The NBA is back! Just like your favorite superhero story, the league brings fun, entertainment, and a lot of uncanny subplots to unpack. That’s why NBA.com Philippines decided to preview the new season comic-book style. We pick out fantastic characters that will take the stage and new amazing arcs to watch out for. Bang! Pow! Boom! Let’s go!
One of the teams with high expectations this season is the Boston Celtics.
They’ve made three trips to the conference finals in the last four years, but every one of those times, they fell short.
In this offseason, Boston made major changes to its roster and around its main two guys Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. They let go of notable players in Marcus Smart, Rober Williams III, Malcolm Brogdon, and Grant Williams but acquired Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday to add more depth to an already talented roster.
What’s their superpower?
The new additions to the team can be a sign that their offensive firepower is going to get better this season.
One of the shocking things that the Celtics did in the offseason was letting go of their glue guy Marcus Smart, who has proven himself to be a good piece, whether it's playmaking or playing defense. But Holiday seems to be better in all those elements, especially in the defensive department.
Boston now has a more versatile defense that can punch holes in other teams’ offenses in various ways. They’re equipped with improved ball-handlers who can run up the court and make good decisions with the ball. It’s going to be a challenge to go around guys like Horford, Holiday, White, Tatum, Brown, and Porzingis.
What’s their kryptonite?
Boston’s weakness lies in its susceptibility to injuries. Porzingis wasn’t able to participate in the World Cup due to plantar fasciitis, Williams just had his first healthy offseason, and Al Horford is getting old. The team has a history of having trouble staying on the court so it’s going to be a concern if the team can actually go through the whole season without getting bit by the injury bug.
Who is their biggest hero?
Needless to say, it’s still Jayson Tatum. He was on fire last season, and it may not have been his peak just yet.
He averaged 30.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists—and he’s only 25 years old. It’s not bold to assume that he’s gonna keep going at it this season. If the plan all works out for the Celtics, with new playmakers and new options to pass the ball to, this can actually turn out to be an MVP season for Tatum.
Who is their biggest villain?
With Smart gone, Derrick White will be filling in the shoes of the primary ball-handler, a position that the Celtics have been struggling to fill up. It’s up to him to move the ball around and avoid committing turnovers.
He’s put up solid offensive numbers so far and makes good decisions on the other end, but he needs to take it up a notch this coming season if they want to eventually snag the banner. If he doesn’t deliver as the main ball handler, he may be the biggest villain or letdown for the C’s.
How does their story (season) play out?
Boston is still one of the top contenders in the league. Their offseason moves have helped them remain in shape. They may be navigating a lot of challenges this year in terms of change in pace and rotation, but if they get their rhythm, they’re going to be a scary opponent for any team. The improved frontcourt and strengthened chemistry can definitely propel them to another deep playoff run.
