3) Leadership
One of the key reasons behind Kyrie Irving’s desire to separate himself from the Cavalier organization was his desire to become the face of a franchise, and its undisputed leader. At the time, Irving was constantly in LeBron James’ shadow with no real opportunity to take that step forward with the team. The only way to prove to the world that he can make the leap was to dismiss himself from the franchise.
Boston made it immediately clear to Kyrie upon his arrival that he would be given every chance to become the guy that he seeks to be. Even with the addition of All-Star forward Gordon Hayward, and 11-year veteran Al Horford, Kyrie would be given the keys to the franchise from day 1.
Last season he fell short of his chance to take his young and inexperienced, yet talented team into the playoffs. With all of the key pieces back and fully healthy, this Celtics team will be fully geared up at a shot for another long playoff run.
The ultimate success and/or failure of the team will be dictated by Kyrie Irving’s ability to lead them. Boston is giving Irving everything he wanted when he decided to spread his wings and move on from his time with Cleveland. Now, it is up to him to make the most out of the opportunity