This encapsulation, “Green Machine: How The Celtics Offensive Masterclass Dismantled Golden State” is pulled with permission from this video by Nik Land.
The Boston Celtics delivered a stellar performance to secure a massive victory over the Golden State Warriors with a final score of 125 to 85. This comprehensive win showcased the Celtics’ offensive prowess, which seemed to return to its optimal form. With 33 assists and 20 made three-pointers, 18 of which were assisted, the Celtics demonstrated excellent ball movement, significantly contributing to their triumph. Let’s delve deeper into the film to understand the standout plays and strategies that paved the way for Boston’s impressive win.
Horns Lift Pin: Utilizing Kristaps Porzingis
One of the crucial actions the Celtics employed was the Horns Lift Pin right off the jump ball. This play places players at the elbows of the free-throw line, with Porzingis executing a pin-down screen. This setup leverages Porzingis’ unique capabilities at 7’3″, allowing him to either curl for an easy mid-range shot or create mismatches. The two-man game between Tatum and Porzingis often led to effective pick-and-pop situations, enabling open three-point shots, reflecting Celtics’ return to cohesive offensive strategy.
Exploiting Mismatches: Posting against Curry
A key aspect of the Celtics’ strategy was posting up against Steph Curry. Initially, the execution of entry passes presented challenges, echoing previous games against smaller guards. However, as the game progressed, the Celtics persisted, thereby optimizing this approach. By exploiting these mismatches, particularly in transition, they frequently shifted Porzingis onto smaller defenders, leading to favorable post-ups and easy scoring opportunities.
Celtics Offensive Masterclass: Team Coordination and Spacing
The Celtics showcased remarkable teamwork and spatial awareness, particularly when it came to targeting favorable matchups. For instance, during possessions where Jaylen Brown managed to ISO on favorable matchups, the rest of the team, directed by coach Joe Mazzulla, moved intelligently to create enough isolation space. This synchronization often resulted in adept ball movement and open shots, underlining the team’s cohesive tactics.
Spain PNR Manipulations
Boston effectively utilized Spain PNR (pick and roll) to manipulate defensive switches. The Celtics frequently used back screens on the ball screener’s man, causing opposition defenses to falter. This execution frequently led to favorable matchups, allowing Celtics players to penetrate or take open perimeter shots. Such strategic plays consistently disrupted the Warriors’ defense, resulting in significant scoring opportunities.
High Screens and Adjustments
Setting high screens for Jayson Tatum was another strategy that worked to the Celtics’ advantage. Al Horford’s ability to adjust screen angles forced opposing big men like Kevon Looney to adapt quickly, creating opportunities for Tatum to drive down the lane effectively. This strategic adaptability showcased Boston’s ability to adjust plays on the fly to optimize offensive efficiency.
Out of Bounds and Transition Plays
Boston’s off-the-ball prowess was further highlighted in their out-of-bounds and transition plays. Utilizing UCLA cuts and manipulating stagger screens in sideline out of bounds scenarios, the Celtics were able to find advantageous positions to exploit the Warriors’ defensive setups. Such awareness and execution underscore the Celtics’ high basketball IQ during this matchup.
Teamwork and Execution
In summary, the Boston Celtics exhibited a masterclass in strategic execution and teamwork against the Golden State Warriors. The combination of effective set plays, exploitation of mismatches, and cohesive teamwork were instrumental in their decisive victory. This game serves as a testament to the Celtics’ potential when firing on all cylinders, with their offensive strategies being key to overwhelming any opposition they face.
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