Bold prediction No. 3: Trae Young will have a tough series
Heading into the NBA Play-In Tournament against the Miami Heat, Trae Young needed to exorcise some of his demons. And he did that to the tune of a 25-point, 8-rebound, and 7-assist night. The Hawks got the win and, at least for one night, they were able to celebrate. But it’s a quick turnaround for the Hawks as they now have to pivot to their first-round series matchup against the Celtics. And it won’t be easy. In fact, I don’t think anyone is giving them much of a shot.
If they are going to make any noise against the Celtics, though, it will largely be because of Trae Young. Even though he had a great performance against the Heat, I predict that he’s once again going to have a tough time against the Celtics. They are one of the best defenses in the league and I believe they will make life incredibly tough for Young.
Boston’s game plan is likely going to revolve around stopping Young. He’s known as a great scorer but he’s also one of the best playmakers in the game. And if he gets going on both fronts, Young could create some havoc in this series. I predict he’ll have a tough time doing so.