Boston Celtics: 3 keys to victory over the Chicago Bulls
Boston Celtics key to victory No.3) Slow down DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan has elevated his game to a level that is above and beyond expectations for the 2021-22 season. In his first year with the Bulls, the former Raptor and Spur star is averaging a career-high 28.2 points per game, 5.2 rebounds, five assists, and just shy of one steal per game.
DeRozan is a game-changer on a nightly basis and someone who can take over a game in minutes. For Boston to pull out the win, they must put a focus on the All-Star wing.
If DeMar gets hot, he can cook for 48 minutes and be the main factor in the final score. Especially with the Bulls missing Lonzo and possibly LaVine, this is DeRozan’s game to take over.
Expect Ime Udoka and the standout Celtic defense to throw a variety of looks at the Bulls on Wednesday.
Tatum and Brown are likely to see a decent chunk of minutes guarding DeRozan. It would not be surprising to see Marcus Smart thrown on DeMar for the bulk of the contest either.
The Bulls’ other guards are not real scoring threats, so Smart’s services could be best utilized on the stud wing.
Whatever the game plan is defensively, Boston has to key in on the all-around star, if they hope to pull away with a win. The playoffs are near, and this is a big test for Boston heading into May.