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Boston Celtics: 5 keys to contending in 2017-18

By Tevin Williams

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 1: Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward pose for a picture holding their jerseys before their introduction as Boston Celtics on September 1, 2017 at the TD Garden 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 1: Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward pose for a picture holding their jerseys before their introduction as Boston Celtics on September 1, 2017 at the TD Garden 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images
Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images /

1. Finish in the top five in opponent fast break points

As mentioned earlier, the Boston Celtics lost Bradley and Crowder over the summer. Parting ways with two great perimeter defenders will make it tough for Boston to improve on its 12th-ranked defense.

The Celtics also lack shot-blocking. They finished 23rd in the NBA in blocked shots per game and they didn’t add the personnel to improve on that mark. Marcus Morris averaged just 0.3 blocks per game and a 31-year-old Al Horford is unlikely to improve on his 1.3 blocks a game.

And finally, the Celtics are a poor rebounding team. They averaged just 42.0 rebounds a game last season, finishing 27th in the league. Al Horford led the team in rebounds, averaging just 6.8 a game.

Because of these factors, it’s imperative that the Celtics play great transition defense. They can’t afford to lose the battle in rebounds, allow shots at the rim, and give up easy fast break points. Those are too many obstacles to overcome in order to beat the beasts of the East.

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The Celtics need to send almost everyone back on defense after a missed shot, because they don’t have a good shot at collecting a lot of offensive rebounds. Having the ability to contest every shot and not allow uncontested dunks will help some of Boston’s defensive deficiencies. That’s why they need to finish among the top five in opponent fast break points.

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