The Boston Celtics have emerged as a formidable force in the NBA’s 2023-24 season, boasting the league’s second-best winning percentage and highest overall net rating so far this season. However, even with a stacked starting unit in their pursuit of championship glory, the team is not without its concerns and weaknesses that could impact their performance as the season progresses further.
One prominent issue for the Celtics is their depth (or rather the lack of it) beyond the deadly starting lineup. The first five, featuring stars like Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis, and the defensive menace some call the “Stock Exchange” — guards Jrue Holiday and Derrick White — is a powerhouse with top-tier talent. However, the drop-off in quality becomes evident after Al Horford and perhaps Sam Hauser off the bench.
Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley recently weighed in on Boston’s paper-thin bench, noting that “Boston’s first five is overloaded with talent.”
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— Celtics Lab Podcast (@CelticsLab) December 12, 2023