Celtics Have Found a Simple Way to Make Even the Best Defenses Look Silly
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It's been a promising start to the season for the Boston Celtics.
After taking down the Philadelphia 76ers, the Celtics now own the best record in the Eastern Conference. They also own the best net rating in the NBA, outscoring opponents by a whopping 12.4 points per 100 possessions.
The Celtics are getting it done on both ends of the court, ranking third in both offensive efficiency and defensive efficiency.
One reason the Celtics have been so dominant offensively is their use of flare screens.
MORE: Joel Embiid Gave Paul George a Compliment Celtics Fans Might Not Like
What is a flare screen?
A flare screen is when a player sets a screen for a teammate moving away from the ball, typically toward the perimeter.
Here's an example.
Derrick White has the ball on the right wing while Neemias Queta sets a screen to free Paul George for a cut toward the left wing.
NBA
Because Queta isn't a major perimeter scoring threat, his defender, Joel Embiid, can sag off him to provide help elsewhere.
The problem? When George's defender, VJ Edgecombe, gets caught up on Queta's screen, that leaves George wide open on the 3-point line.
NBA
You can probably guess how this particular possession ended.
MORE: Celtics Have Given Paul George Something He Didn't Expect
Why it matters
For a few reasons.
First and foremost, Queta is setting a ton of flare screens this season.
On Nov. 9, NBA analyst Nekias Duncan shared that Queta had set 59 flare screens through the first 10 games of the season, which was more than all but eight teams.
Not eight players. Eight teams.
Secondly, it's a really smart way to use George.
George has been particularly effective in those situations this season. According to NBA.com, he's averaging 1.88 points per possession, which is by far the best rate in the NBA.
That efficiency isn't sustainable over an entire season, but George has long been one of the NBA's better off-screen scorers. He's an excellent shooter who knows how to use screens to create separation and get his shot off quickly.
Thirdly, it's a great way to put opposing defenses in a difficult position.
If the defense focuses too much on taking away the 3-pointer, they risk giving up easy layups or dunks.
The Boston Celtics love to set a flare in early offense. Tatum is trailing the play, Walsh turns right at the wing to flare for him. With Queta trailing, Embiid is lifted. If you're not clean on that switch there is no help. Layup is there. https://t.co/FcKJT1lL5H
— Steve Jones (@stevejones20) November 11, 2026
Opposing coaches have noticed, too.
"Boston is one of the best teams in the league off the ball," Chicago Bulls head coach Tiago Splitter said. "It’s impressive how they play all those flare situations. It’s really difficult to be aware of the flares that are coming."
With George, Jayson Tatum, Derrick White and several other capable shooters, the Celtics have no shortage of players who can capitalize when a defender gets caught on a screen. And with Queta doing so much of the dirty work, the Celtics have found another way to make their already dangerous offense even less predictable.