SQ25 A Test for 2016-17?

Barring that huge “shakeup” trade, the roster this season seems fairly set (perhaps just subtract one). Pairings and rotations are still a hazy fog but I have a lot of confidence in Brad Stevens to put players in situations to succeed, and hence for the team to succeed. Off the practice court and into the front office and the picture looks a lot more fluid. Danny has set up the groundwork to take the rebuild in almost any direction. He has got a ton of picks next year and while I doubt that all will be used, the “programmed” turnover makes all, or none, possible.

A look at the depth from a contractual status

(under contract—uc, team option—to, qualifying offer—qo, or free agent—FA)

for 2016-17:

____PG_________SG_________SF__________PF_________C

(uc)

I. Thomas____A. Bradley___J. Crowder___J. Mickey

T. Rozier____R.J. Hunter

(to)

M. Smart_____J. Young____J. Jerebko____A. Johnson__K. Olynyk

(qo)

________________________P. Jones_____J. Sullinger__T. Zeller

(fa)

_______________________E. Turner______D. Lee

Several things strike me about that layout. First, the Celtics have only six players under contract for 16-17; although that may change if any of Zeller, Sullinger, or Jones sign extensions this October. Danny has another entire unit under team option for that season. The C's have three eligible for extensions, and two of them are (IMHO) major questions going into camp. As for the two who will be outright free agents, neither were likely to be in Boston by the time the Celtics play in the Conference Finals again.

Ainge could easily move or replace two-thirds of the team, whether that is drafting a double handful, or trading a bunch for one, or signing a pair of star quality or a flock of middling guys, or some combination thereof.

Take this test, make two lists of the players who don't have a guaranteed contract for 16-17. One is players who will return, the other is those who won't. There are 10 players, so let's give 10 points for each you get in the correct column. Now you already have a 50-50 chance for each and every one; but I defy you to make a passing grade.

Only 42 days to camp.

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