Boston Celtics: Should Cs pursue Russell Westbrook/Bradley Beal package?
Pros of Boston Celtics acquiring Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal
The Cs will take a first-hand look at the duo tomorrow night in what could be the first of two NBA Play-in games for the Boston Celtics (or Washington Wizards). What they will need to contend with is not only a duo averaging 53.5 points, 16.1 assists, 16.2 assists, 2.6 steals, but a backcourt pairing that thrives off of each other.
Beal raved about Westbrook in an interview with the Undefeated:
"his approach to the basketball game is what helped me have the year I’m having. And it helped us turn the year around. His level of accountability, you want that. He pushes himself to levels that you don’t even think exist. And to be on the other side of that playing against him for years and seeing, ‘Oh, how’s he getting triple-doubles every game? There’s no way he’s getting it.’ To actually see that night in and night out. He has a different mode."
This pairing seems to be perfect for both players, as both have been rumored to fail to exist 100% harmoniously alongside the stars they’ve played alongside through the years, such as James Harden in Houston and Kevin Durant in OKC for Westbrook, and John Wall in the nation’s capital for Beal since he entered the league.
Given the success they’ve seen, and the recent tear that has led them to the play-in, only a disastrous playoff series or pair of NBA Play-in games could convince the Houdini this isn’t the best backcourt in the NBA.
Cons of Boston Celtics acquiring Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal
Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal cost a combined $163 million over the next two years. That is a large chunk of change to dedicate to two players, especially since Jayson Tatum’s extension could pay him up to $195 million.
Speaking of Tatum, his game could theoretically take a hit with two guys that thrive with the ball in their hands. We saw what happened to his output when Kyrie Irving and Marcus Morris were demanding touches in 2018-19.
This trio not working out could make the Cs a costly mistake, especially if the roster turns out to be too top-heavy. Tying up over $350 million into three players could be damning to a roster if the right role players aren’t signed to support them.