The Boston Celtics season is yet to tip-off, but there is one player that is already making a splash, and that is newcomer Amir Johnson. Johnson was one of Boston's off-season acquisitions, and he was flaunted by Celtics head coach Brad Stevens in their first scrimmage.
Stevens had this to say about Johnson: “I thought he was terrific defensively in a system he hasn't played in yet -- largely because he played with a motor regardless of whether he made mistakes or not.” (via MassLive, Jay King)
Celtics fans can be optimistic in the column of having a high motor player, defensively at that. With already a young defensive core team in point guard Marcus Smart and shooting guard Avery Bradley, C’s starting lineup will likely be a fearful one for the oppositions.
Of course, the team sees Johnson as a rim protector, primarily one of the main reasons they acquired him. Head coach Stevens also added this: “He's a good rim-runner. I just think the biggest thing that would probably summarize it is.” No question, that’s a good sign for the team and Celtics fans all around, especially hearing such praise from one of the best young budding coaches.
The team knew they got value in Johnson, a low-risk move that was right for the current roster. Celtics did not get a superstar this offseason, just like many other teams who missed out. But, they did get a fine quality player who can help bring leadership to a young roster and help shape the team even further more into being a real threat in the Eastern Conference.
Celtics will see their first pre-season action on Tuesday against Olimpia Milano. The team is currently oversees in Italy and that is where they’ll start their unofficial season. It’ll be a good time to see a first glimpse of Amir Johnson and rest of the roster.