The Boston Celtics have established themselves as one of the most formidable 3-point shooting teams in NBA history, and as the new season unfolds, they are making a strong case to elevate both their shooting volume and efficiency. With a roster brimming with talent, the Celtics have an impressive array of players who can threaten opponents from beyond the arc, making it challenging for defenses to focus on just a few key players.
In the current lineup, stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are often the focal points for opposing defenses. However, the Celtics’ depth means that if teams concentrate their efforts on shutting down Tatum and Brown, they risk leaving other sharpshooters like Derrick White and Jrue Holiday open for 3-point attempts. The potential for scoring is amplified by the likes of Al Horford, Sam Hauser, and Payton Pritchard, who can all capitalize on defensive lapses. Even Xavier Tillman Sr. has improved his shooting, and the return of Kristaps Porzingis, a known sniper, will only add to the Celtics’ offensive arsenal.
As the team continues to build chemistry and refine their game, an intriguing question arises: If the game is on the line and a wide-open 3-pointer could secure a win, which Celtics player would fans trust most to take that shot? Though each player brings unique strengths to the court, the choice is not as clear-cut as one might expect.
To explore this, let’s analyze the shooting capabilities of several key players, assuming they all have equal minutes, shooting percentages, and are positioned to catch the ball in rhythm without dribbles. Here’s a breakdown of the options in alphabetical order:
Jaylen Brown
Last season, Brown averaged 2.1 made 3-pointers per game at a 35.4 percent shooting rate, with a notable drop to 29.7 percent in the fourth quarter. Over his career, he has averaged 1.9 makes per game and holds a 36.4 percent shooting rate, with a slightly better 33.9 percent in clutch moments during the fourth quarter. Despite not being the most traditional shooter, Brown’s ability to perform under pressure is highlighted by his Finals MVP award and clutch shots, such as a critical basket against the Pacers in a similar high-stakes situation.
Sam Hauser
Hauser has emerged as a reliable shooting option, averaging 2.5 makes per game last season at an impressive 42.4 percent, with a notable 41.4 percent in the fourth quarter. His career averages stand at 1.9 makes per game with a shooting percentage of 42.1 and a 39.7 percent rate in the fourth quarter. Hauser’s recent performance, including a standout game where he scored 30 points with 10 3-pointers against the Wizards, showcases his potential to deliver in critical moments.
Derrick White
White has proven to be a valuable asset for the Celtics, particularly in high-pressure situations. His ability to make timely shots has often helped the team stage comebacks, as seen in recent games where he played a crucial role in the fourth quarter. His shooting statistics reflect a solid performance from beyond the arc, making him a contender for taking the game-winning shot.
Jrue Holiday
As a seasoned veteran, Holiday brings a wealth of experience to the Celtics. Known for his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities, he is also a capable shooter from distance. His versatility allows him to create his own shot or capitalize on open looks, making him a reliable option in clutch situations.
Jayson Tatum
Tatum has consistently been a top scorer for the Celtics, and his ability to hit big shots is well-documented. With a knack for making clutch 3-pointers, he has proven time and again that he can be trusted in high-pressure moments. His recent clutch 3-pointer that sent a game into overtime further solidifies his reputation as a go-to player in crunch time.
Payton Pritchard
Pritchard, while often overshadowed by the bigger names on the roster, has shown flashes of brilliance as a shooter. His ability to create space and get off clean looks makes him a potential threat from beyond the arc, particularly in a catch-and-shoot scenario.
As the Celtics continue to develop their chemistry and refine their game strategy, the question of who to trust with a game-winning 3-pointer remains open for debate. Each player brings a unique skill set and experience that could make them the right choice in different situations. The upcoming games will provide more opportunities for these players to showcase their abilities and solidify their standing as clutch shooters for the Celtics.
The Celtics’ depth and versatility from beyond the arc make them a formidable opponent, capable of striking from multiple angles. As the season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see which player emerges as the go-to option when the stakes are highest.
