It's not surprising Boston has one of the three best defenses in the NBA. But did you know the 76ers ranked No. 1 in defensive field goal percentage and second in defensive 3-point percentage?

Yes, it's true. So why did the Celtics bury the 76ers, 117-101, in Game 1 of this series? The 76ers were tight and their lack of playoff experience - first time in the postseason since 2012 - really showed. The Celtics also were mind-bogging hot making 17 of 35 3-point shots and sinking 18 of 19 free throws.

Both coaches are stressing defense for this game. I believe them.

Boston is down Kyrie Irving. The Celtics aren't likely to have Jaylen Brown either. He's doubtful with a hamstring injury that caused him to miss Game 1. No other Celtic averaged more than 14 points a game than those two. I see the 76ers making a stronger commitment defensively and the law of averages catching up fast to Boston in this game. The Celtics aren't going to shoot better than 48 percent from the floor like they did in Game 1 without Irving and Brown, who if he does play will be severely impacted.

The Celtics, though, have the savvy and the super coaching of Brad Stevens to keep the 76ers' youthful talent frustrated and bottled-up.