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The Boston Celtics entered last season with almost the same team, with the addition of Malcolm Brogdon, that reached the NBA Finals in 2022.
However, the Celtics did not follow suit this offseason, altering its core by moving Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies and shipping Grant Williams to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade.
Boston’s new-look squad, headlined by the addition of 7-foot-3 forward Kristaps Porzingis to join Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, has Paul Pierce’s approval, even if the Celtics legend is struggling to accept the organization’s decision to split ways with Smart.
“The roster looks good,” Pierce said on NBA TV on Sunday night when he attended Boston’s Summer League game against the Washington Wizards, as transcribed by the Boston Herald’s Steve Hewitt. “The main thing is you got Jayson there and hopefully Jaylen Brown signs a long-term deal, you bring in Porzingis. So, I’m a little disappointed in getting rid of Smart but maybe some change was needed. But hopefully it can help them get over the top.”
Pierce recognizes that without Smart, the Celtics will miss the veteran guard’s loud leadership. And Pierce is looking on Tatum, whose leadership abilities have been questioned since joining the NBA, to fill that hole.
“It has to be filled by a group of guys,” Pierce explained. “I believe it is time for Jayson Tatum, along with Jaylen Brown, to take on a larger leadership role and be a stronger voice in the locker room.” I believe it is that time, and if he is successful, the squad will benefit greatly.”