Terry Rozier - triple-double possible?


With the solid play of the Celtics young guys, trade talk seems to be subsiding. Terry Rozier has been in those discussions but he is showing his versatility and reliability, and he has been getting increased minutes with Marcus Smart out with an injury. Danny Ainge could always be showcasing his talents prior to another trade, but for now the talk should be ignored.



Terry's numbers reveal 11.5 PPG, 5.8 RPG and 4.0 APG over the first four games. He had lines of eight, six and six in the first game against the Bucks and 15, seven and six against the Knicks. Remarkably, he is averaging less than a single turnover, 0.8 to be exact, over the four games. Prior to last night's game against the Bucks, his minutes rose every game from 20 in in the first game to 31 in the fourth game. His minutes dropped to 20, as did his production, in last night's game against the Bucks with the return of Marcus Smart.

Since the much-lamented trade of Avery Bradley, comparisons of Terry to Avery have been expected. In his third year, Bradley averaged 28.7 MPG, 9.2 PPG, 2.2 RPG and 2.1 APG. After five games in his third season, Rozier's numbers are are 25.8 MPG, 10.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG and 3.2 APG. Avery became a very good rebounding guard only last season. Terry is already there.

Do these numbers indicate possible triple-doubles for Rozier down the line, even this year? Scoring ten or more points in the NBA is not difficult. Double-digit assists for a guard with sufficient minutes and the right circumstances is not uncommon. Terry just needs to become a better distributor, feeding guys in the right spots to score. Double digits in rebounds from the guard position is a stretch, but Rozier is an excellent rebounder. Rajon Rondo has had many triple-doubles, but he was a great passer. Rozier is still learning, but the improving passing skills are showing up in his stats.

Don't be surprised to see Rozier in the starting five on a number of occasions, particularly if a starter is out with a minor injury or a personal issue. Given 34-36 minutes of playing time, a triple-double - or even several during the season, are a distinct possibility. He just has to keep working on his passing. And not worry about potential trades.

Photo via NBAE