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Boston Celtics: 5 thoughts, highlights from NBA GM Survey

By Joe DeFerrari

BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 18: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics warms up before the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at TD Garden on October 18, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 18: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics warms up before the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at TD Garden on October 18, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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Several Celtics receive some love from voters

GMs were also asked which player they expected to have a breakout season. Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets won with 20 percent of the vote. Brandon Ingram of the Los Angeles Lakers and Jayson Tatum tied for second place. The #Notarookie crowd will appreciate that Tatum earned more votes than reigning Rookie of the Year Ben Simmons.

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This is another one that’s not surprising; Tatum looked like an all-star for stretches of the season, and showed remarkable poise for a rookie. So many young players wilt in the playoffs, but Tatum flourished, even as he was forced into the role of primary scorer. While there will be fewer touches to go around this year (presuming everyone stays healthy), it’d be tough to deny Tatum a prominent role if he continues to build on his already impressive skill package.

In what some might call a snub and others might call a generous nod, Al Horford received one vote in the ‘best center’ discussion. He was massively important to the Celtics on both sides of the floor; in that respect, it’s not a surprise that he got a vote. In a league with dominant physical centers like Anthony Davis and Joel Embiid, it’s nice to see an elite system player like Horford get some appreciation. He was also fourth place in voting for the best leader in the NBA, and received votes for having the best basketball IQ.

Marcus Smart earned a single vote in the most versatile defender poll. He was the only point guard to earn a vote, an impressive distinction. Boston Celtics fans fell in love with Smart because of his defensive prowess, and Stevens often sticks him on much bigger players. This is a well-deserved nod, and it’s easy to argue he should have received more votes.

GMs were asked which bench player made the biggest impact. Terry Rozier and Marcus Smart tied for fourth, with 7 percent of the vote each. Smart earned 13 percent of the vote for toughest player in the NBA, tying him with LeBron. Aaron Baynes also received votes in that poll.

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