Isaiah Thomas: The Celtics’ Unmatched Scoring Guard

In the annals of Boston Celtics’ history, there are countless stories of legendary players who dominated the court with their scoring prowess. But what if we told you that a one-meter, seventy-five guard could have had the best scoring season in the franchise’s storied history?

That’s the intriguing question that sparked a journey through the numbers. Isaiah Thomas’ 2017 season was one for the ages, as he carried the offensive burden unlike any other Celtics star before him. But was he truly the most prolific scorer in Celtics history?

By the Numbers: Thomas’ Historic Offensive Performance

• Thomas had a 34% usage rate in 2017, the highest in Celtics history.
• He averaged 30.8 points per 36 minutes, a feat unmatched by any other Celtics player.
• His offensive efficiency (True Shooting+) was equal to Larry Bird’s 1988 season, making him the only other Celtics player to achieve this level of efficiency at such a high volume.

But how did Thomas manage to carry such an immense offensive load while maintaining such high efficiency? The answer lies in the strategic mastermind behind the Celtics’ offensive schemes: Brad Stevens.

Brad Stevens: Architect of a Historical Campaign

Brad Stevens’ five-out offense and use of the “Zoom Action” allowed Thomas to exploit his blistering speed and exceptional agility. By employing centers like Al Horford, Kelly Olynyk, and Amir Johnson, the Celtics created ample spacing for Thomas to operate.

Boston Celtics’ 2017 Five-out offense – Zoom Action. Brad Stevens used this basic set to open the rim and create space for Isaiah Thomas. Celtics’ good spacing gave IT the ability to take 39% of his shot attempts at the rim.

The Zoom Action, combined with Thomas’ gravity and speed, created opportunities for his teammates. When Thomas was on the court, the Celtics’ offensive rating was an elite 116.76. Off the court, it dropped to 102.51, a stark difference of 14 points – an impact only matched by Stephen Curry that season.

Gravity Creates Opportunities for Others Too

Thomas’ scoring prowess not only benefitted himself but also his teammates. His gravity on the ball created open shots and lanes for others, further cementing his place as the Celtics’ primary scoring option that season.

Isaiah Thomas: A Falling Star, A Unique Comet

Although injuries and other factors prevented Thomas from reaching these heights again, his 2017 season with the Boston Celtics stands as a testament to his extraordinary talent and determination. He sits at the table with Larry Bird, John Havlicek, Paul Pierce, and Jayson Tatum – boasting the best scoring season in Celtics history.