Terry Rozier's goal for 2015-16 will be finding minutes


It seems like the most intriguing thing we've heard about Boston's first selection in the 2015 Draft is that he likes his spaghetti with ranch and sugar. But where does he actually fit in on the court?

Terry Rozier, the Celtics’ controversial 16th overall pick, finds himself lumped right in the middle of a complex situation. At the moment he is looking up at three on-ball players in front of him; Marcus Smart, Isaiah Thomas, and Evan Turner (for now, hopefully not later).

Finding playing time in Boston is going to be a battle for the 21-year-old so many still seem to know so little about. What we do know is that he dropped 17.1 points per game in his final season at Lousville, is generally known for his defensive prowess, and showed flashes of playmaking in the Summer League while averaging 12.2 points per game.

Rozier commented on both his game and his intentions with Boston to Adam Himmelsbach of the Boston Globe:

“I just need to find ways to stay on the floor and play…I want to push the pace and defensively step up. I like to play a fast tempo and just want to help this team go, make them go, be that spark plug.”

That competitive flare is a big reason Danny Ainge took a reach on Rozier at 16. Many blasted the pick for being so obscure, but Ainge maintained he was the best player available regardless of need.

However, no matter how competitive and gritty Rozier is, his success this upcoming season is likely to be a product of opportunity. Depending on how the roster shakes out he may only see short bursts of action where every second and play sent his way will become of utmost importance.

Preparing to play as a spark plug will be crucial for the rookie, but as Tom Westerholm of Mass Live pointed out, so too will his versatility:

"Rozier's role as a playmaker and an athletic threat both on and off the ball will be important for the Celtics. He projects to be both a point guard and a shooting guard from his college performances, and that versatility will likely prove necessary in a crowded back court that features Thomas and Smart as well as Avery Bradley and Evan Turner."

A year ago the Celtics saw players in “make it or break it” situations become valuable contributors. With Brad Stevens always thinking of new avenues for success, every second of impression Terry Rozier makes early in the 2015-16 season will be vital if he wants to meet his goal of staying on the court.


Follow Bobby Manning on Twitter @RealBobManning

Photo Credit: The Starters, NBA.TV