5 reasons the Boston Celtics can win 2022 NBA Championship

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 16: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks on in the fourth quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on March 16, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 16: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks on in the fourth quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on March 16, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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Celtics playoff predictions, Ime Udoka
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 24: Ime Udoka head coach of the Boston Celtics directs his team against the Brooklyn Nets during the first half at Barclays Center on February 24, 2022 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images) /

1. The Celtics team defense is elite

Udokla’s crowning achievement this season is building the best defense in the NBA. Only giving up 104 points per game is the best mark in the league and it’s easy to understand why when watching the Celtics on a regular basis.

It’s fair to point out that Boston has some outstanding individual defenders, but the scheme is a big part of the team’s defensive success as well. Remember, Schroder has played a ton of regular-season minutes for this team and the Celtics have still managed to post elite defensive numbers.

Smart keys things with his aggression at the point of attack while Tatum and Brown use their athleticism and length to shrink the floor from the wing. When Williams is healthy he polishes things off by contesting shots at the rim and securing the defensive rebound.

dark. Next. 5 reasons why the Warriors can win the 2022 NBA Title

That philosophy will need to shift a bit in the early rounds with Al Horford and Grant Williams manning the center position. Don’t expect it to stop Boston’s defensive effectiveness. This group knows how to play together and force tough shots. The unit’s defensive cohesion is the biggest reason why Boston has a chance to surprise the league and capture another NBA title this season.