We’re nearly prepared to show the calendar to 2023 and whereas we’re not but on the midway level of the yr, I all the time really feel reflective right now of yr, so I believed it was a ok excuse to look again at my Preseason SWAGs. Beneath are my guesses (in daring) and my up to date reactions to them.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown turn into the primary Co-MVP teammates
Okay, so I leaned a bit into the foolish a part of this one, however I nonetheless be ok with the spirit of it. Tatum is correct within the thick of the particular MVP dialogue and Jaylen isn’t all that far behind him actually.
I’ll pause right here to say that Tatum’s narrative is admittedly going to assist him on this race. After final season’s rollercoaster experience and supreme Finals frustration, he’s come out on a mission. He’s main the very best group within the league on each ends of the court docket regardless of having a rookie head coach (extra on that later).
Jaylen is among the prime 20 gamers within the league, full cease. So any and all criticisms of his recreation (on this website and elsewhere) ought to be thought of nit-picks at most. He nonetheless has some struggles however the positives far outweigh them. Contemplating that he usually will get 2nd billing to his teammate and finds a solution to thrive alongside him anyway is a testomony to his maturity.
Brad Stevens will NOT make a commerce earlier than the deadline
I nonetheless imagine this. There could also be some minor around-the-edges transfer with Justin Jackson being moved to create a roster spot for the buyout market. Or maybe we transfer a number of the 2nd rounders now we have owed to us.
In idea we may do one thing with Pritchard and/or Gallo’s contract. You would possibly see hypothesis about transferring Grant Williams earlier than he hits restricted free company, however I wouldn’t put any inventory in it.
Backside line: It ain’t broke, don’t repair it.
Grant Williams will begin the primary ever podcast recorded whereas on the court docket enjoying
I do marvel if he’ll begin a Draymond like podcast or lean into some broadcasting gigs later in his profession. Williams is clearly a talker and unafraid to poke enjoyable at himself. That may serve him effectively in a 2nd profession after basketball. Within the meantime, nevertheless, he’s busy making himself some good cash on the basketball court docket.
Joe Mazzulla turns into the primary ever Interim coach to win Coach of the Yr
I used to be half kidding after I wrote this however let’s simply assume I used to be utterly severe.
Once more, this award usually comes all the way down to the man with the very best narrative (and the most effective information). If we end at or close to the highest of the standings, he’ll be a finalist for this award.
Within the near-term, I’m hoping the Celtics can keep their lead over the Bucks and the remainder of the East so Joe can coach the All Star recreation.
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Sufficient mentioned.
