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Celtics suspend Smart for preseason finale for breaking team rule

Steven Ryan / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The Boston Celtics suspended guard Marcus Smart for Friday's preseason meeting with the Miami Heat for a violation of team rules, head coach Ime Udoka told NBC Sports' Chris Forsberg.

"It's internal. We've handled it. He's remorseful," Udoka said. "We hold Marcus to a high standard. ... Marcus is one of our leaders that we expect a lot from. He understands that. ... Move on from there."

The two-time NBA All-Defensive first-team selection did not participate in Thursday's 103-102 defeat to the Orlando Magic. Smart reportedly missed the team's flight to Orlando, resulting in the suspension, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Smart is no stranger to suspensions. The 27-year-old was last banned for one game on April 28 for "directing threatening language toward a game official" during a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Oklahoma State product, who is expected to take over starting duties from New York Knicks newcomer Kemba Walker, agreed to a four-year, $77-million extension with the Celtics in April.

Friday's visit to Miami is Boston's final tuneup ahead of the team's regular-season opener at the Knicks on Oct. 20.

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