Ime Udoka offers big updates on 2 key Celtics players ahead of Game 1 vs. Heat

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Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

On Sunday, the Miami Heat found out who they’ll be facing in the Eastern Conference finals after the Boston Celtics disposed of the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 7 of their series.

Though the Celtics had an impressive showing in Game 7, key contributor Marcus Smart unfortunately suffered a midfoot sprain in the game. On Monday, Celtics head coach Ime Udoka offered an update on Smart as well as an update on Robert Williams’ status.

The Celtics dominated for much of Game 7 against Milwaukee and ended up winning 109-81. Williams didn’t play, but Boston got by without him. Smart, meanwhile, had 11 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds in the game.

It sounds likely that Williams will be fine heading into Game 1 between Boston and Miami. For that reason, the concern for the Celtics will primarily be regarding Smart’s status. Of course, he is one of the biggest leaders on the Celtics and won this season’s Defensive Player of the Year award. Smart being on the court would undoubtedly improve the Celtics’ chances of winning the series.

As for the Heat, they’re still watching how point guard Kyle Lowry’s injury progresses. Right now, it doesn’t seem likely that he’ll play in Game 1. However, Heat star Jimmy Butler appears confident the guard will be back soon.

Luckily for the Heat, they almost certainly have the deepest roster out of the four teams remaining in the playoffs. They’ll have other great players ready to go in Game 1 if Lowry is not yet ready to return.

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Jonathan is a freelance writer, filmmaker, and passionate fan of the NBA. In the past Jonathan has covered politics, entertainment, travel, and more. He is a proud contributor of Heat Nation.