How the math of the three point line favors a Celtics bounce back in Game 3

This means the Celtics score over a third of their points from behind the arc. So, they need to make sure they get quality shots to start, and get into a rhythm in order to beat the Sixers.

When the Celtics miss, they lose bad

Payton Pritchard

© Lucas Boland-Imagn Images

In the same time frame, when the Celtics lose, they only put up around 100.6 points per game. On average, they miss almost 26 threes, while only hitting around 12.

So, those three threes really do matter. The Celtics need to hit around 37.5% of their shots from deep in order to win games. Otherwise, if they shoot less than that, they are almost guaranteed to lose.

This series so far

Paul George Derrick White

© Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

In Game 1, the Celtics made 16 out of 44 threes, one above their winning average. While their 3pt percentage was only 36%, it was close enough, and they hit on total threes needed to win.

As for Game 2, they hit only 13 out of 50 threes, which is a sad 26%, way below their winning average. They also failed their mark to hit 15 threes, which could have kept them in the game. If they hit those two extra threes, they would have been in a single-digit deficit, which is much easier to overcome mentality-wise.

So, the C’s know what they need to do today. They need to get open looks, sink their shots from behind the arc, and guard up on Sixer threes for good measure. Boston will face Philly in Game 3 tonight at 7:00pm EST on Prime.

MORE NBA CONTENT

Onyeka Okongwu is a top trade target to give the Celtics depth at center post-Nikola Vucevic

Jayson Tatum return makes Celtics Game 2 wake up call a tactical advantage

Trail Blazers predicted to be dark horse to trade for $150 million two-time Finals MVP, create Big Three with Deni Avdija, Damian Lillard