Dec 31, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics center Tyler Zeller (44) high fives Boston Celtics forward Jared Sullinger (7) as Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) holds the ball after a Boston basket during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Boston Celtics
Last Year’s Outcome: 40-42, L, First Round
Best-Case Scenario: Make Playoffs
Why: Instead of playing for the NBA Draft lottery, the Boston Celtics thought it would be a good idea to play for the playoffs instead. They couldn’t have been more wrong. After getting swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round, the Celtics missed out on the opportunity to snag a top-14 pick in the NBA Draft. And after the news of the Celtics throwing the kitchen sink trying to get into the lottery, that decision to play for the postseason comes off even worse.
Nevertheless, here we are again. And the Celtics, barring any huge deals this season, should try to make the playoffs. But this team isn’t better than a 7th or 8th seed, if we’re being frank.
Worst-Case Scenario: Miss Playoffs; Fail To Win At Least 40 Games
Why: The only way in which this season could be a complete failure for the Celtics is if they miss the playoffs and/or don’t improve on their 40-win mark from a year ago. The Celtics decided last season that the were in the business of winning now. If that holds true, they must continue to build this season, even if they don’t have a cornerstone yet. Boston can’t afford to take a step back this season. Missing the playoffs would do just that.
What Will Probably Happen: Miss Playoffs
Why: While the Eastern Conference may be weak, I see the Celtics as the 9th or 10th best team in the conference, and can’t envision them making the playoffs, unless something freaky (probably involving injury) happens. Although, Boston making a trade mid-season could change my perception. Assuming not, I just can’t see the Celtics making the playoffs this season.
Next: Brooklyn Nets