5 good points for the Celtics ahead of the season
The Boston Celtics will be looking forward to the 2023-24 NBA season with high hopes. After falling short in the Eastern Conference finals last year, the team, led by President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens, has made significant changes to become one of the league's most well-rounded squads.
Kristaps Porzingis joins as a marquee signing, forming a powerful "big three" with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. This trio, backed by a deep center rotation, strengthens the Celtics' frontcourt. Jayson Tatum is on the rise as an MVP contender, and Jaylen Brown's supermax contract solidifies his profile.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla will be assisted by new coaches Sam Cassell and Charles Lee who joined in the offseason. With these positive changes, Celtics fans have reason to be excited for the upcoming season. Here are five bold predictions for the team.
1. Jayson Tatum to win the MVP
Last season, Jayson Tatum had moments where he looked like a genuine MVP contender, but inconsistency held him back. With another offseason to improve his game, gain strength, and develop new skills, Tatum is set to be among the top five to seven players in the league. This puts him in the running for the MVP if he stays fit, and helps the Celtics to a good season. The Celtics will start the season as favourites, and NBA betting fans can visit this website to make their predictions.
2. Celtics to rule the East
With Boston's well-rounded roster and depth, the Celtics are, without a doubt, among the select few teams worthy of being labeled genuine championship contenders. The key to their success will be if Joe Mazzulla can find the right equilibrium between his offensive strategy and maintaining the robust defense reminiscent of what we witnessed under Ime Udoka. If he achieves this balance, the Celtics could emerge as frontrunners to secure the Eastern Conference title and even have a shot at winning the championship.
3. Jordan Walsh has earned himself a place
In the NBA, players who excel at both three-point shooting and versatile defense, known as "3-and-D wings," are highly prized. They can guard multiple positions, hit catch-and-shoot threes, and provide an offensive safety valve.
Rookie Jordan Walsh may initially struggle for playing time, but his defensive versatility as a wing and the shooting potential he showcased in the Las Vegas Summer League could earn him a spot in Boston's top eight-player rotation.
4. Sam Hauser the master of 3-pointers
Sam Hauser is becoming known as one of the NBA's top shooters on the move. In his third year, the former undrafted player has shown defensive skills and a knack for catching and shooting. A strong start to the upcoming season could earn Hauser an invitation to the All-Star 3-point contest, where he could display his elite shooting abilities.
5. A massive trade for Celtics in the offing
The Boston Celtics have several big men on their roster for the upcoming season, including Al Horford, Luke Kornet, Kristaps Porzingis, and Neemias Queta (two-way contract). They might explore trading one of them if the right opportunity arises, as they aim to stay under the second tax apron and prioritize team improvement. However, any trade would depend on market conditions and aligning with the team's needs, rather than just making a trade for the sake of it.
