If the Boston Celtics maintain their .706 winning percentage for the remaining 31 games, they are projected to finish the 2019-20 season at 58 wins and 24 losses - much better than most analysts predicted. The loss of two All-Star starters, Kyrie Irving and Al Horford, many felt would lead to a repeat of last season's 49 wins - or possibly a minor boost to the 50-win level.
But as it turns out, the addition of Kemba Walker, coupled with the dual emergence of the Jay Team, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, has turned Boston's fortunes in a positive direction. But with the Celtics taking on the Thunder, Rockets and Clippers prior to All-Star Weekend, and a never-ending surge in injuries, things could head south fairly quickly.
Injuries aside, there is a whole new vibe this season. The Guys in Green seem to like each other, and they are having fun. Kyrie has dealt with injuries and Horford seems displeased with his role in Philly - but the Celtics engine is rolling along very well. Kemba has proven himself better than advertised, and who expected Jaylen and Jayson to surge so much at the same time? And the solid center play of Enes Kanter, Daniel Theis and Grant Williams needs to be mentioned, as does the strong, steady performance of both Gordon Hayward and Marcus Smart.
Rob Williams III is due back in action soon, and seeing more of rookie Romeo Langford has given fans hope that he was more-than-worth the 14th pick that brought him to Boston. A 58-win season would be motivating. A 60-win season would be exciting. But right now, fans will be satisfied with a victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight.
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But as it turns out, the addition of Kemba Walker, coupled with the dual emergence of the Jay Team, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, has turned Boston's fortunes in a positive direction. But with the Celtics taking on the Thunder, Rockets and Clippers prior to All-Star Weekend, and a never-ending surge in injuries, things could head south fairly quickly.
Injuries aside, there is a whole new vibe this season. The Guys in Green seem to like each other, and they are having fun. Kyrie has dealt with injuries and Horford seems displeased with his role in Philly - but the Celtics engine is rolling along very well. Kemba has proven himself better than advertised, and who expected Jaylen and Jayson to surge so much at the same time? And the solid center play of Enes Kanter, Daniel Theis and Grant Williams needs to be mentioned, as does the strong, steady performance of both Gordon Hayward and Marcus Smart.
Rob Williams III is due back in action soon, and seeing more of rookie Romeo Langford has given fans hope that he was more-than-worth the 14th pick that brought him to Boston. A 58-win season would be motivating. A 60-win season would be exciting. But right now, fans will be satisfied with a victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight.
Follow Tom at @CelticsSentinel, @CausewayStreet and Facebook
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