Brooklyn Nets: Way-too-early Eastern Conference standings predictions
By Nolan Jensen
#4) Boston Celtics
It’s nearly impossible compiling a list like this without some opposed to the rankings, this addition should be controversial to many. But hear me out, or don’t, spite me in the comments if you want.
Boston isn’t going to be heavily reliant on the play of Kemba Walker like Charlotte was, he’s going to need to put forth another all-star caliber campaign—but what the Celtics really need, however, is Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to make that next jump.
Brown is entering season four, he’s shown he can be a tremendous two-way player in this league, there’s a reason as to why some compared to him to Paul George. Tatum needs to be more aggressive and smarter in his shot selection, without the presence of Irving he should command more of the offense. Both players could fringe on semi-stardom next year.
If they make those proverbial leaps, the Celtics will be good shape. Al Horford‘s worth on the basketball court can’t be summarized briefly, they will definitely miss his presence, that frontcourt on the defensive end leaves a lot to be desired.
Kanter can go on a stretch of 5-7 games where he looks like one of the better big men in the game, and then the exact opposite occurs for a span of three weeks. As far as bigs go, there are plenty of question marks entering this season.
The Celtics drafted relatively well, they were one of the more exciting teams to watch this Summer League.
Carsen Edwards could provide beneficial minutes to this roster next year, while Tremont Waters, Grant Williams, even Tacko Fall all present great upside.
With the roster at hand, even with their subtractions this offseason, they should compete for one of the higher seeds in 2019/20—there will be no distractions.
Plus a Nets/Celtics series in the first round? Yeah, I’m okay with that.