Boston Celtics: 5 underrated distributors Cs should pursue this offseason
By Chris Conte
The Boston Celtics passing woes were so evident last season that the new Boston Celtics head coach, Ime Udoka, pointed it out in his first press conference with the Cs. Boston was 24th in assists per game, 24th in total assists, 19th in pace, and 20th in assisted two-pointers.
The roster only had two consistent creators, no elite passing, and no elite vision. Because of this, Brad Stevens had to transition from traditional Boston Celtics basketball and move towards isolation play.
Tatum and Brown’s select isolation play helped Stevens get away with this to an extent, but it led to the Boston Celtics struggling when either was off the floor.
It’s high time the Cs return to their original offensive scheme, and to do that, they need to bring in some competent passers.
Players can make the extra pass quickly and accurately or players that can exploit the tinniest angles under the rim.
The level of passers does not matter, so long as they can pass.
Boston doesn’t need any more ball stoppers or turnover-prone players. So, with this, let’s take a look at a few names that fit this description:
Passing option for the Boston Celtics No. 1) Thaddeus Young
Although the Chicago Bulls season was considered a letdown to its fans and players, Thaddeus Young managed to put together a career year at 33-years-old. He was very successful working next to LaVine due, in part, to his passing.
Billy Donovan used Young as a post-up passer and roll man on pick-and-rolls. Young could survey the floor in these two play types and find cutters under the rim or shooters beyond the arc.
He averaged 4.3 assists in just 24.3 minutes of action with the Bulls.
Horford, Williams, and Young would make for a dynamic frontcourt trio. The three would revitalize the C’s pick-and-roll play next to the Jays while elevating everyone else on the roster.
In addition, players like Nesmith, Pritchard, and Smart will all benefit from Young’s kick-outs.
Young has done his fair share of traveling around the league, playing with six different clubs throughout his career. He’s played in 51 playoff games but has yet to advance to the Conference Finals.
The Boston Celtics could offer Young an opportunity to break that streak and win a ring.
Young can earn up to $14.1 million this season, but only $6 million of it is guaranteed. The Celtics can match this contract with Fournier’s or put together some of their younger players’ contracts to ensure they are under the salary apron.
Young is a seasoned veteran with playoff experience and has no record of playing outside his role. Additionally, his passing would immensely help Boston’s offense, and he won’t break the bank while doing so.