In the aftermath of their Game 2 defeat against the Miami Heat, the Boston Celtics embarked on a crucial mission as they ventured to South Beach for Game 3 on Saturday night.
Miami’s barrage of 23 three-pointers in Game 2 left the Celtics reeling, prompting questions about their defensive strategy.
However, Celtics’ head coach Joe Mazzulla downplayed the notion of major tactical adjustments. Instead, he attributed their Game 3 success to heightened intensity and toughness.
“Adjustments—it’s a loaded term, especially this time of year,” Mazzulla remarked. “We didn’t overhaul our game plan. We simply played with more grit. We imposed our physicality and dictated the game’s tempo.”
The Celtics’ defensive resurgence limited the Heat to just 84 points in Game 3, a stark improvement from their previous performance.
A combination of improved screen navigation and increased physicality enabled the Celtics to return to their regular-season defensive form.
From Payton Pritchard’s tenacious defense to Kristaps Porzingis’ imposing presence in the paint, the Celtics showcased a collective defensive effort.
“Individual and team defense were paramount,” Mazzulla emphasized. “Players like Jrue Holiday set the defensive tone, while others like Jayson Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford made significant contributions.”
Despite a sluggish offensive start, the Celtics’ defensive prowess laid the groundwork for their victory.
Their dominant defensive showing, highlighted by a stout first quarter, allowed them to seize control of the game early on.
“I wouldn’t call it ugly, just physical,” Mazzulla remarked. “We battled it out, missed some shots, but so did they. It was a grind early on, but once the game settled, we capitalized on defensive opportunities.”
The Celtics’ resolute defense propelled them to victory in Game 3, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive under pressure.
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