The Celtics survive a tense finish against Toronto as preseason ends 110-108, with Brown exiting early after a left-hamstring grab and a cautious optimism around opening night. The injury underscores the season’s thin margin with Tatum sidelined in rehab and depth being put to the test early. Minot and Hauser provided needed energy off the bench, Tillman added late-ball control, and the rotation started to sketch how Boston might line up when everyone’s healthy.

Rotation chatter dominated postgame as Coach Mazzulla weighed 11-man looks, while veterans like Horford and Brogdon loomed in potential two-way moves and outside roster shuffles. The episode also dives into the looming Jaylen Brown narrative, the two-way slot questions, and a wave of roster tinkering over the next days that could shape opening-week strategy.

Knicks push pace and ball movement under Brown, slot Towns at the four with Mitchell Robinson anchoring the middle, aiming for faster, more versatile offense. Bridges anchors on-ball defense while Brunson works off-ball, and the bench mix—Shamet, Matthews, Brogdon—figures into late-season depth. Roster chatter heats up with end-of-roster decisions, Giannis trade talk, and health as constants as the club chases a deep playoff run.

Brogdon’s retirement frees the Knicks from trading for a veteran backup guard, preserving depth behind Brunson and keeping Shamet and Matthews in the mix. Brunson’s minutes will be managed and Robinson’s health watched closely as preseason gives signal for rotation. New York moves into the season with a steadier guard rhythm and a cautious path for Robinson, balancing star load with bench shooting.

Mike Brown’s Knicks experiment centers on faster ball movement, off-ball action for Brunson, and a defense built around zone principles. Towns at the four boosts size and shooting, while Robinson anchors the paint; Bridges provides scoring punch to space the floor. Preseason hints suggest a more versatile attack and a defense that may adapt quickly as personnel learn new roles.

End-of-roster chatter drives fantasy angles: Shamet, Brogdon, and Matthews could swing depth and cap space, with draft picks shaping future moves. Giannis trade talk looms as a hypothetical hedge, and Fanatics’ 20% boost on NBA futures adds a practical lens for season-long bets.