Boston Celtics PG Terry Rozier Ready to Fill a Meaningful Role

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan | Oct 5, 2016

Oct 4, 2016; Amherst, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Terry Rozier (12) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Philadelphia 76ers at William D. Mullins Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /

Boston Celtics second-year point guard Terry Rozier says he is ready to fill a bigger role on the team this season.

Terry Rozier did a lot of sitting, watching and learning during his rookie season with the Boston Celtics. Now he is ready to make an impact and show just way he was taken in the first round of the 2015 draft.

Rozier, who played in just 39 regular-season games, saw his minutes increase towards the end of the season. He got his chance to shine in the first round of the playoffs when Avery Bradly went down with an injured hamstring. Rozier took advantage of his opportunity. He averaged 4.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists in the five games he played.

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The playing time he received has certainly elevated his confidence. It also showed in the summer league where Rozier showed off his leadership ability. And it has also showed in the team’s first season game.

In Tuesday night’s 92-89 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, Terry Rozier led the team with 12 points adding three rebounds and two assists. Although just the first preseason game, the second-year guard is already aiming to take on the backup point guard role.

When asked if he considers himself in that role he answered:

"“Yes, sir. It’s something I’m holding myself to and just trying to get as many minutes as I can, trying to play and help my team in the best way I can.”"

This season, Rozier will compete for minutes with Marcus Smart and second-round draft pick Demetrius Jackson. The poise and efficiency he displayed in the summer league and so far in the preseason will go along ways in his ability to fulfil such an important role, especially on a second unit primed to be one of the best in the league.

The young guard is also learning a lot from point guard Isaiah Thomas. In an interview with Sam Amico of AmicoHoops.net published Tuesday, Rozier talked about playing behind an All-Star point guard.

"“It was a blessing to learn so much from (Thomas) my rookie season — seeing the things he did on the court, seeing what it takes to be an All-Star,” said Rozier. “If you work hard enough and go against him every day, you’ve got no choice but to get better. He does a great job of leading by example. [But] it’s difficult, because you want to get out there and play”"

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The 22-year-old guard will get his chance. Whether he takes complete advantage of that opportunity will depend on how deep that confidence runs.

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