VILLANOVA, Pa. — Rick Pitino isn’t expecting Deivon Smith back soon.

The St. John’s coach said Smith, now dealing with a neck injury, tried to play Wednesday night against Villanova, but couldn’t go.

The plan now is to rest him, hoping the senior point guard gets healthy.

Smith has also been dealing with a bruised right shoulder he suffered on Jan. 11. Smith has missed four games since the initial injury.

According to Pitino, he believes that the player is unlikely to return for the rest of the regular season and emphasizes the importance of focusing on his recovery. Pitino expressed his concerns after the ninth-ranked team lost to Villanova with a close score of 73-71 at Finneran Pavilion. He highlights that allowing the player more time to recuperate will benefit the team as his current performance does not match his previous level of play, indicating the need for his health to be prioritized. Pitino anticipates that the player will be sidelined for an extended period, confirming his absence for upcoming games against Creighton and DePaul.

Smith, averaging 9.5 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists this year, is one of St. John’s best 3-point shooters and the key to its transition game.

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The absence of the player would undoubtedly have a significant impact on the team. However, the primary focus remains on ensuring his full recovery. His performance has been subpar since his return, evident by his poor shooting percentage of 5 out of 28 attempts, which has had minimal positive influence on the team’s overall performance.

“If you bring him back too soon, you’re going to lose him for the [postseason],” Pitino said.

St. John’s announced that the March 1 home game against Seton Hall is being moved to the Garden due to increased demand.

Originally scheduled for Carnesecca Arena, it will remain a 2:15 tipoff.

Season-ticket holders and student season-ticket holders will be provided with their regular ticket location for the game.

Fans who bought tickets for the contest at Carnesecca Arena will be placed in a comparable section at the Garden.