The Boston Celtics started the 2024 NBA season with a new championship banner at TD Garden and big expectations. As last year’s champions, they had to prove they could keep winning. So far, the Celtics have done exactly that, and they are looking even better than expected.
The Celtics have had a strong start, showing why they are one of the best teams in the league with a record of 21-5.
“I think the Celtics’ record is a surprise to no one. They came into this season as the favorite to go back-to-back, and I don’t think that vision has changed,” said junior and longtime Celtics fan Sam Richardson.
With Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown playing great as usual, the Celtics look ready to win another title. But it’s not just the star players who do it all; it’s the whole team who has been stepping up.
One of the best stories this season has been Payton Pritchard’s play off the bench. He has been on fire and is already a favorite for the Sixth Man of the Year award.
“Well, obviously, you have to credit Payton Pritchard. He’s been absolutely lights out. He plays with so much fire coming off the bench,” said junior Colin Doherty. “As of right now, he’s the favorite to win the Sixth Man of the Year award. Personally, I think he would start on any team other than the Celtics, but that just proves how deep the Celtics are.”
Derrick White has also been another huge piece for the Celtics early on in the season. White has been a great scorer but an even better defender for the C’s and has risen to the starting lineup.
“Me personally though, Derrick White has taken the next step and has been a real leader on the court along with showing up in big moments too,” said Doherty.
White’s leadership and clutch play have helped the Celtics keep their focus and energy high through late-game stretches in the 4th quarter.
“My favorite role player is Jrue Holiday. Holiday sets the tone defensively, and I believe he’s the best perimeter defender in the league. His defensive stops often lead to fast-break opportunities, which helps the team offensively as well.” said teacher and Celtics fan, Jackson Petrocionne.
Holiday’s unselfishness is a perfect side piece to Boston’s stars in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. On nights when one or the other is out, Holiday has shown to be the next guy up and takeover games when needed.
“On the offensive end, Holiday doesn’t force anything. He scores when needed, but is also great at keeping the ball moving and making sure the offense flows smoothly,” said Petrocionne. “His unselfishness is vital, especially on a team with stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Holiday is great at getting them the ball in the right spots, and his playmaking makes it easier for everyone else to succeed.”
The Celtic’s early season performance has been displayed through balance, as much as Tatum and Brown remain the “guys”, with the rise of role players such as Pritchard, White, and Holiday the sky is the limit for this team. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has done a good job of installing an environment of accountability and togetherness that allows Boston to be at its best.
With the mix of star power, depth, and top defense in the league, The Boston Celtics certainly are heavy favorites to compete for another championship. The way things have been so far this year, the Celtics seem capable of living up to the hype. If early-season dominance is any indication, Boston just might be on its way to becoming the NBA’s next great dynasty.