Celtics three goals: Kristaps Porzingis needs to bring his unicorn magic

Perhaps the biggest variable for the 2023-24 Boston Celtics season will be how Kristaps Porzingis meshes with his new club. He’s a former All-Star and his unique talents are likely to elevate Boston’s overall ceiling. There are question marks that come with Porzingis’ arrival, however, and he and the Celtics coaching staff have work to do to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Integrating any new player can take time. This can be especially true for a high-usage individual like Porzingis. His specific skills will demand determined steps to maximize his fit in Boston. And while Porzingis won’t be the only player in Celtics green looking to make meaningful improvements next season, Porzingis has a special chance to really make a splash.

For the purposes of this exercise, let’s assume good health for Porzingis. We will also have to ignore some of the baggage of the past, both on and off the court. So, what are three goals Poringis ought to focus on during his first season with the Celtics?

Find a shooting rythym

The 7-foot-3 Porzingis is among the tallest players in the NBA. And although he could have an impact on Boston’s interior offense, only 16.6% of his shots were at the rim last season. Even if head coach Joe Mazzulla encourages him to attack the basket a bit more, Porzingis’ most potent offensive weapon may be his 3-point shot.

That same height allows him to rise up over basically any defender, and Porzingis has been a consistently effective 3-point shooter since joining the NBA in 2015. Last year was one of his best in that arena, connecting on 38.5% from deep on 5.5 attempts per game.

Mazzulla’s offensive system is predicated on shooting, space, and decision-making. If Porzingis can maintain his stroke from distance, he’ll fit in beautifully with the Celtics.

Become a passing hub

Where Porzingis can really change Boston’s offense is as a passer. His ability to become a playmaker from inside the 3-point line changes the geography of the Celtics offense in a big way. Last year he showed off his passing prowess, and even if he only logged 2.7 assists per game, he was a key pivot point for Washington’s offense.

With the Celtics, Porzingis can do the same. If the ball can get to Porzingis somewhere by the elbow or nail, he can find a cutting Tatum or Brown just as easily as he can kick back out to a teammate for an open 3. Porzingis’ ability to shoot the ball and his size will mean he demands a certain amount of a defense’s attention while all of this is happening, too.

In the past few seasons, the NBA has seen play-making bigs become something of a focal point for how offenses run. Much like the Denver Nuggets and Philadelphia 76ers, Boston now has a big man who can pass, shoot, and drive, allowing for a completely different offensive look. (No, Porzingis will not be an MVP candidate.)

Go 'Godzingis' mode on defense

When Porzingis is healthy, he has the physical skills to be Boston’s best defensive player. His size alone are imposing enough, but he’s got quick hands and quick feet. What he gives up in muscle Porzingis makes up for with length.

If Porzingis stays home, that allows players like Jayson Tatum or Robert Williams III to roam a little more on defense, something that has brought the Celtics success in the past. At the same time, if someone like Al Horford is charged with protecting the rim, Porzingis can be the one to provide help in the corners or chase blocks.

Porzingis doesn’t have to be the top dog on offense, and he likely will serve a complimentary role to Tatum and Brown. Instead, Porzingis should serve as Boston’s defensive anchor, allowing his new teammates more latitude to defend at a high level as well.

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Story originally appeared on Celtics Wire