Boston Celtics: 3 keys to victory against Minnesota

Boston Celtics key to victory No. 1) Bring the defensive dominance

It is no secret that the key to success during this second-half run has been the Celtics’ defense. Leading the league in a wide variety of defensive categories, Boston’s hustle and energy on a nightly basis have catapulted them through the standings.

As they prepare to face the highest-scoring team in basketball, that energy and hustle must remain alive. If the C’s are caught taking plays off, the T-Wolves will make them pay.

More than any other team in the NBA, Minnesota will not hesitate to shoot the three. So the Celtics must remain active and efficient with their switches. Robert Williams III and Al Horford are not going to be able to sag off their guys as much, with Karl Anthony-Towns becoming one of the best shooters in the NBA as a big.

His ability to stretch the floor makes it incredibly difficult for teams to match up with the Wolves. If there is one team that can do it, it’s the C’s.

Horford and Grant Williams have been well above average defenders this season, even when asked to step out and contest threes. Rob Williams III shot-blocking dominance helps them match up with KAT in the paint.

The energy and hustle of the league’s top defense must remain intact if Boston wants to hold off the Timberwolves from a big scoring output.