The Boston Celtics’ offseason plan
The summer’s biggest winner? When ESPN posed this question in the annual offseason survey, the Boston Celtics, the coaches, scouts, and executives were certain. By a large margin, Boston garnered the most votes in this survey, and for good reason. That was towards the end of August, but since then, Titeltown has experienced a string of setbacks that have turned everything upside down.
Attacking to make their way
However, Boston appeared well-prepared to attack in the upcoming season from the start thanks to a stellar second half of the season (33-10 in the remaining 43 regular season games) and subsequent journey to the finals (2-4 vs. Warriors).
Brad Stevens, the team president, felt that was insufficient. Instead, he added to the team’s strength by trading for Brogdon.
For the 29-year-old, the Celts didn’t have to give up a key postseason rotation member to Indiana, but they did address a glaring need. In the backcourt, Brogdon adds more playmaking and shooting, which were partially lacking, particularly in the postseason. Additionally, the free agent scoring winger Gallinari may have offered some assistance during the regular season.
The Italian will most likely miss the entire season owing to a torn cruciate ligament in his left knee, however, and that was the first low point.
Third low blow: Ime Udoka, the team’s head coach, has been suspended due to an “inappropriate” relationship with a player. The team will now be led by the relatively inexperienced Joe Mazzulla (34; three seasons as an assistant coach in the NBA).
Celtics’ shortcomings
The big positions are lacking for the Celtics. Defensively, Williams III’s absence will sting, but Al Horford will have much more responsibility—even if he is already 36 years old. Since only Luke Kornet, Noah Vonleh, and most recently Blake Griffin are available following Gallinari’s injury, Grant Williams will likely step into the starting five for the time being.
Boston needed to be active on the front court once more, so last week they hired the 33-year-old.
The Celtics admire Griffin’s versatility even though he may be past his prime, per The Athletic. He is more capable offensively than the other frontcourt alternatives, but his defense is weak. He can play both the four and the five. Boston will probably play more small-ball for the time being, but expectations for the top defense from last year depend on Horford and Williams III’s health.