Ime Udoka had the Celtics playing with effort and purpose in a preseason game against a team projected to headline the lottery, something we did not see on a game-to-game basis last season.

Let’s look at some key performers from the meaningless but riveting first outing from the Boston Celtics, beginning with their best player.

Boston Celtics SF/PF Jayson Tatum

Jayson Tatum looked terrific in his first game back with the Boston Celtics. If Jayson Tatum wants to take his game and the Boston Celtics to the next level, he needs to back up his words about getting to the rim.