The 2024 NBA Finals are in full swing, and the Boston Celtics find themselves in a familiar position—contending for the ultimate prize. As the Celtics faced off against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1, NBA TV analysts Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith dissected the matchup. Smith, never one to shy away from bold statements, made a proclamation that caught everyone’s attention.
The following tweet by ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) captures the essence of Smith’s remarks:
“How can you lose if your fifth-best player could be the first-best player on most bad teams in the NBA?” – Kenny Smith on why the Celtics have everything to win a championship
This quote highlights the depth of the Boston Celtics roster and how it might be a key factor in their championship aspirations.
The Kenny Smith Perspective
In his pregame discussion, Smith confidently declared, “How can you lose if your fifth-best player could be the first-best player on most bad teams in the NBA?” His words echoed through the studio, emphasizing the Celtics’ depth and potential. But what exactly did he mean?
Decoding Kenny Smith’s Statement
The Celtics have a very talented squad. Stars like Marcus Smart, Al Horford, and Jayson Tatum are in their starting lineup. But this team is elevated by the overlooked luminaries, the role players. Consider having a player who would be the star player on other underachieving teams. The Celtics’ covert arsenal is that.
The Fifth-Best Player
Who is this mysterious fifth-best player? It’s none other than Kristaps Porziņģis. The 7-foot-3 Latvian forward brings a unique skill set—a blend of shooting, shot-blocking, and versatility. While injuries have plagued him, when healthy, Porziņģis can dominate both ends of the court. His presence adds a dimension that few teams possess.
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