Hey guys, let's give the three guard lineup a nickname


During the pre-season, a lot of folks questioned how early into the year Brad Stevens would unleash a lineup that features three top guards in the same lineup. It didn't take too long to get our answer. While generally used in short spurts, we've already seen Rajon Rondo, Avery Bradley and Marcus Smart share the court; one some nights (ie: Dallas) it was a success, on other nights (ie: last night against Toronto) it wasn't so effective. That lineup, and the frequency it's used, will certainly be a frequently debated topic across Celtics Nation.

We need a nickname. Can't keep calling them 'the three guard lineup.' Can't do it. Where's the fun in that? Here's my suggestion (leave yours in the comments): The Shield. Inspired by the WWE faction of the same name.

For those of you who are not familiar with the Shield as you're not currently watching professional wrestling
  1. Congratulations! You're making at least one great life decision
  2. Allow me to explain
The Shield, also known as 'The Hounds of Justice', was a group of three dudes who would come through the crowd wearing weird black swat attire (which seems pretty unnecessary, not sure I see the benefit), and when they got to the ring ABSOLUTE CHAOS would break out. One guy is doing a flip off the top rope, another dude is spearing people through barricades, and the other guy is literally hitting as many people as possible.

It's pretty much exactly how I see Rondo, Bradley, and Smart. I don't know if their tactics will work, but I am sure that when they share the court chaos will breakout. Bradley or Smart will pick their man up for full court pressure, the other is waiting to pounce, and heck, even Rondo - who can be subject of playing some lackadaisical defense occasionally - gets REALLY into it; spending entire possessions just inches from his man, even when he's not a realistic threat to shoot. It's chaotic, but it's a whole lot of fun.

Rajon Rondo, Avery Bradley, Marcus Smart. The Hounds of Justice; The Shield.





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