NBA 2009-2010 Celtics In-Depth Preview

2008-2009 Record: 62-20

Key Additions/Losses: Rasheed Wallace, Marquis Daniels/Leon Powe

Offseason Analysis: Boston had a reasonably successful offseason, signing veteran Rasheed Wallace and point guard Marquis Daniels. And their only loss was an aging, defunct Leon Powe, who is best remembered for his performance against the Lakers in the 2008 NBA Finals.

Now that’s called a successful offseason. Grade: A-

What to Expect: Unfortunately, a successful offseason cannot offset the aging cast of veterans. Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Rasheed Wallace are now all over 30. Out of the group, all have had injuries in the past 3 years. And remember, the Big 3 are responsible for around 75% of the Celtics’ points.

It is realistic to expect the Celtics to have at least one injury, come playoff time. But who will it be? Kevin Garnett is indispensable, and Ray Allen/Paul Pierce are nice to have when one of them gets hot. But let’s deal with Rasheed Wallace for a second.

Rasheed Wallace was thought to be a kind of “KG insurance”. If he does replace KG, the Celtics will be good, but not up to par with the other top East/West teams. Thus, the Celtics’ championship chances entirely runs on injuries. If the Celtics can stay healthy all season, I expect them to be holding up the Larry O’Brien trophy. But that’s a pretty big if.

63-21, 2nd in Eastern Conference

Playoff Matchups

Expect them to meet the Cavs and/or the Magic.

The problem with the Magic is simple-Dwight Howard. If KG is available, he’ll shut the rising star down. But if KG is not available, the Magic will burn the Celtics with long range shooting.

The Cavs are not so simple. After aquiring Shaquille O’Neal, the Cavs have improved their post defense dramatically. However, expect the Cavaliers offensive rating to spiral downward. Shaquille O’Neal does little wonders for an offense and often manages to clog up the lane. However, on the whole, the Cavs are improved with Shaq. Even if the entire Celtics’ team is healthy, beating the Cavs will be a challenge. But if they are indeed healthy, Celtics will win this matchup.

Final Matchup: The Lakers. I’ll leave you guys to sound off on this one.

Prediction: 2nd round, Eastern Conference.

Hope you enjoyed my guide!