Image by Keith Allison via FlickrTop Offensive Player: Rajon Rondo.
Top Defensive Player: Kevin Garnett.
Top Playmaker: Rajon Rondo.
Top Clutch Player: Everyone.
The Unheralded Player: Jermaine O'Neal.
Best New Addition: Avery Bradley.
Strengths
When the Celtics need a defensive stop, they usually get it. Rivers' club is still among the best in the league on that end of the court. Boston isn't shabby when it comes to shooting either (56.4 true shooting percentage ranked fifth in the leagued last year). Obviously, this team's best attribute is its experience. Shaq brings four (corrected, thanks to Ian Alexander Casey) more championship rings into a veteran locker room. These guys have been there before and know what to expect.
Weaknesses
Boston's offense was surprisingly mediocre last season. Sure, injuries played a major role, but the Celtics still averaged just 105.4 points per 100 possessions (tied for 13th). Shaq isn't any better at defending the pick and role, and even though the team retained Nate Robinson, there still isn't a true point guard option besides Rondo. Age and injuries are as much a part of the Celtics these days as Lucky or Red's cigar. The team will just have to continue to manage them as they've always done.
Can the Celtics compete with Miami's Big Three?
Even if Boston's Big Three can't hang with Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and LeBron James, the HEAT will be hard-pressed to match the Celtics top 12 players. Boston has more than enough solid guys to fill a roster and manufacture trades – things Pat Riley could struggle with in Miami. The HEAT have a lot of talent, but this game has proven time and time again that talent isn't everything.
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