Thunder vs. Celtics Takeaways: 3-Point Strategy in Possible Finals Preview

While the Celtics-Thunder clash sparked Finals preview chatter, the game’s context—missing key players like Jalen Williams and Kristaps Porzingis—demands a nuanced analysis. This wasn’t a true representation of either team’s playoff potential, but it offered valuable insights into their respective strategies and capabilities.

The Thunder’s defensive approach, prioritizing rim protection and turnovers over limiting 3-point attempts, was on full display. They willingly allowed the Celtics to launch a historic volume of 3-pointers. While this strategy contributed to their victory, its viability in a potential Finals series remains questionable. The Celtics’ poor shooting variance in this matchup won’t likely replicate in a seven-game series. However, the Thunder’s ability to capitalize on rim opportunities and free-throw advantages suggests a potential counter-strategy. The Celtics’ ability to score at the rim when needed, especially in the third quarter, revealed their adaptability and offensive versatility.

The Thunder’s offensive depth was also tested, particularly with Williams sidelined. Their ability to generate offense around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, with contributions from Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, Cason Wallace, and Luguentz Dort, was encouraging. This demonstrated their capacity to punish defenses that focus solely on Gilgeous-Alexander. However, the absence of Porzingis for the Celtics altered the defensive dynamic, and playoff scenarios will present different challenges.

The Celtics’ ability to dictate the terms of engagement, controlling pace and minimizing turnovers, was evident. They effectively neutralized the Thunder’s turnover-forcing and transition-heavy style, showcasing their playoff-ready composure. This suggests a potential blueprint for a Finals series, where the Celtics’ methodical approach and ball security could pose significant challenges for the Thunder.

Ultimately, this game served as a valuable learning experience for both teams, allowing them to test strategies and assess their capabilities against a potential Finals opponent. While the Thunder’s victory was significant, they must anticipate adjustments from the Celtics in a playoff scenario. The Celtics, as defending champions, possess the experience and adaptability to counter the Thunder’s strategies. The Thunder’s regular-season success against the Celtics is a positive sign, but they must continue to evolve and adapt to earn the same level of respect and anticipation in a potential Finals matchup.