Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big story line. Because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
Jared Sullinger fans look forward to seeing a special season from your big man. Focus & ready. ohiostatehoops #CelticsNation #celtics
— Coach John Lucas (@CoachJohnLucas1) July 28, 2015
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With Sullinger, it’s probably best to believe it when you see it. Though he has vowed to change his body before, he has never committed fully to the task. In February, Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge singled out the big man as the only player on the team who hasn’t met his conditioning goals.
Still, the offseason reviews have been positive. Near the end of June, Sullinger revealed to the Boston Globe he is working out with Lucas in Houston. A few weeks later, head coach Brad Stevens said he has heard optimistic reports about his power forward’s work. Lucas has tweeted pictures of Sullinger running outside in 96-degree heat and apparently finishing (or starting) a boxing workout.
While my optimism about Jared Sullinger’s fitness is guarded (scroll through John Lucas’ timeline and you’ll see high praise for all of his clients), I’d rather read reports like this one than none at all.
Sullinger got a ton of scrutiny this season from fans and media, and it was justified. There were issues with fitness and punctuality. On the court, his game flat-lined. I’m pretty sure Danny Ainge dangled Sullinger in nearly every trade proposal this off-season.
Even though he’s just 23, next year is make or break for Sullinger in Boston. After earning $2.2 million in 2015-16, he’ll be due a $3.3 million qualifying offer for 2016-17. Do I think Sullinger will be wearing Celtic green in his next contract? No, but that has more to do with the status of the rebuild than him personally. Even someone with my cynical perspective would be silly to write off someone of his talent and age.
Sully isn’t the only young forward on the hot seat. Yes, I’m looking at you Kelly Olynk.
The rest of the links
CSNNE – Camp battles: Guards | Basketball Insiders – Joe Alexander rejects Celtics offer | Pro Basketball Talk: Ray Allen won’t officially retire |
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