Best case scenario
Brad Stevens and a revolving door of players in recent years have taken groups that were presumed to be first-round exits or worse to serious contending appearances in the Eastern Conference Finals. While arguments can be made that the conference was weaker in the brilliant runs of Isaiah Thomas-led Celtics teams, and the astounding playoff push led by Tatum and Brown after the knee injury to Kyrie shortly before the 2017 postseason.
Defenses have been anchored by Jared Sullinger, which is no knock to him – but the fact remains this team has shown that even undervalued and undeserved players not widely regarded can bind together to form a top-10 ranked defense in the NBA.
That trait this team carries with them sparks hope – if presumptive weaker rosters were able to claw their way to their conference championship – what can a group led by seasoned, brilliant veteran Kemba Walker do – especially with the added growth of future HOF wings Tatum and Brown.
Marcus Smart, the most dogged, leave it on the floor defender in the NBA returns. Rebounding a critical detriment to the team in recent years has been drastically improved. While big-name anchor Horford is gone, this club has shown that through coaching, and culture they can maintain a top-rated defense.
If Kemba Walker meshes well with how the club wants to play, Brown ups his consistency on defense and left-handed dribble, and Tatum is able to make the traditional leap all brilliant players make in their third-year the Celts have a legitimate shot at another unexpected run into the Eastern Conference Finals.
Given another year to shore up the interior defense and find a true big-name 4 or 5? The Green Teamers have a legitimate shot to forget the disappointing 2018-19 run and remain the perennial contenders in the East they have been projected to be.