NBA news: The Boston Celtics shored up their frontcourt with the addition of Kristaps Porzingis this offseason. However, as part of that blockbuster trade deal, they also lost one of the most important players on their roster in Marcus Smart, who has now headed to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Smart’s departure has left a gaping hole in Boston’s backcourt, but at this point, it appears that head coach Joe Mazzulla has already solved the conundrum.
NBA News: Joe Mazzulla Gives Derrick White Starting PG Role
With Marcus Smart heading out, Mazzulla has decided to turn to Derrick White as their starting point guard. Mazzulla confirmed the significant roster decision in a recent interview with the press:
“We haven’t gotten that far yet,” Mazzulla said, via Jared Weiss of The Athletic. “Derrick will be our starting point guard and he will be one of our starting guards.”
White was Boston’s starting shooting guard last season, and the shift to point guard will likely mean that Jaylen Brown will start at the two, while Jayson Tatum will shift to the small forward spot. Kristaps Porzingis will also start, and he could be paired with Al Horford or Robert Williams in the frontcourt.
The Celtics also still have Malcolm Brogdon on their roster, and he could end up as a starter as well if Coach Joe opts to go with a smaller lineup with Porzingis at center.
NBA News: Bucks Also Dealing With Backcourt Pickle
The Milwaukee Bucks are in a bit of a similar situation. They did not lose their starting point guard this summer (thankfully) as Jrue Holiday looks to come out with another noteworthy campaign for the Bucks in 2023-24. Where the pickle lies, however, is with Jrue’s Primary backup. Right now, this role has been given to incoming second-year guard AJ Green. The 23-year-old is no bum, but he’s not exactly an ideal backup point guard for a team that’s looking to contend for a championship. He’s obviously no Malcolm Brogdon.
Then again, they could also give Green an opportunity to prove his worth. After all, this young man could end up being Milwaukee’s revelation this coming season.
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