Identities are similar to stories. Both are crafted over time, and they unfold through discreet moments that pile up into something bigger. Each moment unique, but a link in the greater narrative chain. Simultaneously individual and co-dependent, and while the moments may be unique, there are common threads, common characters, common themes.
The Celtics started the season, seemingly, with a clear identity crafted over 26 games. 26 moments with common threads, themes, and characters. Play fast, get up boat loads of threes, defend just well enough to let the offense carry the way.
After that initial burst out of the gate, the threes stopped falling and it got ugly.