Boston Celtics in Need of More Bench Production

Celtics need a scoring punch who can ignite the second unit

The Boston Celtics losing two games in a row feels abnormal. While the team faces many issues heading into the playoffs, a major problem is their lack of bench production. While the playoff rotation will most likely be reduced, the Celtics still need an offensive spark to help relieve the starters.

It’s important to note that the Celtics have a very capable bench. If Marcus Smart was a more efficient three point shooter, he might be a name mentioned for winning Sixth Man of the Year Award. Smart along with Terry Rozier might be considered one of the best defensive backcourts coming off the bench. While Kelly Olynyk is a smart offensive player, his consistency has always been an issue. Even Jaylen Brown, who had an impressive February, slumped in the month of March. All-in-all, from an offensive standpoint, the bench has been underperforming this year.

In many crucial offensive categories the Celtics bench has performed below average. Their bench ranks 20th in scoring, 26th in three point percentage, and 27th in field goal percentage. It’s unfortunate that the Celtics do not have a go-to scorer off the bench as this would take some offensive pressure off the starters.

While teams are jockeying for the final playoff spots, the Celtics might have to square off against a very capable bench. The Miami Heat, led by Tyler Johnson and James Johnson, has one of most competitive benches in the league. Both of these players are in the mix for winning the Sixth Man of the Year Award.

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The Milwaukee Bucks have an all around solid bench with bonafide scorers such as Greg Monroe, Michael Beasley and Mriza Teletovic. Even the Indiana Pacers, who recently added the ferocious scorer Lance Stephenson, have a very well rounded bench and a very playoff ready team.

The Celtics have a very high chance of matching up against one of these teams in the first round of the playoffs. These matchup’s could present them with many issues as their starters will be forced to play extended minutes.

The Celtics are too reliant on key starters such as Isaiah Thomas, Avery Bradley, Jae Crowder and Al Horford. Their offense runs through these four players. This being said, bench production is crucial for the team to advance in the playoffs.

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While it is too late to experiment with new bench lineups, the Celtics might want to look towards signing for a bonafide scorer who can come off the bench.