Boston Celtics: 3 takeaways from stellar Game 4 drubbing of Miami

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 23: Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics reacts from the bench against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter in Game Four of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Finals at TD Garden on May 23, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

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Boston Celtics Jayson Tatum (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Boston Celtics takeaway No. 2) Attacking the basket

The Boston Celtics upped their level of intensity and aggressiveness in Game 4 right from the opening tip-off. They ended up shooting a whopping 38 free throws, making 32 of them, as they were rewarded for their drive-and-kick-centered offense, creating constant mismatches on the perimeter.

When Jayson Tatum sees defenders such as Kyle Lowry, Max Strus, and Gabe Vincent on him, he knows he has the physical advantage. With a quick first step, he can make his way into the lane and force a foul. He ended up getting to the line 16 times on Monday night, while the team visited the charity stripe 26 times in the first half alone.

Though they couldn’t hit consistent shots throughout the majority of the game, the Celtics’ constant attack gave them enough sustained offense to keep the lead. The Heat play an insanely aggressive defense, especially P.J. Tucker with his matchups on both Tatum or Jaylen Brown, and Boston can take advantage of that.

With the Heat running a lineup of Lowry, Strus, Butler, Tucker, and Adebayo, the Celtics will always have the size advantage. Tucker is just as strong as anyone for his size, but the pure length of Horford and Robert Williams should dominate on the offensive glass each and every game.

That leads to further second chance opportunities and even more free throws for an aggressive Boston team.

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