I think there is a complete unfair comparison with looking at Kyrie last season and Kemba this upcoming season, in relation to team and teammate success. I thought Kyrie was fantastic for most of last season, but grew too tired of the selfish play and lack of team cohesiveness on the court towards the end of the season. I still believe the playoff run without Kyrie and Hayward the year before, did more harm than good. Brown thought they were a shoe in to compete for titles for the next 5 or so years, and even had the nerve to ask Danny if this past season’s team was as good as the ‘86 Celtics. Brown, Tatum, and Rozier thought they were superstars and wanted to be treated as such, even though they weren’t close to that level. I’m hoping the failure of last season humbled Brown and Tatum enough, and they realize nothing is given to you.
I do like the fact that Walker, Tatum, Brown, and Smart have been playing together on team USA and getting to know each other. However, I do have some concerns that I hope don’t become a big deal. Will the bond forming between Walker, Tatum, and Brown on team USA make Hayward almost feel like a third wheel again? Will the relationship forming with Walker (and also just being on Team USA) make Tatum and Brown feel like they’re better or ahead of Hayward, which may cause tension again of who starts or comes off the bench.