#1 – Brad Stevens isn’t satisfied with the Celtics’ defensive level yet
In the second quarter, Brad Stevens shared some of his basketball insights during the NBC Sports Boston broadcast. While the game unfolded, Stevens’ running commentary on the Celtics’ defense was particularly telling.
Each time the Clippers scored at the rim, Stevens would mutter, “Hmm, another layup.” When Joe Mazzulla called a timeout after an open three, Stevens immediately approved, noting the defense wasn’t as sharp as it needed to be. After a layup by Ivica Zubac, Stevens commented again, prompting Brian Scalabrine to ask if he’d be saying the same if he were on the bench.
Stevens admitted the team isn’t at the defensive level he envisions, highlighting rim protection as a primary concern. He praised the offense for generating quality looks but reiterated that defensive consistency, particularly at the rim, remains the focus.
As they discussed the NBA’s evolving cutting habits, Jrue Holiday executed a timely cut, creating an open corner three for Jaylen Brown—a perfect example of how offensive tactics can evolve.
Hearing Stevens analyze the game in real-time is always a treat.
#2 – Kristaps Porziņģis restores some rim protection
As Stevens noted, the Celtics’ rim protection has been a weak point this season. They’ve fallen from 5th in the league last year to 24th, allowing opponents to shoot 69% at the rim before last night.
Against the Clippers, that figure dropped to 60%. While it’s only one game—and the Clippers’ offense isn’t elite, especially without Norman Powell—it showcased Porziņģis’ impact.
Drop coverage has been an Achilles’ heel for the Celtics, but Porziņģis’ return adds versatility to their pick-and-roll defense, allowing them to mix coverages and disrupt opponents more effectively.
Porziņģis’ length and agility brought the rim protection the Celtics have sorely needed. If this trend continues, Brad Stevens might finally see the defensive progress he’s been looking for.
#3 – The cuts are back
Last season, Porziņģis’ passing ability from the three-point line and the post unlocked key offensive options for the Celtics. Without him, the team has struggled to pressure the rim effectively, ranking 28th in rim frequency with just 25% of their shots coming in the paint.
Last night, the Celtics increased their volume at the rim while maintaining efficiency. Porziņģis’ return improved spacing, which…
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