Boston entered the game missing both of its significant offseason acquisitions, Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, who were both out with lower body ailments. The Celtics would require more contributions as they faced an Atlanta squad with the league’s second-best offensive rating (120.4).
The Celtics’ effort became an X-factor, gaining extra chances with 18 offensive rebounds on the night. Jayson Tatum maintained his flow in the first half, scoring 21 points. Al Horford contributed six points and 15 rebounds in a pinch start for Boston.
Dalano Banton (eight points), Sam Hauser (12 points), and Neemias Queta (10 rebounds) all contributed to Boston’s success.
Jaylen Brown gained some breathing room, built up a head of steam, then moved to his left hand. He took one more dribble before switching back to his right hand as he flew over Clint Capela and slammed it down on him.
Brown’s latest vicious dunk was the highlight of the Celtics’ latest triumph. But it was what made that play possible that defined the night for the C’s. Derrick White had missed a 3-pointer moments before, and the rebound had gone long. Brown, on the other hand, dashed for the ball and beat everyone to it.
Brown was flexing both of his arms moments later.
In practically every area of Friday’s loss to the Magic, the Celtics were outplayed, out-toughed, and out-hustled. Two nights later, the Celtics turned a difficult lesson into a victory.
Mazzulla understood that the Celtics needed to develop stronger habits in order to win more regularly when shots weren’t falling. One method was through offensive rebounds and second-chance points.
So, despite shooting 29.7 percent from deep on Sunday, they won easily. Even on a night when they were missing Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, the Celtics relied on hustle. They only had four offensive rebounds on Friday. They had as many in the first quarter on Sunday. They finished with a season-high 58 rebounds, including 18 offensive rebounds that produced in 17 second-chance points. Neemias Queta came off the bench to provide energy. In 15 minutes, he nearly had a double-double with seven points and ten rebounds (six offensive).
