I know that Stevens' system consists of (1) Handlers, (2) Swings & Wings, and (3) Bigs. And often Stevens only plays one big at a time.
Some people would argue it doesn't particularly matter that Boston doesn't have a big, strong, rebounding "4" to cover opposing players like Giannis, Blake Griffin, Siakim, etc. However, I would argue that this remains a huge question mark for the Celtics. It's why they were forced to start Marcus Morris. And it's one reason why the idea of acquiring AD seemed so exciting--because Horford could finally fulfill the "big, strong, rebounding 4" role.
So here's my question: Can Tatum fill this role eventually? Do we expect it from him next year?
As of right now, many people envision a starting lineup of:
PG-Smart/Rozier/FA signing
SG-Brown
SF-Hayward
PF-Tatum
C-Horford
If Tatum can't cut it at the 4, this means either Brown or Hayward go back to the bench, or the Celtics will once again have a rotating starting lineup depending on team match-ups.
Generally, I'm wondering what we can expect from Tatum moving forward? Can he guard big men? Or is that too much to ask of a skinny wing player?