OAKLAND — The standings say that the Celtics are the fifth-best team in the Eastern Conference behind the Milwaukee Bucks (48-15), Toronto Raptors (46-18), Indiana Pacers (41-23) and Philadelphia 76ers (40-23). Kevin Durant says otherwise.
“They’re right there at the top,” Durant said. “They were losing a couple of games, but they got the top talent. They’ll be fine once the playoffs start.”
The reason for Durant’s optimism? He has a ton of respect for Kyrie Irving, which has fueled speculation the two may join forces next season with the New York Knicks. But Durant also believes the Celtics need time integrating Gordon Hayward after suffering a season-ending left ankle injury last season.