Boston Celtics Search for Identity Continues After 93-90 Loss to the Magic

Celtics Searching for Better Ball-Movement

The Celtics displayed their trademark ball-movement for one of the first times this season, but are still in search of better execution.

The Celtics have been a disjointed group on offense thus far into the 2018-19 NBA season ; however, tonight they were able to regain some of their identity from last year, accumulating 21 assists on 37 field goals (12 assists on 19 field goals in the first half).

Gordon Hayward gave a glimpse of his versatility to Celtics fans through his underrated playmaking ability. With elite iso players like Kyrie Irving and Jayson Tatum on the roster, Hayward is able to provide a nice change of pace by being able to set up his teammates for scoring opportunities.

However, as the loss indicates, the Celtics ball movement was not enough as they repeatedly failed to convert on many of the open looks generated through their ball movement. The Celtics barely managed to convert on 41 percent of their shots tonight and only converted on 9-of-40 attempts from three-point distance, a trend that has continued from preseason.

The emphasis on ball movement was a step in the right direction, but too often in crucial moments in the game, the Celtics passed up too many good looks to make the “right” play. There is a fine balance to moving the ball to get a great shot and excessively moving the ball after working the defense for a good look.

As the season plays itself out, the hierarchy on offense will solidify itself to avoid these specific type of issues but as of now, it appears that it will be an issue for the Celtics.