The Celtics finally held their introductory press conference for their offseason acquisitions, ending unnecessary trade talk that has circulated in the broader discourse since the JB trade.
Because of a personal conflict, Mitchell Robinson couldn’t attend the welcome ceremony, but Mike Conley and Paul George shared incredible insight into the roles they’ll play in green.
Paul George Acknowledging JT is the Guy
The Jaylen Brown trade was obviously devastating and confusing for fans, and Paul George (who has already been part of a controversial transaction) answered press questions perfectly and quelled fan concern.
The biggest quote to come out of the day was this:
“I’m here to help J.T. He’s the guy; I’ve played alongside another superstar wing, and we coexisted beautifully. I see this with myself, with J.T., being able to play off him… being able to still kind of be a mentor.”
Paul George is getting up there in age, and with his laundry list of medical issues, it is relieving to see him acknowledge taking a step back.
Objectively, Paul George may be a better co-star next to Tatum than Brown. That’s difficult to type out, but a 1-and-2 situation almost always works better than a 1A-1 B. Tatum arguably took a 1B or even 2 approach during the Finals in ‘24. If Tatum looks close to what he did before the Achilles tear, I believe this squad could run easier than teams did before.
Mike Conley Has “Lot to Give”, but Another Role Seems Clear
For the sake of the players in front of him, I hope Conley doesn’t get substantial playing time. That would indicate an injury to Pritchard or White, which would derail title chances. I believe Conley signed with the Celtics to jumpstart his coaching career beginning next season. He was on record saying he wanted to play for a “flagship” franchise, which makes sense for the Grizzlies’ all-time leading scorer. Conley is an incredible mind and will take the Taj Gibson path. He’ll also be an incredible mentor to the young guards on this team. Those vibes-controlling, older guys really do go a long way in controlling tempers and the mood of a team trending in either direction.
It’s been a while since the Celtics have had a vet deep on the bench. Blake Griffin fits the label but played too much to really fit the stereotype. Either way, Uncle Mike will make a significant impact off the court and from the sideline.
Other Notable Moments
Brad Stevens cracked a great joke regarding the banners the Celtics have hung. PG asked if they were tied for the most with the Lakers, and Brad quickly quipped, “Up one. Mike would say up six.” This refers to the banners the Lakers won while based in Minneapolis in the 1950s, when they won five championships. These have been called into question as being claimed by LA because the league was much smaller, and because they were in Minnesota.
Paul George also brought up the series against Boston last season. Joe Mazzulla gave him a classic stare that seems natural for the deadpan coach. The funny moment is linked here.
Devin Carter Signed to an Exhibit 10 Deal
I couldn’t justify writing an entire article for a guy who might never play a game in Boston. But boy, was I pumped to see this deal. As a Big East fan, I remember his dominance at Providence on the boards and defensively for a smaller guy. I hope he can make the roster for Maine and ship up to Boston when the Celtics need more guard depth, or even for a couple of games to test Carter. I fully believe the Celtics can give guys the shooting touch needed to be impactful role players in the pros.
Look no further than Jordan Walsh and Ron Harper Jr., who both entered the league as below-average shooters and are now at least playable. If Carter can move his percentages up just a little, I could see him getting some time for the main squad.
The season is creeping up slowly, but preseason begins soon.
The world is a better place when the NBA is on, and it can come soon enough.
