Boston Celtics: 5 keys to conference finals vs. Cavaliers

5. Attack, attack, attack

During the 2018 NBA Playoffs, the Celtics have shot an average of 24.5 free throws a game, ranking third among all 16 playoff participants.

Getting to the free throw line is something all coaches stress to their players, as it gives them easy opportunities to tack on a few extra points, while giving struggling players the chance to see the ball go through the hoop, hopefully giving them some confidence.

Depending on the opposing team’s style of play, a large free throw total is a great way to slow the pace down, allowing one’s defense to set itself without fear of giving up easy points in transition, turning the game into a half-court affair.

An aggressive style of play should be the main focus for Brad Stevens and the Celtics.

Yes, the Cavaliers like to shoot a ton of 3-pointers, and getting into a shootout sounds fun and possibly useful, but the safer bet is to get shots at the rim and the foul line. It always has been.

Especially with home-court advantage, Boston’s aggression should be rewarded by the referees, as the home team tends to get more whistles called in its favor.

Getting to the free throw line would be especially favorable against the Cavaliers.

Cavs coach Tyronn Lue likes to use his veterans as much as he can, preferring to give his more inexperienced players more sporadic minutes, as they simply haven’t shown the ability to handle playoff pressure.

If the Celtics can get Cleveland’s veterans in foul trouble, it’ll force Lue to turn to the likes of Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr., giving Boston a favorable edge in both talent and execution should that come into play.