Grant and Marcus: Reasons I withdraw my "Finesse Team only" tag from Celtics

Grant Williams didn't score a point as all three of his shot attempts missed the mark, but he made his presence known. In his 23 minutes of floor time, he bellied up to Joel Embiid and - despite the Philly big man's 30 points, 13 boards and four blocks - made life difficult for the reigning MVP.

Marcus Smart did put some points on the board (15 of them), adding three rebounds, four assists and three steals, and he was everywhere on the court at both ends. The Wolverine also spent time in the ditch guarding Embiid and fared well, despite the height disparity.

Celtics Grant Williams gets face stomped by Joel Embiid 😳 https://t.co/lD1ov8PoiG via @YouTube
— Tom Lane (@CelticsSentinel) May 6, 2023

I have been verbal in the past about the Boston Celtics lacking mental and physical toughness. That has changed. Smart has always delivered in that category, but he is now joined by Grant Williams. Grant getting "curb stomped" by Joel was tough to watch. But the 6'6" center/forward left the game for treatment of facial (and perhaps dental) issues but returned to the battle with continued vigor - and toughness.

The Green displayed grit in their win in Game-3 - now leading the series 2-1. This was definitely a team win, but give these two street fighters credit. At least for now, I withdraw my "Finesse Team Only" tag from a crew that, at least for now, appears ready to seriously contend for Banner 18.

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