NBA: 10 bold predictions for the 2017-18 campaign

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BOSTON, MA – SEPTEMBER 01: Kyrie Irving /

Kyrie Irving’s stats will drop in Boston

Kyrie Irving’s move to Boston was the highlight of the offseason. He is set to join forces with Gordon Hayward, the biggest free agent prize that also ended up in Boston (Paul George is more of a rental until he re-signs with the Thunder).

Under the guidance of Wiz-coach Brad Stevens, the Celtics emerge as true Eastern Conference contenders, as long as the new pieces fit in place.

While playing alongside LeBron James, Kyrie averaged 25.2 points per game on a 47% field goal percentage and benefited the most from the future Hall of Famer set- ups. The Celtics run a balanced offensive system with touches for everyone and they lack a primary distributor. Defenses will collapse around Irving,making it harder for him to score. Chances are that Kyrie’s productivity will fall, at least during the regular season.

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