Random Thoughts from the first half.
In the 75 year history both of these teams have never left their homes unlike let's say the Fakers. The Celtics have 115 more wins than the Knicks. Not to mention 15 more titles. They may be big apple, but we have made them look quite small historically.
The first quarter started slow but once Jaylen Brown got going, things changed. He was getting to the hoop, knocking down threes, and running the break. His turn around were sweet and his ability to elevate over the defense was nice.
Jayson Tatum had a slow start, with that said, offensively he played a more complete game. He was able to get teammates involved and played within the offense. He had a nice fall away, a sweet step back and a nice jam plus one.
Romeo, PP, and 3Smith all made impactful plays. Hustling, hitting threes and making nice passes. These three guys that were drafted by old friend Danny Ainge look like keepers. Marcus hit a few threes but still looking for the distribution on offense by him. Dennis Schroder, aka The Pest, was diving into the stands which Celtics fans love.
An anemic offense towards the end of the second quarter cost them the lead but only for a few. The D started slow overall but had it's moments during the first half. When they pointed out the famous Knick fans this writer was ready to say, who cares. A quick note: Julius Randle can ball.
Random Second Half Thoughts
The Marcus to RWill connection on alley oops is spectacular! Schroder has shown he can dish and hit the shots presented to him. Romeo knocking three's has been nice.
Third quarter defense and offense - where did it go? The Knicks outworked the Celtics most of that quarter. Very disappointing effort in the 3rd from this writers perspective, except for Grant's steal on Randle. You want to win, you play hard every play. That was not the case in the third.
Marcus Smart shot way to many threes in the 4th. Some very costly turnovers as well. His play was erratic at best in the 4th. There was no intensity from anyone in the fourth except for maybe Jaylen.
If Al Horfordwas playing today does that change things?! I fully believe so., His size and professionalism on the floor would have helped settle this team. Once again the entire team took way to many threes. There needs to be better ball movement going to the hoop, cut down on the threes please!
If Tatum is the star we believe he is, he has to be better come the 4th quarter. Same with Brown. JBs offense and effort were better than Tatum tonight. Brown had the most points scored by a Celtic in opening night. They both had good moments but also left plays and points on the floor.
The fight of this team to get it into OT should make Celtics fans proud. The shot selection and D in both overtimes was disappointing at times. Overall there was good and bad tonight. There better be a better effort Friday to get the win. It took the Knicks being at full strength while you were not, and Tatum had a bad shooting night. So let's stay positive Celtics fans!
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