The Boston Celtics are all-in on winning championship number 18 and changes were necessary this offseason. They traded Marcus Smart to Memphis and brought in Kristaps Porzingis (subscription required) for some added size.
Boston signed Jaylen Brown to a max deal and must break through after reaching the conference finals five times in the last seven years.
There are questions about the Porzingis addition. The 7’3 big man struggles defending on the perimeter, has a lengthy injury history, and limited playoff experience. Can Boston win it all with KP? If not, the Celtics could look to quickly move on. The shakeups will continue until they help Jayson Tatum get his first ring.
Tatum is the only remaining starter from the 2018-19 season, but how much will Boston switch things up over the next five years? Expect plenty of changes as the salary cap explodes. The Celtics believe they can still be in contention, but will have some financial hurdles to clear. Expect their roster to look drastically different at the start of the 2028-29 season.
Boston Celtics dream starting lineup 5 years from now
PG: Derrick White
The Celtics are committed to starting White this season. He replaces Marcus Smart as the team’s top perimeter stopper. The 6’4 guard was second-team All-Defense in 2023 but has started just 229 of his 328 games over the last five years. White turned 29 this summer and is in his prime, but won’t be in five years. He will be 34 and fighting for a spot.
Players are extending their primes, but do the Celtics rely on him as they attempt to stay in contention? It is a tough call. Boston ideally finds someone younger and able to handle a heavier minute load, even if they keep Derrick White.
The defensive ace still starting in five years may be a bit surprising, but the Boston Celtics’ dream group is just taking shape. It includes many changes, including a massive shakeup at the two.
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