Optimism is high for the Boston Celtics heading into the 2016-17 season after winning 48 games last season, their in five years.
There is a talented young core returning, headlined by Avery Bradley and Isaiah Thomas, and the addition of first-round draft pick Jaylen Brown who will carry the Celtics in their quest to get back to the top of the Eastern Conference mountain.
In addition to the talent on the court, head coach Brad Stevens has established himself as one of the NBA's best in three seasons. He was supposed to be taking over a sinking ship that was rebuilding in 2013, but has led the Celtics to the playoffs each of the last two years.