As the NBA offseason winds down, Tim Bontemps’ annual poll of league insiders—coaches, scouts, and executives—offers a tantalizing glimpse into the prevailing thoughts about the Boston Celtics and their Celtics’ offseason moves, alongside other teams. With 18 entries this year, while not comprehensive, the results certainly provide a juicy cross-section of the league’s mindset.
Celtics’ Offseason Moves: Genius or Just Smoke and Mirrors?
1. Celtics: A Triumph or Just a Hype Job?
When it comes to who had the best offseason, the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks stole the spotlight. However, the Celtics did get a nod from two voters. Boston managed to secure almost all their free agents and extended eligible players, albeit with a hefty tax bill. Despite their impressive roster, some argue that their moves haven’t been enough to silence critics.
The 76ers made headlines by landing Paul George, but his injury history casts a long shadow. The Knicks, meanwhile, caught attention by launching a Villanova Alumni Association chapter but paid a steep price, losing standout center Isaiah Hartenstein to the Thunder.
2. Who’s the NBA’s Elite?
In the battle of the NBA’s finest, Nikola Jokic is clearly the front-runner, securing 15 votes as the current top player. Victor Wembanyama, the next big thing, nabbed 12 votes for the best player in five years. Jayson Tatum, despite being a star, didn’t feature in the top two categories but did secure two MVP votes. The absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo from the MVP conversation is both puzzling and controversial.
3. Tatum’s MVP Quest: Is the Bar Too High?
Jayson Tatum’s journey is intriguing. He won an NBA title but still faces skepticism. Critics argue that despite his contributions to the Celtics’ championship, his regular-season dominance isn’t enough. Tatum’s path to MVP could hinge on the Celtics’ performance and his own ability to excel without Kristaps Porzingis for a part of the season. If he can enhance his three-point shooting while maintaining his all-around game, the MVP might just be within reach.
4. Celtics vs. Thunder: The Championship Battle
In the survey’s prediction of the 2024-25 NBA title, the Celtics led with 8 votes, narrowly beating the Thunder, who received 7. The rapid dismissal of the Nuggets, who recently lost a key player and have Jamal Murray struggling, is surprising. Meanwhile, the Mavericks’ Finals appearance is considered a fluke by some.
The Thunder, with their young talent and new acquisitions like Caruso and Hartenstein, are seen as serious contenders. Their blend of experience and hunger makes them a formidable opponent, potentially challenging the Celtics for the championship.
5. The Celtics’ Future: Love Them or Hate Them?
The overwhelming belief in Boston’s dominance in the East, with 13 out of 18 votes for conference champions, suggests a consensus on their superiority. The dissenters are often viewed as either outliers or skeptics.
The survey reveals a complex and polarized view of the Celtics. While they’re undeniably strong, their offseason moves and future prospects spark debate. Whether they’re a dynasty in the making or merely a well-oiled machine on borrowed time remains to be seen.
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