The Boston Celtics are living the high life right now, cruising past the Atlanta Hawks with a commanding 123-93 victory. Jayson Tatum was on fire early, setting the tone with his impressive shooting. It’s a luxury to have a player like Tatum who can light up the scoreboard with ease. But the real story here is the depth and versatility of this Celtics squad.
Celtics’ Depth and Versatility
The Celtics’ depth is a game-changer. Even with Jaylen Brown sidelined due to a hip flexor issue, the team didn’t miss a beat. They started with a double-big lineup featuring Al Horford and Neemias Queta, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive. Queta, stepping in as a fourth-string center, held his own, proving that the Celtics can dip deep into their roster and still dominate.
Derrick White and Jrue Holiday were instrumental, providing stability and scoring punch. White, in particular, was a standout, contributing significantly in the second quarter. His ability to step up when needed is a testament to the team’s depth. And let’s not forget about Payton Pritchard, who came off the bench to deliver a solid performance, adding 18 points and showing why he’s a valuable asset.
Eastern Conference Landscape
While the Celtics are soaring, the rest of the Eastern Conference is struggling to keep up. The Cleveland Cavaliers are the only other team above .500, and the Celtics have a chance to make a statement with upcoming games against them. Meanwhile, teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers are faltering, giving Boston a chance to build a cushion in the standings.
The Celtics’ ability to maintain their momentum while other contenders stumble is crucial. Every game they win while others falter adds to their lead, providing a buffer for any potential setbacks. It’s all about building that early-season advantage and keeping the pressure on their rivals.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Celtics’ strategies and performances, tune into the Locked On Celtics podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Celtics Podcast:
- Jayson Tatum’s shooting performance and its impact
- Derrick White’s crucial role in the second quarter
- Analysis of the Celtics’ defensive adjustments
- A quibble with step-back 3-pointers
