BOSTON – Who knows if it happens, but the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors will be good enough to return to the NBA Finals next season.
Regardless, they will have an impact in the Eastern and Western conference standings. But don’t expect either team to maintain the status quo.
The Celtics need improvements internally and externally, and Warriors GM Bob Myers has shown a penchant for tinkering with the roster.
The way both conferences are getting deeper and tougher, especially the West, getting back to the Finals is not a given.
The East should be strong at the top again next season with Milwaukee, Brooklyn, Philadelphia and Miami.
The Celtics should be right there. They are in solid shape with players, salary, coaching staff, front office and resources.
President of basketball operations Brad Stevens and Coach Ime Udoka proved themselves more than capable in their first season in their new roles.
Stevens hired Udoka, traded for Al Horford in the offseason and for Derrick White at the February trade deadline.
More than any major roster moves, the Celtics need consistency. Their offense had highs and too many lows against Golden State.