First Impressions of Jrue Holiday by Celtics Players.

After acquiring Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis over the summer, Boston will look considerably different coming season.

The C’s gave up longtime member Marcus Smart to get the Unicorn (aka Porzingis).

It was a significant loss for the organization, but former Bucks guard Holiday, who is also regarded as one of the NBA’s top defenders, has recently joined the team.

On Media Day, Celtics forward Jayson Tatum expressed his excitement about playing with Holiday.

“Jrue’s a great player, a great person,” Tatum said, according to NBC Sports Boston. “I had the honor of being a member of the same Olympic team two years ago.” We were awarded a gold medal. He’s obviously won a title, and he’s as well-liked in this league as anyone else.

Just the way he carries himself and plays on both sides of the field. [We’re] extremely blessed to have him.”

Jaylen Brown, Tatum’s co-star, also praised Jrue and expressed excitement to play with the 2021 champion.

“Jrue is fantastic,” Brown exclaimed. “I have a lot of regard for Jrue as someone I’ve had to protect.

“You can sense the ferocity with which he plays. He’s just really steady. He’s an opponent. He’s a murderer.”

Holiday won his second All-Star selection last season, and in addition to being a terrific defender, his offense is also a weapon.

On 47.9 percent shooting and 38.4 percent from deep, the 33-year-old averaged 19.3 points, 7.4 assists, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 steals a game.

Boston veteran Al Horford praised the team’s other notable recruit, Kristaps Porzingis.

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“It’s pretty unbelievable watching him go through workouts and play,” said Horford.

“I’ve played against him over the years, but when you look at him, he’s really 7-foot-3.” Perhaps even a little taller.”

 

Since adding Holiday to the roster, the Celtics have shot to tied title favorites in the betting markets with the Bucks.

This offseason has seen a lot of movement, particularly among skilled veterans, which could make for an exciting NBA season. Bring it, October 24th.