As a Rozier supporter, one thing I want to remind some of you about is how badly some players, especially guys coming off their rookie deals, play in contract years. Think back to Marcus Smart a year ago — shooting at career-worst levels, having outbursts on the sidelines, and injuring himself punching a hotel mirror or picture frame — much of the board here couldn’t wait to see him go. This year, contract in hand, even if it might have been less than he hoped, he was a model citizen playing the best basketball of his career.
Compound that stress with the fact that his role was being reduced not due to his own play, frequent trade rumors, and the general malaise of the team, and it’s not all that surprising we didn’t see the best of Rozier as a player or as a teammate. I expect him to rebound if he’s signed to a long-term deal getting paid starter money. I would be concerned with a QO or two-year deal.
Relatedly, I hope Jaylen is extended this summer, so we don’t have yet another young, key Celtic stressing about basketball business all season.