I think Thompson is the starting center, when he is ready. I think that is pretty easy.
Theis is a better defender and a better finisher.
And returning from knee surgery. Like Walker, I think the C's should take it slow with Theis. Thompson should start.
Not all knee surgeries are equal. This was a minor one to “remove a lose body”, and there’s been a full recovery.
I haven’t heard anything from the team about an impact on his playing time.
Good points about his post-surgery, though his knees are vulnerable. I would not bet on a long career.
I agree that he’s a better finisher and defender, too.
Theis is a mediocre rebounder. Thompson is better, especially on the offensive board, but he’s a long way from elite.
Theis’ big strength on offense is he’s an outstanding roll man. He became much more valuable to the Celtics last year when they revamped the offense to take advantage of Kemba Walker‘s pick and roll skills, but Daniel had great chemistry in the two-man game with Tatum as well. He’s just brilliant at running interference for a ballhandler.
Theis played pretty much exclusively center last year, and that’s likely where he’s going to stay. He has good length and anticipation, but he doesn’t have the mobility to guard most 4’s out on the floor, and on the other hand, he is an excellent rim protector and good pnr defender, so you’re not likely to see him on the floor with Thompson a lot.
I didn’t notice anyone mention Grant Williams in this thread, but he got a fair amount of his minutes – including fourth-quarter minutes - at center, due to his switchability.