As the dust settles on another exciting NBA season, teams are making moves to either build on their success or start anew. The Boston Celtics have been particularly active this offseason, making several notable changes to their roster and strategy. Here’s an in-depth look at what the Celtics have been up to, including some key figures and statistical expectations.
Key Acquisitions
The Celtics management has been proactive in bolstering their lineup.
- Kemba Walker: Boston’s biggest offseason acquisition, Kemba Walker, joins from the Charlotte Hornets. Last season, Walker averaged 25.6 points per game, providing a much-needed boost to the Celtics’ backcourt.
- Enes Kanter: Known for his rebounding capabilities, Kanter brings an average of 7.7 rebounds per game, which helps address one of Boston’s weaknesses from last season.
- Brad Wanamaker: Resigning Wanamaker ensures that the Celtics maintain some continuity. He averaged 3.9 points and 2.5 assists per game last season.
Departures
While acquisitions are crucial, departures can also significantly impact a team:
- Kyrie Irving: The departure of Kyrie Irving leaves a void in terms of both scoring and leadership. He had an average of 23.8 points and 6.9 assists per game last season.
- Al Horford: Losing Horford means the team will miss his defensive prowess and experience. Horford averaged 13.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.
Rookie Prospects
The Celtics have also added new talent through the draft:
- Romeo Langford: Selected 14th overall, Langford adds depth to the guard position. In his college career, he averaged 16.5 points per game.
- Grant Williams: Picked 22nd, Williams is known for his versatility. He averaged 18.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game during his college stint.
Statistical Expectations
The new roster configuration will influence the team’s statistical output:
- Scoring: With the addition of Walker and continued development of Jason Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boston could see an increase in their average points per game, which stood at 112.0 last season.
- Rebounding: Enes Kanter’s inclusion aims to improve the team’s rebounding stats, potentially increasing their average rebounds per game from 44.5.
- Defensive Efficiency: Despite losing Horford, the team’s overall defensive focus remains, aiming to maintain their defensive rating around the 106.5 mark from last season.
For more detailed analysis on other NBA teams and players, visit arenaplus. This offseason promises to reshape the Celtics in exciting ways, potentially setting the stage for an even more competitive NBA season.