ESPN Recognizes Quiet but Effective Celtics Offseason

Its no secret that the Boston Celtics struck out on multiple targets this offseason. Whether it was trading up for Justise Winslow in the draft or potential free agents in LaMarcus Aldridge or Greg Monroe, the Celitics appeared to strike out on every single attempt.

They did not get the big flashy names but the Celtics still had a solid offseason that should make them a much improved team this year. The additions of David Lee and Amir Johnson may not be franchise changing but it gives them some of the best and most dynamic depth for their front court.

They were no where near the leaders but ESPN recognized both Johnson and Lee with votes for best newcomer this offseason. It was a minor recognition but the minds at ESPN realize the kind of value that Lee and Johnson can have for the team. Having both of them play the same position complicates how large of a role they can have but considering the way Stevens uses his bigs, there will be a role for both of them.

Apr 21, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens reacts in the second quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

The Celtics love to play small ball and both of them accommodate that. It may not be their natural position but both of these additions have the potential to switch over and play select minutes at the center position. Both of these guys have an established mid range game and are 50%+ overall finishers.

The Celtics do not need or want Johnson and Lee to be attempting to take over the game by creating their own shots because their offensive system does a lot of the creating, putting all of the importance on efficient finishing from different areas on the court.

Johnson and Lee are far from the most desired acquisitions made this offseason but they are both low risk players that are a great fit. The Celtics will be forcing nothing with Lee and Johnson and that should allow them to settle into a comfortable role.

The Celtics still have a long ways to go but with Lee, Johnson, Jared Sullinger, Jonas Jerebko and Jordan Mickey they will not have to worry about the power forward position for a while. The have youth and potential in Mickey and Sullinger, they have the established veterans in Lee and Johnson and they have a three point specialist in Jerebko.

None of these guys are superstars of the league but the Celtics are one of the youngest team with an incredible collection of draft picks coming their way. The Celtics will have a rare opportunity to build and find their superstar through the draft and in the meantime they have a great core of power forwards that can collectively do anything the team asks of them.

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