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Boston Celtics: 5 bold predictions for 2017-18 NBA season

By Simon Smith

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 1: Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward pose for a picture holding their jerseys before their introduction as Boston Celtics on September 1, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 1: Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward pose for a picture holding their jerseys before their introduction as Boston Celtics on September 1, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /

1. Kyrie Irving to finish top seven in MVP voting

Naturally, the first reaction will be that he doesn’t play any defense and that he should have enjoyed playing in the shadow of LeBron James for the last three seasons.

But there are many reasons to justify that Irving’s best is still ahead of him.

First of all, he is still just 25. Secondly, he averaged 25.2 points per game last season despite playing second fiddle to James, and having another prolific All-Star in Kevin Love as a teammate.

But as a Celtic, Irving is going to be the certifiable No. 1 option of offense. With all respect to Isaiah Thomas’ incredible season last year, there’s absolutely no reason Irving cannot match, if not exceed that output next season.

While no Goliath, Irving stands at 6’3″, which somewhat towers over the 5’9″ Thomas. Thus, this gives him a far greater range of options in which to attack and put the ball in the hole. Combining Irving’s wizardry with the ball with the already incredible coaching capabilities of Stevens, the sky is really the limit for the former Duke product.

Keep in mind that last season, Thomas came fifth in MVP voting. So you only need to read what Celtics legend Paul Pierce said recently regarding Irving’s move to Boston:

"“Kyrie can impact this team in a major way. You saw what Isaiah Thomas was able to do. A lot of people, even though Isaiah averaged more points, a lot of people believe Kyrie is a better scorer. He was ready for this type of role, to be the lead guy. He’s learned a lot under LeBron’s tutelage. He’s ready to share that with his teammates and possibly bring another championship to Boston.”"

Understandably, this would be also been the view of the Celtics’ front office when they pulled the trigger to acquire Irving.

Next: The 50 greatest NBA players of all time (updated, 2016-17)

Having put his neck on the line in order to experience a fresh start, Irving will be as determined as ever to make the most of this unique opportunity — and in the process, put his name in the reckoning for MVP consideration.

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