Cat and mouse: how the Celtics pulled away from the Raptors

Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY SportsThe Celtics' identity all year has been defense. After holding the Toronto Raptors to 79 points on Wednesday, Boston ranks 4th in defensive efficiency at 100.4 behind the Spurs, Hawks, and Pacers. Their D has wavered since the start of the season, but fortunately, their offense has improved steadily and allowed the team to maintain the 8th best net rating at 3.5. Last night's win was game #72 on the schedule and after a long grueling season, you can see how smooth the offense is running after some early growing pains.

With last night's game in the balance and the Celtics nursing a one point lead at 71-70, the team ran some of their patented read-and-react motion…