For the Boston Celtics, "The Kids are Alright"


Pete Townshend of the British musical group, The Who, wrote the song and the Celtics youngsters are living it on the court. These kids are alright. Last night against the Atlanta Hawks, rookie Jayson Tatum, second-year man Jaylen Brown, and third-year "veteran" Terry Rozier strutted their stuff on the court in a 119-110 win over the Atlanta Hawks.


Yes, the kids did alright. The trio also added a total of 14 rebounds, nine assists and six steals. Rozier, Brown and Tatum were Danny Ainge's first-round choices in the past three NBA drafts, and although it is early in the process, all three could have superstar potential.


T-Ro has blossomed in his last five games, averaging 16 points, seven rebounds, five assists and 1.6 steals per game. At his size (6'2"), the rebounds are impressive, but I really take note of the five assists per game. Many of us had questions regarding Terry as a playmaker, but he is filling that role nicely of late. Jaylen Brown over the past five games has improved his free-throw shooting to 81.3%, and he is hitting his three-pointers at a 40% clip. Watch his body control on this drive.


Daniel Theis is 25-years-old but as a rookie I will include him in the "kid" category. His minutes in the past five games are up to 19.5 per game, and he is shooting 48% on field goals, 46.2% on threes and 80% on free throws, while adding 4.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and a plus/minus of 5.0. This guy is a keeper. Semi Ojeleye's minutes in the past five games are up to 18.5 per game with a plus/minus of 5.6 and a defensive rating good for 92nd in the NBA. And oh yes, rookie Jayson Tatum had a career-high 27 points, while another rookie, Abdel Nader played 26 minutes and grabbed six rebounds.

The kids are alright
, and they keep getting better. But kids always need a few grownups around for stability. Al Horford has filled that role and will be assisted now by newly-acquired Greg Monroe. A very exciting time for Celtics fans. A balanced blend of youth and veteran experience bodes well for the post season.

Follow Tom at @TomLaneHC

Photo via Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images