Didn't want to pick one disappointment or surprise...so I picked several.
Disappointments:
Hayward's leg injury less than 6 minutes into the season.
Suspected Kryrie would have injury issues. Looks like his knee may be an ongoing issue for the rest of his career. I'm not really disappointed. He's such a good player when he's healthy that I can live with it as long it remains minor.
I agree with the OP...Danny not signing a shooter at the trade deadline didn't help the cause.
The late season injuries to Marcus Smart and Theis.
Surprises:
There were so many of them...
Kryie's all-star ability and his pleasant demeanor. I knew he was a very good player. Didn't realize he was this good. His shooting, passing and ball handling are all in the superior range. After listening to some of his end of the season comments I thought he would be somewhat aloof and an oddball. Instead, he's articulate, supportive, relaxed and a great teammate. This took me totally by surprise.
Players I had either heard little about or had heard nothing surprised me with their good play; Baynes, Theis, Ojeleye and Larkin. Morris also impressed me a lot. Originally thought he was a desperation signing. Then, he started hitting shots and took on a great leadership role. These players provided the depth this team desperately needed to compete.
Jalen Brown's improved shooting, ball handling and confidence surely impressed me
Totally agree with the OP about Rozier....what a jump in his play.
The biggest shock has to be the play of Jason Tatum. When the Celtics traded the top pick I was angry. I wanted Fultz in the worst way. Thought Danny lost his mind. Now, I feel I would have picked Tatum over Markelle even if he hadn't lost his shot.
Danny picked up a legitimate player in Monroe. He's been on the CB "wanted" list for a number of years. Castoff from Detroit and Phoenix....he seems to have found a home here. Hope he stays.
The biggest surprise is that Danny pulled off all these moves and Brad and his staff molded this unique selection of players into a decent team. Kudos to both Danny and Brad. These gambles perplexed many of us before the season began. But, the season turned out to be a successful one so far. Too bad Hayward, Marcus and Theis got injured who knows how far this team might have gone in the playoffs if they had stayed healthy.
Players I'm neither surprised or disappointed with; Al....he's always good, Nader (he's looking better of late) and Yabusele (he looked good against Washington)