The Boston Celtics have had a strong start to the 2024 NBA season, currently second in the Eastern Conference. Led by their young core of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics have been dominating on both ends of the court.
So, are they the team to beat in 2024? Let’s take a closer look at their performance and potential competition.
The Boston Celtics demonstrated their prowess on the hardwood yet again, highlighting their status as formidable contenders in the league. Their recent victory over the previously unbeaten Cleveland Cavaliers was a testament to their elite standing. With a score of 120-117, the game showcased Boston’s remarkable offensive tactics, particularly from beyond the arc.
Statistically speaking, the Celtics’ performance has been unparalleled. They’re not just leading the league in three-point shooting; they’re redefining it. Already this season, they’ve made a historic 287 three-pointers in their first 15 games, setting a new benchmark in NBA history. Average-wise, they’re sinking 19.1 threes per game and attempting 50.5, far surpassing the next competitor, the Charlotte Hornets, who record 44.6 attempts per game. This strategic emphasis on high-volume shooting stems from head coach Joe Mazzulla’s analytical approach, leveraging the inherent mathematical advantage of three-point shots over twos.
Mazzulla has reshaped the Celtics’ identity around this perimeter-focused game plan. While they might not have the likes of Steph Curry or Klay Thompson, the team boasts a roster with marked proficiency in three-point shooting, realizing the potential of every player in synched harmony. The success of this strategy is evident as the team’s spacing and coordination maximize shooting opportunities across the court. This strategic revolution owes its influence partly to the Golden State Warriors, who demonstrated the devastating impact of a three-point-centric approach during their championship run.
Last year, the Celtics were a powerhouse, creating headlines with their dominance as they consistently secured commanding leads and finished the season with a superb record. This year, however, has seen a shift. With 7 out of their 14 games categorized as “clutch games,” where the outcome was undecided until the final moments, the Celtics find themselves in a different kind of contest. This isn’t to say they’re struggling—holding a record of 4-3 in such games—and while their win percentage stands at 57.1%, there’s evident room for improvement.
Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, Jaylen Brown, and Sam Hauser have had sporadic absences, contributing to the inconsistency in synergy and performance on the floor. Fans have observed nail-biters such as the overtime face-off against Toronto, where clutch plays from Jayson Tatum were necessary to secure victory. Yet, having a hobbled yet potent roster indicates potential growth as players recuperate and reintegrate.
Boston’s knack for losing double-digit leads and allowing opponents back into the game highlights the necessity for stronger finishing performances. Conversely, the team has shown grit by overturning deficits against formidable adversaries like Milwaukee.
As the season progresses, it will be critical for Coach Joe Mazzulla to refine strategies, utilizing lineup experiments to unearth the most effective combinations. Despite these early-season tweaks and adjustments, the Celtics manage to maintain an impressive standing, wielding a blueprint imbued with victory instincts and adaptive gameplay.
What remains vital is steering through these close encounters without losing sight of the long term. The Celtics have demonstrated resilience in overcoming challenges, and this season’s experiences could strengthen their resolve, preparing them for the rigor of postseason play. While the current situation begins both promise and potential peril, it also holds the unique opportunity for the Celtics to forge even greater depth, cohesion, and familiarity — key factors that could define their path to contending for another championship.
While the Boston Celtics currently face fierce competition in the Eastern Conference, their championship pedigree keeps them firmly in the conversation as the team to beat. Here are three compelling reasons why the Celtics remain a formidable threat and a good bet to win the 2025 NBA title:
Jayson Tatum’s Rise to Elite Status: Tatum has consistently dominated the court, significantly contributing to the Celtics’ success. He has not only maintained high scoring averages but also increased his playmaking abilities, averaging a career-high in assists. This multifaceted performance enhances the Celtics’ offensive dynamics, providing challenges for any opposing defense.
Derrick White’s All-Star Potential: Often in the shadow of bigger names, White has stepped up his game, showing remarkable consistency on both ends of the court. His impressive stats, including key blocks and efficient scoring, make him an indispensable part of the Celtics’ lineup, enhancing overall team performance and resilience.
Future Strength with Kristaps Porzingis: Despite the current success, the potential remains for growth once Porzingis returns from injury. His skill set in defense and shooting will relieve key players and bolster the Celtics’ interior presence, preventing points in the paint. His return could redefine matchups, reinforcing Boston’s status as a top contender.
In summary, while the Boston Celtics have faced and will continue to experience challenges this season, their performance has been impressive. With a powerful three-point shooting strategy, gritty performances in close games, and promising potential with key players returning from injury, the Celtics remain a top threat in the league. As they continue to refine strategies and build cohesion as a team, it’s safe to say that they are still one of the teams to beat in the NBA.
