Boston Celtics' Historic 3-Point Strategy: Championship or Curse?
The Boston Celtics' unprecedented 3-point strategy raises questions about their championship repeat chances as they set NBA records but face inconsistency.
The Onslaught Begins
Just 12 seconds into the season, the Boston Celtics signaled their intent. On October 22, on ring night against the New York Knicks, Jayson Tatum opened the game with a wide-open 3-pointer from the right wing. By the end of the first quarter, the Celtics had already hit 10 3-pointers, a precursor to their record-tying 29 3-pointers that night.
Record-Breaking Attempts
The Celtics' 29-for-61 performance from beyond the arc was a spectacle. Jaylen Brown, Sam Hauser, and Payton Pritchard all attempted to make league history in the final nine minutes of the game. Despite missing 13 3-pointers in that span, the Celtics' 29 3s matched the NBA record set by the 2020-21 Milwaukee Bucks.
A Season of Highs and Lows
The Celtics' 3-point strategy has been a double-edged sword. They recorded their 23rd game with at least 50 3-point attempts before the All-Star break, setting an NBA record. However, their shooting percentages have been inconsistent. After a strong start with a 40.7% 3-point shooting in October, their accuracy dropped to 33.8% in January, raising concerns about their championship repeat.
Impact on Performance
Coach Joe Mazzulla has emphasized the quality of 3-point attempts over quantity. Kristaps Porzingis acknowledged that shooting slumps have affected the team's defense and offensive decision-making. This inconsistency has led to a 8-6 record in December and a 5-4 start to 2025.
Statistical Insights
Advanced metrics reveal that the Celtics' shot quality worsened during their slump, with their qSQ dropping from 10th to 27th in the NBA. Despite these challenges, the team believes this tough stretch has contributed to their growth.
Reasons for Optimism
Despite the struggles, the Celtics' overall metrics remain strong. They rank fourth in scoring efficiency and have the NBA's second-best efficiency against top-10 defensive units. Tatum continues to excel, assisting at a career-high rate and driving the offense.
Looking Ahead
The Celtics' starting lineup, although dominant last season, has struggled this year, particularly from beyond the arc. However, the team remains poised for success, with a 10-3 record since January 20 and a projected 57-win season.
Conclusion
The Celtics' historic reliance on 3-point shooting has its risks, but it also offers significant rewards. As they navigate the season, they aim to balance volume with accuracy, hoping to replicate their championship success.
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