Sat Nov 22 02:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:
Summary:
The Celtics have a winning record after returning from Brooklyn, but their 3-point shooting percentage is surprisingly inconsistent, with key players like Brown, White, and Hauser shooting below their career averages. This may be due to Tatum’s absence, creating more open shots. However, players like Pritchard are emerging from slumps. Hauser emphasizes contributing in multiple ways, even when his shooting isn’t on. Coach Mazzulla’s flexible approach to lineups and rotations is keeping everyone prepared. Rookie Jordan Walsh has been a bright spot defensively, while Neemias Queta’s presence significantly improves the net rating of various two-man pairings.
News Article:
Celtics Return with Winning Record, But Shooting Woes Raise Eyebrows
Boston, MA – The Boston Celtics returned from Brooklyn with a winning record this season, but early-season inconsistencies, particularly in 3-point shooting, have raised questions. While several players are hitting above 40% from beyond the arc, familiar faces like Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Sam Hauser are struggling to find their range, all shooting below their career averages.
Some analysts suggest that Jayson Tatum’s absence might be impacting the team’s outside shooting, as he attracts significant defensive attention, freeing up opportunities for other players. However, there is optimism that this dip is simply a matter of early-season struggles. Guard Payton Pritchard, for example, has snapped out of his own slump, sinking 18 of his last 35 three-pointers.
Hauser, normally a reliable 3-point specialist, acknowledged the need to contribute in other facets of the game when his shot isn’t falling. “Just be a basketball player, I guess, at the end of the day,” Hauser said after Tuesday’s victory over the Nets. “How can you impact your team in a different way when that trait is not up to its normal standard?”
Coach Joe Mazzulla’s consistent rotations and ever changing line-ups have been the highlight of the early season, making sure the whole team is ready for any role. Rookie Jordan Walsh has impressed defensively, often tasked with guarding the opponent’s top offensive threat. Lineups featuring Walsh are outscoring opponents by a significant margin.
Center Neemias Queta is emerging as a key contributor, as his presence significantly boosts the net rating of multiple two-man pairings. His impact on both ends of the court suggests a potentially larger role for him as the season progresses.
The Celtics’ early-season journey continues, but the coaching staff seems committed to evolving a team built for sustainable success.
First Piper 