Celtics vs. Raptors: Game 3 Preview
Keys to victory for the Celtics:
Get Shoote...
Celtics vs. Raptors: Game 3 Preview
Keys to victory for the Celtics:
Get Shooters Involved:
- Due to their small ball lineup they run with Daniel Theis at the Center position, the Celtics were able to able to jump out to a 31-13 lead in game 1 by stretching out the Raptors lineup, especially exploiting guys like Marc Gasol and the small backcourt of Kyle Lowry and Fred VanVleet.
- After the 31-13 lead, Boston was still able to consistently find spot-up opportunities in the corner, whether it be Walker, Brown, Smart, Wanamaker, or even guys like Ojeleye.
Evenly dispersed scoring/Defensive Identity:
- Toronto’s defense is exceptionally effective when there are 1 or 2 main options, as Nick Nurse can consistently draw up game plans in order to neutralize the other team’s offense. But, Boston has arguably 4 guys that can give you 20+ points every night.
- Despite Walker and Brown having off games in terms of shooting percentages, the Celtics were still able to close out a tough game 2, due to elite help from Smart’s two way play, especially in the 4th quarter.
Keys to victory for the Raptors:
More Aggressive Inside/Outside Offense:
- In game 2, the Raptors had their first free throw attempt in the second half of the game. The Raptors have a legitimate size advantage in the frontcourt. They must be aggressive in order to get free throws and slow the game down.
- They have to make their 3 point shots. Lowry and Vanvleet combined for 3-16 from three in game 2, with Lowry going 0-7 from three.
Hustle/Transition Offense:
- The Raptors need to allocate minutes for guys like Chris Boucher and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, since Boucher was effective along with Ibaka on defense, especially at the rim. RHJ would be an offensive liability, but provides smothering perimeter defense, and is effective getting out on the fast break and finishing easy buckets.
- The Raptors need to secure a rebound, since Robert Williams III, off the bench for Boston, has not missed a field goal in the series. Williams has also gotten a fair share of points from easy putback layups or dunks.
Final Prediction:
Celtics win 100-93
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