Despite the possibility of helping push the Memphis Grizzlies out of playoff contention with a win over the team that could potentially boost the value of the Memphis pick controlled by the Boston Celtics, head coach Brad Stevens’ focus is firmly centered on this season and the possibility of hanging a banner.
Asked on whether he’ll adjust his game plan for the two teams’ Tuesday meeting, the Indiana native was forthright about his view on the prospect of picking up some added value with a win.
“I don’t really think about it,” he explained.
“I think we’re all responsible for our own teams, so everybody’s got their own decisions to make at the end of the day. We’ve talked about the benefit of our guys playing because of the conditioning aspect of it, so I’m focused on us and I don’t really look at it from any other perspective.”
Before you throw your hands up in frustration, however, try not to get too upset as it’s clear at least some of the starters will be getting some run to try and prepare their conditioning for the increased rigors of the postseason.
As draft lotto goes virtual, a Griz loss Tuesday might make Cs players https://t.co/Ehd0XcTdpW
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) August 10, 2020
That likely includes All-Star point guard Kemba Walker and his All-Star teammate Jayson Tatum, both of whom have not quite hit their rhythm.
It will likely include the other starters to at least some extent, though we could see center Daniel Theis play limited or even no minutes with a sore foot, the sole player making an appearance as probably on the team’s daily injury report.
None of this should come as a surprise given Stevens tendency to focus on the now and let the front office worry about longer-scope issues like the draft.
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