For me as the Celtics man, I could care less about smart signing with the Lakers I care more about seeing which young player is going to have a breakout year and show that they are ready for the NBA

For me as the Celtics man, I could care less about smart signing with the Lakers I care more about seeing which young player is going to have a breakout year and show that they are ready for the NBA

 

Got it! Here’s a 900-word piece from the perspective of a Celtics fan who’s more interested in the team’s young talent breaking out rather than focusing on Marcus Smart’s move to the Lakers.

For Me, As a Celtics Man, I Could Care Less About Smart Signing With the Lakers. I Care More About Which Young Player Will Have a Breakout Year and Prove They’re Ready for the NBA.

As a lifelong Boston Celtics fan, I’ve learned to look beyond the headlines and drama of individual player movements and focus on the bigger picture: the future of this storied franchise. Marcus Smart signing with the Los Angeles Lakers is one of those news items that sparks hot takes and opinions across social media, but honestly, it’s not where my attention lies. Smart gave the Celtics a decade of effort, heart, and defensive grit — no denying that. But now, my eyes are fixed on something far more exciting for Celtics fans: the young players on this roster who are knocking on the door of a true NBA breakout season.

The Celtics’ present and future revolve around youth, potential, and growth. And while the veterans hold down the fort, it’s the emerging stars and promising prospects who truly ignite my excitement about the upcoming season. Which young player will take that crucial next step and prove beyond doubt that they belong in this league, not just as role players but as difference-makers? That’s what I care about. Let’s dig into who those players are and why this season might be their moment.

Why I’m Not Concerned About Marcus Smart Moving On

Let’s get this out of the way: Marcus Smart was the ultimate Celtic. He embodied everything Boston fans love — grit, defense, leadership, and a heart that never quit. His commitment to winning and his blue-collar style made him a fan favorite for years. But every era has its sunset. The Celtics have moved on, and so has Smart. His signing with the Lakers is just part of the NBA’s natural cycle. Teams evolve, players grow, and new chapters begin.

For me, mourning Smart’s departure won’t move the needle. The Celtics have a clear plan — to build around Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, complement them with savvy veterans, and infuse the roster with young talent ready to break out. That’s where my focus is. Who among the younger Celtics can step up and change the narrative this season?

Young Players Ready to Break Out

The Celtics boast several promising young players who are poised for a breakout year. Their development could be the catalyst for Boston’s next championship run. Here are the key names to watch:

1. Jordan Walsh — The Defensive Stalwart With Untapped Offensive Potential

Jordan Walsh is one of the most intriguing Celtics prospects. Standing at 6’7” with length, athleticism, and defensive instincts, Walsh has the tools to become a lockdown wing defender — something Boston desperately needs with Smart gone. He has shown flashes of an improving offensive game during Summer League and G League action. If Walsh can add consistency in shooting and ball handling, his leap could be significant.

Last season, Walsh’s limited NBA minutes were promising. His ability to guard multiple positions and hustle for loose balls make him a perfect fit in the Celtics’ culture. This could be the year he turns from a raw talent into a reliable rotation piece who makes life harder for opposing stars.

2. J.D. Davison — Energy and Explosiveness Off the Bench

J.D. Davison was a late first-round pick who came into the league with a reputation for blazing speed, explosiveness, and highlight-reel plays. His rookie season showed glimpses of that, but also revealed the need to refine his decision-making and defense. If Davison can develop a more consistent jump shot and improve his court awareness, he could carve out a niche as the Celtics’ dynamic backup point guard.

Boston often thrives when it has a spark plug off the bench, and Davison’s fearless style makes him a perfect candidate. His quickness could open lanes for Tatum and Brown to operate, and his ability to pressure the ball on defense can disrupt opposing offenses.

3. Neemias Queta — The Underrated Frontcourt Presence

Queta doesn’t get nearly enough credit for what he brings to the table. At 7 feet tall, he’s a natural rim protector and rebounder. His footwork and fundamentals show promise, and he has quietly been improving his offensive game, including finishing around the rim and passing out of double teams.

The Celtics’ frontcourt is stacked with stars, but depth is crucial during the grueling NBA season. Queta’s emergence as a reliable backup center could be vital, especially with injury risks to veterans like Al Horford and Kristaps Porziņģis. A breakout season from Queta could provide the Celtics with much-needed size, defense, and second-chance opportunities on offense.

4. Payton Pritchard — The Steady Shooter Looking to Elevate His Game

Payton Pritchard is more established than the other young guys, but he still hasn’t quite taken the leap many expected. His shooting and basketball IQ are solid, but Pritchard needs to become more assertive and consistent, especially on defense. If he can expand his role as a reliable secondary playmaker and three-point shooter, he’ll add valuable depth at guard.

With Smart gone, the door is open for Pritchard to seize a bigger role. This season could be his chance to show that he’s ready to carry more responsibility in critical moments.

Why Young Players Matter More Than Any Signing

When the Celtics chase championships, it’s rarely about one player alone. Sure, stars win titles, but role players and young contributors often decide who advances deep in the playoffs. Breakout performances from young talent add depth, flexibility, and unpredictable energy — ingredients vital for any team with championship aspirations.

Looking ahead, the Celtics’ success depends on the blend of veteran leadership and youthful breakout performances. Tatum and Brown will continue to carry the scoring and leadership load, but the real difference-makers will be the guys stepping into larger roles. Watching those players develop into NBA-ready stars is what fuels my passion for this season.

The Excitement Is in the Unknown

As a Celtics fan, I’m thrilled about the potential lurking in the roster’s youth. Every season, there’s that one player who comes seemingly out of nowhere, shifts the team’s dynamics, and changes the narrative around Boston’s title chances.

Smart’s new chapter with the Lakers is someone else’s story now. For me, the excitement lies in watching the next generation rise. Which young Celtic will surprise us all? Which player will show they have what it takes to compete night in and night out at the highest level?

This is the kind of anticipation that makes being a Celtics fan special. It’s about the hope, the possibility, and the hunger to witness greatness unfold in real-time. And that’s why I’m all in on the youth — not on where one player’s contract lands.

In Conclusion:

Marcus Smart’s departure is a chapter closed, and that’s fine. The Celtics are in a prime position to leverage their young talent and mix it with proven stars. The question that excites me most is simple: Who will emerge this season as a bona fide NBA player ready to lead Boston to new heights? That’s the story I’m here to watch unfold.

Would you like me to turn this into a blog post, social media thread, or a more casual fan rant?