5. Boston Celtics

By: Lucas Kochevar

       The Boston Celtics had one of the biggest off seasons in the last couple of years. They made very big acquisitions that started by drafting SF Jayson Tatum. They also drafted a couple of other good role players. They went out and then traded expiring contract Avery Bradley for a good player in Marcus Morris. Then they had a huge splash in free agency and signed Gordon Hayward. Hayward was an all star last year and was one of the most attractive free agents. The most impactful move that they made was trade Isiah Thomas to the Cavs for Kyrie, which I have reported on in the 'Let Me Explain...' section. This gave the Celtics a lineup of Kyrie, Jaylen Brown, Hayward, Morris, and Al Horford and then tragedy struck when Hayward broke his ankle in the first game. This is what their starting lineup right now.

PG: Kyrie Irving
SG: Jaylen Brown
SF: Jayson Tatum
PF: Al Horford
C: Aaron Baynes

6th Man: Marcus Morris

      Kyrie starts at the one and he has lead the Celtics in a spectacular way. He is still one of the most dangerous offensive superstars and he has even started playing defense with Brad Stevens. The SG is sophomore guard Jaylen Brown. He is quite large for a SG, but him and Tatum/Hayward are all interchangeable. Brown is great defender and a superb athlete that flies around the court. SF is Tatum and he is perhaps the best rookie in his draft class. Tatum is a very smart player that has a beautiful shooting stroke and he can drive very effectively. Al Horford is one of the smartest players in the league and has been the glue for this Celtics team. He has provided good scoring, spacing, and good rim protecting, despite being undersized at his position. Baynes is a filler player as he rebounds well and can play defense. The Celtics look like they can compete with anyone and they have a legit shot at the championship.