I would not fall into the trap of simply running it back and they are automatic favorites. Boston exposed a weakness and that was Lopez can be exploited by smaller, more active bigs (mostly forwards) that can shoot and then switch on D.
Teams will spread you out and take a bunch of 3s. To some extent, Dallas does the same thing and Phoenix has a traditional big man in Ayton that got exposed a similar way in that series.
The game is evolving into a 3 and D league. If you can shoot, and at least make an effort defensively, you can win a lot of games.
With Middleton they have an elite 3 and D guy. Jaylen Brown and to a lesser extent Jason Tatum are the same, although Tatum is a better offensive player and Middleton is a better rebounder and defender.
While Pat C and Portis arenβt elite defenders, they fit more of the new age lineup I am talking about. The problem is they arenβt 30 minute a night guys. Not in the playoffs.
Thatβs where a guy like Harrison Barnes has a lot of appeal. You play Giannis at the 5, Barnes plays the 4, Middleton the 3, and switch out Pat C and Wes Matthews (if he returns) at the 2. Obviously Holiday is the 1 guard. Portis can come off the bench at the 4 or 5. You find another guard in the draft and see if you can lure in another big or PF.