SQ14 #34 Training Camp Full of Newcomers, Challenges

In spite of the absence of a “fireworks” move, there has been substantial turnover in the expected roster.  Only six players in this year’s camp fully (Rondo ACL, Olynyk plantar fasciitis, Sullinger back surgery) participated in last year’s much needed preseason activities as the Boston Celtics tried to reconstruct a roster after moving Pierce, Garnett, and Terry to the Nets.  I’m not counting Keith Bogans because I’m not convinced he will even be invited to participate.  Two of those that did (Wallace and Faverani both rehabbing knee surgery) will be on restricted duty this October.  Considering that the 2013 group were (and this upcoming one will be) trying to implement a new system, under a new coach, and with a roster of mostly leftovers, retreads, and kids whose contemporaries are still in college, training camp is rather critical. 

It is hard to iron out wrinkles when you are just trying to get everyone on the same page.  The motion offense is a nuanced system.  A defense overloading the strong side and covering up with multiple help rotations requires recognition, anticipation, and trust.  There is a tremendous amount to learn/teach, a very limited time in which to do it, and far too few holdovers versed in the system.  Most of the time only about half of the players in a 10-man scrimmage will know where to be, much less what to do when they get there.  Let’s just say that Brad Stevens and his crew will have their work cut out for them.

The good news is that Stevens isn’t trying to figure which two of his shooting guards will need to play the point, and which two of his power forwards will have to play center.  Another positive note is that there will be a spirited competition at every position.  Even where there is an apparent starter, there is somebody right behind him that will be pushing hard for minutes.  While there are few “stars.” there are hungry, talented players that will vie for minutes and likely push the “average” veteran backups onto the third string. 

This year the Celtics have the personnel for a running game (and Tommy and I desperately hope it will emerge, and become a mainstay), which would ease the minutes crunch and add a weapon to an offense that sorely lacked an edge last season.  The depth should also encourage an emphasis on defense and hustle, and the lack thereof resulting in a loss of playing time.  As is often the case, I would gladly miss the games in November if I could watch the October practices (O.K., maybe watch the November games a day late).  I suspect that there will not be a single roster spot won or lost, but there will be a number of battle-royal’s with rotation spots and/or playing time at stake.

Only 31 days until training camp.[Discuss on CG Forums!]