The Boston Celtics are looking to come into the 2015-16 season riding the same wave that took them into the playoffs to end last season. While they were easily handled by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round of the NBA playoffs, there is still a lot of hope for the young Celtics going into this season.
One difference going into this season compared to season’s past, this team knows they will not be moving anyone anytime soon. Last season, they came in with questions marks surrounding both Rajon Rondo and Jeff Green until both players were dealt before the trade deadline. This Celtics team comes in with positive vibes concerning their roster and also concerning how one player in particular looks. Celtics big man Jared Sullinger.
Following from Chris Forsberg of ESPN.com.
“My eyes aren’t good enough to see the Twitter pictures, nor do I believe most of the Twitter pictures,” added Ainge. “But I’m not worried about that. I know Jared’s put in a lot of work this summer and it’s a big year for him and for us and I’m confident he’s gonna have a terrific year.”
All of Boston’s players will be in town by week’s end for the start of training camp and Ainge will get an up-close look. For now, Ainge is simply excited to get everybody back in the gym together after the strong finish to the 2014-15 campaign.
“We’re anxious to get back, like a kid coming back to school,” said Ainge. “I’m anxious to see what it’s all about. We have some new faces that are exciting and I’m anxious to see how much improvement the players have made through the hard work they’ve put in with the coaches this summer.”
There have been questions in the past surrounding Sullinger’s weight and commitment to weight loss in the past but based off the pictures on twitter from Sullinger, it looks like his weight watch is going well. If only Ainge could see it for himself.
In 8 weeks I only lost my chain!!!!! ??????????????? pic.twitter.com/6ivk59ZFUM
— Jared Sullinger (@Jared_Sully0) August 12, 2015
???????????????????????????????????? what was I thinking pic.twitter.com/5BHMzS368P
— Jared Sullinger (@Jared_Sully0) August 12, 2015
In all seriousness, the time for Sullinger to make a step forward is right now. This upcoming season could be huge for him and his development as a player and if he wants to move towards the next level as a top flight player and be the leader the Celtics need, him losing weight is a good start. He now needs to perform with his slimmed down body.
