NBA: Ranking the top 10 contenders to begin the 2019-20 season

9. Boston Celtics

This past offseason, Boston shipped out a bevy of players and welcomed in new ones. Players such as Kyrie Irving, Al Horford, Marcus Morris, Terry Rozier, and Aron Baynes, have all found new homes.

In light of their departure, the Celtics brought in the three-time All-Star Kemba Walker along with veteran center Enes Kanter. This upcoming season will be critical in determining the direction that the franchise is heading in.

Last year, the Celtics finished with an underwhelming record of 49-33 and were bounced out the playoffs, convincingly, in a 4-1 series to Milwaukee. Their disappointing season wasn’t due to a lack of talent, but rather the result of a dysfunctional locker room.

With a new roster and leaders, this team looks to rebound as contenders.

Along with Kemba and Hayward, the C’s have young stars in Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. With less ball-dominant players, these two are expected to assume a larger role and live up to their expectations as cornerstone franchise players – especially Tatum.

Nonetheless, this team still remains one of the most talented in the Eastern Conference with one of the best starting lineups in the league. If this team can put their egos aside – unlike last season – and just play, then they’ll be as dangerous as any.

This upcoming season they’ll look to put their bad reputation to rest and contend for a championship led by Kemba Walker and Jayson Tatum.