Former NBA player Eddie House, who was part of the 2008 Boston Celtics championship team, recently shared his belief that his squad would come out on top in a matchup against the 2024 title-winning team. While House acknowledges that the 2024 Celtics excel offensively, he is confident in his team’s defensive prowess.
“We win,” House stated in an interview with TMZ. “We’re going to make sure they don’t get those easy three-point shots. Defensively, we were a stronger team. Of course, the game has evolved, and they have the edge in terms of offense because of the three-point shooting trend. But we will make sure to slow them down and make it a tough, grind-it-out game. When it comes down to clutch moments, I trust Paul Pierce to deliver every time. But don’t get me wrong, I have a lot of respect for this current team.”
During the 2007-08 season, the Celtics, led by defensive stalwart Kevin Garnett, boasted the best defensive rating in the league at 98.9, according to StatMuse. This solid defensive foundation, coupled with the scoring abilities of Paul Pierce, made the team a force to be reckoned with.
On the other hand, the 2023-24 Celtics showcased a different style of play, with the best defensive rating in the league at 111.6 and an equally impressive offensive rating. The higher defensive rating of the modern-day Celtics can be attributed to the fast-paced, high-scoring nature of today’s NBA.
While the debate over which team would emerge victorious in a seven-game series may vary among fans, both teams undoubtedly have reasons to celebrate their championship victories. The contrasting playing styles and eras add an interesting layer to the hypothetical matchup between these two championship teams.
It is fascinating to see how the game of basketball has evolved over the years, with different strategies and strengths defining each era. The ongoing debate about the greatest teams of all time only adds to the excitement and passion of NBA fans worldwide. Ultimately, both the 2008 Celtics and the 2024 Celtics have left their mark on the league with their respective achievements and playing styles.