1st Quarter
Tatum Needs To Be The Catalyst
JT came out nailing his first three point shot. He used his quickness to get to the hoop but just couldn't finish. He did look to distribute during the first, on a nice offensive set found Al for a sweet three. Tatum's ability to pass is very underrated. His shot still isn't falling as regularly as it should. He will need to carry this team tonight.
Defense played by Celtics equals fouls?
Early on the Celtics seemed to be very aggressive on defense, yet for some reason the whistles didn't stop, it was a conga line of Laker free throws. Midway through the first, the D didn't look very good and the Lakers went on a run. The calls were not as plentiful for the Celtics on offense.
Celtics trail 38-30, Josh Richardson came in and was a spark plug, getting into the paint, and nailing a huge three from the corner. Defense needs to play better or it could be a long night.
2nd Quarter
Dennis Schroder is an Asset
DS has endeared himself to most Celtics fans. Not only tonight, but game after game. He has lighting quickness which we saw to get to the hoop. The moment is never too big given his willingness to knock down shots from all over the floor. He's done that tonight in this second quarter. He's going to be a interesting FA come next season.
Total Team Effort On Both Ends
What we saw in the second quarter, was more of the Boston Celtics team! A cohesive effort on the defensive end, switches were crisp, hands were active and guys were talking to each other. Offensively we saw better ball movement, guys going to the hoop, and shots were hitting the bottom of the net! When they harness this kind of effort good things happen.
Celtics trail 61-60 after an aggressive second, they may have even upset and started to break LBJ, we know how fragile he is and this new NBA - and non calls is affecting his delicate play.
3rd Quarter
Defensively Stepping Up
The hard work from the second quarter continues into the third. Hands are up and active, they are getting back and hustling. The communication and awareness of where the ball is noticeable given the help and doubles teams. Securing rebounds and diving on the floor, is beautiful to watch.
Offense Coming Together
Plenty of contributors on offense in the third. JT came to ball, scoring at will. DS doing his thing getting revenge vs the Lakers. The ball movement, and overall work ethic was great to see. The way they played as a team is what basketball is. Smart and Al hooking up on an oop gotta love it.
Celtics lead 93-82 over the paper champions by outworking them on both ends of the floor. Celtics looked like the more cohesive team out there.
4th Quarter
The Wolverine
Smart's knack for getting inside and making shots was excellent. The way he found Tatum in rhythm out there was good to see. His constant communication with his teammates is what a floor general is supposed to do. Defensively he was grinding.
JT Man amongst Some All Time Players
On a team that has 4 top 75 players Tatum looked like the best player out there tonight. He did what you expect your star player to do. Going to the hoop, using his man strength! Getting to the line! He and the Celtics as a team played so well, The Lakers surrendered the white flag with four minutes left!
Celtics Win 130-108, a very impressive win given how they were down early and the refs were against them. BEAT LA! They beat them down! Bleed Green! Celtic Pride!
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