It's simply another case of the Boston Celtics projected as middle-of-the-pack this season. Sports Illustrated has them ranked 14th as "best teams to follow based on watchability".
14. Celtics
Always a little bit more function over form, the Celtics seem primed for a bounceback season in 2021–22. Jayson Tatum is one of the most gifted scorers in the league, and the addition of some quality vets (Dennis Schroder, Al Horford, Josh Richardson) should have Boston more closely resembling the team that nearly snuck into the Finals in 2020.
Makes the team appear boring, doesn't it? "Function over form"! Kind of suggests - try to win the game but don't be entertaining. Let's compare the 14th-ranked, borderline-boring Celtics with the (allegedly) supremely-entertaining, 2nd-ranked Brooklyn Nets.2. Nets
Kevin Durant is perhaps the most talented scorer in the history of people to pick up a basketball, yet it’s possible he may not even be the best scorer on his team. The combo of Durant and James Harden—with or without Kyrie Irving—makes the Nets worth watching whenever they play. Mix in a roster that’s stocked with useful role players, and as long as Brooklyn is actually healthy during the regular season it will be thrilling to watch.
"Thrilling to watch" tells it all - or does it. Durant it so automatic, watching him doesn't excite me. I am used to his expertise on the court. Harden? Super-skilled, but too much iso-ball. Kyrie? Not a fan as an individual, but he can be exciting to watch. Overall? I grant that with a full roster (read: Irving is in) they are favorites to take the Title, but I don't see the excitement.
I agree with the Warriors, Nuggets and Mavericks at #3, #4 and #5, respectively, but Lakers as most-exciting and Nets in second place is way off the mark. And the Celtics behind the Bulls, Jazz and 76'ers is more than I can handle. I've said my piece!
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