8 takeaways from the Boston Celtics win vs. the Orlando Magic
BostonHerald.com
The Boston Celtics picked up a much-needed with over the Orlando Magic, 92-79. Things began to turn around after an ugly loss to the Bulls this past Monday. The on-court product may be looking better, but off-the-court news seems to be spiraling out of control. What are some of the top takeaways from last night’s loss and the off-court drama which surrounded it?
Takeaways from the Boston Celtics win vs. the Orlando Magic
1. This core has some issues
During the game, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported that the Boston Celtics held a players-only meeting when they arrived in Orlando. Unfortunately, he also stated that the meeting got “emotional” and was not “beneficial.” Al Horford disputed these claims after the win, simply stating that the meeting was more of a gathering than anything.
Regardless, this is news that should be worrisome to Celtics fans. After Marcus Smart called out Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown a few days ago, it has been clear that tensions are high. Smart said that the two stars need to pass the ball more. It certainly looked like the team was on the same page last night, but what happens on the court and what happens off the court are two different things. Only time will tell how these things play out.
2. Jaylen Brown is the center of the offense
Last night, Jaylen Brown put on another show for Celtics fans. He was absolutely unstoppable against the Magic. Brown finished the night with 28 points, five rebounds, and three assists while shooting 10-17 from the field and 3-8 from deep. His game was really highlighted whenever he drove to the basket. Whenever he chose to drive he was able to get a free layup, it seemed. So far this season, Brown has been the centerpiece of Boston’s offense. Until Jayson Tatum turns things around, expect that trend to continue.
3. Jayson Tatum showing progress
Jayson Tatum did not shoot the ball well once again last night. However, he did show some initiative in making plays for others. Tatum only finished with three assists on the game, but he looked much more willing to pass than in previous games. He was constantly trying to help set up his teammates. In addition, Tatum only attempted 16 shots last night. He clearly realized that he wasn’t having a good shooting night, and instead tried to help the team in other ways. With the way the season was going prior to last night, that’s a huge step in the right direction.
4. Marcus Smart looked great
This is another case of the eye test prevailing over the box score. On paper, Marcus Smart only had eight points, four rebounds, and four assists while shooting 3-8 from the field and 2-6 from deep. However, anyone who watched the game knows how much of an impact Smart had. His passing was on point all night long, and those four assists do not do it justice. Smart looked like a real leader out there last night.
5. Aaron Nesmith scored
Okay, this isn’t really a crucial takeaway, but Aaron Nesmith scored his first points of the season! Sure, they were in garbage time, but it’s nice for him to see the ball go in the basket. Maybe now he’ll earn some actual minutes.
6. Al Horford continues to be amazing
This is going to be a takeaway after every game, but Al Horford looked incredible last night. He ended the game with 12 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks. Every time the Magic tried to enter the paint it seemed as though Horford was there waiting for them. He even got involved on the offensive end a bit more. Horford shot 2-5 from deep and those seven assists were crucial. It was another phenomenal night for Big Al.
7. Effort on the boards
In their loss to the Bulls, the Celtics pulled down zero defensive rebounds in the fourth quarter. That number is absolutely unacceptable. Last night, it was clear that Ime Udoka spoke to them about crashing the boards more. The whole team was fighting for every rebound they could get their hands on, regardless of it was an offensive or defensive rebound. Robert Williams stood out in particular as someone who was crashing the glass super well. It was a great effort on the boards by the C’s.
8. Defense quickly fixed itself
Boston’s defense was not looking too hot in the first quarter. The Magic started off pretty hot from three-point land. However, as the game went on it did not take long for the Celtics to correct their errors. They quickly began to clamp down on Orlando, leading to a stellar second half of defense. Their efforts resulted in the Magic scoring only 79 points on the night.
The Boston Celtics will be back in action tonight. They will be taking on the Miami Heat, who are arguably the best team in basketball right now. That game tips off at 7:30 p.m. (EST) and can be streamed on NBC Sports Boston and NBA League Pass.
