Last night was a test for the Boston Celtics to prove that they can compete with any team in the east, taking on the best on-paper squad in the conference in Boston’s first game back after the All-Star break.
It was a test the Cs failed.
Losing 121-109, Boston dropped what could have been the most winnable game they’ll have all season against the budding Eastern Conference superpower, who was missing both Kevin Durant and recent signee Blake Griffin.
Griffin is a bit player, but Durant makes the Nets a legitimate championship threat. Without him, the Nets found no difficulties putting up points. On Thursday, Kyrie Irving and James Harden combined for 62 points, with the former Celtic Irving leading the way with a 40-point, 8-rebound performance.
The Cs lacked the built-in excuse of not having a healthy roster themselves, finally returning Marcus Smart to the lineup after an 18-game absence. Even at full strength, Boston is a deeply flawed team that may not have what it takes to keep pace in the Eastern Conference.
Stylistically, the Celtics don’t match up well with other contenders. They lack a strong interior presence, are in the middle of the pack in 3-point shooting, and cede the sixth-most field goals in the entire league.
That needs to change. Immediately.
This should not be seen as a lost season given the circumstances. If anything, with Jaylen Brown in the first year of a max extension and Jayson Tatum’s first year as part of a $195 million deal coming up next season, now is the time to go all-in and compete for the east crown in the present.
These two deals could help the Boston Celtics to contend immediately in a top-heavy Eastern Conference: