After dropping Game 2 at home against Miami, the Celtics had responded with authority in Game 3, in Florida, with a victory of twenty points and only 84 units conceded. In this second round, in Cleveland, they applied the same logic.
Disappointing in the second set, with “unacceptable” defense for Jaylen Brown, they reacted forcefully in the next match.
“We just tried to win, knowing that we didn't play as well as we wanted in Game 2. It was a great test, a good opportunity to respond, play better and play harder.”, comments Jayson Tatum.
And that was good since this reaction had to take place outside. We know this because the statistics are relentless: for three years, in the playoffs, Joe Mazzulla's players have not been sovereign in Boston, with a balanced record (14 wins and 14 losses), but excellent away from home with 17 wins for 7 defeats.
“We didn’t come to Cleveland for the weather”
“We need everyone to be on the same wavelength to make the right effort. That’s 85% of the battle”figure Jaylen Brown. “We come, we play hard as a group, and the rest will follow. We have enough talent in this group to beat opposing teams. But if we're not together, if we're not playing hard, we're in trouble. »
As soon as the Celtics are very focused on defense, life is easier. “Before the match, at shootaround, we talk to each other, we make sure we’re not there to joke”continues Jaylen Brown. “We didn’t come to Cleveland for the weather, so let’s go.” »
Donovan Mitchell shone, Evan Mobley did the job but, against the Boston defense, these two were alone (50 of 93 points). To take complete control of the series, the Celtics will have to do it again on Monday, in Game 4.
“It’s the playoffs, anything can happen, especially if we’re a little soft to start the game. We have to be even better and not think that this series will be like the previous one,” Jaylen Brown already announces. “We have to produce the same defensive effort in the fourth round. This is the urgency we need to have. »
