The Boston Celtics ran riot last night, crushing the Tyrese Haliburton-less Indiana Pacers by 51 points in a decisive victory. This leaves the Celtics as 1 of 2 teams in the league (along with the Mavs) to have started the season perfectly, up until this point. And even though we are only a week into the season, the Celtics have already established themselves as the clear favourites to come out of the East.
Their hot start to the season should not come as a surprise however. They have been one of the best teams in the East for a while now, finishing top 3 in the Eastern Conference for three seasons in a row. Though, the ease in which they have been able to dismantle teams- albeit mediocre teams- has been noticeable. In their last road game vs the Washington Wizards, the game was effectively over at half-time, with the Celtics jumping out to a 26 point lead mid-way through the contest. They then of course followed this up with last nights resounding victory at home vs Indiana. They scored 155 points. The second most in franchise history. Their premier shooting ability was vividly on display as they made 57% of their 35 three point attempts. In fact, in their last two games, they have managed to put up 88 threes, showing their ability to get high quality shots from three, at a historic volume.
This Celtics team have arguably never looked more fluid and it is clear their new signings Porzingis and Holiday are great fits for Joe Mazzulla's high intensity, fast paced system. They both have assimilated themselves seamlessly into Boston's offense, starting the season averaging 55.8% and 53.8% from the field respectively. And on the defensive end, their strong 1 on 1 defensive play, has suited Boston's switchable, man to man defensive schemes. As a team, they are averaging the most rebounds in the league at 52.3 ( no other team in the league is averaging more than 50) and they have the highest +/- in the league at 20.5. A truly dominant team on both sides of the floor.
Jayson Tatum, the teams best player, has really set the tone for his squad. In their 4 wins, he has averaged 29.8 points, 9.3 rebounds and 4 assists shooting 56.3% from the field. His shot selection from three also looks much improved. J.T has often been criticized for perpetually taking tough jumpers, but he is finding more efficient looks to start the season, hitting more than 40% of his shots from beyond the arc. It is still early days, but hopefully for him and his team, he can keep up his sizzling form and lead the Celtics to their first ring since 2008. Before the season started, he was my pick for MVP and after this week I am very confident in my decision.
The Celtics now embark on a three game road trip where they will play the Nets, Wolves and 76ers. I expect them to dispatch at least two of the teams relatively easily, using these games as 'warm up matches' before the in-season tournament starts. If recent form is anything to go by, they will be strong contenders for that competition as well...