Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big storyline. Because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.

Smart noted before Rondo’s injury that the All-Star guard looked full-strength in regards to his knee. Smart noted: “He’s making cuts, stopping on a dime, knocking down shots, full-out sprints. You couldn’t tell that he was hurt.” The pair haven’t played one-on-one yet, but Smart joked, “We’re trying to save ourselves for training camp, but eventually we will get there.”

Those one-on-one battles will have to wait even longer as Rondo recovers. Smart, who projected to play immediate minutes alongside both Rondo and Avery Bradley, could see his early minutes spike further while Rondo heals.

That should only help Smart’s development, even if there are some bumps along the way.

The Celtics snagged Smart with the No. 6 pick in June’s draft. He has spent a good chunk of the past three months in the Boston area, working with coach Brad Stevens and developing chemistry with his new teammates. Chatting with some NBA friends outside of Boston, Smart learned that his heavy offseason workload might be a bit unique.

“I figured guys would be in only when training camp started. I talked to a lot of my colleagues from college and [they said], ‘We don’t have to be back until October,’” explained Smart. “I was like, ‘I’m working out right now.’ I guess different teams do different things with their players. I’m glad that Coach Stevens allowed us to come back and get some extra work before training camp. Get in there and get a feel with the players, because a lot of us have never played with each other. … Being able to have these workouts before training camp is a big deal.”

ESPN Boston – Celtics likely just got Smarter

Marcus Smart… COME ON DOWN, YOU’RE THE NEXT CONTESTANT ON THE PRICE IS RIGHT!!!  Ok, maybe a bit over the top, but it’s a good thing the rookie has been busy this summer with Team USA and especially with being here working out.  Because now, due to Rajon Rondo’s broken hand, Smart gets thrust into the starting PG role.

Let’s be clear, however.  This is not like Smart is being asked to guide a contending team looking to make a run at a title or even the playoffs.  Under the circumstances there is very little pressure for Smart here, since nobody expects him to lead a team of misfits to a blazing record out of the gate.  Especially given the schedule.

It is a wonderful opportunity for Smart to establish himself as a player… a real player.  So far there has been everything to love about this kid.  His attitude is great, his personality is endearing and he’s been working hard.  Now’s the time to see what he can actually do at this level.  Carpe diem Mr. Smart.

Page 2: Red had some bad blood with Slick Leonard

Q: There was bad blood between you and Hall of Fame Boston Celtics coach Red Auerbach. What happened?

“We did have a feud. I didn’t like him and he didn’t like me. He was the first guy to have an enforcer come off the bench. I remember we went into Boston Garden when I was coaching Baltimore and Terry Dischinger was lighting up the Celtics. He had like 15 points midway through the first quarter. Auerbach sent in his enforcer, Jim Loscutoff. I knew what was going to happen.

“Terry was running down the floor. Loscutoff was behind him and took his fist and hit Terry right in the back of the head. When that happened, I went right to the Boston bench and I grabbed Auerbach by the shirt, and I said, ‘You get him off of him, or you and I are going to go at it, right now.’ I saw the fear in his eyes. He wasn’t as tough as he made out to be. He backed down.”

Q: Did you ever patch things up?

“He got out of coaching, and I was broadcasting. I don’t know if I’d say we made up. He probably hated me till the day he died, but we did speak to each other.”

News-Sentinel.com – Slick Leonard Q & A

I tweeted this page from Terry Pluto’s “Loose Balls” yesterday about a little tiff between Red and Slick.  Funny how today this Q&A is online today.  Red, always the agitator had his rivals but that’s what happens when you’re great and you win so much.

The rest of the links:

Boston Globe – One door closed, another opened for Jonathan Bender (Sunday Notes)

MassLive –  Rajon Rondo injury analysis

Patriot Ledger – Celtics expected to make only slight progress this season

Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel – Bob Ryan’s new book recalls Celtics-Bucks final