Forgotten for most of
the year in any NBA Championship conversation, the Boston Celtics are starting
to make noise. The Celtics had looked off the pace in late November after an
unbelievable start to the season. While firmly entrenched among the longshots to
win the NBA Title, the Celtics latest lines could be a sign of things to come.
It’s not often one of
the league’s premier franchises is left in the dust in basketball conversation.
Yet, here we are. After the debacle of an off-season, which saw the Celtics
fail to secure the signature of a superstar, the team was written off. Having
to settle for Kemba Walker and Enes Kanter instead of Kevin Durant or Anthony
Davis will have that effect. Despite that, everything is now falling into place
at just the right time.
How No Moves Were Good Moves for the Boston Celtics Young Stars
Much was made of that
off-season failure, and the Celtics unwillingness to deal either of their
promising young stars. Both have now validated that decision. The third overall
pick in the 2017 NBA draft, Jayson Tatum plays like a seasoned vet. Tatum has
improved his scoring average to nearly 22 points a game, while also increasing
his rebounding output and overall effort level on the floor. He’s making far
better decisions on the floor and can take over games at any time.
Similarly, Jaylen
Brown has had an offensive breakthrough in his fourth professional season.
Statistics are worth a thousand words, as the former University of California
star’s game has improved by leaps and bounds. Brown has averaged 20 points a
game on nearly 50% shooting from the field. All the while shooting just under
40% from three. Not bad for a player whose offensive prospects were questioned
by scouts from Day 1.
The NBA gambling
community is certainly starting to take notice. After beginning the season at
+2500 odds to win the NBA Title, the Celtics odds were quickly slashed. A
subsequent drubbing of the Los Angeles Lakers in primetime this past week has
pushed the Celtics odds even further downward. Now sitting with the fifth best
odds to win the NBA Title, at +1200, the Boston Celtics are the real
deal.
