When it comes to this 2021-22 Boston Celtics squad, both fans and media alike are under the same mindset: this team as currently constructed is doomed to have their second consecutive letdown of a season.
Though the front office appeared to have stepped into action this past summer, addressing numerous areas within the rotation that were perceived as weak all throughout last year, the shamrocks still find themselves succumbing to similar weaknesses that plagued their 2020-21 run.
From Ime Udoka’s continued insistence of running the double big lineup to inconsistent play from their stars, it’s evident that Boston still could use for some shakeups should they wish to start moving in the right direction (i.e. up closer to the top of the Eastern Conference standings).
To some, said shakeups could come in smaller forms such as adjusting and tweaking Udoka’s minutes distribution within the rotation and simply improving the team’s play-calling.
Others, however, are more under the impression that the team’s main ailments cannot be fixed internally, and that Brad Stevens and co. must look into making some rather sizeable moves within the next few months if they wish to save their season.
Recently, we at the Houdini have seen, heard, and have even received direct messages discussing in great detail why it may be in the best interest for the Boston Celtics to consider shopping and, eventually, parting ways with their defensive anchor as well as the franchise’s heart and soul over the past eight years, Marcus Smart.
Citing the belief that his specific skill-set doesn’t properly complement the C’s desired offensive scheme and his outward frustration with the current state of the team, many are under the impression that a parting of ways may wind up being beneficial for both parties involved.
Though we at HH are not necessarily opposed to seeing the shamrocks look into trading Smart at some point this season, we do not believe that he should be viewed as a highly interchangeable talent for, well, he’s not.
Frankly, at this point in time, there are only a select few players we think the front office should consider dealing Marcus Smart for and, today, we discuss 2 of them: