As the new NBA season kicks off, the Boston Celtics find themselves in an intriguing position. At first glance, their roster seemed a bit lopsided, particularly in the frontcourt.
With notable big men like Xavier Tillman Sr. and Chris Boucher not making the cut and eventually being traded, questions arose about their depth. However, the emergence of Neemia Queta and Luka Garza has pleasantly surprised many, transforming a potential weakness into a formidable strength.
The addition of Nikola Vucevic has further solidified their center rotation, creating a robust trio that’s anything but a liability.
Yet, the trade for Vucevic came at a cost. The Celtics parted with their sixth man, Anfernee Simons, who was a key contributor off the bench.
As the playoffs loom, some, like Bill Simmons, have raised concerns about whether the Celtics are now a guard short. With Derrick White leading as the starting point guard and Payton Pritchard as his capable backup, the guard rotation is thin.
Max Shulga, a second-round rookie, remains untested in significant NBA action and isn’t expected to play a major role in the postseason.
Despite this, the Celtics' depth on the wings offers a solution. In today’s evolving NBA landscape, traditional roles are often blurred, and Boston has embraced this shift under Brad Stevens’ guidance.
Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, while not traditional guards, possess the skills to effectively handle guard duties, providing versatility and depth. Baylor Scheierman also brings a unique dimension as a point forward, capable of initiating the offense when needed.
The Celtics have had chances to bring in a veteran guard but chose to stick with their current lineup, trusting in Stevens’ proven track record. While adding another guard might provide insurance, the focus remains on maximizing the talents of White, Pritchard, and the dynamic duo of Brown and Tatum. These are the players who will drive Boston’s success as they chase championship glory.