Hosam Kateb BOSTON, Massachusetts — It's official. The famed Boston Big Three era is now over. Ray Allen left for Miami last summer, which was painful enough for Celtics fans, but with Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce moving to Brooklyn, there's a dark cloud hanging over Boston. There is no doubt that all 3 future hall-of-famers are guaranteed to have their numbers retired and hanging over the court in the TD Garden. It's also important to note that Doc Rivers, arguably the best coach in the NBA, behind only San Antonio's Gregg Popovich, has gone to the Los Angeles Clippers. What does this mean for the Celtics? It's simple; the rebuilding phase has officially begun. There is absolutely no doubt that these moves are going to affect the Celtics negatively in the short-term. However, looking at what the long-term plan appears to be, Danny Ainge might be praised for this shrewd move. Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce are making franchise player money with the Celtics, which they were until the day they have been traded, and by moving them to Brooklyn, the Celtics were able to free up an incredible amount of cap space. There are also the three first-round draft picks the Celtics will get from the Nets in 2014, 2016 and 2018. These picks can be utilized in a number of ways. The Celtics may use them as they were intended: To get young talent that can help the team grow. But they could also be used as pieces to complete a trade. Teams are always looking toward getting draft picks, and this could be used to the Celtics' advantage. The most logical thing the Celtics might do is to simply tank next season and get a lottery pick.
Next year's draft class is filled with potential all stars like Julius Randle, Jabari Parker and most importantly, Andrew Wiggins. By getting to the lottery, the Celtics are able to acquire players that could help the Celtics return to championship contenders. I can promise Celtics fans one thing, the 2013-14 season will be painful, but the pain will be temporary. The Celtics have a plan, and if the plan works out the way they have it planned, then the 18th banner will be hanging in the Garden sooner, rather than later. — Follow Hosam Kateb on Twitter @HosKateb
