When the Boston Celtics beat the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night at ScotiaBank Arena, they did so with a defensive performance that we haven't seen for almost two years.

The Celtics allowed just 32 points in the second half, which was the fewest points allowed in a half since Jan. 3, 2025 against the Houston Rockets. Boston actually trailed by seven at halftime, but was able to flip the game around in the fourth quarter, as they overcame an 80-75 deficit by outscoring Toronto 23-13 in the final frame.

Defense has long been a calling card of head coach Joe Mazzulla, but the team has responded even more this year. Entering play on Thursday, the Celtics were allowing just 103.1 ppg, which was the fewest in the league. They were also forcing the seventh-most turnovers and opponents were shooting the third-worst percentage from 2-point range against the Celtics as well.

Jaylen Brown was regarded a strong defender, so simply losing him doesn't account for the defensive performance, but the addition of Paul George has certainly been a good thing. A four-time All-Defensive Team member, George has been able to continue his strong defensive reputation, and he's passed on some of his knowledge as well.

Furthermore, Jordan Walsh has entered the starting lineup and he's known as a good defender, and the addition of Mitchell Robinson has helped along the interior as well. The Celtics trio of Robinson, Neemias Queta and Luka Garza should provide a solid rebounding edge as well, which limits second-chance opportunities.

Boston is 10-2 and owns the best record in the Eastern Conference. The C's will have a few more days off before taking on the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday night at TD Garden. That game will mark yet another return for Kyrie Irving to TD Garden and will also mark the return of Cooper Flagg to New England. 

The Maine native is one of the top players in the NBA in just his second year.

In the offseason, I made the claim that the Celtics would lead the league in 3-pointers attempted. We dug a little deeper to see just how the Celtics rate in several 3-point shooting categories at the 12-game mark.

HINT: They are not leading the league in 3's attempted, but they are certainly close to the top in attempts - and makes.