The 6 foot 10 big man enjoyed a breakout campaign in the NBA last season, starting in 67 regular season games for coach Brad Stevens at the Boston Celtics. Baynes proved even more valuable during the playoffs as his minutes further improved from the regular season, starting 12 of a possible 19 games as the Celtics were eliminated by the Cavaliers in game seven of the Eastern Conference Finals. Perhaps the biggest surprise of Baynes’ season was the new found addition of a three-point shot, evident by crucial makes during the playoffs where he shot a staggering 47.8% from beyond the arc.
Baynes became a free agent over the off-season before ultimately re-signing with the Celtics on a two-year deal worth $11 million. Although the contract seemed a formality for both parties given Baynes’ strong season, there may be cause for concern for the 2014 NBA champion. Although he held a solid role and performed strongly, it’s hard to see Baynes retaining let alone improving upon his minutes and major statistical categories this upcoming season.
The most profitable moment for Baynes last season was the horrific injury to star free agent signing Gordon Hayward within the opening minutes of the season. Although they play completely different positions, Hayward’s injury forced a complete restructure in the Celtics starting line-up.
Intended starting big man Al Horford switched to the four in Hayward’s absence allowing Baynes to step in to the starting five spot in the majority of games. With Hayward returning from injury, expect coach Stevens to return to the starting five of Hayward, Horford, young gun wings Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, as well as superstar point guard Kyrie Irving.
With a bench role highly likely for Baynes barring injury, he’ll have to battle for minutes amongst one of the leagues best bench units. It’s easily foreseeable that Terry Rozier, Marcus Smart and Marcus Morris will all have more floor time than Baynes, perhaps second year forward Semi Ojeleye as well. He’ll also have to battle for centre minutes with German Daniel Theis who averaged 15 minutes per game before injury derailed the end of his season.
Although Baynes had a productive 17-18 season, it’s difficult to ascertain how the 31 year-old could potentially improve his output given a likely reduction in opportunity. Although the introduction of his three-point shot adds value to today’s NBA, Baynes remains a limited NBA player.
Baynes courage and ability to put his body on the line within the paint will guarantee him some minutes given coach Stevens’ emphasis on the defensive end of the floor. Although his minutes and major statistical categories may take a hit, expect Baynes to still play a valuable role in a Celtics team hoping to return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010.
Dan Boyce is a die-hard Sydney Kings fan who grew up in Melbourne during the roaring 90's of Australian Basketball and spent far too much time collecting Futera NBL Basketball cards.
