After taking a hard fall to Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks, the Boston Celtics were eliminated from the 2019 NBA Playoffs after just a 5-game series. Celtics fans quickly got their hopes up after sweeping the Indiana Pacers in the first round and also taking an early 1-0 series lead against the Bucks in the second round. Unfortunately, Boston fans excitement was crushed after the Bucks took 4 straight games from the Celtics, dominating the series 4 games to 1. This shocking and disappointing loss shattered what most believed was the Celtics best opportunity at a Championship since 2008.

In the first round of the playoffs, the Celtics cruised past the Pacers 4-0, where they faced few issues across the games. Although the point differentials between the two teams were fairly low, experts and analysts agreed that the team was at full force and was clicking on all cylinders. At the time Marcus Smart, the heart and soul of the new-look Celtics, was out with a torn oblique strengthening the idea that the Celtics were only getting better. After easily securing a spot in the next round, the Celtics title hopes were at an all-time high and the team was ready to continue their hot streak.  

In the second round, however, after taking a 1-0 series lead in the first game against the Bucks, the Celtics lost 4 games in a row and could not find a way to come together to perform as they were expected to play. They were not able to adjust and find solutions to the changes the Bucks made and paid for their mistakes the remainder of the series. The entire offense seemed completely dysfunctional as there was no ball movement and almost every Celtic struggled to score. There was far to much ‘hero ball’ being played, as a majority of the Celtics starting five looked to play isolation basketball and not work as a team. This disappointing effort left many questions in the air, including the status of star player Kyrie Irving. With trade rumors going around regarding his future, it seems less likely that he will re-sign with the team and continue to make an impact on the team.

Despite the frustrating end to the season, Celtics fans should continue to keep their hopes high. With free agency this summer, the Celtics management should really look to land some big-named free agents, especially considering the assets they have. Additionally, the Celtics NEED to address the lack of strength within the center spot and should look to add Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans as his contract is ending. If the Celtics can make some offseason moves, a championship run is more than likely next season.

Overall, the Celtics have some very key pieces on their team that they can and should look to build around. A lot of younger players with a lot of upside, which is very promising and exciting for fans of this great team.