Boston Celtics: Takeaways from preseason opener vs. Charlotte Hornets

Several of Boston’s role players stepping up

Aaron Baynes looks to be the odd man out for the Boston Celtics this year. With Hayward back from injury, someone from the starting lineup last year has to move to the bench. Most expect it to be Baynes.

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But don’t expect Baynes to slip out of the rotation any time soon. In ten minutes off the bench Friday night, Baynes looked phenomenal. He fearlessly knocked down a three in the first quarter to help Boston build to a 37-20 lead, which is a great sign for Boston. He was working on his threes throughout the year last season, but never really looked the part of a floor-spacer. If he can be a respectable shooter from deep, that’s big for Boston.

He also displayed his high basketball IQ on pick and rolls. Twice in a short stretch, Charlotte switched after a Baynes pick.

Aron Baynes effectively eliminated that option by diving to the rim for an offensive rebound and layup both times. Guards just can’t handle his dominant frame, and he’s smart enough to recognize the mismatch and go punish it.

Irving mentioned that the Boston Celtics are emphasizing punishing switches this year; Baynes clearly got the memo. He also repeatedly set devastating screens. It’s no surprise his +13 plus/minus led the team.

Another bright spot: Guerschon Yabusele.

Yabusele looked significantly more comfortable out on the court Friday night than he did last season. He repeatedly dove into the paint and carved himself space against helpless Charlotte defenders. He scored with a soft hook-shot in the post, and he showed nice speed and air on this transition basket.

On defense, he had two monster 2nd half blocks. The first came on a Michael Kidd-Gilchrist paint attempt. Yabusele showed impressive lateral quickness sticking with him, and then impressive leaping ability and instinct getting up for the block. The second was a good old fashioned stuff of Cody Zeller.

Yabusele isn’t likely to play a huge role for the Boston Celtics this season, but he’ll be a great option off the bench with his physicality.

Terry Rozier emphasized being able to put defenders in jail on his back en route to layups this offseason, per Jared Weiss of The Athletic. He showed that off nicely last night. Last season he really struggled scoring in the paint, and while it’s too early to make any conclusions, he certainly looked more fluid around the rim last night.

He looked “thicker” to Mike Gorman and Brian Scalabrine, which should help. He also threw a couple nice lob passes off pick and rolls, something he was seemed unable to do last year. He has work to do on that front, but his willingness is a good sign.