Three-point defense became a notable issue during Friday’s game, as the Chicago Bulls kept the game competitive by hitting 20 three-pointers, the most allowed by the Celtics all season, according to Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe.
Despite Boston ranking fourth in the league in defending the three-point line, Chicago’s shooting success created challenges for the Celtics.
“We had to turn up the pressure a little bit more. We were scoring and maybe we weren’t as physical with them so they felt good about themselves,” Kristaps Porzingis acknowledged.
“The second half that was an emphasis for us, being more physical with them, make them work a little bit more for everything.”
Porzingis pointed out that, while the Celtics were able to score efficiently, their lack of physicality on defense allowed the Bulls to get comfortable with their perimeter shooting.
As a result, the Celtics made a concerted effort in the second half to increase defensive intensity and challenge Chicago more, ensuring they had to work harder for every shot.
Celtics Notes: Pritchard, White, Injuries, Mazzulla https://t.co/L0TV28nVcZ pic.twitter.com/VVvZQzL5LL
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 1, 2024
