5 reasons why 2018-19 will define future of the Boston Celtics
By Bret Stuter
3. Fending off Eastern Conference opponents
If Boston players hopes to take their game to the next level, they will need to improve. You see, the Eastern Conference is filled with competitive teams that are getting better all the time. That list includes the Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors, Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers, Washington Wizards and even the Miami Heat.
Similarly, the Atlanta Hawks have a strong presence in the 2018 NBA Draft. With picks at No. 3, No. 19, No. 30 and No. 34, the team could restock its roster pretty quickly. Should the Hawks elect a more immediate improvement, they could convert draft picks into players who could help their team next season.
One of the major cards in play is the imminent free agency of Cavaliers star LeBron James. Regardless of whichever Eastern Conference competition he lands with, his presence will immediately create an NBA team with enough “oomph” to challenge Boston in the postseason.
Each year, rosters shuffle and teams search for better fits for their scheme among free agents and the NBA draft. That fact alone gives the Celtics a new roll of the dice.