NBA: Most important players for the Celtics in the Finals

5. Al Horford is the elder statements of this young Boston Celtics team and is competing in the first Finals in his career. In Game 1, Horford led the Celtics to a shocking win over the Warriors, scoring a team-high 26 points. Horford's ability stretch the floor and play defense makes him valuable to the Celtics and their championship aspirations.

4. Robert Williams is arguably the Celtics best defender and shot blocker. Although he is not viewed as much of a scoring threat, his ability to affect Golden State's shot attempts in the paint gives the Celtics an edge in this series heading into Game 5. Williams combined to have 22 rebounds and six blocks in the two home games.

3. Marcus Smart definitely has the hardest assignment in this series trying to contain Stephen Curry. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year is scoring 15+ points with inconsistent field goal and 3-point percentages. Any scoring that Smart gives the Celtics is a bonus. However, if Curry continues to pick the Celtics apart like the first four games, Smart’s role could change.

2. Jaylen Brown has been the Celtics best player in the Finals, averaging slightly over 22 points per game, and his impact on this series is felt by his on-court play. He has consistently made timely baskets and defensive stops to keep his team in contention. In the two wins, Brown has dropped 24 points and 27 points while shooting 43% from the field.

1. Jayson Tatum in the first four games of this series has been unimpressive to say the least. Tatum had a career-high 13 assists in Game 1 but was held to only 12 points and has not made his presence known thus far. For the Celtics to win their 18th world championship, their best player will have to play better going forward.

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Photo Credit: USA Today.