Boston Celtics: 3 ways every east contender can get over the hump

1. Acquire a third star

Right now, the Brooklyn Nets have not given any indication they have what it takes to get over the hump, but to be fair, they have seen exactly 0 minutes together from their star duo of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

That’s because Durant hasn’t suited up since the 2019 NBA Finals and Irving was limited to just 20 games this season. Having those two healthy alone should vault the Nets up the ladder out of their current seventh-place finish.

Adding a third star–such as a less ball-dominant forward like Paul George or even Khris Middleton–may well put them over.

2. Get a bargain with the MLE

Brooklyn won’t possess any meaningful cap space this offseason, like most other teams, but they will have the ability to add a ring-chasing veteran with the mid-level exception. Perhaps the market of several big men will run dry and facilitate a bargain signing for the Nets.

Look out for Paul Milsap and Serge Ibaka as possible names that could make sense for a contender in Kings County. Both names have been tossed around these parts as potential Boston Celtics additions as well.

3. Re-sign Joe Harris

Joe Harris’ importance to the Nets offense cannot be overstated. His 42 percent 3-point conversion rate on almost six attempts per game makes him an elite floor-spacer. He will be needed when the defense collapses on Irving and Durant.

Sean Marks cannot let him get away this offseason…even if it means paying an upwards of $10 million per season to keep him.