That's the thing though, what's "normal" for the NBA elite has changed. The title winners are composed of multiple two way superstars, C's are playing scrappy underdog ball but will be exposed against the "new" NBA in Cleveland.
I really wouldn't call it an "unbelievable" squad. In the NBA everything is relative to the competition, and look at GSW, CLE or SA? Adding Hayward to this current team would add maybe 6 wins in the regular season and the same result in the ECF.
They aren't beating Cleveland but there aren't enough superstars to make a league of teams like Cleveland and GS. IMHO, those two are the exception. The C's are scrappy but are not underdogs except vs Cavs and GS
I'm just assuming if Fultz can become a superstar talent and Lebron falls off at some point. That team's window is wider than Cleveland's. I've always held the stance the C's need to build with the Nets picks strictly because Lebron at his current level isn't not getting to the finals.
I agree with that, the Celtics simply need to wait Lebron's prime out, there's really no way around that currently.
I'm a Knicks fan actually but am beyond intrigued with the Celts current situation. They have robbed and swindled inferior GM's and hit an absolute home run with Stevens. Wide open window and can be competitive until they have the team to overtake the east. Meanwhile Phil is driving the clown mobile into a mulberry bush.
Are the sidelines farther out in the League?
Not true. The number one pick from last year's draft made $4.9 million this past season (NBA Rookie Scale - RealGM). That will go up some. IT's current contract will pay him $6,261,395 next season (Isaiah Thomas).
Hmm, I was basing the statement off of ESPN's infographic showing the Celtics' cap situation next year if they took Fultz #1 and it said MK $7M and IT $6.3, maybe I misread it.
Agreed but the talent hasn't come together yet to produce contenders like Boston or even Milwaukee who are both already good and in great positions to take over after the Cavs run. I expect Philly to make that jump once they're young talent is fully healthy and fits their roles.
The Bulls were not trading Butler last summer or at the deadline. It was not the Celtics who did not pull the trigger.
Disagree. Their one potential star from the tanking has played 31 games in 3 years. Great position with the cap but do you honestly think a true max level player will sign there with the current state of the team?
Actually I believe it can be done.