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by Tarsul 484 days ago
The point about 3 pointer shots being worth more than 2 pointer shots is generally true. However, in the playoffs, when the going gets tough, usually the jitters set in and the teams hit a lot less 3 pointers than in the regular season. Especially with the season on the line in endgames[1]. Which means: In those cases easy baskets and also mid-range shots (from people who are used to making those) regain their importance. Thus, if you have your playoffs in mind, don't forget to plan for those middies!

[1]the worst were the conference finals 2018 game 7s: Cavs (9/35); Celtics (7/39). Rockets (9/44); Warriors (9/33).
1 comments
BoiledCabbage 484 days ago
> However, in the playoffs, when the going gets tough, usually the jitters set in and the teams hit a lot less 3 pointers than in the regular season.

Is that stats based or anecdotal?

Link to random person on reddit, but it seems like shooting percentage overall drops due to getting rid of bad teams in the playoffs. And 3pt and fg are affected equally. By about 1% - ie not that much.

https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/12luk37/oc_how_does_pl...

link
darkerside 484 days ago
You'd expect shooting percentage to go up based on bad teams dropping out. Elite offensive teams have a much higher increase in shooting percentage over replacement than even an elite defensive team can reduce an opponent's shooting percentage.

But, the game slows down, and everyone plays defense more aggressively, which might account for the change described here.

link