When this season first began, the Boston Celtics were near unrecognizable from the team we saw on the hardwood a year ago. And while they still look vastly different, they've gotten back to their winning ways for one big reason: a shift in their defensive game plan.
The Celtics have looked far more connected and disciplined in recent weeks on the defensive side of things. Joe Mazzulla has had Jaylen Brown taking on tougher matchups, implemented more structured support behind the point of attack, and helped streamline his team's help-and-recover system.
The biggest difference is how intentional they now look on every possession.