It’s that time of the year when analysts and fans alike start to predict the just-crowned NBA Champion’s title window. As usual, some takes are hotter than others.
Kendrick Perkins, previously a big doubter of Joe Mazzulla and his Celtics, saw enough during the 2024 NBA Finals to change his tune.
On ESPN’s “NBA Today,” Perkins declared that Jayson Tatum & Co. were about to go on a dynastic run.
“I can see them win three out of the next four years,” Perkins said. “I was one of the people who said we’re not gonna have back-to-back champions… but we’re on the verge of seeing one, now. This team is the real deal, led by their two young superstars in Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.”
The one thing working in the Celtics’ favor is the stability within the organization. Tatum and Derrick White are expected to sign extensions imminently, and the other three starters — Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday and Brown — are locked up for several seasons. Even the pesky Payton Pritchard is signed for three years.
Furthermore, Brad Stevens has been one of the most proactive executives in the league since he traded in the clipboard for a front-office role in 2021.
– Traded Kemba Walker for Al Horford
– Didn’t trade Jaylen Brown in 2021
– Traded Langford for Derrick White
– Traded Smart for KP & 2 1st round picks
– Re-signed Jaylen Brown
– Traded Brogdon / Williams for Holiday
– Re-signed Porzingis and HolidayBrad Stevens is the real MVP. pic.twitter.com/Qi0RQl9jJm
— CelticsUnite (@CelticsUnite18) June 18, 2024
As such, nobody should be surprised if Stevens takes the drastic step of trading a Porzingis or a White within the next two years to upgrade wherever necessary.
Will Perkins’ prophecy come true?
The Celtics were the sixth different champion crowned in as many years, marking the most parity the league has seen in 50 years.
Only four teams have gone back-to-back in the 21st century — the Lakers (2000, 2001 and 2002), the Lakers (2009 and 2010), the Heat (2012 and 2013) and the Warriors (2017 and 2018).
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