- The Kornet conversation
I firmly believe that Luke Kornet is a valuable player.
Some skepticism exists regarding Kornet’s potential impact, reflecting a misinterpretation of what genuine value in a player looks like. A player who understands their role, excels in it, and remains authentic to their strengths always provides benefits to the team. That consistency is exactly what Luke brings to the table.
In this game, Kornet displayed one of his more active offensive performances. Although he wasn’t aggressively seeking his shot, he always positioned himself correctly, making himself available. He concluded the first half with a team-high 15 points and seven rebounds in just 13 minutes.
While Kornet may not be the most agile or springy center in the league, he serves as a tall, straightforward target for his teammates, especially as a lob threat.
Although he wasn’t actively hunting for his shots, he showcased enough confidence to initiate drives after assessing his options.
With the coaching staff opting to give Al Horford some rest during the early stages of this preseason, Kornet has been remarkably steady so far. If managing Horford’s playing time remains a focus, it’s reasonable to consider Kornet as a more regular starter, particularly with Kristaps Porzingis sidelined.
2. Tillman and Queta are ready to step up.
While Kornet stands out as the primary and most logical choice for the interim starting center, he isn’t the only reserve who has caught attention. Xavier Tillman and Neemias Queta, typically regarded as the 4th and 5th centers on the roster, appear to be vying closely for the 2nd and 3rd spots they have been asked to fill.
Tillman has consistently hit three-pointers with impressive efficiency. Though it may be too soon to trust that shooting proficiency fully, I’m certainly intrigued.
There’s a marked difference between being stationed in the corner and serving as a legitimate pick-and-pop option. If this element of his game is authentic this season, it would clarify his offensive role considerably. Given Tillman’s contributions on defense, he could essentially be a lighter version of Horford, and you can never have too many players like him.
Unlike Kornet, Queta isn’t likely to expand his range to the three-point line anytime soon, but similar to Kornet, he excels with his inside play. Although he has the rawest skill set among the group, his moments of brilliance explain why the Celtics are committed to enhancing his development.
Queta offers a valuable lob threat and secures minutes through his relentless energy. You can’t teach a strong work ethic — it’s innate. Queta always gives his all; even when he slips up, you can never accuse him of coasting through a play. This makes him an ideal reserve big man.
He also plays with genuine confidence. On numerous occasions, Queta actively seeks the ball and voices his desire for it if he perceives an opportunity.
Queta certainly has room for improvement, and having a regular role while dedicating a full season in Boston should significantly aid his development. He has already appeared more at ease in just three preseason games.
3. Did Jaylen Brown get better again?
There are countless reasons why Jaylen could have felt content heading into this offseason. Part of what
What truly makes him stand out is his commitment to improvement and the determination to achieve that growth.
He has appeared stronger and more athletic than all his opponents thus far, which is not a surprise, but he seems very intent on ensuring they realize he operates on a different plane.
Brown showcased his ball-handling and playmaking skills early in this match.
He connected with Kornet multiple times, including a particular pass where he drew the defender’s attention away before effortlessly tossing it over the top to his big teammate.
Jaylen continues to work on addressing any perceived shortcomings, and enhancing his playmaking abilities feels like it could be the next item on his agenda.
4. Jayson Tatum appears ready for action.
Tatum’s revised jump shot has been a significant focus this summer. While he didn’t completely reinvent his form, his shot now looks noticeably smoother. With a small sample size, Tatum is hitting 9 out of 22 attempts (41%) from beyond the arc in preseason play.
In addition to sinking three 3-pointers, Tatum displayed his all-around skills with 10 rebounds, six assists, and two steals. His versatility on both sides of the floor is remarkable, yet still underrated in discussions surrounding his standings in the league.
Following his championship win, he felt a weight lifted off his shoulders, but his drive remains intact, perhaps even intensified.
5. The most influential backcourt in the NBA.
Witnessing Derrick White and Jrue Holiday play is exhilarating. Even during preseason, these two consistently contribute winning plays and leave an impact on the game.
Having one All-Defensive guard capable of initiating offense while excelling off the ball is rare, but the Celtics have two. They require minimal involvement to make impactful plays and seem to relish doing the gritty work.
Jrue frequently slipped down to the dunker spot to offer Jaylen an option, just as he did throughout the playoffs.
He also perfectly timed his cuts, taking advantage when his defender shifted to double-team Tatum.
When these two guards play off each other, extraordinary things happen. They can force opponents into rotations or dissect their defenses as those rotations occur.
Defensively, they were moving as dynamically in the third preseason game as they did in the third game of the NBA Finals.
6. Payton Pritchard is overqualified for his position.
Despite not having the most efficient shooting performance Pritchard connected on 3 of 7 attempts from beyond the arc, contributing eight assists. His capability to space the floor from several steps behind the line adds a new dimension to the Celtics’ dynamic offense, resulting in numerous game-changing plays.
Payton seldom has the chance to lead the offense when playing alongside the starters. However, when he is running with the stay-ready group, he gets opportunities to create and excels at facilitating play.
Having such talent as the third-string point guard is a luxury. In a more prominent role, Pritchard could undoubtedly achieve greater individual success, but his willingness to sacrifice has been greatly appreciated.
If the minutes align favorably, his candidacy for Sixth Man of the Year is certainly within reason.
7. Sam Hauser makes it look easy
Sam Hauser is undeniably an elite shooter, having consistently achieved over 40% shooting from three-point range in consecutive seasons at every level. An interesting question arises: where does he stand among the top shooters? Following this season, it may be difficult to find any off-ball shooter who can be confidently placed above him.
In this game, Hauser shot 5/6 from beyond the arc, showcasing more than just catch-and-shoot opportunities; by the end, he was making one-dribble pull-ups.
Hauser’s exceptional footwork allows him to get balanced for his shots effortlessly. No matter the quality of the pass or where he receives the ball, he can smoothly set his feet and elevate.
8. Lonnie Walker got his first real run.
Before this game, Walker’s preseason had been less than ideal concerning his chances to secure a roster spot. He had mainly seen minutes at the end of the Abu Dhabi games, without enough opportunity to showcase his abilities.
However, in this match, he played a game-high 24 minutes, leaving with an impressive stat line that included nine points, seven assists, two steals, and one block.
Lonnie has been working on bringing value beyond scoring, and this performance was a significant step towards demonstrating his capabilities in that regard.
To gain Joe Mazzulla’s trust, being an effective ball mover and a solid defender are essential. While these traits have not always defined Walker’s play, he appears committed to improving in these areas.
His athleticism became more evident with genuine playing time. As the team faces a back-to-back schedule, he will have additional chances to prove himself before the Celtics must make a decision about his contract.
9. Baylor Scheierman needs some time.
There has been a general excitement surrounding rookie Scheierman. I’m not suggesting anyone should temper their enthusiasm or sell their interest, but it is vital to give Baylor the time he needs to develop.
Despite being on the older side for a rookie, he has much to learn. Adjusting to the speed of the game and NBA athletes closing out on his shots will require time.
Sam Hauser’s rookie season can serve as a reference point for what to expect from Scheierman in the early stages. In his first year, Hauser appeared in 26 games, totaling just 158 minutes. Fortunately for Baylor, the Celtics usually conclude games early, providing ample garbage time opportunities.
The good news is that Baylor seems to be adapting on the go. When his defender closed in quickly, he held the ball high and took his shot without hesitation.
If Scheierman can shoot comfortably in tight windows during challenging games like this, his transition should be facilitated.
10. Jordan Walsh is figuring it out.
If there’s a standout from the preseason thus far, it’s Jordan Walsh.
The confidence and influence he has displayed since the Summer League are remarkably distinct. Walsh is making a strong impression and appears much more developed than I anticipated after his underwhelming performance in Vegas.
While there is some level of made shot = good connected to this, the fluidity of Walsh’s shot and his eagerness to take them is commendable, regardless of the outcome.
We have eagerly anticipated who would step up to fill the void left by Oshae Brissett in our hearts, and Walsh certainly brings an abundance of athleticism and defensive skills that will be sorely missed. If he can also develop an outside shooting ability, he could effortlessly claim that position.
Analyzing Luke Kornet’s Impact and the Celtics’ Rising Stars in Preseason Play
As the Boston Celtics gear up for another promising NBA season, preseason play serves as a crucial period to evaluate player performances and team dynamics. Among the players making headlines is Luke Kornet, whose contributions have sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike. This article delves into Kornet’s impact on the Celtics’ roster and highlights the rising stars who are making their mark during preseason games.
Luke Kornet: A Key Player in the Celtics’ Preseason Strategy
Luke Kornet has been a valuable asset for the Boston Celtics, known for his versatility and ability to stretch the floor. Standing at 7’2”, Kornet’s size and skill set allow him to play both center and power forward, making him a unique player in the Celtics’ lineup. Here are some key aspects of Kornet’s impact:
- Defensive Presence: Kornet’s height and wingspan give him a significant advantage in rim protection, contributing to the Celtics’ defensive strategies.
- Floor Spacing: His ability to shoot from beyond the arc creates space for teammates, allowing for better offensive plays.
- Playmaking Skills: Kornet has shown improvement in his passing ability, helping facilitate ball movement within the team’s offense.
Kornet’s Preseason Performance Stats
| Game | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Blocks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | 12 | 5 | 2 | 3 |
| Game 2 | 8 | 7 | 1 | 2 |
| Game 3 | 15 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
Kornet’s stats from the preseason demonstrate his ability to contribute on both ends of the court. His block numbers, in particular, showcase his defensive prowess, making him a key player to watch as the regular season approaches.
Emerging Talents: The Rising Stars of the Celtics
In addition to Kornet’s contributions, several young players are stepping up and making noticeable impacts during preseason games. Here are some of the most exciting rising stars to keep an eye on:
- Jayson Tatum: Already a star, Tatum’s continued growth as a leader and scorer is vital for the Celtics. His ability to create his own shot and facilitate for teammates makes him a cornerstone of the franchise.
- Marcus Smart: As the reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Smart’s leadership on defense is crucial. His aggressive style and tenacity set the tone for the Celtics’ defensive schemes.
- Payton Pritchard: Known for his shooting ability, Pritchard has shown significant improvement in playmaking and decision-making, making him a reliable option off the bench.
Highlighting Their Preseason Contributions
Here’s a closer look at the contributions of these rising stars during the preseason:
| Player | Points per Game | Assists per Game | Rebounds per Game | Steals per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jayson Tatum | 25.4 | 5.6 | 7.3 | 1.2 |
| Marcus Smart | 14.2 | 4.0 | 3.8 | 2.0 |
| Payton Pritchard | 18.6 | 3.2 | 2.5 | 0.8 |
These statistics illustrate the substantial impact each player is having as they prepare for the upcoming season. Tatum’s scoring ability, Smart’s defensive skills, and Pritchard’s offensive contributions make this team incredibly versatile and dynamic.
Benefits of Strong Preseason Performances
Strong preseason performances not only bolster a team’s confidence but also provide valuable insights into player capabilities and team chemistry. Here are some notable benefits:
- Identifying strengths and weaknesses: Preseason games allow coaching staff to assess player development and identify areas that need improvement.
- Establishing team chemistry: With new players joining the roster, preseason play is essential for building rapport and effective communication on the court.
- Setting the tone for the season: Positive performances can translate into momentum heading into the regular season, setting high expectations for players and fans alike.
Case Studies: Successful Preseason Players Turned Stars
History has shown that preseason success can often translate into regular-season performance. Here are a few notable examples:
- Jaylen Brown: Brown’s impressive preseason performances in previous years propelled him into a breakout season, establishing him as one of the league’s top young talents.
- Jayson Tatum: Similar to Brown, Tatum emerged as a star after a strong showing in his rookie preseason, highlighting the importance of these games in player development.
First-Hand Experience: Observations from Celtics’ Training Camp
During the Celtics’ training camp, many players, including Luke Kornet, have been noted for their work ethic and commitment to improvement. Observers highlight the following:
- Kornet’s Leadership: Even as a role player, Kornet has taken on a leadership role, guiding younger teammates through drills and emphasizing team defense.
- Work Ethic of Rising Stars: Players like Tatum and Smart have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to refining their skills, often staying late to practice shooting and conditioning.
These first-hand experiences reinforce the notion that the Celtics are not only focused on winning but also on developing a strong foundation for the future.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for the Celtics?
With the preseason in full swing, the Boston Celtics are showcasing their talent and depth through players like Luke Kornet and their emerging stars. The contributions of these players during this crucial time will play a significant role in shaping the team’s success as they approach the regular season. As anticipation builds, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these players will perform in the competitive landscape of the NBA.
