The positive progress is Brad Stevens has finally shifted his lineups to insert some better defenders among the top offensive talent. Moving forward I’m anxious to see how the Celtics will perform against stiffer competition and whether Stevens can afford to keep bringing a plus $30 million dollar star off the bench (Gordon Hayward).
Also concerning is Al Horford seems to have regressed and the fact Jaylen Brown isn’t just struggling offensively, but every single shooting category is down. In both cases, the issues may all be tied to dealing with injuries. Brown specifically may also be adjusting to figuring out his rhythm and timing in his new role.
I still think this is the team likely to contend with the Raptors at season end, but there are definite concerns to keep an eye on.
And...Lowe Post podcast: The GOAT Jackie MacMullan takes us inside her story on Jaylen Brown's early-season struggles, Boston's chemistry issues, the team's new starting 5, Kyrie as leader, the pursuit of Anthony Davis, more: https://t.co/ygsM31oN4x
— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) December 12, 2018
Boston Celtics:
Offensive Rating: 14th
Defensive Rating: 3rd
Net Differential: 2nd
Points per game: 111.5 (tied 12th)
Offensive field goal efficiency: 45.4 percent (18th)
Opponent points per game: 104.1 (4th)
Opponent field goal efficiency: 44.0 percent (3rd)
3-Point percent: 36.3% (6th)
Opponent 3-point percent: 32.5% (3rd)
Record: 5th in EC
Home: 9-3
Road: 9-8
Back to back sets: 6
Versus the East: 13-6, 5th in EC
Versus the West: 5-5
Week nine 3-1: Wins vs. Pelicans, @Wizards, Hawks. lost vs. @Pistons
On tap for week 10: Suns, Bucks, Hornets