The Celtic’s play as of late has been disappointing. Lack of defense is costing the 2021 Celtics. Any chance of a top seed in the NBA East is quietly dwindling before our eyes. If there is a bright spot, it’s the healthy return of Kemba Walker. Walker recently came off his best effort in a win over Indiana. In this post, we will evaluate three why the Celtics are struggling.
Brad Stevens Coaching Style Has Been Questionable
Head coach Brad Stevens is being criticized for his lack of toughness with the players. Fans and the media question Steven’s toughness with his veteran players such as Jayson Tatum.
Tatum has been up and down with his play this season. One night he’s on, the next night he’s off. Trade rumors are surfacing. If the Celtics do not put together a winning streak, the road may get a little bumpier for Brad Stevens.
In any event,the the club needs to tighten up and close out games. Overall,the team has blown leads to the Pelicans and have fallen off the top of the NBA East.
Playing Soft Defensively
As a whole, the organization ranks 16th in the league defensively. Last season they were one of the best defensive units in the NBA. Losing large leads against weaker teams has hurt them. The confidence has slipped. The Celtics need to get back to fundamentals and start to regain some ground they lost in the East.
The tough defense is what kept the Celtics deep in last year’s playoff run. Closing out games has been an issue. Forward, Jayson Tatum needs to get his confidence back. The only consistent player has been star forward Jaylen Brown.
Team Needs To Improve In The Shooting Department
This season the Celtics rank 12th in shooting with 358% from the 3 point area. With Kemba Walker getting healthier, time will tell. But overall, the club has been inconsistent. Guard Marcus Smart will be out for quite some time. Rookie Payton Pritchard has been piling up considerable minutes as a two_ guard.
Conclusion
With 35 games left, time is on the Celtics side. Kemba Walker is getting better with each game. If the team can stay healthy and Marcus Smart returns soon a deep playoff run is possible.
