The Boston Celtics have been a force on the court, but there’s room for improvement, especially on defense. While their defense ranks eighth in the league, it’s not quite at the elite level we want. The good news? The keys to unlocking that potential are within reach.
Kristaps Porzingis: The Game Changer
Kristaps Porzingis is back, and his presence is already making waves. In just 22 and a half minutes on the floor, the Celtics’ defensive rating dropped to an impressive 92.2. This is a promising sign that Porzingis can help shore up the defense, particularly in the paint. His ability to challenge shots and alter the opposition’s game plan is crucial. With Porzingis, the Celtics can better protect the rim, reducing those pesky points in the paint.
The return of Porzingis also impacts the team’s rotation. Al Horford can now come in as the first sub, allowing for strategic pairings with Porzingis and Jaylen Brown. The double-big lineup naturally enhances rim protection, making it tougher for opponents to score inside.
Defensive Scheme
The Celtics’ defensive scheme is all about minimizing shooting variance. By running teams off the three-point line, they force opponents into taking more two-point shots. While this strategy has its merits, it also means the Celtics are giving up more points in the paint than we’d like. However, the numbers tell an interesting story. The Celtics are outscoring opponents by 21 points from beyond the arc, thanks to their own prolific three-point shooting. This advantage helps offset the points they concede inside.
Giving Championship Effort
Effort is another critical factor. The Celtics need to bring their A-game every night, especially as the reigning champs. Other teams are gunning for them, treating each matchup like their NBA Finals. The Celtics must rise to the challenge, understanding that they can’t coast through games. With Porzingis back, there’s hope that the team will ramp up their defensive intensity, knowing they have a reliable anchor in the paint.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Celtics’ defensive strategies, tune into the Locked On Celtics podcast for this and much more.
