Every team is always looking for a hometown advantage whenever possible. From the arena, physically, to the fans themselves, whatever sort of extra edge they can get is always a plus. And according to a new survey, the Celtics may just have the best home-court advantage in the NBA.
In a report published by The Athletic, ranging from top and most-overrated players, best and worst fans and more, TD Garden, home of the Celtics (and Bruins), was voted the best environment in the NBA. The survey was conducted among 108 anonymous players, and the Garden received 18% of the vote as the best place to play. Given that there are 30 NBA arenas, that's pretty impressive. Something about Celtic Pride, those who bleed green and that Garden mystique, even in its second iteration.
Considering some of the things opposing players have said they've heard fans say, not to mention some of the things the fans have said to opposing players (who could forget the love Draymond Green felt last June), it comes as a bit of a surprise that the Garden would be tops. But, just to even things out, Celtics fans did finish fifth in the players rankings of worst fans. So there are pluses and minuses, at least when it comes to how the opposition views Celtics fans. They almost certainly would appreciate hearing how they get on the nerves and under the skin of opponents.
The Celtics are currently up 2-0 in their best-of-seven Eastern Conference opening round series against the Atlanta Hawks, whose Trae Young said Celtics fans are "more respectful" than Knicks fans. If the C's, arguably the most talented team in the league, are to complete their mission, return to the Finals and hang an 18th banner, then they'll need the best and worst of the Garden and its fans, who have been loud as ever and certainly are doing their part this season. Would only be fitting to have the best team play in the best environment.
