Aside from the All-Star point guard swap, big changes occurred in Boston this summer. Former OKC Thunder big man and stache brother Enes Kanter arrives to fulfill the big hole left by Al Horford. In fact, more than the departure of Irving the issue in Bean Town will be the overall lack of frontcourt depth and size.
Losing Al Horford is especially tough given he wasn’t just the Celtics defensive captain but the player who provided a steadying force. Marcus Morris offered production on both sides of the hardwood and toughness. Likewise, Aron Baynes while not an offensive juggernaut was essential to the defense and his toughness and grit will be hard to replace.
As per usual, the Celtics have an abundance of wings and Brad Stevens will look to capitalize on his no position stance as he tries to finagle the Celtics back into a position of prominence in the weaker Eastern Conference.
Players Added:
Free Agency:
C: Enes Kanter (free agency)
C: Vincent Poirier (free agency)
Trade:
G: Kemba Walker (sign-and-trade with Hornets)
Rookies:
F: Romeo Langford (No. 14 draft pick)
F: Grant Williams (No. 22 draft pick)
G: Carsen Edwards (No. 33 draft pick, via trade with 76ers)
G: Tremont Waters (No. 51 draft pick)
Departing Players:
Free Agents:
G: Kyrie Irving (signed with Nets)
G/F: P.J. Dozier (signed with Nuggets)
F: Marcus Morris (signed with Knicks)
F/C: Al Horford (signed with Sixers)
F: Guerschon Yabusele (waived)
Trade:
G: Terry Rozier (traded to Hornets)
F/C: Aron Baynes (opted in, traded to Suns)