It’s with great pleasure that I report to you that Marcus Smart is continuing his progression back from a left oblique tear. We’ve seen him do some light shooting, some jogging and even sprinting in recent days, and now here’s more fuel to the fire surrounding his return to action:

Marcus Smart progressing... That's a dunk at the end! pic.twitter.com/8aAehXEmKl — John Karalis (@RedsArmy_John) May 2, 2019

Listen, I’m not a doctor, but if he can run, jump, leap, sprint and dunk, I don’t (personally) see many steps left in the way of his return to game action. Sunday marks 4 weeks since the initial injury after which we were given a 4-6 week timeline, so Smart making his return to the court this weekend would be extremely timely. With the Celtics surrendering 7 3-pointers to Khris Middleton alone in Game 3, Smart’s presence would be exceptionally handy.

Here are a couple of other looks from today’s practice as Marcus Smart works his way back:

Smart activity watch, part 2: 1-on-1 with assistant Alex Barlow. pic.twitter.com/iiMkF3vnXB — Chris Forsberg (@ChrisForsberg_) May 2, 2019

The Boston Celtics are tied with the Milwaukee Bucks 1-1 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. A pivotal Game 3 in Boston tips off Friday night on ESPN followed by an important Game 4 on Monday night. Smart’s return at either time would be extremely welcome.