After the disappointing performance in Game 2 in Atlanta and already being down 2-0, it was imperative for the Boston Celtics to make some adjustments in their approach to the game. Brad Stevens made a couple of brave moves that led to a much needed victory in Game 3. His decision to start Evan Turner and Jonas Jerebko instead of Marcus Smart and Jarred Sulinger respectively, was quite bold but proved to be quite effective.
Turner and Jerebko, along with Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder and Amir Johnson, have never started a game together before. In fact they have been on the court at the same time for just 33 possessions all season long, as coach Stevens mentioned. Nevertheless it proved to be successful.
Jonas Jerebko was a big key for Stevens’ game plan. He brought up tons of energy on both ends of the floor and he set the tone right away with a putback dunk after a missed shot early in the game. Jerebko’s shooting ability makes him quite valuable for the Celtics offense, as he provides floor spacing and more room for his teammates.
Isaiah Thomas was the main beneficiary from his presence as he found more room to attack the rim and was constantly in the right spots to take good shots. It’s not a coincidence that he had a career high with 42 points on 12-24 shooting. Jerebko was also crucial in defense as his quick feet and lateral movement helped him stay in front of Atlanta’s speedy guards Jeff Teague and Dennis Schroder when switching after a screen. It’s quite possible that we will see more small ball Celtics during the rest of the series with Crowder and Jerebko at 4 and 5 respectively in order to switch almost all screens on the floor.
Evan Turner played a lot with the ball in his hands, something that helped I.T. as well. Turner scored 16 points, dished seven assists and recorded five steals in a much needed performance for him and for the Celtics. His ability to make tough baskets and many of them in crucial moments helped Boston to stay at the top of the game when the Hawks made their comeback.
Next: Preview: Celtics vs Hawks Game 4
Atlanta is one of the best defensive teams in the NBA and has really stopped Boston’s transition game in these three game so far. It’s much tougher for the Celtics to run their half-court offense against a stiff defense like this. This new lineup we saw on Game 3 provides more spacing and helps guys like Thomas and Turner to attack the basket. Celtics will also need Jae Crowder to step up his game and become the 3-and-D player he was all season long, as he will provide an extra option in the offense and an extra outside threat in order to space the floor. Containing Paul Milsap and Al Horford like they did last game is not going to be easy again, so the Celtics will have to be ready with a plan. Let’s see if this lineup is the best option for Brad Stevens in the series.