Boston Celtics heat it up in Miami: 3 observations of encouragement

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 29: Kyrie Irving #11 and Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics react on the bench during the game against the Indiana Pacers at TD Garden on March 29, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) /

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Boston Celtics Kyrie Irving (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Kyrie and Stevens bond growing

The biggest encouragement came after the game when Kyrie Irving made the following statement about his relationship with Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens, via MassLive:

"“Our relationship has just grown tremendously just in terms of our communication, what he likes and what I like, but ultimately what’s best for our team and how to get the most out of guys. So its made my job a lot easier going to the sideline knowing we’re on the same page. It makes it easier to just go out there and play free and really do my job of leading this team.”"

Following a 23-point performance, a more jovial Irving referenced his relationship and admiration with the coach in talking about the differences between Stevens and the other four head coaches he has had.

The positive tone was nice to hear in that there seemed to be some disconnect between the two during times when the team was struggling.

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As great and important as it is to have Gordon Hayward playing more aggressively and Al Horford filling up the stat sheet, it is probably more important to have Brad Stevens and Kyrie Irving on the same page and respecting each other’s value in leading this team to where it desires to be…in the NBA Finals.

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