MILAN - For most of the summer it appeared as though Boston would fill its few remaining roster spots with wing players.
In the second round the C's drafted Kris Joseph, a small forward out of Syracuse. They also brought into camp Dionte Christmas after a strong showing on the C's summer league squad.
But the Celtics know better than most how quickly things change. And when they do, so do needs.
That's exactly what has happened to Boston with the unexpected retirement of guard Keyon Dooling which has created a void of sorts in the backcourt.
And that void has opened up an opportunity for Jamar Smith, a combo guard who also got an invite to training camp based on his play with the Celtic's summer league club.
"That's a big loss," said Doc Rivers, referring to Dooling's departure. "Even as a coach, I don't think you realize it, that it's a loss, until you see it on the floor in a game and you realize, 'that's a bigger loss than I thought.'"
Rivers added, "I'm hoping we can figure that out without going out and getting another body. Jamar has a chance."
Boston Celtics
Smith played some point during Boston's 97-91 loss to Fenebahce Ulker on Friday.
He finished with two points on 1-for-4 shooting with an assist, a rebound and two turnovers in just over 12 minutes of action.
Smith, a former Division II player of the year at Southern Indiana, spent last season with BK Prostejov in the Czech Republic where he averaged 14.9 points and 2.4 assists per game. In addition, he was named Czech League all-star.
During the 2010-2011 season, Smith was in New England as a member of the Maine Red Claws of the NBA Development League where he averaged 13.6 points, five assists and 1.02 steals per game.