Paul Pierce joined ESPN’s The Jump to discuss the Boston Celtics and their hot start to the season. The Celtics currently own the best record in the NBA and have a comfortable lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers for the number one seed in the Eastern Conference.

Paul raved about the Celtics’ defense and how they have been dominating the league.

“The defense is taking them to where they are today. When you’re the number one team on defense, you’re going to win a lot of games.”

Pierce also spoke about the athleticism and length the team brings to the court.

The Celtics are still without key offseason acquisition, Gordon Hayward, who fractured his tibia and dislocated his ankle in the season opener on October 17.

It was announced recently that Hayward would be out of his walking boot in the next couple of weeks, however, Paul doesn’t believe the team should rush him back.

PP noted that while Hayward is ahead of schedule on his rehab, there is no reason to rush him back this year. He believes the Celtics should give Hayward the year off so that he is healthy enough for them to contend for The Finals next season.

To catch the rest of Paul’s comments, check out the following videos: