The Boston Celtics need to keep new talent on the floor
Kemba Walker, when playing, is elite. His solid all-around play, for the needs of this unit, surpasses that of his predecessor, Kyrie Irving. He runs the offense effectively and unselfishly. He hits the open three-point shot. He takes the ball to the basket. He defends. And, he has an attitude that lifts everyone around him. No complaints whatsoever about Kemba Walker. Outstanding addition, when he is on the floor.
Enes Kanter could be considered a top-10 NBA center. He is almost unstoppable in the low post. He passes well. He gets criticized for his defense but it is respectable. He rebounds at both ends of the floor. And, he, like Walker, is well-liked by his teammates. A solid addition to the Boston Celtics.
The concern with both Walker and Kanter is missed playing time. Not only are they often missing from the parquet floor but their absences are lengthy. It raises several concerns.
First, the team is far less effective when moving Marcus Smart or Daniel Theis into starting roles. Their depth, one of their strengths, is neutralized.
Second, there is concern about their true health readiness for the playoffs. And, third, looking toward the future, especially with Walker, there has to be the question of whether he can be counted on at point guard for the next two to three years.
First and foremost, for this year, perhaps the Boston Celtics brain trust is conserving both Walker and Kanter for the playoff push. Let us hope. But, this appears to be more than just conserving players. It draws questions around their ultimate contribution come playoff time.