5 reasons the Boston Celtics can win 2022 NBA Championship
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.
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.