The Boston Celtics (5-3) squeeze out a 98-93 victory at home against the Utah Jazz (4-5) on Wednesday night.
Once again, Paul Pierce keeps his consistency moving with 23 points, two rebounds, and two assists. On the flip side, Paul Millsap posted 20 points and 12 rebounds in the defeat.
Here are some key points that made the Celtics receive their third consecutive victory:
Big Contributions from the Bench:
Boston Celtics’ bench contributed 47 points, mainly from Leandro Barbosa (16 points) and Jeff Green (16 points).
Barbosa has come to back to life in the NBA! The nine-year pro was sensational shooting 6-8 from the field. His aggression off the screen makes a presence that the defense thinks twice about.
He has presented an immediate impact into this 2012-13 season from his energy on the ball to his basketball IQ. The 29-year-old knows when to shoot and when to pass. He is a gift and a sleeper in Doc Rivers’ offense.
Green has been quiet to say the least early stages of this season. Tonight, the former Georgetown Hoya rose to the occasion with emphasis recording 16 points, four rebounds, and two assists.
Despite the thunderous slam on Al Jefferson, he put a stamp in all aspects of the game.
Making the Extra Pass:
There were many scenarios where the extra pass was made and the easy basket was found. Celtics finished with 24 assists.
Prior to Rajon Rondo’s slight injury, the six-year elite point guard resumes his impressive assists play. In Wednesday’s game, Rondo posted 10 assists (eighth straight game with 10 or more assists).
Aside from the point guards, every player connected with others on the court. Boston usually known to throw the ball away, only turned over the ball nine times.
