Boston Celtics: Player grades from C’s dramatic Game 1 win
Boston Celtics player grades – Jaylen Brown: A-
Jaylen Brown was mainly a non-factor in the first half, recording eight points on 3/8 shooting. However, he played well on the defensive end throughout while finding his offensive touch in the final 24, finishing with 23 points in 40 minutes.
At times, his ball-handling was a bit out of control, failing to make the correct pass. This led to some of Boston’s offensive struggles in the second half. However, down the stretch, he was simply magnificent, with this sequence highlighting his effort.
When the offense was extremely stagnant, Brown hit a huge triple to keep it within two points. Without that shot, the C’s don’t get back on track and lose the opening game.
He executed perfectly both on the quick two with 40 seconds left and leading the break on the final possession. Him driving on Goran Dragic made the Nets’ defense scramble, ultimately leaving Smart open on the perimeter.
Boston Celtics player grades – Marcus Smart: A+
It’s hard to have a much better game than Marcus Smart just had. He consistently picked up Kyrie at half-court, while also challenging Durant at the rim without fouling. He was named a finalist for defensive player of the year after the game, and this contest supported the voters’ decision.
On the other end, he finished with 20 points on 17 shots, hitting four crucial 3-pointers to build upon Boston’s lead. He’s always played well against Brooklyn throughout his career, and if he’s making his shots from distance consistently this series, it’ll be Boston’s to lose.
On the final possession, Smart likely shoots the ball right when he gets it, as he had a split-second to hoist up a 3-pointer for the win. However, he pump-faked, made the right decision in finding an open Tatum, and won the game. That decision isn’t made earlier on in his career, maybe not even earlier on this season. The final play shows the growth in both the Celtics and Marcus Smart.
He’s most certainly a point guard.