NBA: 6 biggest surprises and disappointments in 2019-20 thus far

Kemba Walker and The Boston Celtics – Kings of the East?

When Kyrie Irving expressed his desire to resign in Boston at the dawn of the 2018-19 season, Boston Celtics fans rejoiced. Fast forward through a very hectic and internally conflicted season for Boston to Summer of 2019 and Irving’s bags were packed as he headed to the Brooklyn Nets. The Celtics wasted no time signing Kemba Walker immediately after, but the general consensus was this move was a downgrade at the point guard position.

Now Kemba Walker individually speaking may not be as talented as Kyrie Irving, but when it comes to the Boston Celtics team as a whole, things could not be better. Kemba has been playing great but his leadership and chemistry on this Celtics team are what’s gotten them to an 11-3 best record in the league. Young studs like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who underperformed behind the head of Kyrie, have blossomed into true youthful talents. Brown’s career averages are 11 points and four assists per game.

This season alone, he’s averaging 19 points and seven assists a game. He’s also taken an exceptional leap in his free throw percentage and his minutes have risen as a result of his play. Tatum has always been solid, but just like Brown he’s averaging right around 20 points and seven boards with well all-around shot percentages. The Celtics aren’t a perfect team; they lack depth in the frontcourt and still haven’t reached their maximum potential what with Gordon Hayward out now for 4-6 weeks.

However, the start of this season could be a sign of great things to come for Kemba and his new team. He’s fit right in and made everyone around him a better player. Hayward before going down with a hand injury was putting up numbers that reminded us of his old All-Star caliber self.

Hopefully, for the Celtics’ sake, He comes back with full strength and allows his team to be the best it possibly can. Regardless, the Celtics are on fire and have proven doubters that Kemba has got what it takes to be the point guard Boston needs.