In the playoffs, the Boston Celtics are entering with a "hunter" mindset, despite their regular season success, aiming to be the aggressor rather than the hunted.

By the Numbers
  • Highest plus-minus rating in the regular season: 11.3
  • Ranked first in offensive rating with 122.2
  • Yielded the second-fewest points per 100 possessions: 110.6
  • Best net rating in the regular season: 11.7
Yes, But

Despite their successful regular season, the playoffs present a different challenge where the mindset of being the aggressor may be more effective than considering themselves the hunted.

State of Play
  • The Celtics will face the Miami Heat in Round 1, emphasizing the importance of balance and humility going into the playoffs.
  • Coach Joe Mazzulla stresses the need for the team to find a perfect balance of confidence and awareness of the challenges they may face.
What's Next

The Celtics will have to prove their ability to maintain the "hunter" mindset and balance throughout the playoffs, starting with their series against the Miami Heat.

Bottom Line

Entering the playoffs, the Boston Celtics' success hinges on adopting an assertive mindset as the aggressor rather than playing defensively as the hunted, a strategy they aim to uphold throughout the postseason.