In this engaging conversation, Zack Cox, a Celtics reporter for the Boston Herald, dives into the team’s inconsistent performances, highlighting their troubling fourth-quarter struggles. He discusses Jayson Tatum's recent slump and contrasts this year's Celtics with the previous season. The talk also touches on potential ownership changes for the team and their significance. Additionally, Brian Barrett shares insights on the Patriots' coaching hires and compares the recent success of the Chiefs to the Patriots’ historical dominance.
The Celtics are struggling with late-game execution, having blown nine fourth-quarter leads this season due to turnovers and poor decision-making.
Defensive inconsistencies persist as the team often leaves three-point shooters open, heavily impacting their ability to secure wins in close games.
Injuries to key players have disrupted team chemistry and execution, forcing the coaching staff to adapt rotations while prioritizing player health for the playoffs.
Deep dives
Celtics' Late Game Struggles
The Celtics have consistently faced difficulties in close games, particularly during late-game situations where they have lost leads. This recurring theme has been evident in multiple recent matchups, where turnovers and miscommunications have cost them crucial points. Jalen Brown's late-game switch against the Rockets exemplifies a pattern of questionable decision-making, and even head coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged that he may have put the team in unfavorable positions. With a record of blowing nine fourth-quarter leads already this season, concerns are mounting about the Celtics' ability to execute under pressure.
Defensive Breakdown
The Celtics' defense has been under scrutiny, particularly for their tendency to leave opponents' three-point shooters wide open. The game against the Rockets highlighted this issue, as Dylan Brooks capitalized on these opportunities, hitting eight open threes. This defensive strategy seems to stem from an overreliance on statistics, which has led to a lack of aggressiveness in closing out on shooters. With significant reliance on defensive schemes rather than strong individual efforts, the Celtics are allowing poor shooting teams to find their rhythm, resulting in avoidable losses.
Injuries Impacting Team Performance
Injuries have played a critical role in the Celtics' inconsistent performance as key players like Derek White, Al Horford, and Sam Hauser have been sidelined. Missing key contributors creates a domino effect, impacting the team's overall chemistry and execution on both ends of the court. As the Celtics navigate through these injuries, the coaching staff faces the challenge of finding optimal rotations and strategies that balance player health with on-court effectiveness. The team recognizes the importance of having its core healthy heading into the playoffs, prioritizing proper rehabilitation over accumulating regular-season wins.
Christaps Porzingis' Role and Impact
Christaps Porzingis has been a focal point of the Celtics' offense, showcasing his talent since joining the team, yet it presents challenges in integrating him effectively. While Porzingis has delivered impressive individual performances, the Celtics have struggled to maintain their identity and peak performance levels with him on the court. The team must find a balance between leveraging Porzingis' skills and keeping the offense fluid, especially during crucial late-game situations. His ability to draw defenders could open up opportunities for teammates, but consistent execution and chemistry are necessary for success.
Chemistry and Team Dynamics
Issues with team chemistry have emerged as a concern for the Celtics, as they have struggled to replicate the cohesive play that characterized their previous seasons. The recent influx of injuries and the integration of new players like Porzingis have contributed to a disconnect on the court. Observations suggest that players are not on the same page regarding their roles and responsibilities, leading to miscommunications in critical moments. Finding a common rhythm and understanding among players will be vital for the team to regain its competitive edge moving forward.
Potential Trade Considerations
As the trade deadline approaches, speculation surrounds the Celtics’ potential moves to bolster their roster, but significant impact transactions may be limited due to financial constraints. With the current roster’s injuries affecting performance levels and depth, the management faces pressure to enhance team dynamics through trades. However, the uncertainty around how the team might adjust to new players complicates these decisions. The focus remains on developing existing talent and returning to peak form rather than overhauling chemistry through trades, especially with the postseason in sight.
Brian talks to the Boston Herald’s Zack Cox about the Celtics’ frustrating inconsistencies, which were on display in their loss to the Rockets on Monday night. They also talk about the differences between this year’s team and last year’s, Jayson Tatum’s slump, who might buy the Celtics, and more (0:45). Then, Brian discusses the Patriots’ latest coaching hires and what he thinks of them (41:00). Brian ends with some listener calls before he and Jamie compare the Chiefs’ current run to the Patriots’ dynasty (56:10).
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