Coming into the season, I was highly critical of the Celtics’ sense of confidence. Sure, they had overachieved over the years by many standards. However, by Boston Celtics’ standards, they have achieved nothing. Whether it was Jaylen Brown guaranteeing an NBA Finals’ appearance, or the media baiting other players into making predictions, the vibe around Boston was as if winning the East was a lock. Lately, the narrative has changed into thinking that the Boston Celtics won’t win the East. They say it as if that also, is a foregone conclusion.
The Boston Celtics (9-8):
Brad Stevens’ M.O over the past few regular seasons has been experimentation. When you combine that with the Celtics’ lackadaisical effort due to a sense of entitlement, you’re going to lose games. It’s quite simple, the Celtics believe they can turn it on in the playoffs if I want to. This is a mistake that many young teams have made over the years. I truly hope Brad Stevens figures out a way to get the troops to really sooner rather than later. The one thing NBA championship teams have in common is that they all improved and got healthier throughout the season. I’m confident that the Celtics will figure it out. Although I was one of the first to bring attention to the Raptors perhaps being the true powerhouse of the East, I still think the Celtics are the team most likely to be heading to the NBA Finals.
Charlotte Hornets (8-8):
It’s always going to be a good night when your franchise point guard and Kemba Walker combine for 50 points. When did Tony Parker become the new Andre Miller? For those of you too young to remember Miller, he was basically a vet that played forever, made clutch baskets, and made his teammates better. Tony Parker has been just that for the Charlotte Hornets. Yes, I enjoy triggering people on our PerSources Instagram page. However, real Per Sources fans should remember that I was one of the few people wondering if Tony Parker would help elevate Kemba Walker’s game. Scoring and highlights don’t impress me. Making your teammates better and winning does. For now, Kemba seems to be on the right track. That being said, 8 wins is not enough to convince me just yet.
Other stories around the NBA:
Utah Jazz make no sense. Domantas Sabonis might be the most underrated player in the NBA. Victor Oladipo is quietly approaching the overrated marker. The Sixers upset the Suns. Turns out Devin Booker is actually NOT done with missing the playoffs. Jerry West is a God. Trae Young needs to go back to college to find someone who can guard him. Michael Conley Jr. is a top 10 point guard. Jamal Murray is cursed. Bruce Bowen has rolled over in his grave and he isn’t even dead yet after the Spurs allowed the Pelicans to drop 140 points on them. Julius Randle is a better fit for the Pelicans than DeMarcus Cousins was, who I made the argument is not a top 25 player, even when healthy.
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