-term effects of having coronavirus, Smart was candid in his fears: “It really scared me because no one really knows the extent of this virus. Who is to say that even now that I have the antibodies, the virus is gone, how is this going to affect me in the long-run five years from now?”

On the court, Smart said that he thinks defense will be important in the restart. He likes Boston’s chances in that area: “It’s going to be the difference maker. I think we have a really good shot with me being one of the best defensive players in the league.”

Smart was also effusive in his praise for Jayson Tatum, as he was asked when he knew Tatum was going to be a great player: “When we played Cleveland his rookie year. He can do it all. His defense isn’t talked about enough. He’s on the right track to become one of the best players, if not the best player.”

In closing his availability, Smart encouraged NBA owners to get involved and to speak up on social justice matters around the United States: “Those are voices that need to be heard. They can reach the people who need to hear it.”