The Celtics are gearing up for their regular season opener, following an eventful preseason featuring new additions to the roster. Which players will rise to the occasion when it counts? Let’s explore this in this week’s mailbag.
Hello Brian,
New players have been vocal about our passionate fan base, noting it’s different from what they’ve experienced elsewhere. While I know our fans appreciate this sentiment, I’m curious if players or their agents encourage them to say this, or if it’s a genuine feeling. Thanks. -Andy
It’s unclear how players truly feel about this, but it’s common knowledge that complimenting a fanbase helps to connect with them. Many times, players respond positively to media questions about the crowd; it’s an easy approach. However, I believe many players do feel the excitement upon arriving here.
Some of these players have come from smaller markets, and now they’re playing in front of sold-out arenas, even during preseason. The atmosphere at the Garden consistently ranks among the top five in the league, and I expect that to continue this year as the crowd typically cheers for underdogs, which this team might embody for much of the season.
Among Walsh, Hugo, and Baylor, who do you think will have the largest role in the rotation at the start of the season? — David M
That’s an intriguing question. Before preseason, I would have bet on Baylor Scheierman, but he has had a notably tough time. Jordan Walsh has shown some promise despite an injury that caused him to miss two games, yet Hugo Gonzalez has stood out the most, displaying significant potential for a 19-year-old.
Considering preseason performance, it seems Minott and Gonzalez have surpassed Scheierman and Walsh off the bench. How deep into the bench do you think Mazzulla will go once he finalizes a rotation? — Matt Y
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