3 takeaways from Boston Celtics 102-93 victory over Pistons
Takeaway No. 2) The maturation of this Boston Celtics core
There were so many positive signs you can point to from this game and this whole last month for the Boston Celtics.
Let’s go through a few of the most notable improvements.
Marcus Smart has been an absolute general for the C’s, proving any doubters wrong that he is not a point guard or the point guard for this squad.
The grizzled vet has lowered his turnovers, become more of a pass-first player for Boston, picking his spots with better shot selection, and dissecting opposing defenses.
The defensive ace took all criticism of his offensive approach and used it as motivation to adapt to become the ideal leader with his playmaking.
Entering the night, Smart held the top net rating for any player in the league in the last month with +21. Against the Pistons, he only had six points, but he controlled the flow of the offense and set up his guys for success.
Another player, Robert Williams, has had a phenomenal season in his development. The big man is improving as a free-throw shooter, playing his role to perfection and blocking shots to his teammates.
The old Rob would swat shots four rows back for a highlight play. He is understanding the value of keeping the ball in bounds.
I always felt Timelord had an underrated passing game for a big man, and now it’s beginning to show with heady plays he makes to start the break and kick the ball out to open shooters.
The athletic center who was once playing too fast and out of control is now harnessing that energy and picking his spots.
Also, I do not want to count out the improvements Grant Williams has made as a shooter — Ol’ reliable in my eyes as one of the best corner three threats in the game.
The same guy that missed twenty-something treys to start his career, and had a rocky sophomore season weathered the storm.
Now, it is the Grant Williams apology tour. A majority of C’s fans that labeled him a laughing stock are eating their gym socks right now.