The Rafters Pod Ep. 112: By The Numbers, NBA Trade Deadline

The Rafters crew are on the air this week talking Boston Celtics by the numbers. Liam takes a more analytical look at the Celtics at the mid-point of the season. How do the Boston Celtics compare to other teams by the numbers? The guys take a critical look at certain players efficiency, team blocks, three point attempts, three point makes, bench lineup efficiency, and so much more.

At the time of recording, Boston beat San Antonio at home by 19 points. Sweeping the season series against them in dominating fashion. The three point barrage was on with Boston shooting 70% from three before the half. What started as a back and fourth affair opened up quickly into a comfortable Celtics lead when Spurs rookie star Victor Wembanyama hit the bench. Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White sat out with their respective injuries so Tatum, Brown, and Holiday carried the load. All three of the Celtics stars put up 20+ points with well rounded stat-lines on stellar efficiency. Further proving the durability of this Boston Celtics team.

The NBA Trade Deadline looms over the next month. What can the best team in the NBA do to improve to an all-time dominant team? The Rafters attention goes right to the Celtics bench unit. Boston’s bench ranks perfectly average in terms of league rankings. it’s no easy fix though. Boston is well in the negative in terms of cap space limiting trade possibilities. Their best bet would be exploring the buy-out market as teams dump contracts of players who haven’t lived up or no longer fit with teams timelines. Liam comes to the table with three big name options that Brad Stevens could make a move for in the buy-out market. One of which would be a very familiar face in green and white.