Boston Celtics: Stat-line predictions for C’s 2021-22 rotation
Statistical projections for Boston Celtics starters
The Boston Celtics starting lineup is largely up in the air right now because they most likely will not go with a double-big set again.
However, the five best players right now include two bigs, so we will go with that for now.
"Jayson Tatum statistical projections: 29 points, seven rebounds, and five assists per game on 47 percent shooting from the floor, 40 percent shooting from deep and 88 percent shooting from the line"
Yes, this is obviously quite the jump I am projecting, but I think year five will be the one in which Jayson Tatum becomes the perennial MVP candidate we all hope he will be.
His efficiency took a jump last year, especially when he was not dealing with COVID-19 complications, and I expect the same this upcoming season.
With Kemba Walker gone, this will free up more opportunity for Tatum to not only score more, but increase his possessions as the primary ball handler. This will, in turn, increase his assist totals, making him a much more well-rounded player.
Don’t shoot the messenger, but if the Boston Celtics are a top four seed, Tatum could place himself into the MVP discussion.
"Jaylen Brown statistical projections: 26 points, six rebounds, and four assists per game on 49 percent shooting from the floor, 39 percent shooting from deep, and 80 percent shooting from the line"
Brown has shown consistent improvement in every single year of his career, and I expect that to continue.
His free throw shooting has always been a struggle, which is odd for such a great shooter.
I assume it’s largely mental, and maybe coach Ime Udoka will be able to get to him.
I expect his points and assists to rise in the same fashion as Tatum — larger volume due to Kemba’s departure. Don’t be surprised to see his name mentioned in All-NBA talks.
"Marcus Smart statistical projections: 12 points, three rebounds, and seven assists per game on 40 percent shooting from the floor, 34 percent shooting from deep, and 80 percent shooting from the line"
As written in my most recent article, I am one of the few that would not mind Marcus Smart starting at the one. As of right now, it is shaping up to look like that as Stevens doesn’t seem to have much interest in trading him.
If Smart can finally adapt to a playmaking role as opposed to a perceived third option, he will unlock his game. He is the best playmaker on the Boston Celtics and should take advantage of that.
"Al Horford statistical projections: 12 points, seven rebounds, and four assists per game on 47 percent shooting from the floor, 36 percent shooting from deep, and 81 percent shooting from the line."
Boston Celtics fans in general love the Horford re-addition.
He is the perfect blend of modern big, with defense, shooting, and ability to put the ball on the floor and make something happen.
However, Horford is getting up there in age and will probably play 24-28 minutes a night, a near career low.
We should not expect statistical outbursts from Horford, but his veteran leadership and availability will be clear from the start.
"Robert Williams statistical projections: 11 points, nine rebounds, and three assists per game on 70 percent shooting from the floor."
The Timelord is one of the most intriguing players in the NBA — I mean, in his first career start he almost dropped a quadruple double!
He is an exceptional passer for his position, uber-efficient, a top-tier shot blocker, and one of the most dominant above-the-rim threats league-wide.
All he needs is health & opportunity, and he can be an All-Defensive caliber player, as well as in the running for an award like Most Improved Player.
However, health is always a massive question mark on Williams’ resume. All we can do at this point is hope for the best, and manage his minutes.