Power rankings system devised and compiled weekly by Stemshul. “Expert” analysis by paradroid.
Back in week 13 we talked about how Boston was stuck spinning its wheels in mediocrity, unable to leverage the Tatum/Brown duo and their array of solid veterans into a dangerous title contender. The Celtics were 21-21 and had just bumped up three spots to #16. Since that time, they’ve gone 26-9 and moved up to #8, just behind the 76ers. But if we really want to identify the moment when Boston got scary, I think it’s when they traded for Derrick White, the point guard formerly of the Spurs. Boston gave up Josh Richardson, a solid vet, Romeo Langford, a so-far-disappointing young player, and most painfully, a 2022 first round draft pick. Why would they move those three decent assets for just one player who hasn’t even started most of the games since the trade?
Well, while he doesn’t start, he is essentially their sixth man, especially now that Robert Williams III is out until at least the second round of the playoffs. He’s been getting 25+ minutes per game, and even more since Williams got hurt. And while his offensive numbers are down across the board compared to his time with S.A., he was really acquired because he’s such a strong defender. Since the Celtics acquired White, Boston has moved into first place in PPG allowed. The lineup that includes Williams, White, Marcus Smart, Jayson Tatum, and Jaylen Brown is scary defensively, and Al Horford can also be mixed in without any drop off. The Celtics were 16-3 since the trade before losing their last two against Toronto (#11) and Miami (#3), but both losses were without Williams. I don’t think anybody is excited to meet Boston in a playoff series right now, especially when they get back to full strength in round 2, assuming they get there in the very competitive Eastern Conference.
Detroit beat #7 Philly last night after losing close games to the #19 Knicks and the #15 Nets. Detroit hasn’t been blown out since a February 11th 141-119 loss to Charlotte. Even though their record is only 9-12 since, they’ve had a chance to win all 12 games they lost in that time period. Great to see the Pistons being so competitive, but their lottery odds hang in the balance. Detroit in one game ahead of both Orlando and Houston and one game back of O.K.C., so all options 1-4 are still in play. Detroit is playing far more competitive basketball than the other three, so we’ll have to see what happens.
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