The Nets struggled to advance to the playoffs by beating the Cavaliers, who will challenge the Celtics in the first round. The US media made a detailed analysis of such a series, believing that the Nets rely only on Irving and Durant, it is difficult to defeat the Celtics with a strong lineup depth, and the US media pointed out that the Celtics have three major advantages and are expected to eliminate the Nets to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
The Celtics' excellent defense
While most people's eyes will immediately focus on a team's scoring ability, the Celtics' defense is the key to their success in the playoffs. Head coach Uduka has made some impressive changes this season, dramatically improving the Celtics' defensive ability. Uduka's ability to adapt to people, as well as a willingness to make changes when needed, is crucial to Celtic's season revival.
The Celtics' defense is expected to be extremely strong, with Horford taking care of the interior defense, who impresses as a basket protector while being able to expand to the outside if necessary. This type of defensive plan should work well against the Nets' offense.
Smart's impact on the defensive end is also commendable, as he is one of the defensive player of the year candidates. Smart hunted down opponents on the perimeter and tied for 3rd place in the NBA with an average of 1.7 steals per game. Defense did take a big hit when Robert Williams fell with injury a few weeks ago, and the big man also played an important role in the Celtics' plans, but some were optimistic that he could return before the end of the first series in the playoffs.
Tatum's continued maturation
There's no doubt that Durant and Irving have established themselves as NBA superstars, and there's an argument that Durant is currently the best player on the planet, and few have his shooting ability and height. But the Celts have their own superstar, and that person is Tatum.
The 24-year-old has established himself as one of the NBA's top scorers, averaging 26.9 points per game this season. After the All-Star Game, Tatum's average of points per game jumped to 30.4 points per game, and his 6-foot-9 height will have a better chance than most people in a game against Durant. If the Celtics want to qualify, they will need to make some superstar shots in this series, and Tatum may be the time to show his strength as a superstar.
Differences in team roster depth
The Brooklyn Nets have some solid role players, but for the most part, their game plan is to let Durant and Irving carry the team. Durant and Irving have to bear such a heavy offensive burden every game, which is a tough requirement, and any one of them who performs abnormally can lead to defeat.
In contrast, the Celtics have a variety of influential players who have played an important role in the team's success. Six players in the Celtics' current roster average more than 10 points per game, and White's addition before the trade deadline cemented their rotation. The Celtics are capable of playing team basketball offense, while the Nets are less capable of having enough people to come forward. You can never expect a basketball star to dominate the game consistently, but if the stars can cancel each other out, the Celtics should be confident in their chances of reaching the next series.
(Text/Drunken Floating Life)