The return of Marcus Smart signifies the end of the first half of the season. Will these C's finish strong, they better! In tonight's game we look to see how they can bounce back off the Bucks loss. Tonight's game sees the return of Al and JT who were off last night. Tonight during the game we will look at each player and their impact.
We look at one of the definitions of the word, Impact- have a strong effect on someone or something.
Jayson Tatum
JTs impact on the floor is immeasurable, it's being shown as he is getting into the paint and scoring. The more he uses that size to get inside the more dominant he can be. He is getting to the cup with ease off the dribble. He's the purest player I've seen in a while, especially when he's getting to the cup. He honestly doesn't need to shoot threes. If JT let's the three ball go, his game would be unreal. When I watch him drive and get to the rim tonight it's poetry in motion. Figures I complain about the three and he his a few!
Al Horford
Als impact is everywhere on the floor. He is playing very solid D. Hes going to need to clean up his three point shooting though. Al just took Jaren Duran to school! That's how you get to the cup! Al is teaching the young opponents the art of basketball.
Marcus Smart
His defense is felt all over the floor, hes getting his teammates easier shots out there. He's been doing it over the course of the year, and is finding JT in rhythm. He looks pretty good on that ankle so far tonight. Smarts defense right now is all NBA level! This is what we were missing when he was gone. Marcus has exceptional vision tonight, hitting the Unicorn in stride.
Malcolm Brogdon
Everything about his game tonight is beautiful. He executes the give and go like no one else. He's driving to the rim with ease. He's silky smooth like a beautiful Rhythm and Blues song! The way he makes this offense click is fun to watch! He comes off screens so effortlessly and nails threes with ease! He has been lights out tonight!
Derrick White
His passing continues to impress me, he tends to utilize the pass to move the ball in transition. He has a very high basketball IQ. The way Derrick comes off screens and scores is masterful. Love how he nailed that three. You have to respect the fact he's played in every game this season. He's one of my favorite C's this season.
Blake Griffin
Let's talk about Blake, he is starting to epitomize what a Celtic is. He's always ready to step up when called upon. He's shooting pretty damn well from three point land. He has done what's been asked of him tonight. Those are guys I want on my team.
Grant Williams
Starts off his night with a pure three point shot, when he's locked in watch out. His shot tonight is en FUEGO! Now if he can stop complaining to the refs that impact he makes would be even greater. I love when he's on, his defense has been good so far tonight. If he just plays ball and doesn't complain he's a huge asset especially in the playoffs.
Sam Hauser
He's not his typical sniper self, but the effort is there. He of anyone gives all he has out there. Lately his shooting has been excellent. The way he didn't give up on himself this season has been special to watch. Never give up on yourself.
Luke Kornet
Luke's defense tonight is very solid, he's where he needs to be. Luke is setting solid screens tonight. Getting to the rim, as a big should! Luke's impact on this game has been very noticeable. He very rarely comes in and doesn't contribute. I wasn't sold on him before the year, but he's become a guy I like to watch.
Game thoughts....
The first quarter seemed to go as planned. The C's were moving the ball very well offensively. Getting inside was a priority, they can dominate in the paint. Defensively they were solid, Marcus has made his presence felt.
The second quarter is showcasing how great MB is. The way he commands the floor is like a general. The Celtics ball movement right now is simply amazing. It's master class level right now! The Wolverine is exceptional on defense for this team right now. The key I need to see, is holding onto the lead at the quarter comes to a close.
This third quarter has been a bit of a rockier ride, as the Pistons have kept fighting and cutting into this lead. C's have gotten a bit too cute and are not executing like they should. The Pistons despite being a bad team always fight. Kudos to Coach Casey for getting the most out of them. C's need to match the Pistons hustle. C's have found their footing and are playing Celtics basketball.
C's spacing in this quarter has been really good, it's leading to some wide open shots. I wonder if there is a rhyme or reason to how Joe puts together his lineups. He tends to find very good mixes of players. Other times it boggles the mind. The defense has made the plays needed to secure this win.
As we head into the All Star Game, we have the best team in the league. The future MVP in Jayson Tatum and an entire team from top to bottom that wants to win. This is one of the best rosters the C's have had in years.
Bleed Green Celtic Pride
The Mr Hustle Award goes to Blake Griffin diving on the floor into the Pistons bench. I love Blake Griffin! I know Tommy is handing out Tommy points from Heaven!
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