The Celtics know where they need to get better. It starts at the rim.
President of basketball operations Brad Stevens did not get deep into specifics at his end-of-season media session, but he made one thing clear, via Kyle Hightower of The Associated Press.
“I think that one of the things that we’ve got to figure out is how to have more of an impact at the rim,” Stevens said. “And I think we need to add to our team to do that.”
The numbers back it up. Boston attempted fewer shots within five feet than any team in the league this season, leaning heavily on the three-point line. That approach only intensified in the playoffs.
Stevens did not commit to a stylistic overhaul. In his view, the roster should dictate the approach, not the other way around.
“I just want to win,” he said. “I don’t think play style comes before roster. You got to figure out who you have and then play to the strengths of your team. But that’s on both ends of the court.”
Boston’s season ended earlier than expected, and Stevens acknowledged there is plenty of responsibility to go around.
“I thought our coaching staff did an amazing job this year,” he said. “This series, I think we all could have done better, there’s no question about it.”
That includes Stevens himself. It also includes coach Joe Mazzulla, though Stevens made it clear his confidence has not changed.
“I think our coaching staff, like all of us, can continue to improve and get better,” Stevens said. “That said, I think they’re very good.”
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