The Boston Celtics' transition defense is key against the 76ers
· Yahoo Sports
The Boston Celtics transition defense has been tested during the first three games of their first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers. Both Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe are a blur in the open court, with both guards capable of getting to their spots at will. As such, the Celtics have found themselves scrambling in the open court, which at times can lead to some additional foul calls as they try to shut down any easy lanes to the rim.
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Boston's half-court defense is one of the best in the NBA. Therefore, it makes sense that Nick Nurse is looking to counter that by using the open court as much as possible. It's hard to shut down a drive and kick offense when you're still scrambling to get to your matchup early in the shot clock.
During a recent news conference, Neemias Queta discussed the Sixers transition-based offense, detailing the pressure it can generate and why the Celtics have to remain locked in.
"They're, they're really good when they get stops, and they get, get out in transition," Queta said. "They get to hit those layups, dunks, whatever. I think it starts with us, like our shot selection, being able to crash, being able to get stops. And I think, I think those things are what we need to rely on."
Boston's transition defense has steadily improved throughout the season. They're a reliable unit in the open court and often cause havoc in the passing lanes. Nevertheless, keeping pace with Maxey and Edgecombe isn't easy. Nevertheless, if Boston can make the most of its offensive possessions and limit the amount of transition opportunities that come Philadelphia's way, it should be in a strong position to win game four and move within one win of booking a spot in the second round.
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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: The Celtics' transition defense is key against the 76ers