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NBA • 11 months ago

5 Offseason Moves Boston Celtics Need To Make To Become Contenders

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5 Offseason Moves Boston Celtics Need To Make To Become Contenders

Boston Celtics Huddle — The Boston Celtics were one of the hottest teams in the NBA after the All-Star break this past year. They consistently outworked and out-hustled their opponents to compensate for their lack of talent. But as Cleveland proved to them in the playoffs, talent ultimately will trump effort. Here are some moves, both internally and externally, the Celtics can make to improve their talent and compete in the East next year.

The Boston Celtics were one of the hottest teams in the NBA after the All-Star break this past year. They consistently outworked and out-hustled their opponents to compensate for their lack of talent. But as Cleveland proved to them in the playoffs, talent ultimately will trump effort. Here are some moves, both internally and externally, the Celtics can make to improve their talent and compete in the East next year.

5. Develop James Young

5. Develop James Young

Last year was a frustrating one for Young. He showed some flashes in limited time with the Celtics, but was inconsistent and a liability on defense. Young's ability to score -- he averaged 21 points per game in the D-League last year -- and his length on the perimeter give him the potential to be a key contributor for the Celtics. This year's summer league is the perfect opportunity for the Celtics to help Young progress as an NBA player.

4. Help Jared Sullinger Stay In Shape

4. Help Jared Sullinger Stay In Shape

Perhaps the most intriguing part of the current Celtics roster, Sullinger has star potential. He can score both inside and out, and is the best rebounder on the team. He showcased his ability in the team's Game 4 loss to Cleveland with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Danny Ainge has repeatedly praised Sullinger's game but has challenged his conditioning. The Celtics will help however they can, but it's ultimately up to Sullinger to stay in shape.

3. Add A Veteran Point Guard

3. Add A Veteran Point Guard

A veteran presence in the backcourt is something the Celtics missed during their brief playoff stint this past season. The Cavaliers were able to speed up the Celtics guards and force them into some wild turnovers and poor shot selections. Boston needs a player who can dictate tempo, make smart decisions and assist in developing the younger guards. Potential free agent targets could be Mo Williams or J.J. Barea.

2. Sign Danny Green

2. Sign Danny Green

An unrestricted free agent, Green is the type of knock down shooter the Celtics are in desperate need of. A career 42 percent three-point shooter with a quick release, Green has the ability to catch fire from behind the arc quickly. He would help spread the floor for a guy like Isaiah Thomas. He can also be a factor defensively, as evidenced by his five-block, two-steal performance in the Spurs' Game 7 loss to the Clippers this year.

1. Trade for DeMarcus Cousins

1. Trade for DeMarcus Cousins

Danny Ainge has to find a way to make this happen. Cousins is an absolute force down low. He averaged over 24 points and 12 rebounds per game last year and possesses a combination of size and talent that the Celtics currently lack. He would significantly improve their rebounding and rim protection, and he is also an underrated passer. The addition of Cousins alone would instantly make the Celtics contenders for the Atlantic Division next year.

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Derek McVay is a writer for RantSports.

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