Almost halfway into the season, it looks like the Boston Celtics have finally found a rhythm to propel them higher in the Eastern Conference. They destroyed the Orlando Magic on Sunday night, 116-83 for their fifth straight win and move up to no. 8 with a 30-25 record.
The hiring of coach Ime Udoka was expected to make the Celtics a defensive squad. Udoka was known for his defensive acumen during his playing years, and many hoped it will rub on Jayson Tatum and company. While it hasn't always been displayed, Udoka boasted of their defense after beating the Magic (via ESPN).
“It's suffocating, at times, with our size and versatility. We've got big wings, versatile bigs, and a pit bull for a point guard (in Marcus Smart). There's no real weakness out there or anybody to pick on. This is what we envisioned and it's coming to fruition now that we have some consistency with our lineups.”
Udoka's description of Smart is on the money. The 27-year-old guard has always been the Celtics' defensive anchor. He's one of the most competitive guys in the NBA and gets fueled by locking down the opposing team's best player.
Smart doesn't hold back as well when calling out his teammates when they lack effort on the defensive end. He may be passionate to a fault, but Smart said he just wants to win, especially with the talent the Celtics have.
“I'd say before the season, with the way our team was structured, we had a defensive group. This is what we imagined when we started.”
The Celtics will look to extend their hot streak on Tuesday against the Brooklyn Nets.
Follow Us
Subscribe