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| Photo: USA Today |
In preparation for the 2015-16 NBA season, James Young spent the majority of the summer working on his body and one-on-one defense.
At the annual Celtics media day at the Celtics' Waltham practice facility, Young talked about gaining weight over the summer and how he's entering his second season feeling more confident about his defense.
"I just got in the gym and worked out harder," said Young. "This season is going to be special for the team and me. I just want it to be great -- got the gym every day, [twice] a day."
"Just to absorb contact from bigger and stronger guys, you can't just go in the lane and be at 200 points; you're going to get pushed over. So, you [have to] add weight, and that's what I did. I want to add more -- not done yet."
Young split his rookie year between Boston and Maine. He played 17 games for the Red Claws, averaging 21.5 points and shooting an impressive 44.2 percent from behind the three-point arc.
Young finished his rookie campaign with the Celtics averaging 3.4 points in 10.7 minute per game. While adding weight to his frame to improve the offense, Young says he has a better understanding of what to do on the defensive end.
"My footwork is a lot better," he said. "I know what to do now. Pulling over, communicating, everything is working a lot better now. I know what to do now. I didn't know then, but now I know."Celtics head coach Brad Stevens also discussed Young's progress at Celtics media day.
"He's really improved his defensive abilities," Stevens said. "His defensive awareness was great in summer league, and he's a guy that we know offensively has some skill and some talent. The other thing about James that I'm excited about is he's bigger and stronger, and he's only 20 years old."
Josue Pavon
Twitter: @Joe_Sway10
@CausewayStreet
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