Even with their projected top seven rested, the Celtics seized a preseason victory in Cleveland, dropping 71 points before halftime and pulling down 21 offensive boards, reports Brian Robb of MassLive.com.
Exhibit 10 signee Devin Carter made a splash, pouring in 15 first‑half points and ending with 17, plus five rebounds, three assists, two steals and a +22 rating in 25 minutes, though he turned the ball over five times.
Robb argues Carter has earned the two‑way opening, rewarding Boston after his aggressive drives and defensive pressure.
Here’s more from the Atlantic Division:
- In his Sixers preseason debut, LeBron James displayed elite vision, tallying 10 points, five assists and four rebounds in just 18 minutes, and Kyle Neubeck of PHLY Sports believes he could dish out 10 assists per game given the surrounding talent. For my money, James will become the league’s top facilitator. Meanwhile, Joel Embiid stumbled, committing seven turnovers in the opening half and eight overall, a reminder of his habit of slow starts.
- Which Raptors player stands to gain most from Kawhi Leonard’s arrival? Josh Lewenberg of TSN.ca asked ten Toronto coaches and executives, and Scottie Barnes, Collin Murray‑Boyles and Ja’Kobe Walter each earned three votes. Murray‑Boyles told TSN, “How to reach his level is my focus… He’s a proven winner, so I’m soaking up his mentality and work ethic.”
- The fourth name in the poll was RJ Barrett. Lewenberg notes his future is hazy after Leonard joins; although extension‑eligible, talks have stalled and a new deal could inflate the 2027/28 payroll. Still, Barrett proved last season he can lead or complement offensively, a trait the team will need as Leonard has missed over 65 games in most recent seasons. A coach who voted for him said further development, especially a post game like Leonard’s, could boost his impact. Can Barrett evolve into a true star alongside Leonard?