5 reasons that explain the recent success of the Boston Celtics

#2 Number one in team defence

Celtics vs Hawks

Any new team struggles on defence. Just look at Oklahoma City Thunder and the Cavs. Celtics though, have been an exception to the rule.

The early games have been important for this side to believe in their system and progress over time. The team lost its best defender in Avery Bradley during the off-season, but is the number one team on defence.

Smart is their top defender but Brad Stevens has been able to implement a system that puts his athletic players in the right position. The mindset at which they play, hard, while sharing the ball regularly to good effect. Brown can defend almost every position and everyonem communicates with one another on switches.

They're flat out dominating on defence. Kyrie, who has been labelled uninterested in defence during his Cavs days, looks like a different player here. We all know that he's amazing offensively, but many are surprised by his hunger and energy on the other end.

Irving is currently leading the league with 2.1 steals per game on average. He's not a great defensive player yet, but has become a reliable and solid figure.