The Boston Celtics made an incredible move this off-season by acquiring Jrue Holiday. This was a major step in the right direction for the Celtics after a gruesome playoff exit last season. They are determined to make it back into title contention, especially after having a tough battle against the Miami Heat during the Eastern Conference Finals. Boston might be one of the strongest teams in the league this season.
Shortly after the 2022-23 season concluded, they announced that they were parting ways with Marcus Smart. The point guard was one of their best defensive players as well. Their decision to let go of him was frowned upon by fans. But the Celtics made sure to bounce right back into the game by signing Kristaps Porzingis. They eventually traded Malcolm Brogdon, Robert Williams III, and two first-round picks for Holiday to fill in for Smart’s role.
Jrue Holiday is available for the Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics preseason opener
After being traded from a team like the Milwaukee Bucks to the Portland Trail Blazers, Jrue Holiday was about to enter a situation that didn’t guarantee him a title. But the Blazers’ interest in rebuilding worked in his favor and the Celtics took advantage of it to acquire Jrue. Now, the 2x All-Star is in one of the best situations he can be in as the Celtics are as capable of the Bucks to win it all.
In addition to his presence on the roster, the existence of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown will render great results in the long run. Tatum was an MVP-caliber player last season as he averaged 30.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. Brown also had a great season averaging a career-high 26.6 points per game. They will take on the Philadelphia 76ers in their preseason opener. Here is the Celtics’ injury report and depth chart.
Boston Celtics Injury Report:
NIL
Boston Celtics Expected Starting Lineup:
- Jrue Holiday
- Jaylen Brown
- Jayson Tatum
- Kristaps Porzingis
- Al Horford
Will the Celtics be able to steal a victory against the Sixers?
Considering how the situation has been in Philly, it is very hard to say if the Sixers will be able to snag a victory. The Sixers are still figuring out how to trade James Harden. But the 10x All-Star has been actively participating in all team drills which is a good sign. However, it does not affirm his presence on the court alongside MVP Joel Embiid against the Celtics.
Celtics star Jayson Tatum on Jrue Holiday 🍀
“I’m extremely happy to have him… Jrue’s one of the most well-respected guys in this league. He’s a champion. We won a gold medal together two summers ago. So, I know him pretty well and know he is a hell of a player, a hell of a… pic.twitter.com/6kUQwGVGI7
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 7, 2023
The Celtics have a major upper hand in this scenario and will most likely win the game. Besides their superstar duo, the Celtics are also capable of immobilizing the Sixers’ schemes with their defense which will most probably be anchored by Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Al Horford as well. Teams usually make their stars rest during preseason games which also means fans may not see Tatum on the floor against the Sixers.
