Celtics Coach Brad Stevens' position heading into the playoffs is a tough one, but his strategy for the remaining regular-season games is simple. Rest the active players if they require it, but hopefully get the big-minutes guys together for a game or two prior to the start of the first round.
The very earliest Marcus Smart can return from thumb surgery is roughly April 22 and that is pushing it. He may need an additional week or two to avoid further injury. The earliest scenario means Smart gets into action for round one, but there is a good chance he misses the early going.