Boston Celtics: Takeaways from Win Over Milwaukee Bucks

A Bench that cannot be matched

Nov 10, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Jabari Parker battles for a rebound against Boston Celtics forward David Lee (42) and forward Kelly Olynyk (41) in the 4th quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Even with typical sixth man Isaiah Thomas starting, the Celtics’ bench keeps finding ways to score, which again was the difference-maker. Unfortunately the team got out to another cold start, trailing the Bucks 8-0 nearly three minutes into the game.

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The Bucks continued to extend their lead, so Coach Brad Stevens inserted Evan Turner and Kelly Olynyk into the lineup. This change prompted a 11-3 Celtics run, putting them only behind by three points—20-17.

The Celtics eventually tied the game at 24 thanks to the contributions from their bench players.

Overall, Boston’s bench outscored their starters 50-49. David Lee, Evan Turner, and Kelly Olynyk all came off the bench and scored in double figures. The trio accounted for 37 of the bench’s 50 points.

Rookie R.J. Hunter played a season high in minutes (19) and had his best game of the season. Hunter shot 3/5 from the field and scored eight points, while collecting seven boards. His greatest impact, however, was his stellar defending.

Though Hunter is only credited with one steal and one block, his active hands as well as his defensive awareness resulted in multiple turnovers by the Bucks. R.J. will likely see his playing time dip as soon as Smart returns, but that is not his fault. It is just a numbers game.

Next: Takeaway #2