It has been a strange summer for the Boston Celtics, one that has made more than one (and two) prick up their ears at moves as unexpected as Jaylen Brown’s departure to clear the path for Paul George, and the signing of veteran pieces such as Mike Conley.
It has been precisely the arrival of the point guard that has focused part of the interview Brad Stevens, the Celtics’ president, gave to the Beneath The Banners program. There, he made it clear that he is genuinely satisfied with such an addition.
«People talk about veteran leadership and the importance of having players like that. My argument is that ‘good’ veterans are truly important. Players who fully understand where they are in their careers, how they influence victories, and what the right individual expectations are; and I think that is precisely what you get with Mike. Moreover, every time he plays, he continues to have a significant impact on the team’s results,» he says, before highlighting how he knows exactly what his role is.
«I believe that the balance between playing at a high level and not needing to play every minute of every game is an incredibly valuable asset. Usually, this is something reserved for players who have a good life perspective. And Mike has it,» he concludes.
Mike Conley, excited
Participating in the same program after signing a one-year deal with the Celtics, Mike Conley does not hide that for him it is truly special to be able to embark on this journey with one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises.
«I am very excited. It’s a legendary organization. I’ve been a fan of this sport for a long time, and the Celtics have always been at the forefront. I’m simply happy to be here,» says the veteran point guard, who last season played 54 games with the Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 4.5 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.9 assists.
