Boston Celtics: I think I’m a little too excited to see Kyrie in Boston
By Tre Wiggins
As I prepared to sit down for dinner this evening, I noticed my phone was vibrating seemingly out of control. I look at it to find out that the Eastern conference, and the Boston Celtics, would not be the same.
The Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers have officially made every one of their collective fans gasp, cry, and cheer all at the same time. Kyrie Irving has been sent to the Beantown Ballers in exchange for a package that consists of Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and the Brooklyn Nets 2018 first round pick.
Full disclosure: I flipped out when I saw this. Kyrie has been one of my favorite players in the league since he stepped foot on the hardwood. His combination of quickness, ball handling ability, and a soft touch on both his jumper and finger roll is very fun to watch.
Danny is a magician
When you look at this trade, you notice something Danny Ainge did will that reminds you of what he did 10 years ago. He kept most of his picks while trading away assets in tough predicaments. Isaiah Thomas wants a max deal after the season is over. Jae Crowder was one of the easier guys to get rid of. Ante Zizic probably wouldn’t be utilized. These three guys will probably be happier outside of Boston. While the Nets pick will be missed, the pain goes away quickly when you look at the list of picks Boston still possess.
The offense
More from Chowder and Champions
- 3 Midseason Chaim Bloom Decisions That Have Killed the 2023 Red Sox
- 10 Patriots Who Will Be Cut by Tuesday’s Roster Deadline
- MLB Screws Red Sox Fans With Broadcast for Mookie Betts Return
- 3 Most Underpaid Celtics Heading Into the 2023 Season
- Red Sox Continue Rollercoaster Season With Massive Win
It is scary to think of what the Celtics are able to do on offense now that their starting lineup consists of two great scorers who are only progressing. There will be a great mix of pick and rolls and isolations. Since the league is moving towards ball movement, it helps to be a little different.
Kyrie isn’t just an isolation guard though. He performs well off of the catch and shoot. The C’s are filled with players who are more than willing to make the extra pass. Finding Irving or Hayward in the corner is going to be a great look this coming season.
As far as scoring goes, Kyrie doesn’t have anything to worry about. Brad Stevens will let him take his shots. As long as the newest Celtic dishes the rock and finds more shots in the flow of the scheme, the Celtics will have a solid offense capable of destroying the best defenses in the league.
Final thoughts
I am very impressed with Danny Ainge and his pursuit of stars this year. Failing to get Kevin Durant actually paid off! If I were giving this trade a grade, it’d get an A. The C’s took care of future problems while building a great lineup in the process.
Next: Celtics rotation with Kyrie Irving
If you thought I was excited for this season before, well, you are in for a surprise… Have a different opinion? Want to start a debate? Tweet at me! @trebythenumbers