RealGM

What do you think? Did the Celtics need 20 playoff games to finally take that last step in learning to play together? Lord knows they didn't play 20 challenging games during the regular season. Bonus question: are they ready for the finals? Is 20 games enough?

The Celtics took that next step in game 7 against the Cavs. You could see the "we're not going to let the other team win" attitude not just from Pierce but from everyone else. The Pistons and Lakers were already done at that point. This series is far from over but we're not going to lose it when it's all said and done.

They've learned to not let up (for very long). That apparently required being deep in the playoffs.

I think it was very beneficial (kinda weird to say) that ATL and CLE took us 7 games because during the regular season we just weren't tested. I think our only tough stretch was when we lost to Den, Phx, GS straight while KG was coming back from injury. I think the first two series just showed the guys that it isn't always easy and you have to show up for 48 mins every game.