The Boston Celtics are coming off another deep playoff run, coming up short in game seven of the Eastern Conference Finals against the eventual champions the Miami Heat.
While the Celtics can be happy with their finish, they have a long way to go if they are to be real title contenders next year.
Throughout the playoffs, a number of flaws were exposed, the most obvious being that their bench was one of the worst in the playoffs.
Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce were logging 40 minutes a night and their front line was thin (Kevin Garnett, Brandon Bass, Greg Stiemsma and Ryan Hollins.
So this off season, Danny Ainge is under the pump. Ainge made it clear that his main priority was to re-sign Kevin Garnett, Jeff Green, Ray Allen and Brandon Bass first, before shifting his focus to other players such as Mickael Pietrus and Greg Stiemsma.
The contract offers so far are Kevin Garnett for $34 million over three years, Brandon Bass for $20 million over three years, Jeff Green for $40 million over four years and Jason Terry for $16 million over three years.
Ray Allen has accepted a deal with the Miami Heat. He is the only loss from the Celtics roster so far, and it may not be as devastating as it may seem. The Celtics depth chart shows that at the shooting guard position, the C’s have two very good players. Avery Bradley is the young defensive ace who adds athleticism to the Celtics roster and Jason Terry the veteran scorer who can create his own shots.
These are good signs, but there is a long way to go before Celtics fans can realistically think about bringing back the glory to Boston-town.
Reece Jordan
Roar Pro
The Celts will be decent, but they overachieved last season - it's hard to see them drastically improving enough to win a championship. But hey, I did say that in 2010, and again in 2011, so perhaps I should have more faith in Boston. And Sullinger is an absolute steal, so as long as Pierce and KG don't drop off to much and stay healthy, who knows?
Nick Jungfer
Roar Guru
A while ago I was expecting that Boston would be dropping off by '12/13, but with Green and Bradley returning from injury, Sullinger being drafted, and KG signing on, they sure look set for another run.
Worlds biggest
Guest
The Celtics on balance were the better team in Eastern Conference Finals but really missed Bradley's d and Pierce had a poor series by his high standards. The game 6 meltdown cost them the series and at home they blew a great opportunity. Don't get me wrong, LBJ was incredible but they will also rue the game 2 loss in OT and some terrible officiating at the end. I might sound like a sore loser Celtics fan but it's more frustration at a blown opportunity which we won't get again for a while. The Heat will be there again in the East along with the Bulls. I was proud of the Celtics pushing the champs all the way. Jason Terry is a nice addition but like for like IMO with Allen.