NBA Awards Watch: Predicting The Rookie Of The Year Race

NBA Awards Watch: Predicting The Rookie Of The Year Award Race

Feb 13, 2015; New York, NY, USA; World Team guard Andrew Wiggins of the Minnesota Timberwolves (22) is interviewed by broadcaster Rachel Nichols (right) after being named the MVP after the game against the U.S. Team at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

4 of 12

Jan 5, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart (36) drives the ball against Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) in the second half at TD Garden. Charlotte defeated the Celtics 104-95. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Marcus Smart – Boston Celtics, PG

Want to know the reason why the Boston Celtics traded away Rajon Rondo to the Dallas Mavericks this season? Look no further than rookie point guard, Marcus Smart.

After falling out of the top five picks in the 2014 NBA Draft, Smart fell into a perfect situation with the Celtics. Now that the team is officially his as the point guard, Smart has one of the best chances to become the No. 1 point guard in the 2014 NBA Draft class.

With the combination of size, athleticism, defensive prowess, intelligence and heart, Smart could easily become the player that other players will gravitate towards to win games.

The Celtics aren’t going to do a lot of winning in the last 30 games of the season, but Smart’s going to put them in a position to stay competitive. When his numbers pick up as they are expected, don’t get surprised.

Next: 8. Jerami Grant