In five of the last six seasons, the Boston Celtics have finished the season with a top-10 defensive rating, with the one exception being the injury-plagued, COVID-affected 2020-21 season, when they landed 13th.
During that time, switchability was the foundation of their defensive success. From Al Horford to Grant Williams to Marcus Smart and more, they’ve had guys who can play their defensive role to perfection and guard multiple positions.
Heading into the 2023-24 season, they still have guys like that on the roster. But with the addition of Kristaps Porzingis, drop defense could become a staple.