5 Advantages Celtics have over every other East team
By Tyler Watts
4. Rebounding
The addition of Porzingis also made the Celtics the best rebounding team in the NBA. They were in the top ten in 2022 and 2023, but no franchise is grabbing more than their 47.4 per game. Boston averages 1.9 more defensive rebounds each night than the second-ranked Milwaukee Bucks.
Hitting the glass matters. The Celtics create extra possessions by limiting the opposition to one shot and grabbing offensive boards. In a tight contest having two or three additional field goal attempts can be the difference.
Boston uses a committee approach on the glass. Jayson Tatum leads them with 8.5 per game, but he ranks just 28th in the NBA. The Celtics have five players averaging over five each night, and that leaves out Derrick White who grabs nearly four per game. They are going to hit the glass, and Boston is determined to win the rebounding battle.
Having size and rebounding could force teams to match up in the playoffs. Most want to go small and spread the floor. The Boston Celtics don’t need to downsize. Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford are both plus shooters at the five, and the franchise is loaded with top-end guard and wing talent. Good luck getting an edge on Boston on the glass, and their rebounding will win them a playoff game or two.