The Boston Celtics' transition defense is key against the 76ers

TL;DR

The Boston Celtics' transition defense is crucial as they face the Philadelphia 76ers in the playoffs. Players like Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe challenge Boston's defense in open court situations.

Key points

Celtics' transition defense tested in playoff series
Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe excel in open court
Celtics' half-court defense is among the best in the NBA
Neemias Queta emphasizes importance of shot selection
Improving transition defense is key for Celtics' success

Boston CelticsPhiladelphia 76ersTyrese MaxeyVJ Edgecombe

The Boston Celtics transition defense has been tested during the first three games of their first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers. Both Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe are a blur in the open court, with both guards capable of getting to their spots at will. As such, the Celtics have found themselves scrambling in the open court, which at times can lead to some additional foul calls as they try to shut down any easy lanes to the rim. Boston's half-court defense is one of the best in the NBA. Therefore, it makes sense that Nick Nurse is looking to counter that by using the open court as much as possible. It's hard to shut down a drive and kick offense when you're still scrambling to get to your matchup early in the shot clock. During a recent news conference, Neemias Queta discussed the Sixers transition-based offense, detailing the pressure it can generate and why the Celtics have to remain locked in. "They're, they're really good when they get stops, and they get, get out in transition," Queta said. "They get to hit those layups, dunks, whatever. I think it starts with us, like our shot selection, being able to crash, being able to get stops. And I think, I think those things are what we need to rely on." Boston's transition defense has steadily improved throughout the season. They're a reliable unit in the open court and often cause havoc in the passing lanes. Nevertheless, keeping pace with Maxey and Edgecombe isn't easy. Nevertheless, if Boston can make the most of its offensive possessions and limit the amount of transition opportunities that come Philadelphia's way, it should be in a strong position to win game four and move within one win of booking a spot in the second round. Watch or listen to the "Celtics Chronicle" podcast on: YouTube: Spotify: Apple: Substack: *This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: *

Q&A

How has the Celtics' transition defense improved this season?

The Celtics' transition defense has steadily improved, becoming a reliable unit that often disrupts passing lanes.

What challenges do Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe pose for the Celtics?

Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe are fast guards who can exploit the Celtics' defense in transition, making it difficult for Boston to maintain defensive structure.

What strategies can the Celtics use to limit the 76ers' transition opportunities?

The Celtics need to focus on shot selection and crashing the boards to limit the 76ers' fast-break chances and maintain control of the game.