The Boston Celtics will this year have three members of the Top 10 players who had caused the most forced passages last season. Because in addition to Marcus Smart, who had provoked 16, and Derrick White, who had obtained 25, there will now be Blake Griffin…
The former interior of the Brooklyn Nets was indeed the master in the matter last season, with 26 forceful passages caused by opponents. The sign that the former All-Star of the Los Angeles Clippers and the Detroit Pistons does not hesitate to put his body in opposition to the attackers to push them to the fault… but also that he has lost the physical qualities to hinder them in the air.
“He’s no longer above the circle, but he’s still doing great things,” commented Marcus Smart. “He is a great professional. Last year, he led the league in forced passes. For a guy who doesn’t play as much, that says a lot regarding what he’s capable of. He can influence the game not only with his attack, but also with his defense. So he’s a good recruit for us. He’s also a great veteran for some young guys to listen to and what he has to share.”
In Boston, Blake Griffin’s defensive limits will probably be less exposed than in Brooklyn and, with Robert Williams III in aerial cover, his ability to force throughs can be a real asset for the Celtics.