Big year for Smart and Rozier

[DERRENMATTS]

Two guys with similar roles -- part time PG's who play defense and provide some complementary scoring. Neither have established themselves as starting caliber, so they are essentially battling each other for backup roles and minutes.

Smart and Rozier may wind up battling each other for a future spot on the Celtics roster. Smart is up for a Qualifying Offer next year, worth 6 million, while Rozier has a team option next year worth 3 mi. So, if Rozier ends up having a similar type impact and role as Smart THIS year, to save a few million, Ainge might not offer Smart the QO and let him become a free agent (if they project Rozier will be equal or better than Smart long term).

But if Smart has a huge year and takes a step forward in his development, and is clearly vital to the team over Rozier, then T-Roz could be the one to get the ax.

I can't see both remaining on the roster, as we have a log jam and a tight budget.

[jmost]

I've been thinking the same thing. I really want Rozier to make a big jump because I think he has higher potential, but if Smart ever learns to shoot he could come out on top.

[DERRENMATTS]

Sept 3, 2017 7:45:26 GMT -5 jmost said:

I've been thinking the same thing. I really want Rozier to make a big jump because I think he has higher potential, but if Smart ever learns to shoot he could come out on top.

I think that's it right there. If Smart can hit at least 35% from 3, he's the guy you hold onto. He can guard 4 positions, so that's a plus. But if he continues to knock down sub 30%, that's tough to give playing time to.

Rozier has speed and creativity, which are high commodities. Maybe learning from Kyrie will help Rozier tighten up his handles and improve his offensive game.

[Roadrunner]

If Smart can learn to shoot, I expect it to happen this year because its a contract year. I would like to see Stevens add some plays to playbook for him. Ex: posting up, which he did effectively in college.

[FLCeltsFan]

I've seen clips from both players this summer and it looked as though both have been working hard on their games. I really hope for a leap from both of them along with Jaylen Brown. We only have 4 returning. We have to hope for a big improvement in the young guys who do.