Boston Celtics: 3 takeaways from the preseason finale versus Heat

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 09: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics drives to the basket while guarded by Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat during the second half at TD Garden on May 09, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 09: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics drives to the basket while guarded by Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat during the second half at TD Garden on May 09, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images)
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Boston Celtics (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Boston Celtics (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Boston Celtics takeaway #2: Romeo Langford will have a breakout season

Romeo Langford has endured a rather frustrating first couple seasons in Boston. He has battled injuries that sidelined him for extended periods of time and it has hurt his chances of become a reliable rotation player.

The 21-year-old managed to stay healthy for the summer and was able to spend time working on his game rather than rehabbing. This has clearly made a huge difference because he is showing significant improvements thus far.

Langford was put into the starting lineup for Friday’s game and he proved he was deserving of the opportunity. He finished with 18 points on 7/9 from the field including 4/6 from downtown. Langford also played very solid defense adding 2 steals and one block to his stat total. The real story however, is about the improved shooting numbers from three.

In Romeo’s first two seasons, he shot a below average 22.2% from deep. In his four preseason games, the former first-round selection shot 60% from deep on 15 three-pointers.

Although it is a small sample size and will likely not be sustainable, this is a significant improvement in his game and will help him get important minutes this season.

If Langford can continue to take these big strides and stay healthy, he will be a great bench option for the second unit and will have his best season by far.