It’s been an interesting couple of weeks for the Boston Celtics. It seems like they can’t find a rhythm and put a winning streak together.
But despite losing – call Monday’s game against the Houston Rockets a heartbreaker – I think this notion that the Celtics are struggling, and that fans are worried about them, is a bit overblown.
Let’s dive into it.
First things first, it’s a long season. With 82 regular-season games, every team is bound to have its ups and downs. Honestly, I think that’s what’s happening in Beantown.
Unless you’re the 73-9 Warriors or 72-10 Bulls, it’s hard to go an entire season without bumps.
Also, is everything a disaster in Cleveland, too? The Cavs were on pace for 70 wins and then – boom – they lost four out of six games.
Right now, the most important thing for Boston is to reach All-Star weekend without any significant injuries. Then, they can reset after the mini-break.
Look, it’s really hard to repeat as NBA champions. There’s a reason why the last back-to-back NBA championship team was Golden State in 2017 and 2018. When you’re doing something for the first time, like Boston did last year, that group didn’t skip steps and they all had the desire (minus Jrue Holiday) to win their first ring.
It’s also an extra few months to a season. Maybe the C’s are a little tired, too.
Some people say the Celtics are “bored” or “need heavier stakes.” I’m not sure I believe that, but I do think it’s important they go on a winning streak between now and the end of the season just to build more confidence.
Another positive is that Boston is still second in the Eastern Conference. Kristaps Porzingis is finally getting closer to game-shape and once he’s fully healthy, the Celtics will be closer to what they were last year. When you’re without a big piece for months, it’s going to take a while to get used to having it again, whether it’s learning new defensive schemes or just refamiliarizing yourself with him. Against the Bulls, Porzingis (8 threes) reminded fans of how good he is when healthy.
It’s a long season, but I don’t worry about this team. Jayson Tatum is playing at an MVP level, Jaylen Brown has had midseason hiccups before, and the entire roster will flip the switch soon.
The future is bright. Sometimes, the flashlight just needs a fresh set of batteries.
As for the Bruins, that’s a different conversation.
