Some ESPN forcasters think the Celtics could make a big jump in the standings in 2015-16

In 2013-14, the Celtics went 25-57.  To the great surprise of just about everyone, the C's increased their win total by 15 games last year and finished 40-42.  Is it possible Boston could take a similar leap once again in 2015-16?  A few ESPN forecasters seem to think so.

In their Team Turnaround poll picking "the franchise poised to make the biggest jump in the standings relative to the 2014-15 season," the Celtics received several votes.

Granted, Boston did finish 10th on the list (the Thunder and Heat were first and second by a large margin)--but considering the C's already had 40 wins, don't have a superstar on their roster and didn't add major pieces this offseason, the fact that anyone would rank them among the clubs most likely to take a significant step forward is pretty amazing.

Clearly it's a testament to Brad Stevens' accomplishments last year, and what the pollsters believe he is capable of doing with limited talent going forward.  Along those lines (and to no surprise), the Celtics were not among the 17 teams to earn votes for Team Turmoil in 2015-16, an honor that went to Rajon Rondo's Kings.

In the ESPN Boston version of Summer Forecast, I've got Stevens' club pegged for 45 wins and a trip to the second round of the playoffs.



Follow Mark Vandeusen on Twitter @LucidSportsFan