This encapsulation, Beyond the Arc: Decoding the Celtics’ Game-Winning Three-Point Strategy, is pulled with permission from this video by Nik Land.
The Celtics’ Three-Point Barrage
The Boston Celtics lived up to their three-point reputation in a recent game against the Phoenix Suns, nailing an astounding 22 of 52 shots from beyond the arc. While the Celtics are often labeled as a team that just heaves up threes, the film shows they’re strategic. When other teams give them space, especially a solid shooter like Al Horford, the Celtics strike. They aren’t just taking wild shots but are leveraging defensive lapses to their advantage.
Beyond the Arc: Decoding the Celtics’ Three-Point Strategy
To truly understand the Celtics’ success from beyond the arc, a deep dive into their strategy is essential. The Celtics often lure their opponents into playing with an inward focus, allowing players like Jaylen Brown to spot Al Horford without any defenders in sight. Once Horford gets the ball, opponents collapse, leaving someone open for an easy three-pointer. This smart movement isn’t just shooting from deep for the fun of it—it’s about calculation and using court space wisely.
Inside-Out Approach
Many fans may not realize it, but the Celtics’ three-point prowess usually starts inside. The team isn’t just living on the perimeter; by driving into the paint initially, they pull defenders with them. After the defense collapses inside, it opens up the perimeter for shooters like Derek White and Al Horford. It’s evident in moments where two defenders are drawn to one player, allowing Celtics players to circulate the ball around for an open shot.
Defensive Mistakes Favor the Celtics
Nick Richards and the Suns learned the hard way that leaving someone like Horford open, even momentarily, can mean trouble. The Suns often left gaps in their defense, particularly against key shooters. This lack of awareness gave the Celtics free reign for three-point shots. Players were seen with their hands down or out of position, providing the Celtics with the chances they’re always ready to pounce on.
Smart Plays, Not Just Random Shots
Despite some criticism, the Celtics’ strategy is not just about randomly flinging threes. They employ set plays like the “Horns” or “Spain PNR,” which mix in screens and off-ball actions to create good looks from the three-point line. With tricks like go-screens and flare screens, they set up open shots for players like Sam Hauser. This disciplined strategy disrupts opponents and opens up scoring opportunities, demonstrating the team’s thoughtful approach.
Winning the Inside Battle Too
It’s tempting for teams to focus on disrupting the Celtics’ outside game, but the Celtics can punish defensive lapses by striking inside as well. Smart ball movement paired with a little patience allows players to find open looks whether on the perimeter or in the paint. When struggling to close out on shooters, the Suns’ defense repeatedly gave up inside-out plays that led to wide-open shots beyond the arc.
Smarter Defense Needed
If teams are to compete with the Celtics, understanding these tactics is vital. The way they execute clever passes and maintain fluid ball movement pressures opposing defenses to keep up. As seen in their match against the Suns, any defensive breakdown becomes a golden opportunity for the Celtics to score. This isn’t about chucking endless threes; it’s strategic play making that wins the day, and without adjustment, opposing teams will find themselves falling victim to Boston’s long-range barrage time and again.
