James Young's rookie season was mostly spent in Maine, dominating the D-League. When he wasn't there, the 18-year-old sat on the Boston Celtics' bench, far out of Brad Stevens' rotation.
But his sophomore season is poised to be very different. Young looks bigger, stronger and more capable of playing a large role for the playoff-hungry Celtics. Here's what Stevens recently had to say about the Kentucky product, per the Boston Herald:
“Yeah, I mean way different just from a physical standpoint. He’s bigger, stronger. I think he’s got a much better feel for how the game is played. I think he has a much better understanding of where he can be impactful on both ends. I’m encouraged by his play, and I’m intrigued to see him play. There’s been good competition amongst our young guards in there, and I think that’ll only continue. I actually wish we had 10 days of practices and two days of games.”
If Young can come in and provide some much needed outside shooting, it could add a whole new dimension to Boston's offense. He'd work great beside Isaiah Thomas, spotting up from the corners and spacing the floor as the little guy needles his way to the rim.
The Celtics obviously want to eventually expand Young's role, but if he can knock down open threes next year that should be more than enough.
(h/t: Boston Herald)
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports
