NBA Rumors: 3 Players that are likely to leave the Boston Celtics this summer
After LeBron James left for the West last summer, the Boston Celtics were tipped by many as the team who were set to become the new dominant force in the Eastern Conference. After all, they had managed to reach the 2018 East Finals despite the absences of Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward, and they were also tipped as the favorites to land Anthony Davis this summer.
However, the Celtics' season hasn't worked out as planned -- and the team is on the verge of exiting the playoffs to the Milwaukee Bucks. A number of the roster are also facing questions over their futures, and ahead of a potentially busy offseason, here are three players that could leave.
#3 Kyrie Irving
Back in October, Kyrie Irving announced his intention to re-sign with the Celtics. While speaking at an event for season-ticket holders, Irving declared his loyalty to Celtics, stating his desire to stay in a 'real sports city'.
However, as the season has progressed, Irving has changed his stance. He has refused to commit his future to Boston, and his ongoing criticism of the team has reportedly upset the Celtics locker room. In light of this, Evan Dammarell of Forbes is reporting that Irving looks increasingly likely to leave:
The Celtics appeared to be primed to seize on LeBron James' exodus to the West, especially with Gordon Hayward and Kyrie Irving returning from injury. Instead, nearly the exact opposite has happened for Boston, and now they face the reality of losing Irving in free agency.
Irving to either of the NBA franchises in New York City is one of the NBA's worst-kept secrets, especially based on his comments this year, and with how Celtics fans are taking the debut of 'Playoff Kyrie', it seems like he would not be missed.
While Irving's departure would be a major blow, it would give the opportunity to Jayson Tatum to become the new face of the team.