Post-trade Celts still #1 in East?- the ignored Avery Bradley factor

Avery Bradley vs. Gordon Hayward The ESPN Forecast panel had picked the Boston Celtics to finish number one in the East with a 54-28 record. The addition of Kyrie Irving and the loss of Isaiah Thomas and Jae Crowder may change that forecast. But in what direction?

Often forgotten in discussions of the 2017-18 season are the loss of Avery Bradley and his many contributions to the team's success. Danny Ainge loved and nurtured Bradley from his rookie year. Ainge traded him, in part, because he felt Avery lacked versatility. He is not a ball handler and has limitations as a wing.

Thomas was also traded, again in part, for his lack of versatility. Isaiah's comment on his upcoming contract (as per…