[trelos6Participant]

It’s official.  Celtics will pick 27th (Clips) and 16th (own).

Assuming they don’t package the picks and try to move up, I’d like to see them draft:

Pick 16: Devin Booker.  A great shooter, good size at the 2.  Can come off the bench and play 20 mpg and hit 3’s in the pace and space offense.

Pick 27: Rondae Hollis-Jeffereson.  Lockdown defender at the 3.  Plays with heart.  Would want him in a battle.

Other potential picks: Dakari Johnson at 27.  Legit size.  Could potentially develop into a decent big.  

2nd round: Robert Upshaw.  You can’t teach size!

 

 

 

 

 

 

[omphalosParticipant]

 Why would you take Devin Booker when you just picked up James Young, who is basically a better version?

I like Myles Turner with our first pick.

He had a rough freshman year but he’s a big dude with the potential to anchor the D, which is more than can be said for any guy on our roster.

Once he grows into his body and gets a bit more comfortable with his work in the post/polishes his outside jumper a bit more I think he’d be a great fit in the Celtics’ system and would be valuable right off the bat as an energy guy.

I do agree that Rondae Hollis-Jefferson would be great for this team. They don’t really have a lockdown wing player and there’s something about Jefferson’s intensity and instincts that tells me he could really blossom like Jimmy Butler and Kawhi Leonard if put in the right situation.

The tools are there for RHJ, definitely worth a look at 27, but I doubt he’ll be available then after the combine and workouts.

 

 

 

 

 

[omphalosParticipant]

 Why would you take Devin Booker when you just picked up James Young, who is basically a better version?

I like Myles Turner with our first pick.

He had a rough freshman year but he’s a big dude with the potential to anchor the D, which is more than can be said for any guy on our roster.

Once he grows into his body and gets a bit more comfortable with his work in the post/polishes his outside jumper a bit more I think he’d be a great fit in the Celtics’ system and would be valuable right off the bat as an energy guy.

I do agree that Rondae Hollis-Jefferson would be great for this team. They don’t really have a lockdown wing player and there’s something about Jefferson’s intensity and instincts that tells me he could really blossom like Jimmy Butler and Kawhi Leonard if put in the right situation.

The tools are there for RHJ, definitely worth a look at 27, but I doubt he’ll be available then after the combine and workouts.

 

 

 

 

 

[BostonCs FanParticipant]

 I would like my Celtics to pick Jerian Grant with our 16th pick. It’s evident that Marcus smart is not a true point guard. Smart has struggle handling the basketball and even utilizing the pick and roll properly. I see smart more as a two guard. With the 27th pick I would like them to add another big. My belief is there was much more to the entire sullinger situation. The kid had some sort of foot related health issue and yet he was able to return so quick. I believe the celtics initially shut him down for the season because they was fed up with his work ethic. I believe he got his aditude back in a positive way or maybe there just throwing him in now with the guys so managment can showcase his trade value. Regardless the celtics need a big if sully is the future or not. A kid like Christian wood would be nice. I would even take Chris mccoulgh at 27 base solely on his potential.

[BostonCs FanParticipant]

 I would like my Celtics to pick Jerian Grant with our 16th pick. It’s evident that Marcus smart is not a true point guard. Smart has struggle handling the basketball and even utilizing the pick and roll properly. I see smart more as a two guard. With the 27th pick I would like them to add another big. My belief is there was much more to the entire sullinger situation. The kid had some sort of foot related health issue and yet he was able to return so quick. I believe the celtics initially shut him down for the season because they was fed up with his work ethic. I believe he got his aditude back in a positive way or maybe there just throwing him in now with the guys so managment can showcase his trade value. Regardless the celtics need a big if sully is the future or not. A kid like Christian wood would be nice. I would even take Chris mccoulgh at 27 base solely on his potential.

[benny15Participant]

i dont really think Turner will drop out of the lotto but if he does then he does make a good enough gamble despite showing that he doesnt have the best mobility for a big. like mentioned earlier, he could develop to a defensive anchor with his penchant for shot blocking.

 although, i think though the celtics will address that need more through free agency than they would in the draft. but if he’s there, take him and still get a free agent since it’ll still be a few seasons before turner can contend for the starting c spot.

the player im looking at, and i acknowledge that its a reach pick, is George Lucas De Paul. i like his size and his length is elite for a point guard prospect. he’s a project player, but im honestly a fan of boston’s shut down back-court with evan turner running the point from the small forward position. 

as for the second 1st rounder, i think sam dekker would drop and that boston could take advantage with it. im not expecting dekker to be an elite shooter or regular scorer from the get go, but i do like his combination of of length and skill and it could work very well when complimented with the defense of smart and bradley. it also would be interesting how much brad stevens can develop out of him since his latest SF project, Evan Turner, has really worked out well for his squad. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[benny15Participant]

i dont really think Turner will drop out of the lotto but if he does then he does make a good enough gamble despite showing that he doesnt have the best mobility for a big. like mentioned earlier, he could develop to a defensive anchor with his penchant for shot blocking.

 although, i think though the celtics will address that need more through free agency than they would in the draft. but if he’s there, take him and still get a free agent since it’ll still be a few seasons before turner can contend for the starting c spot.

the player im looking at, and i acknowledge that its a reach pick, is George Lucas De Paul. i like his size and his length is elite for a point guard prospect. he’s a project player, but im honestly a fan of boston’s shut down back-court with evan turner running the point from the small forward position. 

as for the second 1st rounder, i think sam dekker would drop and that boston could take advantage with it. im not expecting dekker to be an elite shooter or regular scorer from the get go, but i do like his combination of of length and skill and it could work very well when complimented with the defense of smart and bradley. it also would be interesting how much brad stevens can develop out of him since his latest SF project, Evan Turner, has really worked out well for his squad. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[capecodderParticipant]

 They also own Philly’s pick at #33, so a trade out of 27 would not hurt…slide 6 slots and avoid  a guaranteed 

contract

 

 

 

[capecodderParticipant]

 They also own Philly’s pick at #33, so a trade out of 27 would not hurt…slide 6 slots and avoid  a guaranteed 

contract

 

 

 

[mgreener_34Participant]

 Personally I think it’s a nobrainer that the Celtics are going to move up, so it’s kind of hard not to  think that way. They already have 11 players under contract for next year, and I’m hoping they bring back Crowder and Jonas, as both of them are smart players who bring a lot of energy. People give Isaiah all the credit for the Celtics turn around after the break, but in reality these two guys also chipped in and gave a lot to the Celtics. 

I 100% agree on the Celtics moving up to take Myles Turner, or taking him if he slips. Assuming he passes medically, I think he would be the perfect player to plug into the Celtics system as he’s a mobile shot blocker who has good range on his shot. One more year of Kelly/Sully/Zeller getting big minutes while Turner improves his body and adapts to the NBA is fine by me. 

The one guy that I really really want though is Kelly Oubre. Celtics have drafted okay the past couple of years, but they have been afraid to take project players like Giannis, Shroeder, and Lavine, and I see Oubre in the same mold as these guys. Great length, good shot, decent defender. All this kid needs in a good situation and a good coach and I think he will be a very good player. I could see him excelling in the Jae Crowder/Luigi Datome role for this team till he becomes more polished.

People also need to remember that Brad Stevens is high on versatility, so any player who can’t guard multiple positions or do multiple things on offense most likely aren’t going to be wearing green next year. This is why I would think the Celtics would look at someone like Sam Dekker, who can play the 3 or 4, and comes from a solid program. Sully/Smart/Olynyk/Young/Zeller/Crowder/Bradley/Turner are all guys who ainge likes because they played for good college coaches/programs, and have high IQ’s. Dekker fits that description to a T. 

I also wouldn’t be surprised to see the Celtics draft someone like Jerian Grant or Caris Lavert. Both guys are tall, can handle the rock, and shoot decently from the arc. I kind of wish the Celtics guard rotation wasn’t signed for so long, because I would love to take a flyer on Chris Dunn. He’s going to be a solid pro, and would be an interesting hometown prospect to develope (Boston sports follow Providence more than any other College team for some wierd reason.)

For the second round picks, I agree with everyone else. Take someone like Rakeem Christmas/Tokoto/Upshaw/

[mgreener_34Participant]

 Personally I think it’s a nobrainer that the Celtics are going to move up, so it’s kind of hard not to  think that way. They already have 11 players under contract for next year, and I’m hoping they bring back Crowder and Jonas, as both of them are smart players who bring a lot of energy. People give Isaiah all the credit for the Celtics turn around after the break, but in reality these two guys also chipped in and gave a lot to the Celtics. 

I 100% agree on the Celtics moving up to take Myles Turner, or taking him if he slips. Assuming he passes medically, I think he would be the perfect player to plug into the Celtics system as he’s a mobile shot blocker who has good range on his shot. One more year of Kelly/Sully/Zeller getting big minutes while Turner improves his body and adapts to the NBA is fine by me. 

The one guy that I really really want though is Kelly Oubre. Celtics have drafted okay the past couple of years, but they have been afraid to take project players like Giannis, Shroeder, and Lavine, and I see Oubre in the same mold as these guys. Great length, good shot, decent defender. All this kid needs in a good situation and a good coach and I think he will be a very good player. I could see him excelling in the Jae Crowder/Luigi Datome role for this team till he becomes more polished.

People also need to remember that Brad Stevens is high on versatility, so any player who can’t guard multiple positions or do multiple things on offense most likely aren’t going to be wearing green next year. This is why I would think the Celtics would look at someone like Sam Dekker, who can play the 3 or 4, and comes from a solid program. Sully/Smart/Olynyk/Young/Zeller/Crowder/Bradley/Turner are all guys who ainge likes because they played for good college coaches/programs, and have high IQ’s. Dekker fits that description to a T. 

I also wouldn’t be surprised to see the Celtics draft someone like Jerian Grant or Caris Lavert. Both guys are tall, can handle the rock, and shoot decently from the arc. I kind of wish the Celtics guard rotation wasn’t signed for so long, because I would love to take a flyer on Chris Dunn. He’s going to be a solid pro, and would be an interesting hometown prospect to develope (Boston sports follow Providence more than any other College team for some wierd reason.)

For the second round picks, I agree with everyone else. Take someone like Rakeem Christmas/Tokoto/Upshaw/

[omphalosParticipant]

I’m not convinced by Oubre. I think he’s got pretty high bust potential – he just doesn’t seem to have his head in the game or know how to contribute.

Those high upside guys the Celtics passed on all had great instincts but were raw skill-wise. 

I feel like Oubre is plenty skilled, but is a low basketball IQ player.

[omphalosParticipant]

I’m not convinced by Oubre. I think he’s got pretty high bust potential – he just doesn’t seem to have his head in the game or know how to contribute.

Those high upside guys the Celtics passed on all had great instincts but were raw skill-wise. 

I feel like Oubre is plenty skilled, but is a low basketball IQ player.

[mgreener_34Participant]

 True, and that’s where faith comes into play. Kelly is still a teenager learning the game, and he’s not going to be able to contribute much right off the bat, but like you said, he has the skill. If you take him, have him find a role (3 and d obviously) and create a base for him to work off of I could see him becoming an all-star caliber player when he’s 25/26. This is exactly what Brad Stevens does with his players. He’s doing the same thing with Smart this year, and most likely James Young next year. Have them work on a few things that the team needs, and slowly improve upon your game. Having a great coach like Brad goes a long way, and having a team stacked with high IQ players can only help. 

The Celtics have slowly been building a culture of stand up guys and hard workers, so I’m not scared of taking on project players who still need time. This is the perfect team for them 

[mgreener_34Participant]

 True, and that’s where faith comes into play. Kelly is still a teenager learning the game, and he’s not going to be able to contribute much right off the bat, but like you said, he has the skill. If you take him, have him find a role (3 and d obviously) and create a base for him to work off of I could see him becoming an all-star caliber player when he’s 25/26. This is exactly what Brad Stevens does with his players. He’s doing the same thing with Smart this year, and most likely James Young next year. Have them work on a few things that the team needs, and slowly improve upon your game. Having a great coach like Brad goes a long way, and having a team stacked with high IQ players can only help. 

The Celtics have slowly been building a culture of stand up guys and hard workers, so I’m not scared of taking on project players who still need time. This is the perfect team for them 

[juves4783Participant]

i’m not sure why you’d want oubre when you already have james young.  they are very similar is almost every aspect of their games.  great scoring potential, decent stoke, left hand dominant, 6-7 to 6-8 and not the greatest basketball iq’s.  neither really showed an ability to take over a game and get to the rim consistently.

i’d much rather have a wing with a different style.

 

 

[juves4783Participant]

i’m not sure why you’d want oubre when you already have james young.  they are very similar is almost every aspect of their games.  great scoring potential, decent stoke, left hand dominant, 6-7 to 6-8 and not the greatest basketball iq’s.  neither really showed an ability to take over a game and get to the rim consistently.

i’d much rather have a wing with a different style.

 

 

[omphalosParticipant]

I think the difference is that Lavine, Giannis, Schroeder all had that edge and a desire to get better.

Oubre just strikes me as being another Donte Green, with all the skills on paper but none of the motivation to improve.

He’d still be a good value pick at 16, but I wouldn’t be expecting more than Trevor Ariza out of him.

 

 

[omphalosParticipant]

I think the difference is that Lavine, Giannis, Schroeder all had that edge and a desire to get better.

Oubre just strikes me as being another Donte Green, with all the skills on paper but none of the motivation to improve.

He’d still be a good value pick at 16, but I wouldn’t be expecting more than Trevor Ariza out of him.

 

 

[Flameres15Participant]

 16- Myles Turner, if he is still available, or Jakob Poeltl. I think the idea is to draft a big man with defensive instincts. Turner would be ideal because he plays inside and outside. I gave him the comparison of LaMarcus Aldridge. Aldridge came into the league as a two way player and now has a great jump shot. I think Turner plays similarly, but maybe more shot blocking. Poeltl is a pound the rock type of player. He had a high field goal percentage at Utah, and that should translate. I see Poeltl as a Tyson Chandler type of player. He could be a great pick and role player, but his impact will be on the defensive end.

27- Caris LeVert, RJ Hunter, Chris McCullough would all be fits. I like Jared Sullinger, but he could use some actual competition. With McCullough, the Celtics have two way player. He averaged 2.1 blocks and 1.7 steals to go along with 6.9 rebounds and 9.3 points. Obviously Chris tore his ACL and that will drop him, but the Celtics should view him as a low risk, high reward player. The Celtics have enough depth to cover a late second round pick.

Levert also had an injured season. He broke his foot. The same injury he sustained during the previous summer. Caris is however, one of the most talented back court players, and would have been drafted lottery if he did not have this injury. LeVert showed his overall playmaking and more important he showed his 3 point shot. LeVert would be a great fit beside Marcus Smart, as both are combo guards. This would allow Smart to attack the rim and dish to LeVert for a three or another drive. This is why I gave him the comparison of Monta Ellis.

Just watch RJ Hunter and it makes sense why the Celtics should draft him. He would fit perfectly in the Celtics system.

 

 

 

 

[Flameres15Participant]

 16- Myles Turner, if he is still available, or Jakob Poeltl. I think the idea is to draft a big man with defensive instincts. Turner would be ideal because he plays inside and outside. I gave him the comparison of LaMarcus Aldridge. Aldridge came into the league as a two way player and now has a great jump shot. I think Turner plays similarly, but maybe more shot blocking. Poeltl is a pound the rock type of player. He had a high field goal percentage at Utah, and that should translate. I see Poeltl as a Tyson Chandler type of player. He could be a great pick and role player, but his impact will be on the defensive end.

27- Caris LeVert, RJ Hunter, Chris McCullough would all be fits. I like Jared Sullinger, but he could use some actual competition. With McCullough, the Celtics have two way player. He averaged 2.1 blocks and 1.7 steals to go along with 6.9 rebounds and 9.3 points. Obviously Chris tore his ACL and that will drop him, but the Celtics should view him as a low risk, high reward player. The Celtics have enough depth to cover a late second round pick.

Levert also had an injured season. He broke his foot. The same injury he sustained during the previous summer. Caris is however, one of the most talented back court players, and would have been drafted lottery if he did not have this injury. LeVert showed his overall playmaking and more important he showed his 3 point shot. LeVert would be a great fit beside Marcus Smart, as both are combo guards. This would allow Smart to attack the rim and dish to LeVert for a three or another drive. This is why I gave him the comparison of Monta Ellis.

Just watch RJ Hunter and it makes sense why the Celtics should draft him. He would fit perfectly in the Celtics system.

 

 

 

 

[mayoryan24Participant]

I think the Celts should trade up 5 or 6 spots and grab Willie Cauley-Stein.  With the picks they’ve accumulated, I don’t see that as being too difficult.  His defensive ability coupled with Zeller would equate to an average starting center. All the through the NCAA tournament, Cauley-Stein was skilled enough to switch on smaller guys.  This ability coupled with his shot blocking would fit well under Coach Stevens.

As for free agents, I think the Celts should target Draymond Green.  He’s a restricted free agent, so it would take a sizable contract offer, but I think he’s worth it.  He won in college and the pros, brings defensive versatility, and is young enough to develop offensively.

I know these are not the home run type moves that we’re all hoping for, but they’d probably give us 5-7 more wins while maintaining cap space for the following summer and keeping most of their draft picks.

Roster reset:

Guards: Bradley, Turner, Thomas, Young, and Pressey

Forwards: Green, Sullinger, Turner, Olynyk, and Jerebko

Center: Cauley-Stein and Zeller

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[mayoryan24Participant]

I think the Celts should trade up 5 or 6 spots and grab Willie Cauley-Stein.  With the picks they’ve accumulated, I don’t see that as being too difficult.  His defensive ability coupled with Zeller would equate to an average starting center. All the through the NCAA tournament, Cauley-Stein was skilled enough to switch on smaller guys.  This ability coupled with his shot blocking would fit well under Coach Stevens.

As for free agents, I think the Celts should target Draymond Green.  He’s a restricted free agent, so it would take a sizable contract offer, but I think he’s worth it.  He won in college and the pros, brings defensive versatility, and is young enough to develop offensively.

I know these are not the home run type moves that we’re all hoping for, but they’d probably give us 5-7 more wins while maintaining cap space for the following summer and keeping most of their draft picks.

Roster reset:

Guards: Bradley, Turner, Thomas, Young, and Pressey

Forwards: Green, Sullinger, Turner, Olynyk, and Jerebko

Center: Cauley-Stein and Zeller

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 Trade up twice:

#16 + #45 (plus next year’s 76ers pick if necessary) to move up a spot or two and get Kaminsky.

#27 + #33 to move up a few spots and grab either RHJ or Harrell, whichever is still on the board.

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 Trade up twice:

#16 + #45 (plus next year’s 76ers pick if necessary) to move up a spot or two and get Kaminsky.

#27 + #33 to move up a few spots and grab either RHJ or Harrell, whichever is still on the board.

 

 

 

 

[Meditated StatesParticipant]

 Try to get an shot blocker some other way. I think Frank fits Brads system offensively perfectly.  Cauli Stein would be nice but they will need to move a pick and maybe a solid player.

[Meditated StatesParticipant]

 Try to get an shot blocker some other way. I think Frank fits Brads system offensively perfectly.  Cauli Stein would be nice but they will need to move a pick and maybe a solid player.

[BrooklynCeltParticipant]

 Celts chance of getting a center is much better this year than in next year’s draft.  They may not be able to trade up high enough to get Cauley-Stien, who could go as high as 5 or 6.  However, Turner or Poeltl, if he comes out, may be possibilities. Utah at 11 is a potential trade target, as they don’t need a center.  Kaminsky could also be available, but not sure offers much more than Olynyk.  If they strike out on a center, Decker, Oubre, Lyles or Looney would be possibilities.

 

[BrooklynCeltParticipant]

 Celts chance of getting a center is much better this year than in next year’s draft.  They may not be able to trade up high enough to get Cauley-Stien, who could go as high as 5 or 6.  However, Turner or Poeltl, if he comes out, may be possibilities. Utah at 11 is a potential trade target, as they don’t need a center.  Kaminsky could also be available, but not sure offers much more than Olynyk.  If they strike out on a center, Decker, Oubre, Lyles or Looney would be possibilities.

 

[OhCanada-Participant]

As ofarrell would be a good fit next to the three bugs they have developing. A core group of Olynyk, Sullinger, Zeller, and Harrell gives them plenty of options moving forward.

Turner would be ideal although they will probably have to move up to grab him.

Alexander would be a good option with the second pick if they choose to go another route with the first.

They should probably move up and swing for the fences though. As of right now the team is packed with role players that don’t have high end potential. Adding two more players that project to be decent role players won’t hwlp much longterm.

 

 

 

[OhCanada-Participant]

As ofarrell would be a good fit next to the three bugs they have developing. A core group of Olynyk, Sullinger, Zeller, and Harrell gives them plenty of options moving forward.

Turner would be ideal although they will probably have to move up to grab him.

Alexander would be a good option with the second pick if they choose to go another route with the first.

They should probably move up and swing for the fences though. As of right now the team is packed with role players that don’t have high end potential. Adding two more players that project to be decent role players won’t hwlp much longterm.

 

 

 

[trelos6Participant]

I’m not sold on Turner.  He does have great potential, but have you seen how he walks up and down the court?  He looks fragile.  He has a solid midrange game and great shotblocker though.

At this stage, I’m looking for players with grit and determination.  That attitude that if we’re down 20, they will dive for a loose ball.  Basically, guys like Smart, Bradley, IT.

 

  

[trelos6Participant]

I’m not sold on Turner.  He does have great potential, but have you seen how he walks up and down the court?  He looks fragile.  He has a solid midrange game and great shotblocker though.

At this stage, I’m looking for players with grit and determination.  That attitude that if we’re down 20, they will dive for a loose ball.  Basically, guys like Smart, Bradley, IT.

 

  

[Meditated StatesParticipant]

 Kaminsky would add more length and offensive punch. I would not reach at 16 and in the twenties, take the best player available in that situation. 

[Meditated StatesParticipant]

 Kaminsky would add more length and offensive punch. I would not reach at 16 and in the twenties, take the best player available in that situation. 

[mgreener_34Participant]

 So Zach Lowe came out with an interesting article the other day, and I wanted to hear what this forums Celtic/Utah fans had to say about it. 

Pretty much Zach talks about Utah, and how they already have a plethora of good young talent, but need more veteran leadership. In the article he mentioned how the Jazz should trade their #10 pick and Hood for someone like Avery Bradley. Would Celtic fans make that trade?

It would give us a great young shooter, and also a top 10 pick in this years draft, giving them the ability to move up even further, or potentially include in a trade for proven player. I wouldn’t mind this trade because 1.) I love Rodney Hood, and the man has been shooting lights out since he started playing minutes for Utah, and 2.) I don’t think Smart is a PG, and think that he could play the same role as Bradley has for this team, but with more offensive potential, and 3.) It woud allow the Celtics to make a run a PG with great potential with their later picks such as Dunn/Grant/Lavert like I mentioned in my previous post. 

What do you guys think of that scenerio? Would you trade Bradley? Take a step back to take two steps forward in a couple years?

[mgreener_34Participant]

 So Zach Lowe came out with an interesting article the other day, and I wanted to hear what this forums Celtic/Utah fans had to say about it. 

Pretty much Zach talks about Utah, and how they already have a plethora of good young talent, but need more veteran leadership. In the article he mentioned how the Jazz should trade their #10 pick and Hood for someone like Avery Bradley. Would Celtic fans make that trade?

It would give us a great young shooter, and also a top 10 pick in this years draft, giving them the ability to move up even further, or potentially include in a trade for proven player. I wouldn’t mind this trade because 1.) I love Rodney Hood, and the man has been shooting lights out since he started playing minutes for Utah, and 2.) I don’t think Smart is a PG, and think that he could play the same role as Bradley has for this team, but with more offensive potential, and 3.) It woud allow the Celtics to make a run a PG with great potential with their later picks such as Dunn/Grant/Lavert like I mentioned in my previous post. 

What do you guys think of that scenerio? Would you trade Bradley? Take a step back to take two steps forward in a couple years?

[arambone2]

 Bradley still has significant upside, and he’s locked into a cheap contract. He also has the rare character, heart, and work ethic that made this season turn around from a throwaway rebuild year into a team with a top 3 record in the entire NBA over the last 2.5 months.

You think this run would have happened with Rondo and Jeff Green sulking and quitting on the team? 

Just think for one second what our record would have been with a full season of IT and Crowder… Probably low 50s in the win column. 

So you want to use extreme caution when throwing around our core guys in trade ideas. They deserve a lot more respect than they have been getting, and that respect has been slow to come, even – or especially – from Celtics fans. Fans who were largely pushing for a tank season, and who thought Rondo was the only good player on the roster.

Most Boston fans need to see results before they give the team any benefit of the doubt, for some GD reason. Well, we’ve seen plenty, and it’s time to start showing our core guys the respect they deserve.

Sorry to rant at you, because this is just a general rant and I know you didn’t mean much disrespect to Bradley.

But F an A, we have some major talents on this roster, and they have world class intangibles that guys like John Wall and Brad Beal and MOST other young players don’t even understand, much less possess.

F fantasy basketball, F all star votes, and F general public opinion. There are different ways to win, and the Celtics are showing you that a team can be borderline elite without any big names and flashy scoring numbers.

Bradley is correct when he states that he’s the best on ball defender against point guards in the NBA. And he’s a solid shooter, and outstanding in the clutch. He also has top notch athleticism, and his scoring off the dribble is only going to get better and better. It’s not like anybody in the NBA can really handle his quickness in isolation. It’s not like Russell is going to be able to shut him down, and it’s not like Russell is going to be able to contain the top guards the way Bradley already does.

Also, Smart is an elite defender like Bradley, but Smart isn’t as consistently quick defensively against the quickest point guards. He can stay with them in spurts, but he is simply much heavier than every point guard in the league, and Avery Bradley is the kind of point guard defender God would design. And Smart is outstanding guarding 2s, so they make THE best defensive backcourt in the NBA. That’s JUST as valuable as having the best offensive backcourt in the NBA, even if Sportscenter doesn’t agree. They don’t sell commercials with clips of perimeter defenders grinding down their opponents for 48 minutes.

I really hope Danny Ainge doesn’t have too much of this old thinking stuck in his head, but he might. I hope Brad Stevens has Major input in the Celtics draft choices, and we get guys who are a lock to be team-first workaholics like the rest of this amazing roster of throwbacks.

One of the old thinking ideas is the NEED for a rim-protector. That line of thinking was fine when we were stinking up the league with Captain Rondo, but it doesn’t necessarily apply to a team that wins TWICE as much as it loses, like the 24-12 finish the Celtics had with their new roster and attitude.

We have one of the youngest rosters in the league, and they already play at a 50+ win rate.

50+ win caliber teams shouldn’t be F’d with willy nilly, based on accepted wisdom when the team was on pace for 25-30 wins. That’s how you end up like the Mavs or Suns this year, both of whom saw their records plummit after making trades with the Celtics.

So a young team that is already playing at such high quality, at such a young age, is only going to get better with an offseason’s worth of time, and an extremely positive season to build off of.

Part of me wants to hold off on all draft trades and just draft rock solid role players at the positions we’re at.

But no part of me wants to just shake up the entire roster and the lightning in a bottle that is our team chemistry right now. It simply doesn’t make sense, and it isn’t even smart. Smart, another guy that Russell is less than likely to be better than.

/rant, don’t take it personally:)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

[arambone2]

 Bradley still has significant upside, and he’s locked into a cheap contract. He also has the rare character, heart, and work ethic that made this season turn around from a throwaway rebuild year into a team with a top 3 record in the entire NBA over the last 2.5 months.

You think this run would have happened with Rondo and Jeff Green sulking and quitting on the team? 

Just think for one second what our record would have been with a full season of IT and Crowder… Probably low 50s in the win column. 

So you want to use extreme caution when throwing around our core guys in trade ideas. They deserve a lot more respect than they have been getting, and that respect has been slow to come, even – or especially – from Celtics fans. Fans who were largely pushing for a tank season, and who thought Rondo was the only good player on the roster.

Most Boston fans need to see results before they give the team any benefit of the doubt, for some GD reason. Well, we’ve seen plenty, and it’s time to start showing our core guys the respect they deserve.

Sorry to rant at you, because this is just a general rant and I know you didn’t mean much disrespect to Bradley.

But F an A, we have some major talents on this roster, and they have world class intangibles that guys like John Wall and Brad Beal and MOST other young players don’t even understand, much less possess.

F fantasy basketball, F all star votes, and F general public opinion. There are different ways to win, and the Celtics are showing you that a team can be borderline elite without any big names and flashy scoring numbers.

Bradley is correct when he states that he’s the best on ball defender against point guards in the NBA. And he’s a solid shooter, and outstanding in the clutch. He also has top notch athleticism, and his scoring off the dribble is only going to get better and better. It’s not like anybody in the NBA can really handle his quickness in isolation. It’s not like Russell is going to be able to shut him down, and it’s not like Russell is going to be able to contain the top guards the way Bradley already does.

Also, Smart is an elite defender like Bradley, but Smart isn’t as consistently quick defensively against the quickest point guards. He can stay with them in spurts, but he is simply much heavier than every point guard in the league, and Avery Bradley is the kind of point guard defender God would design. And Smart is outstanding guarding 2s, so they make THE best defensive backcourt in the NBA. That’s JUST as valuable as having the best offensive backcourt in the NBA, even if Sportscenter doesn’t agree. They don’t sell commercials with clips of perimeter defenders grinding down their opponents for 48 minutes.

I really hope Danny Ainge doesn’t have too much of this old thinking stuck in his head, but he might. I hope Brad Stevens has Major input in the Celtics draft choices, and we get guys who are a lock to be team-first workaholics like the rest of this amazing roster of throwbacks.

One of the old thinking ideas is the NEED for a rim-protector. That line of thinking was fine when we were stinking up the league with Captain Rondo, but it doesn’t necessarily apply to a team that wins TWICE as much as it loses, like the 24-12 finish the Celtics had with their new roster and attitude.

We have one of the youngest rosters in the league, and they already play at a 50+ win rate.

50+ win caliber teams shouldn’t be F’d with willy nilly, based on accepted wisdom when the team was on pace for 25-30 wins. That’s how you end up like the Mavs or Suns this year, both of whom saw their records plummit after making trades with the Celtics.

So a young team that is already playing at such high quality, at such a young age, is only going to get better with an offseason’s worth of time, and an extremely positive season to build off of.

Part of me wants to hold off on all draft trades and just draft rock solid role players at the positions we’re at.

But no part of me wants to just shake up the entire roster and the lightning in a bottle that is our team chemistry right now. It simply doesn’t make sense, and it isn’t even smart. Smart, another guy that Russell is less than likely to be better than.

/rant, don’t take it personally:)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

[BobbyqrsParticipant]

 I read this one idea on a celtics forum: Kings #6, Derrick Williams for Avery Bradley, Kelly Olynyk and #16 pick…. Then use a couple of more picks to move up to #4 and take D’Angelo Russell.  We need a point guard. Isaih Thomas is an excellent player, but he is best fitted coming off of the bench. A D’Angelo Russell + Marcus Smart offense and defense back court w/ Thomas as the 3rd guard has alot of potential.

[BobbyqrsParticipant]

 I read this one idea on a celtics forum: Kings #6, Derrick Williams for Avery Bradley, Kelly Olynyk and #16 pick…. Then use a couple of more picks to move up to #4 and take D’Angelo Russell.  We need a point guard. Isaih Thomas is an excellent player, but he is best fitted coming off of the bench. A D’Angelo Russell + Marcus Smart offense and defense back court w/ Thomas as the 3rd guard has alot of potential.

[arambone2]

 The odds of Russell being better than IT are less than 50%, and you want to trade half the roster Plus pick #16 and however many other picks gets you up to #4, all because "Thomas is better coming off the bench"?

I can tell you’re one of the 99% who never saw this playoff run coming, and you still have no clue how it happened. Just like the rest of the clowns on whatever forum you were on where this idea was suggested.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 The odds of Russell being better than IT are less than 50%, and you want to trade half the roster Plus pick #16 and however many other picks gets you up to #4, all because "Thomas is better coming off the bench"?

I can tell you’re one of the 99% who never saw this playoff run coming, and you still have no clue how it happened. Just like the rest of the clowns on whatever forum you were on where this idea was suggested.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[BallerScriptParticipant]

16: Bobby Portis, PF, Arkansas
With no top centers left on the board at this position I think that the best option is Bobby Portis. The sophomore from Arkansas can space the floor, defend the rim and work inside (to the best of his ability), He isn’t the best bigman available in the draft and I think that a trade for Myles Turner is in need but at 16 this is a good pick.

27: Buddy Hield, SG, Oklahoma
Hield is undersized at the 2 guard position but is an all-around player. He is a solid defender with great athleticism and an amazing ability to score. He is a predictable player but has a very low turnover percentage. If there was to be a trade up for a better player such as Myles Turner it would involve this pick.

45: Tyrone Wallace, PG, California
Wallace would be a nice addition to the Celtics if a trade is made for Myles Turner and the late first round pick the Celtics currently own is lost. Wallace is an athletic, scoring guard who can play well at both the point guard position and the shooting guard position.

[BallerScriptParticipant]

16: Bobby Portis, PF, Arkansas
With no top centers left on the board at this position I think that the best option is Bobby Portis. The sophomore from Arkansas can space the floor, defend the rim and work inside (to the best of his ability), He isn’t the best bigman available in the draft and I think that a trade for Myles Turner is in need but at 16 this is a good pick.

27: Buddy Hield, SG, Oklahoma
Hield is undersized at the 2 guard position but is an all-around player. He is a solid defender with great athleticism and an amazing ability to score. He is a predictable player but has a very low turnover percentage. If there was to be a trade up for a better player such as Myles Turner it would involve this pick.

45: Tyrone Wallace, PG, California
Wallace would be a nice addition to the Celtics if a trade is made for Myles Turner and the late first round pick the Celtics currently own is lost. Wallace is an athletic, scoring guard who can play well at both the point guard position and the shooting guard position.

[natevalParticipant]

 I’m a die hard Celtics season ticket owner, I’m excited they made the playoffs but still think we need to temper expectations. Stevens is known to get the most out of his teams which I think he did this year but at the end of the day we’re a mediocure team. Yeah Gigi, Jerebko, Zeller and Crowder really stepped up but lets remember these are still back up players you still need top players in this league to win championships. What’s the goal here to make it to the playoffs or win championships? I believe Ainge will make a major move this offseason.  

[natevalParticipant]

 I’m a die hard Celtics season ticket owner, I’m excited they made the playoffs but still think we need to temper expectations. Stevens is known to get the most out of his teams which I think he did this year but at the end of the day we’re a mediocure team. Yeah Gigi, Jerebko, Zeller and Crowder really stepped up but lets remember these are still back up players you still need top players in this league to win championships. What’s the goal here to make it to the playoffs or win championships? I believe Ainge will make a major move this offseason.  

[arambone2]

 Writing Zeller off as a back-up is that same old thinking I was talking about. It was conventional wisdom when we s#cked with Rondo, and you still insist on it being true even after Zeller was our starting center during our 24-12 finish. 

Did you even notice that Zeller has gotten much more confident with his jump shot, now firing away without hesitation and with good consistency from deep 2 point range?

You might be surprised to learn that most of the "rim protectors" that you covet for the Celtics as "real" starting centers actually don’t impact the game overall as well as Zeller does.

Most "starting centers" have only a fraction of Zeller’s skill, and Zeller can beat them up and down the court every time.

The Celtics would not have finished 24-12 with a Roy Hibbert starting at center, or even probably a Greg Monroe, or even a Gortat.

And Zeller is still quite young, so he’ll probably have a corner 3 by next season. His confidence has been growing by leaps and bounds, as has his performance.

And this idea that you need "stars" to win a championship is largely based on LeBron James success. 

You can’t simply replace LeBron James with Generic star x and expect repeatable results.

And even the word "star" is flawed. Because it is almost always used to define an offensive player, regardless of their impact defensively, and their impact overall.

An offensive star isn’t any more inherently valuable than a defensive star, and an offensive star who stinks on defense and doesn’t actually contribute an overall positive impact isn’t any more valuable than an average offensive and defensive player.

The Celtics have at least three defensive stars in Bradley, Smart, and Crowder. The Celtics have been a top 10 defense for 2.5 months even with Zeller, KO, and Bass at the big positions. That’s star power, and that’s star impact.

The Celtics are good enough, and getting better at a rate that they can absolutely get to contender status with just a couple minor tweaks, like keeping our draft picks and "hitting singles" or one double.

The reason everybody thinks you need "stars" to win a championship is because by the time the Finals are over, two or three "stars" have already been born.

Was Kawhi Leonard a "star" before the playoffs last year? H3ll no. Was Tony Parker any better last year than Isaiah Thomas is this year? Doubtful, and if so, not by much.

If Evan Turner has a big series against Cleveland, he won’t be considered any worse than modern day Ginobli. 

If the Mavs had defeated the Heat a few years ago with a more even effort, instead of on Dirk’s shoulders, would they take away the trophy because they didn’t have enough "stars"?

There’s different ways to win titles, even if three or four one-of-a-kind superstars have dominated most recent championship teams.

One way to win is to grind teams down with outstanding team defense, and then hit clutch shots down the stretch. The Celtics are already well on their way to being contenders with exactly this style of play. Defensive stars who can score in the clutch, and rock solid, above average role players who do whatever is needed to squeeze out wins. 

Kind of like the Baltimore Ravens of a few years ago, or the Detroit Pistons a few years back. Chauncey Billups wasn’t a "star" until his Pistons started winning rings and making a splash every year in the playoffs. Same with Ben Wallace, Tayshaun Prince, Rip Hamilton, etc.

Scottie Pippen wasn’t a star until he started winning rings.

We’ve all heard the phrase "defense wins championships", but these days most people don’t believe it, and every year the Clippers are considered contenders and often favorites to win a championship, as with the OKC Thunder.

The Celtics are very close to being a contender in the vein of the Bad Boy Pistons, or the Ben Wallace Pistons, or last year’s Indiana Pacers.

And when LeBron’s Cavs come up short this year, everybody will point to their defense, which all of their Star Power couldn’t fix.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 Writing Zeller off as a back-up is that same old thinking I was talking about. It was conventional wisdom when we s#cked with Rondo, and you still insist on it being true even after Zeller was our starting center during our 24-12 finish. 

Did you even notice that Zeller has gotten much more confident with his jump shot, now firing away without hesitation and with good consistency from deep 2 point range?

You might be surprised to learn that most of the "rim protectors" that you covet for the Celtics as "real" starting centers actually don’t impact the game overall as well as Zeller does.

Most "starting centers" have only a fraction of Zeller’s skill, and Zeller can beat them up and down the court every time.

The Celtics would not have finished 24-12 with a Roy Hibbert starting at center, or even probably a Greg Monroe, or even a Gortat.

And Zeller is still quite young, so he’ll probably have a corner 3 by next season. His confidence has been growing by leaps and bounds, as has his performance.

And this idea that you need "stars" to win a championship is largely based on LeBron James success. 

You can’t simply replace LeBron James with Generic star x and expect repeatable results.

And even the word "star" is flawed. Because it is almost always used to define an offensive player, regardless of their impact defensively, and their impact overall.

An offensive star isn’t any more inherently valuable than a defensive star, and an offensive star who stinks on defense and doesn’t actually contribute an overall positive impact isn’t any more valuable than an average offensive and defensive player.

The Celtics have at least three defensive stars in Bradley, Smart, and Crowder. The Celtics have been a top 10 defense for 2.5 months even with Zeller, KO, and Bass at the big positions. That’s star power, and that’s star impact.

The Celtics are good enough, and getting better at a rate that they can absolutely get to contender status with just a couple minor tweaks, like keeping our draft picks and "hitting singles" or one double.

The reason everybody thinks you need "stars" to win a championship is because by the time the Finals are over, two or three "stars" have already been born.

Was Kawhi Leonard a "star" before the playoffs last year? H3ll no. Was Tony Parker any better last year than Isaiah Thomas is this year? Doubtful, and if so, not by much.

If Evan Turner has a big series against Cleveland, he won’t be considered any worse than modern day Ginobli. 

If the Mavs had defeated the Heat a few years ago with a more even effort, instead of on Dirk’s shoulders, would they take away the trophy because they didn’t have enough "stars"?

There’s different ways to win titles, even if three or four one-of-a-kind superstars have dominated most recent championship teams.

One way to win is to grind teams down with outstanding team defense, and then hit clutch shots down the stretch. The Celtics are already well on their way to being contenders with exactly this style of play. Defensive stars who can score in the clutch, and rock solid, above average role players who do whatever is needed to squeeze out wins. 

Kind of like the Baltimore Ravens of a few years ago, or the Detroit Pistons a few years back. Chauncey Billups wasn’t a "star" until his Pistons started winning rings and making a splash every year in the playoffs. Same with Ben Wallace, Tayshaun Prince, Rip Hamilton, etc.

Scottie Pippen wasn’t a star until he started winning rings.

We’ve all heard the phrase "defense wins championships", but these days most people don’t believe it, and every year the Clippers are considered contenders and often favorites to win a championship, as with the OKC Thunder.

The Celtics are very close to being a contender in the vein of the Bad Boy Pistons, or the Ben Wallace Pistons, or last year’s Indiana Pacers.

And when LeBron’s Cavs come up short this year, everybody will point to their defense, which all of their Star Power couldn’t fix.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[natevalParticipant]

The Celtics have a ton a cap room and a ton of picks they have to do something with it. How can you add so many picks to this roster? Ainge got these assets to make a move he’s going to upgrade the roster and not just sit still. I like these guys too but again lets temper expectations you have Crowder pegged now as a defensive "star" and I don’t need Zeller working this offseason on the corner 3. If the Celtics have a shot at any major player through free agency or trade you better believe Ainge is going to jump on it. 

 

 

 

[natevalParticipant]

The Celtics have a ton a cap room and a ton of picks they have to do something with it. How can you add so many picks to this roster? Ainge got these assets to make a move he’s going to upgrade the roster and not just sit still. I like these guys too but again lets temper expectations you have Crowder pegged now as a defensive "star" and I don’t need Zeller working this offseason on the corner 3. If the Celtics have a shot at any major player through free agency or trade you better believe Ainge is going to jump on it. 

 

 

 

[mgreener_34Participant]

 I love that you’e a die hard fan, but enjoy the small steps now because it will make the big ones that much greater! We have 2 first round picks this year and two great second round picks (we see people trade out of the first all the time because they don’t want to gaurantee players), possibly 4 first round picks next year, and just as much in 2017. I don’t expect the Celtics to keep all those rookies, so it’s obvious to expect Ainge to make some moves to upgrade his talent. If we can get even one starting caliber player in this draft, adding that guy to a roster that was 3rd best in the NBA sine the all-star break is exciting. 

We are also one of the youngest teams in the NBA, so you can expect some kind of internal developement. Smart will get better, Sully/Olynyk/Zeller all will get better, and maybe next year James Young will be ready to get some minutes and providde us with another shooter off the bench. Our team will most likely be above .500% going into 2016 offseason, and that’s when Celtic fans should be excited. 

Dallas might not make the playoffs next year in a stacked West, Brooklyn is project to be garbage next year and will be if they can’t keep Lopez this offseason, our own pick should be around #16-18, and we also have Minnies pick if they aren’t in the top 12, which is possible if they can actually stay healthy and Wiggins/LaVine/Bazz/Dieng all take a step forward. Danny Ainge is not keep 4 picks, so you can expect talent upgrades and roster shake ups in the next two years. This is also the time when the salary cap will explode, and the Celtics will have absolutely no long term/bloaded contracts on their roster, meaning they can go after anyone in free-agency over the next 3 years. Our team already has an identity and good group of guys, Stevens is already proven to be a great coach, so it’s easy to see why our expectations are so high. 

[mgreener_34Participant]

 I love that you’e a die hard fan, but enjoy the small steps now because it will make the big ones that much greater! We have 2 first round picks this year and two great second round picks (we see people trade out of the first all the time because they don’t want to gaurantee players), possibly 4 first round picks next year, and just as much in 2017. I don’t expect the Celtics to keep all those rookies, so it’s obvious to expect Ainge to make some moves to upgrade his talent. If we can get even one starting caliber player in this draft, adding that guy to a roster that was 3rd best in the NBA sine the all-star break is exciting. 

We are also one of the youngest teams in the NBA, so you can expect some kind of internal developement. Smart will get better, Sully/Olynyk/Zeller all will get better, and maybe next year James Young will be ready to get some minutes and providde us with another shooter off the bench. Our team will most likely be above .500% going into 2016 offseason, and that’s when Celtic fans should be excited. 

Dallas might not make the playoffs next year in a stacked West, Brooklyn is project to be garbage next year and will be if they can’t keep Lopez this offseason, our own pick should be around #16-18, and we also have Minnies pick if they aren’t in the top 12, which is possible if they can actually stay healthy and Wiggins/LaVine/Bazz/Dieng all take a step forward. Danny Ainge is not keep 4 picks, so you can expect talent upgrades and roster shake ups in the next two years. This is also the time when the salary cap will explode, and the Celtics will have absolutely no long term/bloaded contracts on their roster, meaning they can go after anyone in free-agency over the next 3 years. Our team already has an identity and good group of guys, Stevens is already proven to be a great coach, so it’s easy to see why our expectations are so high. 

[arambone2]

 We just made THE big step, and I enjoyed every second of it.

We’re "probably" above .500 next year? DUDE, we finished ONE game under .500 after a 12-20somthing start.

I can tell you never saw a playoff run coming this year because you act like this is still a below .500 team that MIGHT be an 42+ win team next year.

If the season had lasted one more week what do you think our record would be? What if Isaiah and Crowder had been added three weeks sooner? What about a month sooner?

THIS roster, not the old no defense fake effort Rondo/Green roster, has played like a 54 win team, which would be second best in the east. 

And as you could surely see with your own eyes, THIS roster was getting better every single week.

It stinks that we got matched up with the Cavs, because we probably would have been favorites over the Raptors, and plenty of people would have picked us in 7 over the Hawks or Bulls.

You’re using the Rondo/Green record against the current roster, which is completely different in personell and attitude. Being overly influenced by the past is why the future looks so foggy to you, and why you think we "might" be a 42+ win team next year.

We’re as close to being a 60 win team next year as we are a 42 win team.

Time to start giving these guys the credit they deserve. The only reason they haven’t shown you even more than they have is because they didn’t have enough time together to further rock your world.

I can also totally picture a stud free agent choosing Boston because they see how good this team already is, and how much better we’re going to be even without a top free agent. It’s the perfect combination for landing a Big Fish in free agency. Not that we need a big fish to win 50+ games next year, with the potential for 60.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 We just made THE big step, and I enjoyed every second of it.

We’re "probably" above .500 next year? DUDE, we finished ONE game under .500 after a 12-20somthing start.

I can tell you never saw a playoff run coming this year because you act like this is still a below .500 team that MIGHT be an 42+ win team next year.

If the season had lasted one more week what do you think our record would be? What if Isaiah and Crowder had been added three weeks sooner? What about a month sooner?

THIS roster, not the old no defense fake effort Rondo/Green roster, has played like a 54 win team, which would be second best in the east. 

And as you could surely see with your own eyes, THIS roster was getting better every single week.

It stinks that we got matched up with the Cavs, because we probably would have been favorites over the Raptors, and plenty of people would have picked us in 7 over the Hawks or Bulls.

You’re using the Rondo/Green record against the current roster, which is completely different in personell and attitude. Being overly influenced by the past is why the future looks so foggy to you, and why you think we "might" be a 42+ win team next year.

We’re as close to being a 60 win team next year as we are a 42 win team.

Time to start giving these guys the credit they deserve. The only reason they haven’t shown you even more than they have is because they didn’t have enough time together to further rock your world.

I can also totally picture a stud free agent choosing Boston because they see how good this team already is, and how much better we’re going to be even without a top free agent. It’s the perfect combination for landing a Big Fish in free agency. Not that we need a big fish to win 50+ games next year, with the potential for 60.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 Look back at the early box scores from this season, when we were consistently losing games to even top teams by 5 points or much less, almost every game.

It’s just that the team was so newly formed, and the young guys like Smart just getting their feet wet in the NBA, and MOST importantly, we relied on Rondo in all our clutch situations, either as a shooter or as a ball dominator who never ended up pulling through in the clutch.

http://www.nba.com/celtics/schedule

This young core was pretty good all year, and if Ainge and Stevens weren’t shopping Rondo, he would have been benched in the 4th quarter and we would have won probably 5-8 more games that slipped away by the smallest of margins.

 

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 Look back at the early box scores from this season, when we were consistently losing games to even top teams by 5 points or much less, almost every game.

It’s just that the team was so newly formed, and the young guys like Smart just getting their feet wet in the NBA, and MOST importantly, we relied on Rondo in all our clutch situations, either as a shooter or as a ball dominator who never ended up pulling through in the clutch.

http://www.nba.com/celtics/schedule

This young core was pretty good all year, and if Ainge and Stevens weren’t shopping Rondo, he would have been benched in the 4th quarter and we would have won probably 5-8 more games that slipped away by the smallest of margins.

 

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 Recall the three Superbowls the Patriots won in four years a decade ago.

Those were mostly defensive championships. In the first one, the Patriots were the heaviest underdogs in the history of the Super Bowl, going up against The Greatest Show on Turf, the Rams, who were an historically explosive offensive team with incredible STAR power.

Tom Brady wasn’t even that good in his redshirt rookie year, but our defense was incredible and underrated, and Brady was at least clutch, like so many of our current players are clutch.

Our defense was extremely physical in the Super Bowl, and we ended up getting inside the heads of Warner, Marshall Faulk, and their Pro Bowl receivers.

Dragging other teams down into the mud, and edging them out with clutch play was the recipe that won that Super Bowl, the greatest upset in Super Bowl history at that point.

That is exactly how these Celtics are winning games, and it’s exactly how they’re going to get inside the heads of Love, Irving, Smith, and hopefully even LeBron in this series.

It’s also a perfectly legitimate strategy for winning championships, and we’re pretty much assured a slight talent upgrade this summer.

Short of LeBron demanding a trade to Boston or something, putting together a team of defensive standouts is just as valid a championship strategy as putting three generic, non-LeBron stars together to pursue a championship.

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 Recall the three Superbowls the Patriots won in four years a decade ago.

Those were mostly defensive championships. In the first one, the Patriots were the heaviest underdogs in the history of the Super Bowl, going up against The Greatest Show on Turf, the Rams, who were an historically explosive offensive team with incredible STAR power.

Tom Brady wasn’t even that good in his redshirt rookie year, but our defense was incredible and underrated, and Brady was at least clutch, like so many of our current players are clutch.

Our defense was extremely physical in the Super Bowl, and we ended up getting inside the heads of Warner, Marshall Faulk, and their Pro Bowl receivers.

Dragging other teams down into the mud, and edging them out with clutch play was the recipe that won that Super Bowl, the greatest upset in Super Bowl history at that point.

That is exactly how these Celtics are winning games, and it’s exactly how they’re going to get inside the heads of Love, Irving, Smith, and hopefully even LeBron in this series.

It’s also a perfectly legitimate strategy for winning championships, and we’re pretty much assured a slight talent upgrade this summer.

Short of LeBron demanding a trade to Boston or something, putting together a team of defensive standouts is just as valid a championship strategy as putting three generic, non-LeBron stars together to pursue a championship.

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 I don’t think the Celtics need a starting rim protecting center necessarily, but they will definitely need a space eating center off the bench for specific situations against the handful of monster centers that only a few teams have.

Even a Kendrick Perkins would be a situational upgrade against a handful of teams for 5-10 mpg in those limited situations. Hopefully we can get somebody better than that, but there aren’t many/any BIG bodies in this year’s draft, especially in the range the Celtics are drafting.

But Zeller and Kelly Olynyk’s advanced stats are very very good, even if they don’t often pass the eyeball test. And both of these guys are young and still getting better and stronger.

It would be a shame to draft a better rim protector than TZ and KO, but somebody who doesn’t actually upgrade our center position overall. Because our offense really hums with either of these two on the court, and their defensive shortcomings are largely minimized by our elite perimeter defense with Bradley, Smart, Crowder, and even Turner.

The Celtics are right in that grey area between good and really good, but with incredible depth that is probably going to be tricky to upgrade at any position with normal draft picks or trades or FA signings.

We have 8-9 players that are basically above average NBA starters.

Isaiah, Crowder, and KO off the bench. That’s impressive as he11.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[arambone2]

 I don’t think the Celtics need a starting rim protecting center necessarily, but they will definitely need a space eating center off the bench for specific situations against the handful of monster centers that only a few teams have.

Even a Kendrick Perkins would be a situational upgrade against a handful of teams for 5-10 mpg in those limited situations. Hopefully we can get somebody better than that, but there aren’t many/any BIG bodies in this year’s draft, especially in the range the Celtics are drafting.

But Zeller and Kelly Olynyk’s advanced stats are very very good, even if they don’t often pass the eyeball test. And both of these guys are young and still getting better and stronger.

It would be a shame to draft a better rim protector than TZ and KO, but somebody who doesn’t actually upgrade our center position overall. Because our offense really hums with either of these two on the court, and their defensive shortcomings are largely minimized by our elite perimeter defense with Bradley, Smart, Crowder, and even Turner.

The Celtics are right in that grey area between good and really good, but with incredible depth that is probably going to be tricky to upgrade at any position with normal draft picks or trades or FA signings.

We have 8-9 players that are basically above average NBA starters.

Isaiah, Crowder, and KO off the bench. That’s impressive as he11.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Author]

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