Boston Celtics: 3 reasons this is still a team to fear in the playoffs

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 24: Marcus Morris #13 Kyrie Irving #11 and Terry Rozier #12 of the Boston Celtics high five against the San Antonio Spurs on March 24, 2019 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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2. Defense

If defense truly does win championships, then the Celtics are in a great spot heading into the postseason, boasting the fifth-lowest defensive rating to go along with top-10 marks in categories such as opponent field goal and 3-point percentage, as well as points per game.

While a surplus of competent players may serve as a detriment at times on the offensive end, it’s a huge bonus defensively, allowing Stevens to match up with whatever type of lineup the opposition may throw out.

Going small with Giannis Antetokounmpo at the 5? Al Horford has proven his ability to guard any and all positions. Throw out a traditional lumbering center like Joel Embiid or Marc Gasol? Backup big man Aaron Baynes can bang with the best of them.

This, combined with athletic wings in Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum and tenacious guards in Marcus Smart and Terry Rozier, means Boston’s elite ability to get a stop is something it can always fall back on, even when its offense may sputter at times. That will come in handy against some truly potent offensive units.

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