Rajon Rondo might have avoided getting traded this offseason, but that does not mean the point guard is starting the 2014 season in a Boston Celtics uniform. Instead, Rondo will be wearing a suit, sitting courtside after breaking his hand in a fall at home. This is not the way Boston intended to start their year or the way the point guard was hoping his contract season would begin, but that is the issue at hand for the Celtics and now the team must figure the best way to replace him.
The Celtics have not confirmed a timetable for Rondo's injury, only stating that he might miss the first bit of the regular season. As a result, the Celtics will look within the roster to replace Rondo for the time being. This is where the team's draft moves come into play. According to ESPNBoston.com, it could be Marcus Smart that takes over as an immediate starter if the rookie looks strong in training camp. The former Oklahoma State star was drafted with the No. 6 overall pick to either backup Rondo or take over the spot when the point guard departed in free agency. His time has come sooner rather than later, but Smart is confident in his abilities to play well and credits Rondo for the help.
"I expected [Rondo] to be like, 'Rookie' -- kinda shunning me off, putting me to the side, and kinda learn on my own," Smart said, via ESPN.com. "It's nice. [The veterans], they try to help you -- until we start playing, then obviously they are trying to beat you. When we're working out, they are trying to help and trying to make sure you know everything before you go out there and do it."
The Celtics have options outside of Smart if the rookie is not ready to be inserted to the starting lineup just yet. Many believe Avery Bradley could take over for the time being. However, Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe is reporting that Beal will not be considered to replace Rondo. Head coach Brad Stevens would prefer if Bradley playing at shooting guard instead of at point. Smart remains at the top of the list for the point guard spot.
It was assumed when Smart of drafted that he was the future in Boston. Rondo has the chance to head elsewhere in 2015 and unless the Celtics are willing to give him a max contract, the veteran could leave. Teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, Houston Rockets and Indiana Pacers are just a few names getting tossed around as potential destinations.
