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Kyrie Irving and Jayson Tatum carrying offensive load for Celtics

The Boston Celtics are 20% into the season with a 9-8 record - not what most of us expected. The defense is top-rated in the NBA, but it is the offense that falters. In the last six games, Kyrie Irving and Jayson Tatum have been carrying the offensive load.


In the last six games, Kyrie has averaged 32.5 MPG, 25.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 7.2 APG and an amazing 2.8 SPG - all while shooting 53% from the field, 33% on treys and only turning the ball over twice per game. If he keeps that production going, he will be rising in the Kia MVP rankings. Do yourself a favor, and take five seconds or so to watch Kyrie in action.


Sophomore Tatum has been doing just fine on the offensive end for the Celtics during the 6-game stretch. He averaged 31.5 MPG, 18.5 PPG, 6.2 RPG and 1.5 SPG. He is hitting 49% of his field goals and 45% of his 3-pointers during that same period. We are getting used to his drive-and-jams seen below.


For the same 6-game stretch, Jaylen Brown averaged 9.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG and only 1.2 APG on 34% from the field and 24% on threes. Gordon Hayward averaged 9.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG and 4.7 APG on poor shooting (37 FG%, 19% on treys), but his rebounds and assists were notable

Al Horford fared a bit better with 10.5 PPG, 6.3 RPG and 2.8 APG. He shot well on field goals (52%) but poorly on threes (29%). Think about this. Three Celtics starters average 29.0 points/game over the last six games. One starter on the Hornets, Kemba Walker, is averaging more than that (29.6 PPG - tops in the NBA) for the season thus far.

That is a sputtering offense that needs attention. Be assured that Brad Stevens will figure it out, and if by some chance that doesn't happen, expect Danny Ainge to step in with more significant moves.

Follow Tom at @TomLaneHC, @CelticsSentinel and Facebook

Photo via Matt Stone/Boston Herald


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