Celtics Concerned about Kyrie Irving’s Upcoming Free Agency

When Kyrie Irving sat down with the Cavaliers in the summer of 2017, he gave Dan Gilbert a list of several teams he wished to be traded to. The New York Knicks, a franchise Irving has reportedly long sought after and even told his former teammates about, topped that list.

Kyrie was ultimately traded to the Boston Celtics, one team not on the list Kyrie gave to the Cavaliers. However, it’s widely presumed he added the Celtics prior to the trade.

Early Irving

When the Celtics took on Kyrie they knew that they only had two seasons to convince the young star to stay. Irving now sits at the helm of a young team loaded with potential and loaded with talent. Boston made it as far as the Eastern Conference Finals, falling to Kyrie’s former team in a tightly contested seven-game series. They did all of it without the presence of both Irving and star forward Gordon Hayward.

Irving produced an exceptional first season with the Celtics, putting up 24.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game in 60 games played. Despite his individual success as well as the team’s overall success, reports indicate that the Celtics are concerned about his impending free agency in 2019.

Talk on the Street

Here is the full quote from Yahoo Sport’s Chris Mannix who broke the news earlier today.

“I think they’re scared. I think they’re scared and should be scared to some degree of Kyrie walking in 2019. I know he had a great year, but you know there are people in Cleveland that will tell you that the Knicks should be considered a real threat for Kyrie Irving. Because Kyrie had talked about it—about playing with the Knicks with some players in that Cleveland locker room—from what I was told.”

It would make sense that Kyrie looks at the Knicks favorably. He grew up in New Jersey and the Knicks will have a ton of cap space available by 2019. Though the team does not have nearly as bright a future as Boston’s, Irving would get his opportunity to be the lone shining star on a rebuilding franchise. This is something he has openly desired and was a major reason for his departure from Lebron James and the Cavaliers.

Ultimately the Celtics should be the favorites to re-sign Kyrie next summer. He has seen what the team can do without him. Imagine how formidable the team will be with an active Kyrie and Hayward. Money shouldn’t be an issue as Boston will offer Irving a max contract level deal by 2019.

The concerns are very real and present, but they shouldn’t cause Danny Ainge to make a panic deal now. The team can offer Irving more than enough reason to stay on board long-term.

Lebron James Set to Meet With Celtics

Earlier today Stephen A. Smith stated on ESPN First Take that Lebron James will be meeting with 7 teams this summer. Most notable of the list of teams was the Boston Celtics, a franchise Lebron has routinely terrorized in his distinguished career.

The Top Contenders

 

The end of Lebron James’ tenure in Cleveland is drawing nearer by the day. It is widely speculated that after the conclusion of the NBA Finals this year Lebron will meet with and ultimately decide on a new team to finish out his career. The most widely speculated belief is that he will make his way to the Hollywood hills of Los Angeles, where he can work under Magic Johnson as a member of one of the league’s most historic franchises. There he would be able to pursue his business endeavors as part of his post NBA career plans, while attempting to gather other stars to make a few final attempts at one more ring.
The Philadelphia 76ers are another team that has a good shot at employing the king’s services if he chooses to leave the Cavs. While the Lakers are situated in the Western Conference amongst the likes of the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors, the 76ers remain in the East with fewer powerhouse teams to threaten Lebron in the playoffs. He is known to be a big fan of ‘the process’ and is close with rookie Ben Simmons. He see’s a lot of himself in the self-proclaimed ‘prince’ of the league, and even believes Simmons has a chance to be better than him.

“You have an opportunity,” James told Simmons early on, “to be better than me. But you can’t skip steps. You have to do the work.”

With Lebron at the helm and so much young talent behind him, he could make a strong run at the title during his final twilight years in the NBA.

Boston

While it would remain a long shot (to say the least) for the Celtics to sign Lebron this summer, getting a chance to sit down with James and take their best shot at getting him in Celtic green is a thrilling opportunity. To be clear- the chances of Boston actually signing Lebron are slim to none. Financially it would be a very difficult situation to work out.

The Celtics are already set to breach the luxury tax for the 2019 season, and currently have 2 players on max contracts. The team is set to owe Kyrie Irving, Gordon Hayward, and Al Horford $76 million combined next season. Boston will be $15 million over the cap limit next year even if they decide to renounce Smart. In order for a Lebron signing to be feasible the team would have to release or trade several integral pieces of their bench unit.
Even if Lebron agrees to take a pay cut for the opportunity to build a super team Boston would likely need to shed one of their 3 major contracts. Meaning one of Horford, Irving, or Hayward would have to be moved.
Danny Ainge and the Celtics management group would have to be very creative to make such a contract work financially. It is not impossible, but it is unlikely.

Would Signing Lebron be Worth It?

 

Lebron James is still the most dominant player in the game today. He is 33 years old and has been in the league for 15 years. In 2018 he averaged some of the best numbers of his career with 27.5 points, 9.1 assists, and 8.6 rebounds per game. He has 3 championship rings, 3 finals MVPs, 4 MVPs (finalist for MVP this season), and is a 14-time all-star. The debate has already been going on for years about whether or not he is the greatest to ever play the game.
Adding Lebron James to a team that was one win away from the NBA Finals in a season without 2 of their all-stars would undoubtedly make the Celtics front runners for the championship. He would bring veteran leadership along with all worldly talent to a roster already bursting at the seams with young potential. Championship aspirations in Boston would be a constant until the end of Lebron James’s career.
Given the bright future in store for two of Boston’s younger pieces in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown the Celtics have a unique opportunity to pull off such a signing and still have a shot at sustainable long-term success. Add in the draft pick stockpile the team has built and Boston could find themselves competing for championship long after Lebron retires.

Does Lebron Sign?

 

Odds are Lebron will not be signing with the Celtics this summer. It is a complex situation financially, and no one is sure of just how much interest James even has in joining the team. That being said- in the NBA anything is possible. Just getting an opportunity to meet with Lebron is a big step in pulling off what would be the greatest free agency signing the city of Boston has ever seen.
Buckle up Celtic fans, this summer is going to be a wild one.

The Celtics are Interested in Mo Bamba

There are reports that the Celtics are interested in Texas big man Mo Bamba. Boston is reportedly willing to move up moving up in the draft to take him. Bamba is a 6’11” prospect with a record-breaking 7’10” wingspan.

The Prospect

Considered the most NBA ready rim protector in his draft class, Bamba has the highest ceiling out of every prospect this year. He averaged 12.9 points, 10.5 rebounds, and an absurd 3.7 blocks per game in 30 appearances for Texas as a freshman. He possesses good lateral quickness for a guy his size, making him a deadly offensive threat if he can improve on his footwork. His 68% shooting from the charity stripe indicates potential for a consistent outside shot, adding to his respectable 28% three point percentage.

The main drawback with Bamba is his frame. As long as he is, he weighs in at only 216 pounds. As a comparison, Marcus Morris is three inches shorter and weighs 19 pounds more than Bamba. He also tends to have an inconsistent motor. He can sometimes get hot and score in bunches, and other times he is nonexistent on the court.

Bamba is a ridiculous physical specimen that, despite a few shortcomings, has perhaps the highest floor in the draft just as much as he has one of the highest ceilings. His length and athleticism will make him an instant rim protector from the get go. His most common NBA comparison is Rudy Gobert based on his physical attributes.

Will Boston Make a Move?

The Celtics have a major need for a rim-protecting big man that can hold down the paint and grab rebounds consistently. The team has implemented a rebound by committee approach that landed them ranked fifth in the NBA in boards. However, the team struggled to control the boards against Cleveland in the Eastern Conference Finals. In three of their four losses to the Cavs, the Celtics were out-rebounded, giving up key second chance opportunities from offensive rebounds.

Mo Bamba is the one prospect that has all of the attributes the Celtics are looking for. It makes sense that the team is looking into moving up to snag him. The team already interviewed him at the Chicago pre-draft combine a few weeks ago.

Boston has the assets to make a trade, but the question becomes- is Danny Ainge willing to cough up enough to make it happen?

Trade Assets

The Celtics possess the Sacramento Kings’ first round pick in the 2019 draft. They have their own 27th overall pick this year, and the Memphis’s first round pick in 2019. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown surely will be inquired about in such trade talks. It is doubtful that Ainge includes either in such a deal.

The Grizzlies at number four and the Mavericks at five have both expressed interest in trading their picks this year. Mo Bamba has been projected as high as third but will most likely fall to the 4-6 range.

The most likely trade scenario would have to involve Terry Rozier. He has an expiring contract after next season, leaving him expendable. There has already been talk about concern of Rozier’s ultimate departure for a team willing to let him blossom as a starting point guard. His value blew through the roof during Boston’s playoff push this season, averaging 17.6 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting 38% from three.

Boston could pair him up with next year’s Sacramento pick and toss in their own first round pick this year to sweeten the deal. Boston has the assets to make it happen, it’s only a matter of if they want to pull the trigger.

Who says no? Is such a deal worth it for Boston to add another intriguing prospect to the roster? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Terry Rozier’s Days in Boston are Numbered

The Birth of Scary Terry

Terry Rozier made quite the name for himself in the 2018 postseason, taking over for injured star Kyrie Irving and playing a major role in Boston’s deep playoff run. The Celtics got within 1 win from the NBA Finals behind stellar team basketball and a few individual big-time performances from the young guard.

Entering the postseason Rozier had played in a total of 22 playoff games, starting in none. He had taken over as the floor general for the team with only 16 starts to wind down the season. In the 19 playoff games Boston played, Rozier averaged 16.5 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game.

Terry Rozier made a name for himself from the get go, hitting a big time three pointer in the final seconds of game one against Milwaukee. The team took care of business in OT as he finished with 23 points. Scary Terry was born and would quickly become a common household name for fans around the world.

Rozier’s Value

Rozier’s value could not be higher than it is right now. The way he has handled the pressure of stepping up and into Kyrie Irving’s enormous shoes can not be overstated. He has molded himself into a quality young point guard with a future in the NBA as an every day starter. Rozier has talked about his desire to be a starter.

“I know in the future I want to be a starter. Isaiah Thomas in the past and Kyrie now. That’s the only reason I don’t start. But I know I will be a starter in this league.”

The one problem- Boston does not need a starting point guard. With superstar Kyrie Irving at the helm and all indications pointing to Irving being in the long-term plans for the team there is no opportunity for Rozier to play a starting role.

Rozier will be playing as the team’s 6th man next season, seeing decreased minutes and shot attempts as both Gordon Hayward and Kyrie Irving return to action.

Danny Ainge has a track record for maximizing return value in every transaction and with every player that comes through the organization. He traded the organization’s most beloved player since Larry Bird in Paul Pierce. He shipped out future hall of famer Kevin Garnett. He sent Doc Rivers to LA. He even maximized Isaiah Thomas’s value right before his contract was up in the trade for Kyrie Irving.

Free Agency

Rozier is set to become a free agent after the 2019 season. His rookie contract will expire as teams around the league will begin bidding for the blossoming young talent.
It is not likely that Ainge will make the same mistake that general managers in recent history have made.

Pacer’s GM Kevin Pritchard failed to move an unhappy Paul George until it became public knowledge that George wanted out of Indiana. The team ended up getting a good return for the all star forward, but by waiting too long it forced the team into a bad situation with next to no leverage in trade discussions.

Even Boston’s own Kyrie Irving forced his way out of Cleveland by making his discontent with the team public. Cleveland’s former GM David Griffin did a poor job of keeping the situation with Irving behind closed doors, leading to a forced trade to the Celtics. A trade that thus far appears to have worked greatly in favor of the Celtics.

If Danny Ainge and the management group for the Celtics see it as an inevitability that Rozier will leave the team next summer they will not hesitate to make a move.

Draft Rumors

With rumors swirling surrounding the upcoming NBA Draft that the Celtics are looking to move into the lottery, all eyes are on the Rozier situation. The team is interested in Mo Bamba, a pre-draft lock to be taken in the top 6. If Boston seeks to make a climb from 27 to a spot high enough to take such a talent they will need to put together a monster package.

Any package offered has to be centered around Terry Rozier. The draft presents the perfect opportunity for the Celtics to trade Rozier at the peak of his value.

The Memphis Grizzlies (4th) and Dallas Mavericks (5th) have both openly stated that they are considering trading their pick this year. Mo Bamba is projected as high as 3rd overall and as low as 6th.

The Celtics could offer a package centered around Terry Rozier and the 2019 Kings 1st rounder to snag Bamba. Mo Bamba is a 7’1” big man with a ridiculous 7’10” wing span. His presence would instantly boost Boston’s unstable front court and provide a much-needed rim protector.

Don’t be surprised if Boston makes a move like this in the days, hours, or minutes leading up to the draft. There will not be a better time to get max value, and Danny Ainge knows it.

Trade Deadline

In the more likely scenario that the team stands pat in the draft expect plenty of trade talks surrounding Rozier at the trade deadline. The deadline will be Boston’s last chance to trade Rozier for good value before he hits free agency. Depending on his performance to start the season the team should still get a quality return for a player of Rozier’s caliber.

By the deadline Boston will have a well-rounded idea of what the team will look like moving forward. Hayward and Irving will have played half a season together at that point, and the rotation will have begun to round out.

Boston’s front office has expressed a desire to keep Rozier, as the team would prefer to retain his services as a critical player in their championship aspirations. Despite their preference in the matter Ainge will need to see the bigger picture and make a move if he feels Rozier will leave.

The worst-case scenario would be waiting until next summer to move Rozier. By that time teams looking to pry him away from Boston will wait until his free agency hits in order to scoop him up without moving their own assets. Boston will lose Rozier and have nothing to show for it.

Given these circumstances and Danny Ainge’s history in similar situations as much fun as it has been watching Rozier blossom and as nice as it would be to have him moving forward, his days in Boston are numbered.

Lebron is Tired and the Cavs are Dead

Following Cleveland’s Eastern Conference Finals game 5 loss to the Celtics Lebron James was asked about his level of exhaustion.

“I had my moments. I think everybody at this point is tired or worn down.”

Lebron James is turning 34 in December of this year. He lead the entire NBA in minutes played this season. He currently leads all players in postseason minutes played. He has played long into the postseason for the majority of his career, making it to an absurd 7 straight finals. The man has every reason to be exhausted at this point.
Lebron has a usage rate of 35.7% this postseason, second of all players behind James Harden. He has scored nearly as many points this postseason as his three closest teammates combined. He leads the team in assists, steals, and blocks.
Perhaps the depletion of energy has to do with the fact that he has had to carry the team on his back all year. Maybe the relentless and physically bruising defense exhibited by a younger Celtic squad is finally getting to him.

LeBron looks absolutely gassed. pic.twitter.com/okcCafGhdz

— ESPN (@espn) May 24, 2018

Whatever the case may be, Lebron was undeniably drained of anything left in the tank during game 5. At times he could be seen bent over with his hands on his knees, panting for air. During timeouts he sat hunched over on the bench with a towel over his face, soaking in every moment of down time possible. He uncharacteristically lost fast break footraces to the Celtics, failing to even attempt a chase down block on a cutting Jayson Tatum. He was caught jogging back on defense, which lead to a big Morris 3 late in the game.
He constantly argued non-fouls, leaving much to be desired on the defensive side of the court. His refusal to attack mismatches when given the opportunity was curious. Getting Terry Rozier switched onto him was a key part of Cleveland’s success in games 3 and 4. When he got these mismatches in game 5 often he would settle on fadeaway jumpers or just pass out of it.
The Celtics took notice of this, particularly Marcus Morris.

“He has to do a lot for that team, everybody knows at the end of the day these games are coming up pretty quick.” Marcus Morris said in a postgame interview. “We just played on Sunday and these games are coming fast. At the end of the day, I mean, **** I’m tired. Everybody else is tired. We’ve still got to play. He does a lot for his team. Scores, assists, rebounds, I would think he gets a little tired.”

Not only did James reveal to the world in game 5 how little he has left, he looked completely disinterested. His nonchalant demeanor and lackadaisical defense doesn’t bode well for Cleveland moving forward. The absence of emotion in his play was all too transparent, and if you didn’t know any better it looked as if he was playing in a mid-regular season game.
The last time the Celtics defeated Lebron James in the playoffs it was 2010. That series marks the last time Lebron lost to any Eastern Conference team in a playoff series. The Celtics sent the king packing to Miami that year seeking greener pastures with a better supporting cast. Many wonder if the Celtics bring down Lebron this year he will once again seek a brighter future as part of a different organization.
The Celtics are now closer than they have ever been since that fateful playoff series, one win from the NBA Finals and one win from sending Lebron to a long summers rest. A summer in which he will spend much time pondering his options. A summer full of questions.
Given what the world saw from him in game 5, there is doubt even the king himself will be able to muster up enough of his reserve to pull out two straight wins. The Celtics have Lebron against the ropes, and it looks as if his knees are about to buckle.

 

Al Horford: The Celtics’ Pillar of Success

In a league full of high flying athletes, dazzling handle displays, flashy passes, and awe inspiring highlight real dunks, it is inevitable that Al Horford would be overlooked and underestimated.

When people watch the Celtics they see Kyrie Irving performing magic with the ball and crossing guys out of their shoes. They see Jaylen Brown slam home highlight real worthy breakaway dunks,. They might catch a Jayson Tatum finesse move at the rim finished off with a pretty eurostep or rim rocking jam. They will see plenty of big time Terry Rozier 3’s.

What they won’t necessarily see is everything Al Horford does to make these things happen. They won’t see Al set a hard screen on Kyrie’s man to give Irving space to make his move. They might not catch Horford ripping down a rebound over a bigger defender and heaving a spot on outlet pass to a cutting Brown for a dunk. They won’t see Horford set a pick and pop and run it to perfection, freeing up Tatum for his drive to the rim. They won’t pay attention to the pass Horford makes out of a double team in the post to set up Rozier for the dagger 3 pointer. Or perhaps a well placed screen.

Terry Rozier sinks a 3-pointer to tie the game with 8.4 seconds remaining! pic.twitter.com/DyjDkKHmkc

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 22, 2017

It is not always what you see on the stat sheet that makes Al Horford special. But make no mistake- Al Horford is the most important player on a Celtics team 2 wins away from the NBA Finals.

When Gordon Hayward went down early, Horford was there. When Kyrie went down and was announced out for the remainder of the season, Horford was there. In a season full of injuries, on a team with 4 returning players and a roster chalk full of young and inexperienced talent, Horford has been the savvy veteran for his teammates to rely on. He has provided the Celtics with a stabilizing force through the turmoil, and kept the motor churning smoothly at the heart of the team’s success.

Boston may not have escaped Milwaukee in the first round if not for Horford’s abuse of the Buck’s smaller defenders. He forced Embiid to the bench in crunch time minutes in the 76ers series, simply because he was too quick for Embiid to guard outside of the key, and too deadly of a shooter to leave uncontested. His lockdown defense on Joel Embiid and his helpside defense on Ben Simmons snuffed out the brightly burning flame that once was the promise of Philadelphia’s season.

The Celtics certainly aren’t up 2-0 on the Cavaliers if Horford doesn’t completely dominate Kevin Love on both ends of the court in game one, and follow up the performance by taking over down the stretch in game 2.

Over the final 3:49, Al Horford scored or assisted on 8 of Boston's final 10 points

— Celtics Stats (@celtics_stats) May 16, 2018

One of the things that makes Al Horford unique is his ability to fill whatever roll Brad Stevens asks him to fill, and do it to perfection. Some nights he might be a role player, taking a backseat to the Jaylen Brown or Jayson Tatum show by setting up screens, making passes out of the post, and even running point guard. Other times he may be asked to be the focal point of the offense, running constant pick and rolls and being fed in the post against undersized and outmatched defenders.

In the playoffs this year, with Boston’s other two all stars out with injuries Horford has been asked to be the team’s veteran leader and star.

Boy has he responded.

How important has Al Horford been in setting the tone this postseason? Hustle stat ranks among all playoff participants:

Contested Shots – 1st
Contested 3pt Shots – 1st
Loose Balls Recovered – 2nd
Box Outs – 2nd
Contested 2pt Shots – 3rd
Screen Assists – 5th

😏😏😏😏 pic.twitter.com/XI9dw9pKHP

— Dan Greenberg (@StoolGreenie) May 16, 2018

Al Horford is averaging 17.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 57% from the field in 14 playoff games. He has a true shooting percentage of 65.4% which is up from 57.5% in the regular season. He has been notably more aggressive when attacking the rim, throwing down momentum shifting dunks and flexing his muscles for the crowd.

The team has taken notice to Horford’s increased production and energy on the court, particularly at the end of games. After game 2 against Cleveland, Jaylen Brown was asked to comment on Al Horford’s production down the stretch.

“That’s why Al gets paid the big bucks,” Jaylen Brown said. “We lean on Al in those tough moments. And he really went to work. Hitting some big free throws, made some big post-ups, hit the 3. Al, when it gets close to crunch time, we look towards Al to make some big plays.”

Take this play, for example.

Al Horford goes baseline for the reverse!#CUsRise 101 | #WhateverItTakes 89

3:05 left in the 4th on @ESPNNBA pic.twitter.com/w77DJc98ZS

— NBA (@NBA) May 16, 2018

This play came right after Horford was intentionally shoved to the ground by JR Smith. JR was called for a flagrant 1 on the play, sending Horford to the line for two free throws and the ball back. Horford went on to make Cleveland continue to pay in the last few minutes as he led the Celtics charge that put the game on ice.

The job is not yet finished for Horford and the Celtics, as the team prepares for their next major task of going into Cleveland for games 3 and 4. The team will look to steal at least one of the two and come back to Boston with a chance to close the series out.

Regardless of how the rest of the series plays out, whatever the future has in store for these Celtics as they continue their quest for banner 18, without a doubt Al Horford will be at the heart of it all.

 

 

 

 

Jayson Tatum named finalist for 2018 NBA Rookie of the Year

Boston Celtics Rookie Jayson Tatum has been named a finalist for the NBA’s Rookie of the Year award. He is joined by Ben Simmons of the Philadelphia 76ers and Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz in what has been one of the most hotly contested races in recent history.

 

Jayson Tatum

Jayson Tatum has his team on the cusp of the NBA FInals, averaging 18.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game. This postseason he joined fellow rookie Donovan Mitchell as the only rookies since Julius Erving in 1972 to string together 7 straight 20+ point playoff games. Tatum also became the youngest player in NBA history to score 200 points in the playoffs, surpassing Kobe Bryant in the process. If the award included what each player does in the postseason, Jayson Tatum could very well be the favorite for the award.

 

Jayson Tatum. Clutch. #CUsRisepic.twitter.com/ZP3FHaQ03v

— Mid Range Brasil (@MidRangeBR) May 10, 2018

 

Playoff performances aside, Jayson Tatum is considered by many to be the most complete player of the 2017 draft class as he showcased his ability to score at ease from all 3 levels. He broke the Celtic rookie record for 3 pointers made in a season with 105, while connecting on a staggering 43% of attempts. He showcases a smooth as butter shot, the ability to take his defender one on one, can knock down step back shots, and finish at the rim at an efficient rate. Tatum averaged 13.9 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists during the regular season.

 

Ben Simmons

Ben Simmons is the favorite to win the award, as he dominated the league with stellar all around performances all season long. Simmons averaged 15.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, 8.2 assists (5th in NBA) and 1.7 steals per game. With number 1 pick Markelle Fultz injured on the sidelines, Simmons opened eyes and dropped jaws with his high basketball IQ, stellar passing ability and court awareness, and the ability to finish efficiently at the rim.

 

As a 6’10” point guard, Simmons’ defensive versatility helped fuel one of the NBA’s top ranked defenses. He was also one of 16 players 2 steals per 100 team plays, and block at least 2 percent of 2 point shots.

 

Ben Simmons with this between the legs pass

Play this on a loop at my funeral pic.twitter.com/O87NZ76w5P

— Tyler Conway (@jtylerconway) May 1, 2018

 

Simmons averaged 16.3 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 7.7 assists during the postseason, leading the 76ers past a tough Miami Heat team where he clashed with fellow rookie Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics. Philadelphia was eliminated in 5 games.

 

Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell is considered by many as the fan favorite for the Rookie of the year award. After Gordon Hayward’s departure the Utah Jazz looked for Mitchell to step up and provide much of the offense this season. Mitchel responded impressively, producing 20.5 points (tops among rookies), 3.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. Mitchel displayed a unique ability to create his own shot, getting separation between him and his defender with ease as he utilized his first step quickness. He was also a difference maker as part of the NBA’s 2nd ranked defense. Coming into the league known more as a defensive player, Mitchel certainly has lived up to that potential.

 

ICYMI: Here is another angle & replay of Donovan Mitchell’s (@spidadmitchell) game tying 3-pointer. Utah was down 114-111 before the possession began. #TakeNote pic.twitter.com/j5wUC4x5xC

— LiveFeedLouisville™ (@LiveFeedLville) March 24, 2018

 

Much like Jayson Tatum, Mitchel elevated his game as he led the Utah Jazz into the playoffs, putting up 24.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game. He led his team into the conference semi-finals where the Jazz were ousted by the Houston Rockets in 5 games.

 

Though it is a regular season award, it is a sign of something special watching each of the 3 candidates battle in the playoffs, with each finalist leading their team past the 1st round.

 

The Rookie of the Year award winner will be announced June 25th on TNT.

NBA decides to not take disciplinary action against JR Smith for shove on Al Horford

The NBA announced today that Cavalier guard JR Smith will not be receiving further discipline after shoving Al Horford to the ground during last night’s game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals.

 

The NBA will not discipline Cleveland's JR Smith for the foul on Boston's Al Horford in Game 2 of Eastern Conference Finals, league source tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 16, 2018

 

With just under 4 minutes to play Al Horford set a pick and rolled for an alley oop. Jr Smith gave Horford a shove in the back on the way up as Al went tumbling to the ground. Smith got issued a Flagrant 1 on the play, Horford hit both free throws and on the ensuing possession gets a layup and 1 to put the Celtics up 12.

 

It was blatant that the shove was done on purpose, and in an aggressive manner. Horford was completely airborne when JR made his decision, thrusting his arms into Al’s body, jolting him forward out of control.

 

Marcus Smart was ready to throw #ThemHands after JR Smith pushed Al Horford from behind 😬 (via @DefPenHoops) pic.twitter.com/KLczyvM32m

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) May 16, 2018

 

After the game JR openly admitted to the shove, stating “It was a good call. I blatantly pushed him.”

 

What kind of example is the NBA trying to set here? Two of the most dangerous positions a player can get injured in is getting undercut and having their feet taken out (like in the case of Gordon Hayward) and being shoved while airborne. Not only did Smith commit a hostile act, but he openly admitted to doing so!

 

If Horford had gotten injured on the play, one must wonder if the NBA would have decided to take further disciplinary action on the incident. The league must focus on the action that happened, not on the result. It sets a bad public example by letting such a heinous act go without any consequences, even if Horford is fine after the incident.

Jr Smith is averaging 2 points on 12% shooting through 2 games against Boston in the Eastern Conference Finals. It will be interesting to see how he performs as the teams move further into the series.

 

Game 3 will take place in Quicken Loans arena on Saturday night at 8:30 pm.

Lebron strikes first, Celtics rally late to take 2-0 series lead

Grit, determination, and a never quit attitude. Traits the Celtics have embodied all season long, and everything the team exemplified in Game 2.  After a hard fought battle the Boston Celtics pulled away late for a 107-94 victory and a 2-0 series lead. Lebron’s monster game proved not quite enough, as the Celtics attacked the Cavaliers with an all around team effort from start to finish.

 

The Cavaliers started the game with revitalized energy after inserting big man Tristan Thompson into the starting lineup in place of Kyle Korver. Thompson did a good job of locking down the pick and roll early on, disrupting the offensive flow of the Celtics and forcing them into some tough looks.

 

Lebron James poured in a whopping 21 points in the first quarter, the most points in any quarter in any playoff game of his career. He added 4 threes on 8-13 shooting, but the rest of the Cavs shot 3-11 for a total of 6 points in the frame. Lebron finished the night with 42 points, 12 assists, and 10 rebounds.

 

LeBron scored 21 of the Cavs' 27 points in the 1st quarter 😳 pic.twitter.com/jqhzffEJbF

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 16, 2018

 

If it wasn’t for the valiant efforts of Jaylen Brown the Cavs may have been able to run away with it early. Jaylen led the charge with 14 points in the first quarter, finishing with a team high 23 to go along with 7 rebounds and 3 assists.

 

Jayson Tatum picked up where Jaylen left off, starting the 2nd quarter with 9 quick points, keeping the team afloat as Lebron continued to stay hot. Towards the end of the quarter Lebron took a hard shot to the jaw and had to leave the floor to get checked out. He was quickly cleared to play and returned before the end of the period, as the Cavs built their lead up to double digits for the first time in the series. Marcus Smart made some big plays with under a minute left in the quarter and the Celtics were able to trim the Cavalier lead to 7.

 

Terry Rozier was the hot hand in the 3rd, overcoming a rocky start by producing 14 points on his way to an 18 point 5 rebound night. The momentum started to shift in favor of the Celtics, as the team dominated the period in the open floor, barraging the Cavs with 36 points in the quarter while creating havoc on the defensive side of the ball. Marcus Morris was huge, hitting a tough and 1 with 5:14 to play in the quarter that tied the game up. He took a moment to wave his hands in the air, gesturing the garden faithful to their feet as the crowd roared with en electric energy.

 

Less than a minute later Marcus Smart canned a three from the top of the arch to give the Celtics their first lead since 3-2, a lead they would not relinquish.

 

Marcus Smart was absolutely crucial in the second half. Smart provided an adrenaline shot of energy that infected the whole team and gave the Celtics all the momentum necessary to continue pouring in basket after basket, relentlessly attacking the teeth of the Cavalier defense. Smart finished with 11 points, 9 assists, 5 rebounds, 4 steals, and a team high +/- of +21.

 

Marcus Smart ladies and gentleman. pic.twitter.com/qaWTH297tn

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 16, 2018

 

Smart’s efforts must have particularly affected Al Horford, who put the Cavaliers to rest with an 8 point 5 rebound 4th quarter, finishing with 15 points and 10 rebounds for the game.

 

Horford’s biggest moment came with just under 4 minutes to go. Horford set a pick and rolled for an alley oop. Jr Smith gave Horford a shove in the back on the way up as Al went tumbling to the ground. Smith got issued a Flagrant 1 on the play, Horford hit both free throws and on the ensuing possession gets a layup and 1 to put the Celtics up 12. All hopes of a comeback were all but over for the Cavs.

 

It was a team effort fueled victory for the Celtics, as four different players led the team in scoring in each quarter for the game. The team also did a great job of handling the ball, giving up only 8 turnovers to the Cavaliers’ 15.

 

The Cavs gave Lebron a bit more help in the game, mostly from fellow all star Kevin Love, producing a 22 point 15 rebound double double.Tristan Thompson finished with an 8 point 7 rebound effort, and Kyle Korver gave the team 11 points off the bench.

 

After the game Brad Stevens gushed about Marcus Smart and what he brings to the table for the team. “He’s as tough as they come. A true competitor. He matches his intensity with a physical toughness. We are really glad he is on our team” Marcus Smart continues to be the hot glue guy for this Celtics team, as they have gone an impressive 8-2 since inserting him back into the lineup. He seems to never fail to make the big plays down the stretch of games, not afraid of any moment and willing to bump and scrape to win every possession.

 

Stevens finished his press conference stating that the team will “have to be tougher and even more resilient as we move to Cleveland.”

 

History will be on the their side, as the team is 37-0 after leading a best of 7 series 2-0.

 

Game 3 will take place Saturday night at 8:30 pm. The Celtics will look to take a commanding 3-0 lead as Lebron will do everything he can to claw the Cavaliers back into the series.

 

Celtics Defend Home Court in Route of Cavaliers

Ever heard of the saying “don’t poke the bear”?

 

It’s a common phrase of warning to prevent someone from doing something that might provoke a negative response from someone else. It is also exactly what Marcus Morris did a day before Game one of the Eastern Conference Finals when he called out Lebron James and dubbed himself the best Lebron stopper on the planet, save for maybe Kawhi Leonard.

This kind of statement could be seen as playing with fire to even the most confident of Celtic fans, as the last thing the team needs is to feed more motivation to the best player in the league. Marcus Morris got his wish, getting the starting nod and and defending Lebron a team high 39 possessions as the Cavs averaged 89.7 points per 100 possessions in that matchup. Lebron finished the game with 15 points on 5-16 shooting, 7 turnovers, and an abysmal -32 plus/minus rating.

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James, right, fights for position against Boston Celtics forward Marcus Morris (13) during the third quarter of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Sunday, May 13, 2018, in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

 

The Celtics jumped ahead early, utilizing a 17-0 first quarter run to build the lead up to as high as 21 and never looked back, emerging with a dominant 108-83 victory. Jaylen Brown led all scorers in the game with 23, Al Horford chipped in 20 and the rookie Jayson Tatum added 16. Marcus Morris was hot all night, beyond his stellar defense on Lebron James he produced a double double with 21 points and 10 rebounds, to go along with a team high +25 plus/minus.

 

Entering today’s game the Celtics were betting underdogs for the 2nd straight series. Not many have given this team much of a chance all postseason, and the team continues to embrace this doubt as motivation to prove the world wrong. They have shown no indication of backing down from the tall task of ending Lebron James’ dominance on the East.

 

“Our confidence is very high,” Morris said. “The younger guys to the older guys, we think we can compete and play with anybody. At the end of the day, all the talking done off the court. Once we step between them lines, we have to compete no matter who we have out there, and that’s what we’ve been doing.”

 

The Celtics improved to a perfect 8-0 at home this postseason. If they have hopes of keeping their unblemished home record alive the team is going to have to be prepared for a heavyweight punch in the mouth from Lebron and the Cavs. If history shows us anything it’s that Lebron James isn’t about to roll over after a single loss. After the game Lebron said he has “zero concern” moving forward and that game ones are “feel out games” to him. He will come into game 2 with adjustments that the Celtics are going to have to be able to handle and do their best to adjust to on the fly.

 

Game 2 of the best of 7 series tips off on Tuesday night at 8:30 pm.