The real test for NBA players and their teams comes in the playoffs, not the regular season. Summer League, exhibitions and regular-season play are simply a prelude to the main event.
That's why Danny Ainge picked up Tristan Thompson and Jeff Teague. Sure, his team needed more help in the middle and at the point, but both Thompson and Teague have been battle-tested repeatedly in the post-season.
The Celtics have one of the youngest rosters in the NBA. That can work very well for long-term success but can be a negative issue once the real competition starts, and that means the 2021 playoffs. Besides being post-season vets, Tristan is 29 years old and Jeff is 32. Age doesn't have a lot of positive gifts with it, but it does bring more wisdom and balance. Both attributes help a lot in the pressure cooker atmosphere of playoff competition.
Will this all work as early as this season? Well, Danny has learned patience, but the Celtics 12-year Title drought may be gnawing at him. I envision Banner #18 in the near future, but The Green have a shot at it this season. The two veteran additions were significant - perhaps even vital.
Comments
Post a Comment