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Celtics Basketball => Celtics Talk => Topic started by: Big333223 on September 13, 2017, 08:22:15 PM

Title: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Big333223 on September 13, 2017, 08:22:15 PM
Avery Bradley's greatest offensive asset (moreso even than his shooting, I think) was his ability to move off the ball and get easy layups in the halfcourt. He just seemed to always know where to be.

Last year, it seemed like every other game Jaylen was getting a dunk off of Horford finding him on a backdoor cut. Jaylen is going to be tasked with filling a big void on defense (especially if he winds up starting) but I'll be looking forward to the further development of his chemistry with Horford on those backdoor cuts to keep the offense humming.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: crimson_stallion on September 13, 2017, 08:43:24 PM
A few things I'm really looking forward to:

1. Seeing how Tatum handles things at the Pro level - I don't think I've ever been this excited about a Celtics prospect, and nothing would make me happier then to see him start out strong. 

2. Seeing Kyrie's development both as a player and person - he wanted to be the man, and now he's got it, so I'm eager to see if he'll be able to adjust to a leadership role and silence all of those critics who believe he doesn't have it in him to be a #1 guy

3. Seeing how Brown develops - in his first Summer League game he looked like a superstar, but then in the subsequent games he looked...honestly not as good as I expected.  Was that due to injury, or is he just not there yet?  Eager to see if he will be able to look like that beast from the first game on a more consistent basis.

4.  Seeing how Rozier handles a bigger role - can he finally put all of his impressive talents together and fulfil the potential I've always felt he's had?

5. Just eager to finally watch a Celtics team with two legit scorers.  We had no true scoers for a few years, then it was just IT (who tended to get smothered as a result).  Now finally we have two great scorers, which is going to make us infinitely more difficult to guard, so I'm eager to see how that translates in the win column. 
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: mgent on September 13, 2017, 08:46:57 PM
Marcus Smart finally shutting up the critics.

I can see him putting together something like 17-6-6 in Bradley's absence.  Assuming of course Kyrie and Hayward do a fair amount of sharing the ball (I'm guessing something like 26ppg for Kyrie, 20ppg for Hayward, 12-14 ppg for Horford).

Scratch that.  Really, I'm just looking forward to seeing Smart on a basketball court.  He's one of the funnest players I've ever watched.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: mgent on September 13, 2017, 09:36:33 PM
Oops, just remembered.

Also looking forward to a banner.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Evantime34 on September 13, 2017, 09:49:42 PM
1. Hayward's all around game, I think he's a top 20 player and that will become clear this year.
2. Kyrie and Horford pick and roll, which is going to be absolutely deadly
3. Development of Jaylen Brown/Jayson Tatum
4. Smart taking a step forward in his contract year
5. Faster pace, more transition scoring
6. Seeing at least one rookie not named Tatum earn rotation minutes.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: slamtheking on September 13, 2017, 10:26:21 PM
Oops, just remembered.

Also looking forward to a banner.
TP for the best answer
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Fred Roberts on September 13, 2017, 10:27:43 PM
Seeing all the new talent mesh and make music.

Hopefully finding interior D and rebounding somehow. This is still a big worry.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: colincb on September 13, 2017, 10:35:31 PM
A post-season parade.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: tarheelsxxiii on September 13, 2017, 10:46:53 PM
Tatum's first buzzer-beater.

Kyrie proving me wrong about his character.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on September 13, 2017, 11:24:21 PM
Marcus Smart finally shutting up the critics.

I can see him putting together something like 17-6-6 in Bradley's absence.  Assuming of course Kyrie and Hayward do a fair amount of sharing the ball (I'm guessing something like 26ppg for Kyrie, 20ppg for Hayward, 12-14 ppg for Horford).

Scratch that.  Really, I'm just looking forward to seeing Smart on a basketball court.  He's one of the funnest players I've ever watched.

Count me as one of his critics who would love to be shut up. His hustle is amazing, his defense is really good, but his offense leaves a lot to be desired. His passing has improved, but his shooting and drives are well below par. But again, I'd love it if he didn't give me a major reason to criticize his game.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: crimson_stallion on September 14, 2017, 01:05:40 AM
Marcus Smart finally shutting up the critics.

I can see him putting together something like 17-6-6 in Bradley's absence.  Assuming of course Kyrie and Hayward do a fair amount of sharing the ball (I'm guessing something like 26ppg for Kyrie, 20ppg for Hayward, 12-14 ppg for Horford).

Scratch that.  Really, I'm just looking forward to seeing Smart on a basketball court.  He's one of the funnest players I've ever watched.

If Marcus Smart averages 17 PPG on 40%+ shooting (if he shoot 36% again it's a moot point) then I will eat my left testicle. 

I think there's a higher probability of Morris having a breakout year and averaging 20 / 10 and almost making the All-Star team then there is of Smart averaging 17 PPG. 

You're talking about a guy who has never averaged more than 12.5 points per 36 in his entire NBA career, who is unlikely to play any more than 30 MPG next season.  That would require something like an 80% increase in scoring production compared to last season - in a year where he's gong to be sharing the ball with Kyrie Irving, Gordon Hayward and Al Horford.  Not going to happen!

Disclaimer:
I won't really eat my testicle, that is a modest exaggeration, but you get my point.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Somebody on September 14, 2017, 01:18:22 AM
Marcus Smart finally shutting up the critics.

I can see him putting together something like 17-6-6 in Bradley's absence.  Assuming of course Kyrie and Hayward do a fair amount of sharing the ball (I'm guessing something like 26ppg for Kyrie, 20ppg for Hayward, 12-14 ppg for Horford).

Scratch that.  Really, I'm just looking forward to seeing Smart on a basketball court.  He's one of the funnest players I've ever watched.

If Marcus Smart averages 17 PPG on 40%+ shooting (if he shoot 36% again it's a moot point) then I will eat my left testicle. 

I think there's a higher probability of Morris having a breakout year and averaging 20 / 10 and almost making the All-Star team then there is of Smart averaging 17 PPG. 

You're talking about a guy who has never averaged more than 12.5 points per 36 in his entire NBA career, who is unlikely to play any more than 30 MPG next season.  That would require something like an 80% increase in scoring production compared to last season - in a year where he's gong to be sharing the ball with Kyrie Irving, Gordon Hayward and Al Horford.  Not going to happen!

Disclaimer:
I won't really eat my testicle, that is a modest exaggeration, but you get my point.

Aw shucks man, I was hoping for you to not leave a disclaimer, then you can get some soup with that testicle 😂 just kidding.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: PhoSita on September 14, 2017, 01:40:20 AM
Al Horford and Gordon Hayward working together in Brad Stevens's offense.

Jaylen Brown's year two improvements.

Kyrie Irving giving the weirdest interviews a Celtic has given since KG left.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: crimson_stallion on September 14, 2017, 01:54:13 AM
Anyhoot the thing I most look forward to is....

Watching Kyrie running too fast on the fast break and falling off the edge of the flat earth, in the process proving to as all that he was actually right all along.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: iadera on September 14, 2017, 03:13:59 AM
NBA Finals!
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Quetzalcoatl on September 14, 2017, 03:18:40 AM
Brad Stevens with a good team
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Bucketgetter on September 14, 2017, 03:27:35 AM
Brad Stevens with a good team
So more of the same?
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: LilRip on September 14, 2017, 04:18:37 AM
Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart's progress. I'm a fan of both of them.

Other than that, I can't wait to see us match up against the Cavs, Dubs, Rockets and other top teams and hopefully we come away with wins.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: makaveli on September 14, 2017, 06:08:00 AM
it would be easier to say what are you not excited about....wait, no...

Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: trickybilly on September 14, 2017, 06:35:54 AM
Marcus Smart finally shutting up the critics.

I can see him putting together something like 17-6-6 in Bradley's absence.  Assuming of course Kyrie and Hayward do a fair amount of sharing the ball (I'm guessing something like 26ppg for Kyrie, 20ppg for Hayward, 12-14 ppg for Horford).

Scratch that.  Really, I'm just looking forward to seeing Smart on a basketball court.  He's one of the funnest players I've ever watched.

33 days until the extension deadline!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Donoghus on September 14, 2017, 09:06:15 AM
Tatum.  Really want to see how well he adapts & performs.  I have really high expectations for him.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: jpotter33 on September 14, 2017, 09:14:21 AM
I'm really looking forward to some Kyrie domination so that we can get some of these naysayers on here back onboard.

I'm also pretty stoked to see how this starting lineup of Kyrie, Brown/Smart, Hayward, Morris, and Al is going to work. I've been begging for such a dynamic "5 out" starting lineup for several seasons now, and I think both the dynamic offense and the versatile defense will blow people away.

Pretty excited for Tatum's rookie season, too, along with the progression of Smart, Brown, and Rozier.

But most importantly, I'm looking forward to breaking Lebron's Finals streak and putting up Banner 18 in an incredible Cinderella story next June!
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: jbpats on September 14, 2017, 09:26:09 AM
The Hayward/Stevens connection. I knew they had something special together from watching Butler in the NCAA tourney all those years ago. As soon as Stevens signed with Boston I told myself I'd love to see Hayward follow, and here we are.
Very excited. I feel like the bond they share, combined with the maturity/experience both now have is going to translate into something very special.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: celts55 on September 14, 2017, 09:33:03 AM
Nader. Dude's going to be a star.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: smokeablount on September 14, 2017, 10:30:14 AM
1) Jayson Tatum's development on defense and with his body.  He should already have the offensive skills to potentially be the top scorer off the bench but I want to see progression that shows me that he can be on the floor at the end of games as the season progresses. 

I also want him to be a viable option at PF in the future, so playing good D and bulking up at a reasonable pace are important.  My dream is Tatum getting a few starts at PF late in the year.

2) Who emerges as the starting SG?  I'm interested in Brown's development next year, so if it's him, and I hope it is, how does he function within our offensive flow with increased minutes. 

If Smart starts and JB comes off the bench, then I want to see how offensively dominant JB is on a bench unit with Rozier/Tatum/?/Baynes, and how good that unit is league-wide.

3) As someone mentioned, I want to see the Kyrie-Horford pick and roll.  Horford sets great screens and has the skills and veteran IQ to know when to roll and be good at it, and we all know he's got the pick and pop skills.  Kyrie is about the best scorer in the world taking 5-7 dribbles or more, so he should be deadly if looking to score.  I'm hoping his passing improves.

With the Kyrie-Horford PNR, Morris should be a fantastic option as a spot up guy in the mid range or the far corners to keep the defense honest and stretch it by fully opening up the paint.  And I want to see how Hayward and hopefully Brown, my ideal starting SG, work together off ball to get each other open and allow each other to get to triple threat spots for a Kyrie dish.

Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: CoachBo on September 14, 2017, 10:37:56 AM
Wins.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Phantom255x on September 14, 2017, 11:07:08 AM
The trade rumors, because we ALL know they are going to continue all season  :laugh:

But honestly I'm looking forward to a lot of things that many have already mentioned here  :P

Like seeing how Kyrie handles being an alpha, how Kyrie and Hayward get others involved, how Brown and Tatum progress. If anything, I'd love to see how the "new look" Smart does this season and I'm hoping he can take a bit of a jump this season. Would love to see him average around 13-14 PPG (with about 5-6 assists AND rebounds/game).  ;D

Oh and how can I forget #LakersWatch. Give us a Top-5 pick please!
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Phantom255x on September 14, 2017, 11:09:26 AM
I'm really looking forward to some Kyrie domination so that we can get some of these naysayers on here back onboard.

I'm also pretty stoked to see how this starting lineup of Kyrie, Brown/Smart, Hayward, Morris, and Al is going to work. I've been begging for such a dynamic "5 out" starting lineup for several seasons now, and I think both the dynamic offense and the versatile defense will blow people away.

Pretty excited for Tatum's rookie season, too, along with the progression of Smart, Brown, and Rozier.

But most importantly, I'm looking forward to breaking Lebron's Finals streak and putting up Banner 18 in an incredible Cinderella story next June!

If IT's injury is really, really bad, and Rose just isn't getting the job done (no longer his MVP self), it's not an impossible scenario to make the Finals.

But yeah, unless we trade for AD or Porzingis at the deadline, even if we get past CLE we are getting whooped by the Warriors (yeah we match up well with them usually but they just have way too much firepower and playoff experience too).

That being said still think CLE beats us in ECF in 6-7 games, and Isaiah is likely to be back by the 2nd half (from what most reports say).
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: CactusThomas on September 14, 2017, 02:45:44 PM
I like having two centers who have completely different games.  This will give us lots of flexibility. Horford and Baynes, of course.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Beat LA on September 14, 2017, 11:59:19 PM
Honestly, I'm interested to see as to how our medical staff will perform without Lacerte and Bryan "show me what that twerk" Doo :laugh:. Sorry, I just wanted to make that joke, although it would be nice to have fewer injuries this year :-\. 
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Big333223 on September 15, 2017, 04:49:54 PM
Honestly, I'm interested to see as to how our medical staff will perform without Lacerte and Bryan "show me what that twerk" Doo :laugh:. Sorry, I just wanted to make that joke, although it would be nice to have fewer injuries this year :-\.
This one is pretty interesting. Not just in terms of injuries but it seems like the Celtics always have a guy or two on the roster for whom we're all playing weight watchers. I wonder if there will be any new approaches to conditioning during the season.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: GreenWarrior on September 15, 2017, 07:17:54 PM
between smart, rozier and brown who makes a jump. if we're going to be anything this season 1 or 2 of those guys need to be consistently better.

also looking forward to see a team play that doesn't have a ceiling.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Androslav on September 15, 2017, 07:25:49 PM
The unknown ceiling of the 60% of the roster and then Brads ability to max them out in short period.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Celtics4ever on September 15, 2017, 08:41:35 PM
We have more talent than last year can we make it work for us...
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: ausbacker on September 15, 2017, 08:49:17 PM
I know it may seem cliché but the simple act of watching the team play. I'm so very curious to see how it all unfolds; the chemistry, individual development, team development, coaching, how Stevens uses the players (especially the bench), and whether or not this team shows signs of championship pedigree.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: SCeltic34 on September 15, 2017, 09:10:11 PM
Among many other things, the development of the young players especially Brown and Tatum.  I think this will be the determining factor as to whether we will be true championship contenders in the coming years.  I don't have any expectations for the other rookies this year.

I hope, but don't expect, Rozier will have a breakout season.  I was disappointed with his lack of progression last season, but I'm still high on his potential.

I'm also a bit anxious to see how we start the season.  Given the lack of continuity, I won't be too upset if we start slowly and rack up losses on Oct, but I hope that this won't be the case.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: green_bballers13 on September 15, 2017, 09:18:23 PM
I'd like to see a Kyrie, Jaylen, Hayward, Tatum, Horford line.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: ThePaintedArea on September 15, 2017, 11:16:51 PM
How many minutes Semi Ojeleye gets.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Beat LA on September 16, 2017, 12:16:44 AM
How many minutes Semi Ojeleye gets.

In the NBA or the G-League?
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: chambers on September 16, 2017, 02:24:03 AM
Jaylen fkn Brown baby.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: GreenWarrior on September 16, 2017, 10:00:42 AM
Jaylen fkn Brown baby.

ya know, everyone says "tatum" - tatum's the guy with the most talent of the 2. I think he's more polished offensively but I don't know I think brown is the one no one can truly gauge right now. if he doesn't improve much and he's pretty much the same player now as he is for the rest of his career - he'll still be a nice player.

but we all think he'll get a lot better, the question is how much? I personally have this feeling this guy is going to be a lot better than even the biggest Celtics homer can even imagine.

brown's one of those guys i'd love to see make a huge leap this year. I know it's only his 2nd yr. but i'm optimistic.   
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: ThePaintedArea on September 16, 2017, 11:11:01 AM
How many minutes Semi Ojeleye gets.

In the NBA or the G-League?

In the NBA.

It sounds like you, like many people, are sleeping on him. It's not surprising, given his draft position and his low profile.

What about the G-League? Well, it's rare for a rookie to be as ready as Semi is to play NBA defense, and he has the strength and leverage (as Brad said recently) to guard bigger players; and the Celtics badly need players who can do that. So it wouldn't be too surprising if he never plays in Maine, despite the Celtics' depth and his rookie status.  It would be less surprising if he cracks the rotation come January/February.

There was a recent thread on him here; the arguments against him were not about his game, but rather indirect ones of the nature of: Coach K must have seen something...; he had a lowly draft status, therefore...; his age, therefore low ceiling...; summer league is meaningless...; etc.

He was the best athlete in the Combine, has a repertoire around the basket, shoots with range, can make a play. Great NBA body. Character and work ethic are off the chart.

Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: chambers on September 16, 2017, 11:28:00 AM
Jaylen fkn Brown baby.

ya know, everyone says "tatum" - tatum's the guy with the most talent of the 2. I think he's more polished offensively but I don't know I think brown is the one no one can truly gauge right now. if he doesn't improve much and he's pretty much the same player now as he is for the rest of his career - he'll still be a nice player.

but we all think he'll get a lot better, the question is how much? I personally have this feeling this guy is going to be a lot better than even the biggest Celtics homer can even imagine.

brown's one of those guys i'd love to see make a huge leap this year. I know it's only his 2nd yr. but i'm optimistic.

Brown has more potential than anyone on our roster in my opinion. Jayson Tatum's nice, but Brown has that superstar power/athleticism that you're only born with. I mean I love both of them but I think Brown is a special human. Dude's still 20 years old too- he's certainly going to improve. He was amazing as a rookie on a top 4 team.

Jaylen Brown can become a Kawahi Leonard level player in my opinion- a true superstar small forward/wing.

Hopefully Tatum is the next Paul George too :D
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: chambers on September 16, 2017, 11:29:19 AM
How many minutes Semi Ojeleye gets.

In the NBA or the G-League?

In the NBA.

It sounds like you, like many people, are sleeping on him. It's not surprising, given his draft position and his low profile.

What about the G-League? Well, it's rare for a rookie to be as ready as Semi is to play NBA defense, and he has the strength and leverage (as Brad said recently) to guard bigger players; and the Celtics badly need players who can do that. So it wouldn't be too surprising if he never plays in Maine, despite the Celtics' depth and his rookie status.  It would be less surprising if he cracks the rotation come January/February.

There was a recent thread on him here; the arguments against him were not about his game, but rather indirect ones of the nature of: Coach K must have seen something...; he had a lowly draft status, therefore...; his age, therefore low ceiling...; summer league is meaningless...; etc.

He was the best athlete in the Combine, has a repertoire around the basket, shoots with range, can make a play. Great NBA body. Character and work ethic are off the chart.

He is going to be a beast and could see serious minutes in a playoff rotation if his defense is on point. So excited to follow his journey.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: ThePaintedArea on September 16, 2017, 12:24:02 PM
How many minutes Semi Ojeleye gets.

In the NBA or the G-League?

In the NBA.

It sounds like you, like many people, are sleeping on him. It's not surprising, given his draft position and his low profile.

What about the G-League? Well, it's rare for a rookie to be as ready as Semi is to play NBA defense, and he has the strength and leverage (as Brad said recently) to guard bigger players; and the Celtics badly need players who can do that. So it wouldn't be too surprising if he never plays in Maine, despite the Celtics' depth and his rookie status.  It would be less surprising if he cracks the rotation come January/February.

There was a recent thread on him here; the arguments against him were not about his game, but rather indirect ones of the nature of: Coach K must have seen something...; he had a lowly draft status, therefore...; his age, therefore low ceiling...; summer league is meaningless...; etc.

He was the best athlete in the Combine, has a repertoire around the basket, shoots with range, can make a play. Great NBA body. Character and work ethic are off the chart.

He is going to be a beast and could see serious minutes in a playoff rotation if his defense is on point. So excited to follow his journey.

I am, too.

Someone slips through the cracks every year in the NBA draft - I think this year it was Semi.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: nickagneta on September 16, 2017, 01:08:15 PM
Winning basketball.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Hank Finkel on September 16, 2017, 02:00:55 PM
I would like to see Brown start at SG and take over AB's roll as Defensive stopping guard.  Morris makes us forget all about Crowder and we sign a big man that can rebound. ECF finals winners and end LJ reign forever.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: max215 on September 16, 2017, 02:03:42 PM
1. How much Tatum can contribute early in his career.
2. Hayward playing in a fast-pace environment.
3. Jaylen's improvement.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Ilikesports17 on September 16, 2017, 02:32:23 PM
So many things.

1. Marcus Smart-- is he actually slimmer? can he wisen up his shot selection? can he shoot a high percentage on open catch and shoot 3s? Can a slimmer Marcus lock up guards that were too quick for him last year? can he attack the rim more effectively?

2. Kyrie Irving-- Was Lebron suffocating his playmaking skills? Will a better system lead to Kyrie moving the ball quicker and taking shots with lower difficulty levels? Can we convince him to try on defense?

3. Marcus Morris-- Can he hold down the PF position?

4. Jaylen Brown-- Can he become an intelligent defender? Hes already got the physical tools if the mental side comes along he will be a weapon on that end. Can he continue to knock down a high rate of catch and shoot 3s?

5. Will any of the 0 expectations forwards (Theiss, Semi, Yabu) force their way into the rotation?
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: jakeopp on September 16, 2017, 03:23:27 PM
1. Jaylen potentially starting at SG

2. Hayward

3. Jayson coming off the bench and potentially earning increased minutes as the season progresses.

4. Whether Marcus finally figures it out on the offensive end.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: green_bballers13 on September 16, 2017, 04:39:49 PM
Jaylen fkn Brown baby.

ya know, everyone says "tatum" - tatum's the guy with the most talent of the 2. I think he's more polished offensively but I don't know I think brown is the one no one can truly gauge right now. if he doesn't improve much and he's pretty much the same player now as he is for the rest of his career - he'll still be a nice player.

but we all think he'll get a lot better, the question is how much? I personally have this feeling this guy is going to be a lot better than even the biggest Celtics homer can even imagine.

brown's one of those guys i'd love to see make a huge leap this year. I know it's only his 2nd yr. but i'm optimistic.

Brown has more potential than anyone on our roster in my opinion. Jayson Tatum's nice, but Brown has that superstar power/athleticism that you're only born with. I mean I love both of them but I think Brown is a special human. Dude's still 20 years old too- he's certainly going to improve. He was amazing as a rookie on a top 4 team.

Jaylen Brown can become a Kawahi Leonard level player in my opinion- a true superstar small forward/wing.

Hopefully Tatum is the next Paul George too :D

I hope you're right re: Jaylen. I still think Kyrie has the most potential. Former #1 pick with a ring who will finally get to lead a team.

I would love to see:

-Kyrie silence the haters this year with excellent defense and superior playmaking.
-Kyrie go down to the wire vs IT and hit the big shot.
-Lebron James' tears at the end of Game 7 in Boston.
-Marcus Smart take the next step with 15 ppg, while driving to the rim consistently.
-Jaylen Brown electrifying the Garden with a big dunk at least once a game.
-Morris bodying big men. Hard fouls and the occasional skirmish. Same with Baynes.
-Terry Rozier commanding a fast paced second team with Jaylen and Jayson.
-Jayson Tatum with 8 rbs/game.


Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: PAOBoston on September 16, 2017, 04:48:19 PM
Basketball
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Beat LA on September 17, 2017, 01:31:35 AM
How many minutes Semi Ojeleye gets.

In the NBA or the G-League?

In the NBA.

It sounds like you, like many people, are sleeping on him. It's not surprising, given his draft position and his low profile.

What about the G-League? Well, it's rare for a rookie to be as ready as Semi is to play NBA defense, and he has the strength and leverage (as Brad said recently) to guard bigger players; and the Celtics badly need players who can do that. So it wouldn't be too surprising if he never plays in Maine, despite the Celtics' depth and his rookie status.  It would be less surprising if he cracks the rotation come January/February.

There was a recent thread on him here; the arguments against him were not about his game, but rather indirect ones of the nature of: Coach K must have seen something...; he had a lowly draft status, therefore...; his age, therefore low ceiling...; summer league is meaningless...; etc.

He was the best athlete in the Combine, has a repertoire around the basket, shoots with range, can make a play. Great NBA body. Character and work ethic are off the chart.

Hardly.  I'm a big fan of the guy and wanted us to draft him for the reasons you stated, it's just that, well, coaches say stuff like that all the time and it never means anything.  Kind of like how every GM says, "I can't believe so-and-so was still available," after the draft, and I seriously wonder if they actually believe the stuff that comes out of their own mouths, quite honestly, because fans shouldn't, and many do not.

Anyway, I realize that it's a case-by-case basis with players, but in addition to the typical coach BS, Semi has a rather tough road to even get on the court, imo.  First, you've got the logjam at the forward positions between Hayward, Morris, Brown (if he plays there this year in certain lineups), Tatum, and Yabu, so there won't be a ton of minutes to go around at those positions, anyway, and second, Stevens has no intention of not giving Tatum every opportunity to succeed - at least, imo - so to even carve a role out for himself he's going to have to beat out the 3rd overall pick, not to mention Yabu, who paid his dues last year, so to speak, by staying overseas.  I'm not a fan of the the latter, but you have to admit that the deck is pretty stacked against Semi, in that regard.

Plus, the last time that a player who wasn't taken in the lottery (of our own draft picks, so not a guy like Crowder, for example) became a fixture in the rotation was Avery Bradley, iirc, who didn't play at all during his rookie year because he was hurt and then only got on the court due to Ray going down and Doc not having anyone else to use, and his defense was NBA-ready from the start, while Terry Rozier still hasn't become a staple of Stevens' substitution patterns - if he even has any, lol - and he was taken at 16.  Even Jimmy Butler didn't get any time during his rookie campaign and only got on the court, again, due to injuries.  I guess what I'm trying to say is that you shouldn't get get your hopes up :-\.  Don't get me wrong, I'm right there with you in terms of wanting to see him out there, but I'm not counting on it, to say the least, but hey, that's what the preseason is for, hehe.  On another front, man, that second round and the undrafted market were loaded this year, imo.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Granath on September 17, 2017, 07:48:48 AM
Oh, there's a bunch of things I am looking forward to seeing. Things like a faster, quicker Marcus Smart with a consistent shot, Brown taking the next step, Hayward & Irving playing off each other, etc.

But there's something that will be happening on the court in Boston that's never really taken place in the NBA before. That is how Brad can bring together so many new pieces and get them to execute. I don't think any team in history over 50 wins has turned over such a tremendous portion of their roster and been expected to win 50+ again. It's simply an entirely new scenario in the NBA. How does he cope with 5 rookies for depth? How does he split minutes? How does he get new players to work together efficiently?

I think that's what will be the most interesting thing to see on the court this year. It's basically going to be a master class in the evolution of a team ad it will be fun to watch.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Chris22 on September 17, 2017, 11:59:23 AM
I am looking forward to Irving, Brown, Hayward, Tatum, and Horford.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: KGs Knee on September 17, 2017, 12:08:51 PM
Jayson Tatum becoming a superstar.

Kyrie proving he was worth the price.

Horford continuing to be the ultimate team first player.

Hayward showing why Ainge made him his top priority this summer.

Watching the Celtics beat the Cavs, and winning the ECF in the process.

Watching the Celtics shock the world and beat the Warriors in the Finals.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: CelticsQuestFor18 on September 17, 2017, 12:25:50 PM
Jayson Tatum becoming a superstar.

Kyrie proving he was worth the price.

Horford continuing to be the ultimate team first player.

Hayward showing why Ainge made him his top priority this summer.

Watching the Celtics beat the Cavs, and winning the ECF in the process.

Watching the Celtics shock the world and beat the Warriors in the Finals.

Last part is only possible if you trade for either KP or AD in-season, though I highly doubt even if their teams are real bad that they trade them at the deadline (but maybe next summer).

Now if Rose is only a shell of himself (also injured again) and IT's injury is A LOT worse than we realize, then even with James I think if everything gels here we could beat CLE in the ECF. 
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: td450 on September 17, 2017, 12:46:20 PM
It would be a lot of fun if Yabusele emerged as a significant contributor.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Rosco917 on September 17, 2017, 01:52:13 PM
I'm most interested in seeing how a talented young coach blends a group of new basketball players into a cohesive unit, and hopefully a winning basketball team.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Granath on September 17, 2017, 02:40:15 PM
Jayson Tatum becoming a superstar.

Won't happen this year.

Quote
Kyrie proving he was worth the price.

Can't happen this year. Depends on the development of the pick.

Quote
Horford continuing to be the ultimate team first player.

As you said, continuing. This happened last year too.

Quote
Hayward showing why Ainge made him his top priority this summer.

No-brainer. Top FA in the market.

Quote
Watching the Celtics beat the Cavs, and winning the ECF in the process.

Should be entertaining.

Quote
Watching the Celtics shock the world and beat the Warriors in the Finals.

I like the cut of your jib, young man.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Sketch5 on September 17, 2017, 03:20:34 PM
Jayson Tatum becoming a superstar.

Kyrie proving he was worth the price.

Horford continuing to be the ultimate team first player.

Hayward showing why Ainge made him his top priority this summer.

Watching the Celtics beat the Cavs, and winning the ECF in the process.

Watching the Celtics shock the world and beat the Warriors in the Finals.

Last part is only possible if you trade for either KP or AD in-season, though I highly doubt even if their teams are real bad that they trade them at the deadline (but maybe next summer).

Now if Rose is only a shell of himself (also injured again) and IT's injury is A LOT worse than we realize, then even with James I think if everything gels here we could beat CLE in the ECF.

I think it's quite possible with out a trade for either one. I'd like to see the bench a bit stronger, and it's not that there are bad players, just very young and raw.

But the C's are one of the few teams over the last few years that have played well against GSW.  And we were doing it with team on paper, should not have been able to do so. But this year...

Irving-V-Curry
Brown-V-Thompson
Hayward-V-KD
Morris-V-Green
Horford-V-Pachulia

Yes GSW have a better team, but we got a lot closer to being able to put a competitive team than any other season we've been able to beat them. I think coaching comes into play a lot, and Walton proved that Kerr has it pretty good. Were Stevens has to actually coach his team up. So if Stevens can do the same with this lot, it gets them even closer. And now you can have Brown and Hayward switch and you don't give up anything.

GSW bench is a bit deeper with vets, but their best three guys off the bench are Iggy,Livingston and Young. Ours are Smart,Tatum,Baynes. And thats if Semi,Yabu,Theis don't make cases for some bench minutes.

GSW still edges out the C's, they've been there and can go off at any moment. The C's could make it interesting. I think they match up better than the CAVS do 1-5, and they'll play a similar style. remember CAVS play poor D and don't like to run. The C's will.

It's a long shot, but not as long as it was last year.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: SHAQATTACK on September 17, 2017, 03:59:50 PM
Celtics replaces Cavs. as EC Champions .

Watching Boston try and dethrone GS in a title series.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: liam on September 17, 2017, 04:02:31 PM
Celtics replaces Cavs. as EC Champions .

Watching Boston try and dethrone GS in a title series.

The Celtics send LeBron out of Cleveland for the 2nd time!
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: ThePaintedArea on September 22, 2017, 03:52:36 PM
How many minutes Semi Ojeleye gets.

In the NBA or the G-League?

In the NBA.

It sounds like you, like many people, are sleeping on him. It's not surprising, given his draft position and his low profile.

What about the G-League? Well, it's rare for a rookie to be as ready as Semi is to play NBA defense, and he has the strength and leverage (as Brad said recently) to guard bigger players; and the Celtics badly need players who can do that. So it wouldn't be too surprising if he never plays in Maine, despite the Celtics' depth and his rookie status.  It would be less surprising if he cracks the rotation come January/February.

There was a recent thread on him here; the arguments against him were not about his game, but rather indirect ones of the nature of: Coach K must have seen something...; he had a lowly draft status, therefore...; his age, therefore low ceiling...; summer league is meaningless...; etc.

He was the best athlete in the Combine, has a repertoire around the basket, shoots with range, can make a play. Great NBA body. Character and work ethic are off the chart.

Hardly.  I'm a big fan of the guy and wanted us to draft him for the reasons you stated, it's just that, well, coaches say stuff like that all the time and it never means anything. 

You don’t have to take Stevens’ word for it. The immediate context was the SL game with the Lakers - Zizic was losing contact with Zubac, couldn’t contain him, got beat down the floor, etc. Semi came in and simply shut Zubac down - stayed up in him while tracking him on D, pushed him where he wanted him, stayed vertical, stripped him without fouling, etc., etc.  Ojeleye is impressively strong (as well as quick and athletic!).

…Semi has a rather tough road to even get on the court, imo.  First, you've got the logjam at the forward positions between Hayward, Morris, Brown (if he plays there this year in certain lineups), Tatum, and Yabu, so there won't be a ton of minutes to go around at those positions, anyway…

Excellent point. 

Regarding Brown:  there’s a good chance, I think, that we’ll see Irving/Smart/Brown lineups - similar to last year, and in fact Rozier/Smart/Brown lineups, which we did see last year. Definitely, Brown’s minutes affect Ojeleye’s.

The opportunity for Semi is as a swing behind Morris. Tatum doesn't have the bulk, Yabusele is recovering from surgery (though hoping to be ready for the season). Theis perhaps.

…and second, Stevens has no intention of not giving Tatum every opportunity to succeed - at least, imo - …

I’m sure you’re right. 

Last year Brad found a ton of developmental minutes for Jaylen Brown, from the beginning of the season, which paid dividends later on, when they needed him in the starting lineup and especially in the playoffs.  It would be shocking if Stevens did not carve out similar opportunities for Tatum.

… Terry Rozier still hasn't become a staple of Stevens' substitution patterns … 

He was Thomas' primary backup (not Smart), and he averaged rotation minutes (17.1).  He was almost always on the floor with Smart, in fact. Terry can guard 1’s but he’s not great creating with the ball in his hands, so someone else needs to run the offense while he’s in (the more he can advance in running the offense this summer, the better for him). It seems to me that he still has a role to play this season - with Hayward on board and an emerging Brown, there’ll be more shot-creation happening for Terry to complement.  Having said that, the minutes crunch that you’re pointing to here might well affect him.

It's easy to imagine pairing him with Irving, so that Kyrie doesn't have too tough a cover. But Rozier was virtually never on the floor with Isaiah last year. Would love to know Brad's reasoning on that...

I guess what I'm trying to say is that you shouldn't get get your hopes up :-\.

No tears in basketball.
Title: Re: What Are You Looking Forward to Seeing this Season?
Post by: Androslav on April 12, 2018, 04:59:33 AM
The unknown ceiling of the 60% of the roster and then Brads ability to max them out in short period.
I feel like this is a good time to revise our initial thoughts.
Brad truly worked his magic this year.