“Statament. Made” (“a declaration of intent”, by translation). This is how the Boston Celtics define a brilliant victory. Of those that validate any candidacy. The 99-140 at Milwaukee Power, again, the ‘green’ options to revalidate the throne of the East and to be considered as top favorites for the ring. After weeks of change, at the right time the magic of a team as competitive as it was brilliant appeared.
It should be remembered that the This, and the NBA in general, experienced a tumult after the first months of 2023 and the All-Star break. The Milwaukee Bucks reached 16 victories in a row and changed what they had experienced since the start of the competition. The Celtics disappeared from the head, with some doubts related to the selection of shot, the success outside and a defense that despite being elite experienced complicated nights. The candidacy for the ring by crushing, compromised.
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But I changed. No one had ever knocked down Milwaukee with Celtics background and shapes. Giannis Antetokounmpo had only lost four games by more than 40 points -the first at home-, only three by Mike Budenholzer -the first at home-, and in defense they allowed 99 points. The Bucks had 33 in a row in more than 100. It is the perfect way to reach the ‘mata-mata’.
The Boston Celtics wake up on time
A perfect union between attack and defense, which once again takes the path of balance as the principal of Boston’s success. And counting on the inspiration of his two references, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Ten games with 30 or more points ‘per head’, something that hasn’t happened since 2002-03 with Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. And a Tatum lite, scoring 66% on the shot and without losing any balls.
At the right time, a few dates before the start of the Playoffs. “They have a certain bond and experience that makes you feel comfortable. It’s important to know that we both respond well to winning and losing,” said Joe Mazzulla, their coach. The assault in Milwaukee will be a turning point.
