Carmelo Anthony Delivers Blunt Reality Check for Celtics' Playoff Run
The Boston Celtics failed to close out the Philadelphia 76ers in two consecutive playoff games, losing Game 6 106-93 despite similar shooting and turnover stats. Carmelo Anthony criticized the Celtics' overreliance on three-point shooting, noting their lack of mid-range and inside scoring when threes aren't falling. With a potential Game 7 looming, analysts suggest Boston must adjust its offensive strategy to advance, especially considering more balanced teams like the Knicks have found playoff success.
- ▪The Celtics lost Game 6 to the 76ers 106-93 despite comparable shooting percentages and turnovers.
- ▪Carmelo Anthony highlighted Boston's overdependence on three-pointers, calling it a flawed strategy when shots don't fall.
- ▪In their last two playoff losses, the Celtics shot 23-for-80 from three-point range.
- ▪The Knicks defeated the Hawks 140-89 using fast breaks and inside scoring, not heavy three-point reliance.
- ▪Only the Warriors and Hornets attempted more threes per game than Boston this season, and neither made the playoffs.
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By Matthew CoudenContributing WriterShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.The Boston Celtics had two straight chances to eliminate the Philadelphia 76ers from the NBA Playoffs and fumbled both opportunities due to a glaring strategic flaw in their game plan.On Thursday night, not only did Philly's fans get fired up for a big game from their stars, but Boston once again seemed to create their own demise. The final stats in Philadelphia's 106-93 victory didn't point to any major advantage that the 76ers had.
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