Expected Celtics jump

19. This is the match number between the Pistons and the Celtics. That matches the offensive rebounds of Detroit players. If we can credit JB Bickerstaff’s corps, even efforts, we can just as easily point to Joe Mazzulla’s difficulty blocking rebounds.

It costs the victory. In the last three minutes of the match, when nothing was decided, the 2024 champions managed to make too many stops in a row. But three times they allowed the Pistons to grab offensive rebounds and score each time…

“I don’t know how, but we have to find a solution”, announcement Jaylen Brown, author of Michigan’s 41 Points. “A lot of our problems can be solved with defensive rebounds. I need to be more involved, get more rebounds. There are long rebounds, it’s a matter of time. Balloons are flying over our heads, guys are pushing around. Rebounding is obviously our biggest concern right now. »

A benefit/risk calculation that doesn’t pay off right now

After three games, all losses, the Celtics averaged just 29 rebounds on defense. They had 34 catches last season. “Three matches we were beaten under the circle”insists the 2024 Finals MVP, who sees that he and his teammates have been in the match every time, before breaking down.

Joe Mazzula, by accepting that he does not yet know the identity of his teamhe insisted on one thing: efforts were non-negotiable. Jumps are obviously one of them.

“There are rebounds we have to have. We have to be physical, stronger. Then, we have to be better at challenging loose balls and offensive rebounds to make up for it.” analyzes the coach, who does not belong to his group. “I think we’re struggling. And some things are explained by our defense. We’re aggressive outside the circle. Behind every decision is a benefit/risk calculation. When we’re aggressive on Cade Cunningham in the pick-and-roll, then we’re further away from the basket and therefore less present on the rebound.”

Since then, notes the Celtic technician, “Athletes like Auzar Thompson manage to surpass us”. The Pistons player grabbed 5 offensive rebounds as Jalen Duren went even better with 8 offensive rebounds. “We have to fight like hell to get these rebounds, to finish the matches”concludes the coach of Boston.