Tag Archives: #BleedGreen

Terry Rozier Believes the C’s are in for a ‘Truly Special Season’, Speaks about LeBron’s Departure

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Boston Celtics’ guard Terry Rozier said he’s on a very special team. He is not going to make predictions about the upcoming season, but he was very confident.

Rozier Sees Something Special

 

Terry took a few minutes off from his youth basketball camp to talk about the Celtics’ expectations. He used the term ‘special’ often when referring to his team.

“We are special. Super special. We are good on paper, we just gotta get it together, and make sure everyone comes in with the same mindset. And I feel this will be a special group.”

When asked to give specifics about his expectations for this team, he didn’t want to make any predictions.

“We look good on paper. With the two main guys back, along with guys added through the draft and re-signed.” He reiterated, “We are special, It’s special. It’s going to be a special, special year.”

Rozier Shared Some Thoughts About LeBron’s Departure

Disappointed that LeBron left the East, Jaylen Brown commented how he wanted to go through LeBron to reach the NBA finals. Along with his prediction of making the finals this year, the interview brought a great reaction from ‘Scary Terry’.

“I really don’t care…The league is watered down as it is.  Everyone’s making different moves, I’m only worried about the Boston Celtics…We’re just trying to figure out how we can get better.“

Personally, I wanted to see if he shared the same sentiment as Brown does with the finals guarantee. After asking the guard if he would second that prediction, he smiled and repeated, “It’s going to be a special year, a special year.”

At the end of the day, the kids had a great time. Terry Rozier was teaching them to be like him and always have confidence in yourself. With Irving and Hayward coming back this year, Rozier acknowledged that guys will have to sacrifice, saying “There’s gonna have to be if you want to win a championship.” This year’s Celtics team has a shared goal which is to win it all. Rozier let everyone know that this year is “going to be a lot of fun.” Banner 18 coming soon?

The Celtics’ X-factors for the 2018-19 Season

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The NBA season is less than 3 months away from tip-off. The Boston Celtics are ready to roll again after falling short to reach the NBA Finals last season. After a great offseason by not trading away assets, signing back Marcus Smart, drafting Robert Williams and a successful summer by Irving, Hayward, and Theis, the Celtics are ready to retake the throne of the East. This team is one of the deepest and talented rosters in the NBA, capable of dethroning the Golden State Warriors.

These X-factors won’t play tons of minutes during this season, but if the injury bug hits this team again, it will be their time to show the basketball world what they are capable of.

Here are the Celtics X-factors for the 2018-2019 season:

Brad Wanamaker

Brad Wanamaker is a huge question mark for fans who haven’t watched him play. After spending time playing professionally in Europe, Wanamaker has finally got the chance to showcase his skills among the best basketball players. He’s got the size, combo guard skills who is excellent defensively which is a perfect fit for this team. With Larkin gone, Wanamaker will take his spot and hopefully his role as a spark when needed.

 

Daniel Theis

Daniel Theis shocked the whole Celtics nation last season by providing a spark with his defensive hustle and, timely offense, unfortunately, his excellent rookie year was cut short because of a knee injury he sustained during the regular season. Now that he’s healthy again, he’s ready to show excellence even in limited minutes.

 

Jabari Bird

After a fantastic summer league showing, Jabari Bird finally got the attention of the Celtics front office and replaced Nader on the roster. He definitely showed great strides with his summer league performance. Although he’s not expected to play 15-20 minutes per game, his time will come especially if Boston’s guards are injured and Brad Stevens won’t hesitate to pull him off the bench.

 

Semi Ojeleye

Semi Ojeleye is definitely a steal for this team. He showed everyone last season that he can guard and lock down superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo which this team needs for them to conquer the East and hopefully the NBA. Ojeleye will definitely have that role similar to James Posey during 07-08 season that leads to banner 17. With his shooting prowess behind the arc and physical gifts, he will undoubtedly play a huge role next season.

Guershon Yabusele

Guerschon Yabusele is definitely a fan favorite because of his bench reactions and dab every time he hits a 3 point shot. He has definitely lost some weight compared to last season and showed vast improvement in the past summer league. He can positively contribute offensively and defensively as a stretch four or five for the next season, but with everyone healthy, he won’t have too much playing time.

 

Honorable mention: Robert Williams III

 

Remembering Reggie – 25 Years Since The Loss of Reggie Lewis

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Drafted out of Northeastern

Courtesy of NBC Sports

Boston Drafts Reggie Lewis in the First Round

Reggie Lewis was picked22nd overall by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 1987 NBA draft. His talent and work ethic displayed at Northeastern didn’t go unnoticed, even though it is a smaller college basketball program. In his rookie season, he averaged only 8.5 minutes and 4.5 PPG. With Boston’s Big 3 running the show, he would sit and watch like any other rookie and learn from the legends. Reggie’s second year was completely different. He played in 81 of 82 games, averaging 18.5 PPG and showing he could be the next great Celtic. As each year past, Lewis got better, becoming a fan favorite with his offense and defensive play. Reggie was quickly becoming a star in the NBA, which was on full display in the 90’s.

In March of the 91-92 season, Boston went up against the great Michael Jordan. Lewis was up for that challenge, famously blocking four of MJ’s shots. During that season, Lewis averaged a career high 20.8 PPG playing in all 82 games. He was the only Celtic to be represented in the All-Star game. By years end, Lewis became the only Celtic in history to have over 100 rebounds, 100 assists, 100 blocks, and 100 steals. In 1992, Lewis chosen as captain of the Celtics.

Courtesy of NBA.com

The Rise and Fall

Reggie Lewis entered the 1993 NBA playoffs against the Charlotte Hornets at home in the Boston Garden. In Game 1 of the first round, Lewis started the game shooting 7-11 and scoring 17 points until he collapsed on to the floor 13 minutes into the game. The fans waited in utter silence as Lewis eventually woke up. Unbelievably, Lewis tried to come back into the game. He played another 6 mins until the coaching staff had to get him off the floor. Those would be the last minutes he ever played in the NBA.

Reggie was taken after the game to New England Baptist Hospital to have tests done by 12 cardiologists. The Celtics called them a “dream team” of doctors. Reggie didn’t get the news he was hoping for as the doctors advised him of a heart condition that can be fatal. He was strongly advised to stop playing basketball. Reggie Lewis decided to seek a second opinion. He transferred to Brigham and women’s hospital for more testing. Dr. Gilbert Mudge disagreed with the first diagnosis Reggie received from the previous hospital, assuring the All-Star it wasn’t a heart condition and he could resume playing basketball with no limitations. Going with the second opinion, Reggie went to work on his jumper and on July 27th, 1993, Lewis collapsed to the floor and  tragically passed away two hours later in the hospital.

The Legacy

Lewis was 27 years ols when he passed. But his memory will live forever through the Reggie Lewis track and athletic center. He will never be forgotten on the court. Number 35 will always be up above as the Celtics retired his number in 1995.

Courtesy of NBC Sports

Dr. Robert Leonard’s Celebrity Bartending Event: Sights and Sounds

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Yesterday morning I had the privilege of receiving an invitation to Dr. Robert Leonard’s Celebrity Bartending Event. I immediately cleared my schedule, donned my favorite sport jacket and tie, grabbed a close friend of mine, and shipped up to Boston. After the rush hour traffic, flash flood warnings, and $28 parking garage fee, we arrived in Boston’s Seaport District. Leonard Hair Transplant Associates’ event was held at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, where a few big names were slated to attend.

The headlining athletes there were former Patriots Wes Welker, Rob Ninkovich, and Sebastian Vollmer, former Celtic Brian Scalabrine, and former Bruin Lyndon Byers. They are all close with Dr. Robert Leonard and have received hair treatments from him personally.

Arrival

We arrived in the Seaport District at around 4:30 PM, just as rush hour traffic in the city was really picking up. We found a convenient parking garage nearby where I could keep my old 2002 Toyota Highlander for a few hours. By judging the other vehicles nearby I could tell that the Seaport District doesn’t mess around.

We made our way across the street to Del Frisco’s, which was extremely upscale and had beautiful dark decor. The event was held by the bar upstairs, which featured a stunning panoramic view of the bay and the city to our left. Even with the rain it was a nice backdrop to have.

As we were standing in line to check in and I was in the middle of realizing how much of a poor college student I am, a familiar face passed by and into the VIP area. It was Wes Welker, who I’ve only seen on TV before. Then Brian Scalabrine followed in suit. Then came Rob Ninkovich and Sebastian Vollmer. Ninkovich turned to me and said “looking good”. Well, he said it to the general vicinity of where I stood, but wouldn’t it be cool if he said it to me?

Let the Festivities Begin 

Backtracking to reality, the setup for the event was very nice. There was a secluded area of the restaurant for the event itself. The celebrities roamed around to make small-talk with a few of the  bartenders as people checked in. Hair specialists, business-people, and fans all gathered together in the same area and began to converse. It seemed like everyone knew just about everyone. A man my friend and I met told us how him and Dr. Leonard are good friends and he and his daughter get together to attend his events often. The fact that so many people knew each other is what made the event so friendly and inviting.

On one side of the room photographers set up a wall where you can have your picture taken with Scal, Welker, Ninkovich, and Vollmer. Obviously my friend and I couldn’t pass that up. I was able to remain professional as I approached them, but it just felt surreal. Scal was the first one to warmly greet me and shake my hand, and Wes was right behind him. Ninkovich and Vollmer were a little timid but were still extremely polite. It was a little ironic to see two towering football players be so quiet. It was also nice to see that I was taller than at least one guy in the picture. To put things into perspective, I’m 6’0″.

They all told me that they liked my palm tree bow tie.

After everyone became settled, servers set up tables of some really great food. There were steak sandwiches, smoked ham, cheese and fruit- anything you’d see from an upscale steakhouse. It was my first taste of the high life in my very young career. Everyone was very nice, and the food was even nicer.

Taking over the Bar

Around 6:00 PM, the celebrities tried to exhibit their best bartending skills. People were joking and conversing with the former Boston athletes as they attempted to make their orders. Brian Scalabrine claimed his own side of the bar and told shouted to everyone in the area that he had them covered. Sebastian Vollmer really got into his role as well, finally coming out of his shell.

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“RUM?”- Scal

A huge thank you to Boston Sports Extra and Leonard Hair Transplant Associates for inviting me to this great dinner event. My friend and I had a great time meeting some of the athletes we grew up watching and spending time at such a great restaurant in Boston. This was truly a once in a lifetime experience.

REPORT: The Celtics are Including Terry Rozier in Draft Trades

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Danny Ainge and the Celtics are reportedly involving Terry Rozier in potential trades to move up in the draft. This was first reported by Brian Robb of the Boston Sports Journal. Robb says that, “the Celtics have discussed Terry Rozier with other teams as part of a trade package to move up.”

Rozier, 24, is entering the final year of his contract next season. He expects to cash out on his next deal considering his 2017-18 performance. He was the 16th overall pick by the Celtics in the 2015 NBA Draft and has made a massive contribution to this team. His first two-years for the Celtics were pretty quiet. He started no games and averaged 1.8 PPG and 5.5 PPG. However, in his third year Rozier exploded into one of the best bench-options in the NBA. In the 80 regular season games that Rozier played, he started 16 of them. This was due to the injuries Kyrie Irving accumulated throughout the year. Rozier averaged a career-high in PPG (11.3), RPG (4.7), APG (2.9), FG% (.395), and 3-point FG% (.381).

Scary Terry became a national star in the playoffs as he started every game for the Celtics. He averaged 16.2 PPG, 5.6 APG, and 5.3 RPG. Terry Rozier was a major reason as to why the Celtics made it all the way to a game-seven of the Eastern Conference Finals.

Possible Options with Rozier:

Rozier has one year-left on his rookie contract, leaving the Celtics with a big decision. Do they keep him and try to negotiate a new deal with Rozier, or do they trade him? In this scenario the Celtics use Rozier as leverage to move up in the draft. This does not mean he is the center of the trade. However, it means he will be one of the reasons it will happen. The Celtics have had reported interest in top-10 prospects Mohammad Bamba and Michael Porter Jr.

The Celtics could be looking at a potential major trade to help them not only compete with teams around the league, but win the NBA championship.

The Celtics Are Interested in Signing a Euro-League Star

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The Boston Celtics seem to be looking to add another overseas player for next season. His name is Brad Wanamaker, a Turkish guard who is very highly decorated. This was reported first by David Pick, who is considered the top guy for overseas news.

College Career

Wanamaker played college ball at the University of Pittsburgh. He averaged only eight points, four rebounds, and 3.5 assists during his four year college career. He also started the entire last two seasons for Pitt. Brad finished his senior career as a honorable-mention for the NCAA’s Men’s Basketball All-American.

Career Overseas

Brad started his professional basketball career in Italy and played for two Italian clubs. He then went back to America and signed with the Austin Toros, the Spurs’ G-League affiliate. The Toros won the developmental championship the only year Brad was on the team.

After his time back in America, Brad went overseas again to play in France’s top league, the LNB Pro A. He averaged nine points and 3.4 rebounds during his time there. After a brief stint back in Italy, Wanamaker signed with Brose Baskets, where they went on to win the championship with Brad winning Finals MVP. Brad re-signed with Bamberg and they went on to win their second straight title, and Wanamaker was MVP of the league.

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Brad then went to go play in Turkey after his very successful German career. He signed a two-year contract with Darussfaka. After those years went by, Brad signed with the reigning Euro-League champs, Fenerbahce. He led them to their fourth consecutive Final Four. He eventually lost to Luka Doncic and Real Madrid in the championship game.

Wanamaker finished his Euro-League career averaging 13.5 PPG, 4.2 APG, while shooting 36% from three. He also achieved many accolades like German BBL MVP, 2X German BBL Champion, and a Finals MVP.

Contribution to the Celtics

The Celtics have a few guys coming off their bench who come from overseas. One of them is Daniel Theis, who like Wanamaker, played most of his professional career overseas. Theis as a rookie, made a very solid contribution off the bench in his rookie year. In the 63 games he played, he averaged 5.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, while shooting 54% from the field. Backup point guard, Shane Larkin, came from overseas to the Celtics as well. Larkin played in the NBA for the first 3 years of his career before going overseas to Spain. Larkin revived his career in Spain which led him to getting signed by the Celtics.

Brad Wanamaker is set to be paid $3.8 million dollars by Barcelona next year unless he signs with an NBA team. Chances are Wanamaker stays in Europe, but the Celtics are one of the few teams interested, and it could be very useful to help the scoring off the bench.

Free Agents the Celtics Should Look at this Offseason

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With NBA free agency starting on July 1, the Boston Celtics are again one of the more fun teams to watch in free agency. In 2016, the Celtics signed 4-time all-star center, Al Horford to a 4-year deal. In 2017, the Celtics signed one of the biggest names in free agency, Gordon Hayward, who was coming off his best year yet and made his first all-star appearance. Now in 2018, Boston looks to continue to add pieces to bring them to their 18th title. These are some of the free agents they should consider signing:

Lebron James, Forward (Player-Option):

Starting this off with arguably the greatest player of all-time. Lebron James will most likely look to join a new team after losing to the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals for the second year in a row. Lebron is now poised to join a new team for the 3rd time in his career. This has left many to believe that the Celtics are one of the destinations he will consider.

Boston is one of, if not the best, options for Lebron to win a championship. However, it also leaves some problems for the Celtics. One of the main reasons Kyrie Irving is in Boston is because he wanted to have his own team and leave Lebron. This leaves the main decision of what do the Celtics value more, Lebron or Kyrie. It is a decision the Celtics should look at and consider.

Rodney Hood, Forward (Restricted):

One of Lebron James’ teammates from the 2017-2018 season, Rodney Hood, seems like a smart fit for the Celtics. Hood showed that he was a knockdown shooter and solid-defender during his time in Utah where he averaged 13.1 points per game during his 3 and 1/2 year career. He got sent to Cleveland halfway through the season, and his PPG numbers dropped off to 10.8. Rodney Hood has shown why he is a very solid go-to option off the bench which is what the Celtics lacked at certain moments last year.

Shabazz Napier, Point Guard (Restricted):

Shabazz Napier showed flashes of what made him so highly-touted coming out of college. Napier had a rough start to his NBA career where he was only averaging 4.3 PPG. However, in 2018, he had a very good season for the Blazers where he posted career highs in PPG with 8.7 and FG% shooting with .420 percent. Napier would be a solid backup option if anything happens to Rozier or Kyrie this off-season.

Nerlens Noel, Center (Unrestricted):

The Massachusetts-native Nerlens Noel has been centered around many trade rumors throughout the years to Boston. Noel has fallen off in his recent play for the Dallas Mavericks where he comes off the worst year of his career, averaging 4.4 PPG and 5.6 RPG. Noel has been a solid player throughout his career though while he is averaging around 9 points and 7 rebounds. The Celtics could use a big man who can score in the post, grab rebounds, and protect the rim.

Nemanja Bjelica, Power Forward (Restricted):

A relatively unknown compared to the other players on this list, Bjelica is becoming one of the biggest sleeper free agents in this class. He is coming off his best year in 2017-2018 where he started 21 games for the T-Wolves and put up career highs, 6.8 PPG, 4.1 RPG, and .415 3-Point FG%. Bjelica can come off the bench for the C’s and provide a spark from three and grab some much-needed rebounds. The Celtics were one game away from making it to the NBA Finals last year. Maybe one of these guys are the people to send them over the top.

Who’s Most Important? Ranking the Celtics with the Most Value

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As the trading block gets up and running this offseason, the Celtics’ staff needs to determine who is part of their future. These rankings take a look at who has the most value for the franchise right now. Factors taken into consideration were talent (obviously), age and current career trend, trade value, and contract situation. The team’s two-way players, Jabari Bird and Kadeem Allen are not included in this list. Let’s dive right in.

Image result for celtics team

Photo Credit: Getty Images

15. Abdel Nader, SF

Abdel Nader doesn’t bring anything to the team. He played sparingly over 48 games this season and averaged three points a game, all while contributing negative win shares. Though he’s young and could have room for improvement, he just underwent wrist surgery. It’s unlikely he’s on the roster for much longer.

14. Guerschon Yabusele, PF

Yabusele didn’t perform all that well for the Celtics this year either. He averaged 2.4 points and two rebounds over 33 games this year. However, scouts still see massive upside in “The Dancing Bear”, and he’s just 22 years old. The team still has hope that he can develop into the player they think he can be. Yabu has also become a fan favorite with his childish charm, and there’s always value in guys like that.

13. Greg Monroe, C

Though Monroe is unlikely to re-sign, he could still bring value to the team if he did. In 26 games with Boston, he averaged ten points and six rebounds after being acquired via the disabled player exception. If Boston wanted, they might be able to get him cheap on another one-year deal. Monroe is only 28 years old. However, there might not be a role for him this year behind Horford, Theis, and Baynes if he is re-signed.

12. Shane Larkin, PG

Shane Larkin had a decent year for the Celtics until injury sidelined him in the playoffs. Though he only averaged four points and two assists per game, he provided a nice spark off the bench. He also played an important role in several of the Celtics’ late-season games. The major thing that holds Larkin so low on this list is that this season, he’ll be fourth on the depth chart. Kyrie Irving, Terry Rozier, and Marcus Smart will all be before him in the rotation. It’s unlikely that he would see the court in most games. However, if the Celtics end up trading one or both of Smart and Rozier, it is possible he can see a role.

11. Semi Ojeleye, PF

Ojeleye doesn’t provide much offense, but Brad Stevens loves his defense. It’s easy to see why. This year, the team routinely looked to him to take the toughest defensive assignments. He defended the likes of LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo with relative success. He was also a rookie and has three years remaining on his deal of $1.5 million per year. At that price, Ojeleye is a steal for the team. However, like Larkin, he will be stuck low on the depth chart with Gordon Hayward returning.

10. Daniel Theis, PF/C

Theis had an excellent first year coming over from Europe. He averaged five points and five rebounds over 63 games, serving as a reliable backup to Al Horford before a torn meniscus ended his year in March. The 6’9″ German is already locked up for next year for $1.8 million. If Aron Baynes returns, the two will compete for minutes. However, Theis has a great chance at becoming an important player for the Celtics.

9. Marcus Morris, F

Marcus Morris provided big scoring boosts off the bench most nights throughout the season. Over 54 games, he averaged 14 points and 5.4 rebounds. He’s a bruiser and physical player, but he has a beautiful isolation jumper. Morris, still just 28, is locked up next season for $5.5 million. However, he is an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2019. If Danny Ainge looks to make a big trade this summer, Morris could be an eye-catching piece in any potential offers. If he stands pat, Boston gets another season’s worth of contributions out of Morris.

Marcus Morris

Photo Credit: Getty Images

8. Aron Baynes, C

Baynes filled the center position admirably last season. He played in all but one game and averaged six points and 5.4 boards. His willingness to go up against rim attackers (although often only to be posterized) proved valuable to the depleted core. His development of a three-pointer during the playoffs was incredible, and Boston should attempt to re-sign him. However, he is 31 years old, and if the price is too high, the Celtics may walk. Nonetheless, Baynes returning to the team would boost the size of a smaller Boston team.

7.  Marcus Smart, G

Marcus Smart is below Terry Rozier on this list because though he probably has more value to the team than Rozier does in the big picture, he doesn’t garner as much trade value as Rozier does. However, it’s impossible to overstate what Smart does for Boston. He’s the everyman, and everyone who’s watched him play knows what he brings to the table for them. The stats might not be the flashiest, but it’s what isn’t in the box score that makes him so valuable to the Celtics. However, Smart is a restricted free agent, and if he receives an offer into the $18-20 million range, the Celtics may not be willing to keep him.

6. Terry Rozier, PG

Scary Terry balled out in the playoffs and put the league on notice. As previously mentioned, Rozier earns this spot not because of his contributions to the team (though those were also hefty), but for his trade value. He’s been mentioned in numerous trade rumors already this offseason, and it’s easy to envision Ainge putting him into a package for a star player. Teams love his ability to create his own scoring opportunities. Rozier is under contract for one more year and then becomes an RFA. His team value, though, takes a hit this coming season with the return of Kyrie Irving. It will also be interesting to see if Rozier’s postseason inflated his ego, and prompts Trader Dan to ship him out a la Isaiah Thomas before he has to take a backseat to Irving.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

5. Al Horford, PF/C

Arguments can be made for Al Horford having been the MVP of this team this season. In his All-Star campaign, his consistent play and leadership gave the young guns guidance throughout the year. Horford was undoubtedly a cornerstone piece for the Celtics, both this year and last. The reason he falls down on the list is that Al now finds himself at 32 years of age, and winding down his career. His current contract with the team, though unlikely, has a chance to be his last, as he is signed next season and then has a player option in 2019-20. Horford probably won’t be included in any packages this season, because a player like him just won’t gather much interest. That’s just fine for the Celtics, though they’ll be glad to have Al hang around for a little while longer.

4. Jaylen Brown, SG/SF

Jaylen Brown is one of the hottest players on the market right now. His breakout sophomore season drew attention around the Association. He has sky-high trade value right now, and his play will only continue to improve. His stats jumped up in every category this year, and at just 21, it’s likely to be the case again next year. The Celtics could certainly put together an attractive trade package with him at the center. If he stays, he’s guaranteed a spot in the starting five. Right now, there’s no limit to how far he can progress.

3. Kyrie Irving, PG

Kyrie finally got to become the leader of a team, and it paid dividends. The flashy point guard had himself one heck of a season, even throwing his name into the MVP discussion before he joined the list of injured Celtics. The reason he’s third here is because his future with the team has become foggy. Terry Rozier emerged as a legitimate starting point guard during his absence. Irving has also become extremely noncommittal to a future with the Celtics, leaving some to wonder if he’ll be gone next season. However, Irving is a star and if the team manages to hang on to him, championships could be in the team’s future.

2. Gordon Hayward, F

Gordon Hayward was on the court for all of five minutes last year, but he is nearing the end of his recovery and rehab and appears ready to get back on the court this season. When he does, he’ll immediately assume his position at the focus of the team’s offense. After an All-Star season two years ago in Utah, Hayward is hungry for some real action in Boston. He’s also locked up for the next two seasons, and a player option after that. Prepare to see Hayward lead the Celtics for years to come.

1. Jayson Tatum, F

The clear-cut choice for number one on this list. Jayson Tatum is going to be a superstar in this league. At just 20 years old, the sky is the limit for the dynamic forward. He’s on his rookie contract for three more years with the team. If Ainge decides he wants to go after an Anthony Davis or Kawhi Leonard, Tatum could be more than enough to make the deal. However, given his performance this year, he seems untouchable, and for good reason. Tatum could lead this team for many years to come.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

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What If the Celtics Landed Kevin Durant?

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Disclaimer: This is 100% speculation. It’s impossible to tell what would actually happen, but I decided to take a really unrealistic jab at it.

After the conclusion of the 2015-2016 NBA season, six-time All-Star and former MVP Kevin Durant became one of the most coveted players to appear in free agency in a long time. A player with such natural superstar talent hadn’t been available like this since Dwight Howard became a free agent in 2013. Teams swarmed Durant and his agent at the beginning of the summer in pursuit to acquire one of the best players in the NBA. The early front-runners were the super team Golden State Warriors, the superstar-starved Boston Celtics, and Durant’s former team, the Oklahoma City Thunder.

On July 4th, 2016, Kevin Durant announced in The Players’ Tribune that he intended to sign with the Warriors. His decision came down between Boston and Golden State, and he chose to join the team that already possessed championship talent. But what if Durant chose the latter and went to Boston?

Durant Becomes a Celtic

In an alternate universe, Durant chose to don Celtic green rather than staying in the Western Conference. Boston gives Durant his promised max contract deal worth around $26 million, but he only accepts a one year deal with a player option, similar to the one he took with GSW. He joins newly signed Al Horford, who accepted a four-year deal worth $113 million two days earlier, as the highest cap hits on the team. Boston does not exercise Amir Johnson’s contract option to reallocate $12 million in cap for Durant.

2016-2017 Season

The Celtics still had the third pick in the 2016 NBA Draft earlier in the summer and still selected Jaylen Brown, Guerschon Yabusele, Ante Zizic, Demetruis Jackson, and Ben Bentil. All of those draft picks except Brown still play elsewhere for the 2016-2017 season. When it’s all said and done, Boston’s starting five is as follows: Isaiah Thomas, Avery Bradley, Jae Crowder, Kevin Durant, and Al Horford.

Boston easily locks up the first seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs with an offense led by IT and Durant. Isaiah Thomas has his Renaissance season, but not to the same degree. Instead of averaging 28.9 points a night, he only drops closer to 20. It’s Durant’s world and the rest of the Celtics are just living in it. Him and Horford become the leaders that Brad Stevens and the Celtics craved for since Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett were traded. Durant becomes the offensive workhorse of the Celtics, dropping close to 30 a game like his younger days in OKC.

The Celtics slide by the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the playoffs. Durant exploits his match-up with Otto Porter in the second round against the Wizards instead of Porter lighting up Boston’s defense. Without his production early into the series, the Wizards fall to the Celtics in six games instead of seven.

The Celtics do not get eliminated in five games against the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals. Because Isaiah Thomas does not exert himself as much in this alternate universe, he does not suffer a season-ending hip injury. Avery Bradley does not become the workhorse of the C’s offense, and 20 year old Jaylen Brown isn’t assigned to guard LeBron. Durant against LeBron becomes one of the best match-ups in the playoffs. The red-hot Cavs are taken to seven games and crack under pressure. The Celtics advance to take on the Warriors in the 2017 NBA Finals.

The Warriors did not land Durant in the off-season, so they kept a similar lineup compared to their 2015-2016 run. They don’t sweep the first three rounds, but they still found themselves easily making the Finals. Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green are no match for Boston. The Celtics ultimately fall in six to the Warriors. Durant wins regular season MVP but does not earn a ring.

Summer of 2017

Though Durant doesn’t earn a ring, luckily enough for Boston he is willing to stay. He picks up his player option to play another season with the promise of a ring. Free agent Gordon Hayward never teams up with his former coach, Brad Stevens, and stays in Utah. However, the Celtics still have the assets to make the trade for Kyrie Irving still happen. Boston sends off IT, Crowder, Zizic, and picks for Irving. Kelly Olynyk and Jonas Jerebko walk still, but Gerald Green returns on a one year deal. They also still bring in Aron Baynes on a one year deal.

In the 2017 NBA Draft, the Celtics trade down not to third, but to the eighth pick via trade with the Knicks. The Celtics swap the first overall pick and Avery Bradley for Kristaps Porzingis. They then select Dennis Smith Jr. out of NC State instead of the Dallas Mavericks. The Celtics have become a super team almost overnight, just to impress Durant.

The new starting five consists of Kyrie Irving, Jaylen Brown, Kevin Durant, Kristaps Prozingis, and Al Horford.

Conclusion

If Durant signed with Boston (and decided to stay), Danny Ainge had an interesting situation in front of him. He could either stay with his “build for the future” route or he could also press the “win now” button. If he wants to win now, Boston would have to lease talent to win a few championships quickly. I went the latter route here, but I also made the assumption that everything worked out perfectly in Boston’s favor.

If I were a NBA GM I’d avoid doing something this drastic. Three years down the road Boston could only afford probably one of those players they acquired. In real life, the Celtics’ current situation is a perfect storm. They acquired All-Star talent in Kyrie and Hayward, and without them this team has shown that they already have the talent to contend in the playoffs. Durant or no Durant, don’t mess with the C’s.

 

Cover image courtesy of SB Nation.

Celtics vs Sixers: The Rivalry Renewed

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photo cred- phillyvoice.com

 

Celtics vs. Sixers: NBA Playoffs Round 2

In every sport there are rivalries that always have fans hooked to the TV. In the NBA, one of those rivalries have come back to life after the 76ers turned themselves, along with the C’s, into one of the better young teams in the NBA. After years of tanking and being the laughing-stock of the league, the Sixers are FINALLY back to being a top-tier team. This renewed rivalry with the Celtics is great for the NBA and its fans.

This will be the 20th playoff match-up between the two teams. The Celtics have gotten the better of these match-ups throughout their rivalry, with a 54-46 record in the postseason. This rivalry goes back to the days of Bill and Wilt, Larry and Dr. J, and now our young guns vs. their young guns. With guys like Simmons, Embiid, Saric, Tatum, Brown, Rozier, and veterans like Horford and Reddick, this series has ALL the makings of an INSTANT CLASSIC. Let’s not forget that the C’s are on this playoff run with All-Star players out of the lineup (Kyrie and Hayward) and with a banged up Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown.

NBA FANS GET YOUR DINNER TRAYS READY, TAKE THE FOOD OUT OF THE OVEN AND FIND A SEAT IN THE LIVING ROOM… THIS SERIES IS GOING TO BE INCREDIBLE!

GAME 1 WRAP-UP

photo cred- www.sbnation.com

The Celtics took Game 1 at The Garden 117-101, which saw three Celtics players with 20+ points. Terry Rozier was absolutely on FIRE after continuing his dominant play at home, shooting a CRAZY 7/9 from three point land. Al Horford posted a solid line of 26/7/4, while Tatum contributed 28/3/2. Tatum did not show signs of being a rookie at all (as mentioned by C’s great Kevin McHale). There were contributions all around in this game both on offense and defense, and the Celtics bench outplayed the Sixers bench. Overall, we basically ran them out of the gym all while missing TWO SUPERSTARS!

Game 1 was neck and neck for a while, with the Celtics losing some double-digit leads but ultimately got it together. Trust me, I have my doubts with this series because of the talent the Sixers have compared to the injuries Boston has. But after last night I am convinced we can STEAL this series. However, it’s going to take ONE thing: WINNING ON THE ROAD, which the Celtics have failed to do so far in this postseason.

Predictions & X-Factors

Celtics fans have to be happy with getting an early jump on this young, athletic, and talented Sixers team. Although we are missing key players due to injuries, I believe we match-up better in this series with their starting five and bench than we did last series having to deal with Giannis and Middleton.

The X-factors in this series are multiple guys who will need to help this team win. In my opinion, the Celtics need Rozier, Horford, Smart, Tatum, and Brown to continue playing well at home and on the road. The bench production will be hot and cold for both teams. But, ultimately it will come down to how the starters play both at home and on the road. Plus they need to make sure the defense contains Ben Simmons and J.J. Reddick because let’s face it, Joel Embiid is going to do WORK!

I love the way this team is playing now with young guys firing on all cylinders. There is one guy I think that should get more playing time against Embiid, and that’s Greg Monroe. Monroe hasn’t played since early in the Bucks series. I think he can be a huge compliment to Baynes and Horford when it comes to an inside presence. However, like the old saying goes, “If it aint broke, don’t fix it”. Another X-factor for me will be the atmosphere inside the Garden, which was electric last night. The fans always seem to pump this team up, and last night they hit Ben Simmons with a “Not A Rookie” chant, which was an absolute classic!

Series Prediction

My prediction for this series is the Celtics FINALLY get a road win and they take the series in 6 games, moving on to the Eastern Conference Finals where they will meet LeBron James and the streaky Cleveland Cavaliers. Yes, I get it, the Cavs aren’t what they use to be, but they still have LBJ and Kevin Love mixed with championship experience that I think will get them by the Toronto Raptors.

Judging by the picture below of the Sixers bench completely leaving the court with 10.5 seconds still remaining. It seems that Scary Terry did his job and had them retreating to the locker room in FEAR.

LETS GO CELTICSSSS!!!!