The 1985-86 Boston Celtics were one of the best teams of all time. One reason they were so good is because they excelled in so many areas, and passing was one of them.
They averaged an astonishing 29.1 assists per game, or almost 2 assists more per game than the league-leading Phoenix Suns average per game this season. The 2008 Boston Celtics only average 21.8 assists per game, and thus it would be tempting to conclude that this year's squad doesn't measure up passing-wise.
But that conclusion would not be entirely accurate.
The 1985-86 Boston Celtics were a high-powered offensive machine that averaged 45 baskets per game, while the 2008 Celtics average just under 36 baskets per game. So the key figure in comparing the two squads would be the assist-per-basket-ration. The 1985-86 Celtics assisted on 66% of their baskets and the 2008 Celtics have assisted on 61% of their baskets.
Not as good, clearly, but not too bad either, considering the 1986 Celtics are one of the best passing teams of all time.
The other point to note is how well the Celtics have continued passing in KG's absence. Over the last 6 games, the Celtics continue to assist on well over 60% of their made baskets (see below). So the Celtics have obviously bought into a system of ball sharing and team work, and that system was devised by Glenn "Doc" Rivers.
One more reason to tip your hat to the Coach.
Assist to Basket Ration in the Last Six Games
24/40= 60%
24/42=57%
21/34=62%
24/33=72%
20/35=57%
29/38=76%
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