February 29, 2008

Win #45 for the Celtics

The next win for this Celtic team will be a career high for coach Doc Rivers, a one time Coach of the Year with Orlando.

Doc Rivers patiently, and loyally developed one of the youngest rosters in the league for a few years, and dealt with a few 'interesting' and challenging personalities along the way (Marcus Banks, Gary Payton, Paul Pierce, Mark Blount, Ricky Davis, and Antoine Walker - just to name a few.) It wasn't the way he wanted it. But it was the way it was.

Patience is a virtue or...

All things comes to he who waits....

like a three all star team led by one of the 5 most coveted players in the league.

Glenn 'Doc' Rivers ended up with a coach's dream roster this year that has just gotten better with the signing of P.J. Brown and the imminent signing of Sam Cassell.

To the surprise of everyone, this Celtic team hangs it hat on defense. Kudos to Doc for being willing to bring in Larry Brown (who ended up passing on Beantown) and finally bringing in Tom Thibodeau to construct this team's defensive schemes.

They have made quick work of much of the NBA up to now and lead the entire league with 45 wins.

Tonight's Game

Tonight, they did just what they had to, and used not one ounce of energy more, to beat the Charlotte Bobcats. They made the Bobcats look good, and the score was closer than it should have been, by perplexingly settling for jump shots in the 4th quarter. They could have had their way in the paint in spite of Emeka Okafor and Nazr Mohammed in the middle for the Bobcats for much of the quarter.

The team went from looking very good to looking rather careless in spurts, depending on what play you were watching. They missed a number of fast breaks with careless passing and decision making, but they were quite unselfish with the ball night as they garnered 33 assists on 41 baskets.

Rajon Rondo had a career night in that department with 16 dimes to go with 9 points and 6 rebounds while doing an acceptable job defensively on high scoring Bobcat guard Ray Felton.

Felton and Jason Richardson took over half of Charlotte's shots (43 of 82) as Richardson didn't meet a shot tonight he didn't like. He led the 'Cats with 30 points on 10-26 shooting.

It seems that Pierce concentrated on defending JR for the rest of the game and scored just 13 points on 5-15 shooting, though he did hit a key mid range jumper near the end when Charlotte was within a few possessions of tying it up.

Ray Allen was on all night, going 5-7 from downtown and leading the Celtics with 23 points. Kevin Garnett added 17 points and 9 boards, though few were of his baskets were inside. KG played 32 minutes but did not look himself, even though he engaged in his usual on court trash talking, this time with a frustrated Nazr Mohammed. They each received technicals.

Garnett received a quick 2nd foul in the first quarter trying to cover for Paul Pierce when Richardson got by Paul and was heading for an easy two. PP looked disgusted (at himself) on the play. Even though Garnett went out and Davis came in, the Celtics made a run to tie the game and eventually took the lead in the quarter.

Many of Rondo's assists went to big man Kendrick Perkins. Perkins scored 11 first quarter points on an assortments of dunks and lay-ins. PK ended with one of his most productive games as a pro, finishing with 19 points on 8-10 shooting, 9 rebounds, 5 blocks, 2 steals, 2 assists, and 4 TOs.

I'm wondering if it is any coincidence that Rondo and Perkins each had big games as new comer PJ Brown has been practicing with the team, and was in attendance, while Sam Cassell is on the way. Hmm.....

Brown has said he will try to mentor the young bigs on the team and his locker is next to Glen Davis' in the practice facility.

Leon Powe played well with 9 tough points in the paint and 4 boards in 11 minutes, while James Posey was throwing more dimes (5) and hitting threes (2-4) to go with 4 boards.

Glen also had a solid game with 7 points and 4 rebounds in 14 plus minutes. Big Baby gave Emeka a big back ache as he lowered the boom on Okafor on one play, as he jumped on his back (literally) when he tried to stop a sure lay-up from behind. Okafor crumpled to the ground under the weight. It was something to behold. Davis received a flagrant foul on the play.

The Celtic bench all contributed nicely as Charlotte's defense left much to be desired. I've read that the team has given up on coach Sam Vincent as they have only won a single game ( are now 1-12) in the entire month of February. While it seemed they were competitive tonight, it was more of a case of the killer whale playing with a baby seal, before eating it as its next meal.

The Celtics played a fairly slow almost deliberate game against them it appeared to me, in spite of their 108 points.

So, Doc's next win is a milestone, though he has many more to add before the season is done.

Their next opponent is the Atlanta Hawks in the TDBanknorth Garden at 6:00pm

Posted by Tom on 10:23 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 28, 2008

Cassell to be a Celtic in 48 Hours

Marc Spears of the Boston Globe is reporting that Sam Cassell is about to sign a buy out from Donald T. Sterling and the Los Angeles Clippers and will receive a portion of what is owed of approximately $2 million. He will then have to wait the 48 hour waiver clearing period before he can sign with the Celtics.

He is reporting that Sam "will sign with the Boston Celtics."

After all the last minute drama, Sam I Am will be bringing his smiling face, clutch game and vocal presence to the best team in the league.

That will be 2 great additions, along with PJ Brown, addressing both concerns that they had about their roster. This roster is now full, at 15 players, and ready for all comers, in their quest for the NBA title.

They are adding a solid, battle tested, point guard to bring the ball up under pressure, play with poise, and be a solid offensive option in the 4th quarters. They just signed a similarly experienced big man in PJ Brown to help with defense in the middle and enough offense to take advantage of double teams on Kevin Garnett.

All question marks are now filled.

More on this later.

Posted by Tom on 6:19 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Celtics even things up with Cavs 92-87

It wasn't as close as the score seems. The Celtics were up by 16 (the biggest lead of the game) with 5:11 left and 14 with 2:49 remaining.

The not-quite-as-new-look Celtics beat the new look Cavaliers and seemed to be getting back on track as they did it. The Celtics had 27 assists on 34 baskets, harkening back to some early season games.

Cleveland was playing just their 3rd game with 4 new players (Ben Wallace, Wally Szczerbiak, Delonte West, and Joe Smith) acquired in an 11 player trade.

Delonte West had a strong game with 20 points on 8-13 with 5 rebounds and 2 assists. Szczerbiak couldn't find the range, finishing 3-13 for 12 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 TOs. Joe Smith provided 9 points in 14 minutes on 4-5 shooting. Ben Wallace went for 6 rebounds and 6 points in 26 minutes.

The talk around the boards and in the media is mixed on this trade to get Lebron some help for this year's play-offs. Kenny Smith has said that he's not sure the trade makes the team better. Doc Rivers thinks it does. I tend to agree. Time will tell as they try to meld things together this next month or so.

The Celtics won despite being out rebounded by 44-37 and 12-5 on the offensive boards. That is after starting the game off strong with a 12-5 rebounding edge after one quarter. The Cavs out rebounded the Celtics 39-25 the rest of the way.

The Cavs took 16 more shots on basket (81-65). Both teams had some success with points in the paint, running 38-36 (Celtics). The Men in Green shot a sharp .523 for the game while holding the Cavs to .383.

Lebron James had his 2nd worse shooting game of the year, going 7-24 according to the Cavs announcers. A large part of that might be due to the fact that James went down with a twisted ankle in the first half. He returned to play 39 minutes total, but didn't look the same when he came back. James Posey also did a nice defensive job on James for the time he played him.

Kevin Garnett looked sharp as he was hitting his outside shot, playing very good defense and had a good all around game with 18 points on 8-14, 11 rebounds (0 offensive), 5 assists, and 4 steals.

Ray Allen continued to look smooth offensively and he led the Cs with 22 points on 7-10 and 3-5 from downtown. Rondo had a strong Rondo-esque game with 8 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds, 3 steals, 3 TOs, and went 0-3 from the foul line.

Kendrick Perkins had trouble with the large 7' 3" Zydrunas Ilguaskas again. Z had 9 points and 12 boards (6 offensive) in only 28 minutes of play. After the last time they played, Kendrick said that he should be playing Ilguaskas better. Kendrick logged 8 points on 4-4 shooting last night, but he had only 1 rebound for 25 minutes.

Paul Pierce had a tough night with only 12 points on 4-14, with 5 assists, 2 rebounds, and a steal. He also had 6 TOs.

Yet, the Celtic defense looked coordinated and the shots were falling for most
everyone else.

The bench gave a solid performance with Glen Davis going for 9 points and 4 boards in almost 24 minutes. Leon Powe had a very productive 13 points in 13 minutes. While Posey concentrated on 'D-ing up on Lebron, he added 5 rebounds and an assist in 20 minutes. Eddie House had 5 assists, 2 boards and a steal in 14 minutes. He also had the best plus/minus on the team at +6 for the game.

The Celtics are now 44-12 and have won three straight.

PJ Brown a Celtic

They signed semi-retired, 6' 10" PF PJ Brown before the game. That gives them a solid big man with play-off experience heading down the stretch. Brent Barry and Sam Cassell are still possibilities for shoring up the depth at guard.

Next up: Boston goes to Charlotte on Friday night.

Posted by Tom on 2:19 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 27, 2008

Cassell Launch Squashed?

If we know anything about the league's owners, we know that Donald T. Sterling has a reputation for being...umm.... among the most frugal, by far.

Will Sam Cassell actually finish the season playing out the string in Los Angeles?

His recent expansion of his pocketbook over the last few years has raised the Clipper's roster salary total to $64 mil, just under the luxury tax penalty, and in fairness, more generous than 10 other NBA owners. That has been somewhat of a sea change for 'The (other) Donald'.

When many other franchises pretended to be trying to compete to win a title, Mr. Sterling ran an NBA sports team as a business to make money. In the unusual world of NBA owners, he would make sure they were operating in the black as much as possible.

Whether you agree with that outlook or not, that was/is the reality.

In a league where this kind of player buy out is becoming 'de rigeur' of the day, it appears to be an 'alien' concept to Mr. Sterling. Either that or he is playing hard ball right up to the last moment.

Whatever it is, Marc Spears and Peter May of the Boston Globe, are reporting this morning that a buy out of Sam Cassell's contract is not on Sterling's 'to do' list this week. Cassell's agent, David Falk, has given the Clippers until Saturday to complete a buy out, so that Sam could play on another team for a play-off run. Indications from a 'league source' are that Sterling has no intention of paying Cassell off do he can play for another team.

From Peter May.....

The owner actually said Monday night that he figured if Cassell were to leave the team, then the Clippers' financial obligation to him would go with the player. Doesn't work that way, Donald.

I will add that the Grizzlies owner, Michael Heisley, was reported to have made much the same comment initially, before buying out Damon Stoudamire's contract. Damon was bought out and went and signed with the Spurs.

But Danny's is dancing around all this and there is still a chance that Brent Barry could sign with the Cs. He was supposed to commit yesterday (to the Suns, some said) , but hasn't made a decision as of this article, and is rumored to still have Boston as a possible destination of choice.

The Celtics are also interested in SG Flip Murray, recently of the Pistons. So it looks like Ainge is keeping three plates spinning in the air, like that old act you used to see on Ed Sullivan from time to time. (I know. I dated myself with that one).

It will be interesting to see which plates crash and which one spins its way to Boston, if any.

In the meantime, the new look Cleveland Cavaliers will play in Boston tonight. The Cavs are already up 2-1 in their season series with Boston.

Delonte West and Wally Szczerbiak return to their former home as agents of Lebron this time. I wish I was going, just to get a quote from 'Delonte's World'.

Catch you all later.

Posted by Tom on 10:57 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 26, 2008

Sam: a Casseltic .....soon?

The media reports are heating up and I found this from last night's Celtic/Clipper game from Hoopsworld....

'* If Sam Cassell isn't on his way to Boston he sure could of fooled me after the game. Dude almost looked like he was already a member of the Celtics when he came in the locker room. First, he gave Ray Allen a big hug and talked to him for a couple of minutes. Then, searching for his good friend Kevin Garnett, he asked: "Where's Ticket?" A few seconds later he marched directly into the training room and started shooting the breeze with his good friend for awhile. The laughter from the room rang out for a good couple of minutes.

* Can we please just get this thing done and get Sam to Boston already. I'm just sayin'."

And now ESPN has this today....

After a frenzy of activity by contending teams this month, it appears the Boston Celtics' response is to add a 38-year-old point guard who has missed 15 games this season.

Three sources said that the Clippers would buy out the remainder of Sam Cassell's contract this week and that he would sign with the Celtics assuming he passes through waivers.

So, it sounds close to a done deal.

But what about Rajon Rondo? He is getting better by the minute, it seems.

And don't think Rajon hasn't noticed all of the talk about needing another PG. Remember the last time the Clippers played the Celtics and Sam was playing? Rondo played with a vengeance...or a point to prove...and ate up Cassell so badly that Sam laid a hard foul on him on one of the many drives where Rondo blew by Cassell on his way to the hoop. Rajon scored a career high 24 points in that game, and looked spectacular doing it. Hello, Sam. Here is what you have to replace.

Since then, Rondo has kept up his improvement, and is getting closer and closer to what everyone thinks Rondo can be, a complete and true point guard. But Rondo offers more than that. Rajon stepped up his scoring and rebounding in a big way when Garnett went out. He was as much the reason why they continued winning as any of the other role players. Perhaps nearly as much as Ray Allen and Paul Pierce.

Where Rajon is behind Cassell offensively is with his shot, and even ball distribution, which is critical in the play-offs. But he is gaining experience there every game. What Rondo can't offer is leadership and experience. The funny thing is....the poster boy for not needing experience to win an NBA championship is.....the man who says he can offer it - Sam Cassell. Sam won a title (2 in a row actually) with the Rockets and Hakeem as a rookie point guard and played a significant part in the accomplishment.

So....couldn't Rondo do the same? Isn't Sam living proof of that? Ironic, isn't it?

With Sam glad handing the Celtics already (granted, he is friends with Kevin Garnett) it seems possible this will happen very soon.

If it does, Rondo will say all of the right things. Doc will say all of the right things. Sam will say all of the right things. Well maybe not, at least for now. In fact, here is what he says about Rondo and himself in the Adande article in ESPN...

"Can I be effective with that team?" Cassell said before the Clippers played Boston Monday night. "I think that team is lacking … Rondo is a great young talent. In the playoffs, it takes more than talent to win playoff basketball games. Leadership means everything. Knowing who to get the ball to, knowing when to run, knowing when to set it up. I have experience."

Though I've read that they are interested, Denver and Dallas don't seem to have a chance. It sounds like Sam is positioning himself for the Celtics.

For the record, I'm all for getting Sam. For the reasons mentioned and one more - the referees - they will give Sam more of the benefit of the doubt than Rondo. It's not fair. It isn't the way it should be. But it is the way it is.

And few other things...who would you want shooting free throws near the end of the 4th quarter in a close play-off game? Sam has proven to be a clutch performer. Rondo is shooting 61.9% from the line. As good of a driver as Rondo is, Sam will be equal or better at it this year. Maybe not next year, but the team is not worried about next year.

But to add a little more fuel to the discussion...Sam was a much worse shooter (42.7%) than Rondo (50%) is today, in Sam's 2nd year, but a much better foul shooter (84.3%). Still the move makes tons of sense. As far as defense goes, which is a main argument against Sam, he will give defenses more problems than Rondo will, at this stage of Rondo's career.

Getting a Sam Cassell, for next to nothing is the right thing to do. As far as chemistry, it is my guess that it is Rondo's ego that will need massaging. Rondo is very competitive. You see it in his game. You see it in his eyes when you talk to him. Rondo feels his own greatness on the near horizon. He is certainly not saying that. I am. At least that is how he plays. One day, he might be part of the 'Big Four' or whatever they will call them. It is possible that he could be that good.

But I will give you another fact from Cassell's championship run as a rookie. Sam played in just 17 minutes a game as a rookie and 23 minutes in his 2nd year. So Sam had to share the position and the spotlight with a veteran named Kenny Smith (28 minutes, 4.2 assists). In the play-offs that first year, Sam averaged 21 minutes and Kenny Smith 30 minutes. Perhaps the minutes will be reversed, but I'm sure that Rondo will be willing to do the same, should the apparent pick up of 'Sam I Am' actually happen.

Playing for an NBA title does that to good players.

Posted by Tom on 4:17 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

Celtics in Easy Win Over Clippers

The Celtics easily beat a decimated Los Angeles Clippers team 104-76 last night.

I tried to think of a clever title, but there was little clever about the game. Celtic fans can remember games like these last year, except that the boys in green were playing out the string. 48 minutes and done.

It as kind of like a practice game. The Clippers are 19-35 and already have little to play for in a strong western conference. With little used Aaron Williams as the starting center, and Sam Cassell, 'career year' Chris Kaman both out, and Elton Brand and Livingston on the shelf for the season, the Clippers played like they knew they would have little chance against the league's top team, especially when the men in green were determined to make up for starting the 5 game road trip with 3 straight losses. Two wins to finish were at least some consolation.

There was a first, as James Posey tied Paul Pierce for game honors in scoring with 17. He did it in 21 minutes with 6-8 from the floor and 4-6 from downtown. James added 5 rebounds and 2 steals.

The Celtics toyed with an anemic Clipper squad, as they concentrated on stopping Corey Maggette, knowing that there few were answers after him. Maggette had only 3 points at half time and finished with 11. In their last meeting, Maggette had 33.

The Celtics put the game away in the 3rd, outscoring the Clippers 32-21, for a 77-57 lead going into the 4th. Paul Pierce had 9 and Ray Allen 8 in the decisive 3rd quarter.

The Celtics defense looked good, though they did allow a weakened Clipper team 30 points in the paint. I'd have to assume that most of that occurred with Perkins and Garnett on the bench. Garnett only played 23:26 minutes, but scored 11 points, 6 boards, 4 assists, 4 blocks and a steal.

Ray Allen was right behind Pierce and Posey with 15 points, but led the team with 7 assists and had 4 rebounds, a steal and a block.

Kendrick Perkins had 9 rebounds, and 6 points on a perfect 3-3 in 21 minutes.

Nine of the 11 players who played each had a steal, as they played the passing lanes well. The lead ballooned to 29 at one point, and it time to coast home after that.

Most of the team played well, but were hardly challenged by a sedated Clipper squad. There were many open looks from the perimeter, so most any misses were uncontested, as were the makes.

This was a Gabe Pruitt sighting game as Gabe played over 9 minutes and did well, scoring 6 points on 3-4 and had an assist and a steal, though the game was well decided and players were already mentally at whatever party or restaurant they planned on going to afterwards.

The Celtics head home among rumors that Cassell particularly, might be released and headed to their team. Boston plays the revamped Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night

Sorry for the delay. I watched a tape delayed version of the game, and re-watched parts of it, though I'm not sure why.

Posted by Tom on 11:30 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

February 24, 2008

Celtics Shoot Lights Out in Portland

After three losses, the Boston Celtics finally won a game on this west coast trip, beating the Portland Trailblazers by 112 -102.

They trailed by 17 in the first half. Got it to 54-47 by half time and took off for a 37 point turnaround at one point in the second half.

Paul Pierce led the way with 30 points on a sparkling 12-14 from the floor and 4-5 from down town to go with 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 TOs in 42:21 minutes.

Ray Allen supported that with 19 points on 7-8 shooting, another 4-5 from downtown, and 4 assists.

Rajon Rondo, and James Posey tied for third with 15 points each. Rondo added a team high 8 assists, 3 rebounds and 2 steals. Posey must have eaten what Pierce and Allen had, as he shot 6-8 from the field and 3-5 from downtown. Eddie House joined the 3 party with 3-5 and 11 points in just under 15 minutes. Kendrick Perkins was in foul trouble with 4 in 13 minutes, but added 5 rebounds (4 offensive) and a block, to go with 4 points.

Kevin Garnett played 31 minutes and scored 10 points on 5-15 shooting, to go with 7 rebounds and 3 assists. He is still working his way back, it seems.

Brandon Roy went out in the second half with a re-aggravated sprained ankle.

After being the hottest team in the league at one point, the Blazers have fallen back to earth hard, and are 2-8 over the last 10 games, barely keeping themselves above .500.

The team shot 14-21 from the three point line in this game.

I didn't see this one, but I'm glad the Celtics got it going today. It sounds like the Blazers didn't want to go out and cover the shooters, setting up a hot day from beyond the line. The Celtics ended up shooting .579 to the Blazers .453, while outrebounding them 37-31.

Pierce was a driven man after his last performance and made sure it wasn't a 4 game losing streak.

The team goes to L.A. for the Clippers, and Sam I Am Cassell, on Monday night. Maybe he will be changing uniforms after that game (Tuesday).

Posted by Tom on 11:54 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 23, 2008

The Celtics Finally have a Real Challenge

In some ways, I love it.

The Celtics have lost three games for first the time all season. When they were breezing through their first half schedule, I kept thinking that it can't be this easy, can't it?

The Celtics have been so good so easily that real adversity has been sparse. I know that they won't agree with that. They have put in serious hard work to achieve the record they have. I don't disagree. It has just looked easy.

But they now have a real challenge in front of them. But it is not unsurmountable. This is when we really see what they are made of - everyone from Doc Rivers to each of the team's leaders. I think it can only help make this team better. I think it would actually help if they played more games against the best in the west. Two games against Phoenix is just not enough.

But bear in mind, the Celtics, as bad as they played, outscored the Suns for the last three quarters last night. Neither team was stellar. That was play-off basketball intensity. The Suns were adding someone who is still a force (Shaq) to be reckoned with in the middle and the Celtics were trying to play defense against one of the top offenses in the game. With Shaq now in the middle it gives Amare a license to roam and roam he did.

From figuring out what to keep, and how to keep it, from the time KG was out, (read that: Rondo's stepped up play, mostly) to getting back to playing solid D, rebounding and still running a smooth, confident offense, the coach and team have some work to do.

Has running into high flying, high scoring west coast powerhouses had something to do with it? It sure has. Welcome, Boston to west coast ballin'....on their own courts. You don't the calls you get at home at their places. It changes things a bit. They have to find a way to deal with it if they want to win a championship. A revamped Cavalier team, the Magic and the Pistons don't play basketball like that. That is what makes these games a little harder. There is no one on the east coast that plays like that.

There is no question that the three leaders on this team can figure things out. They have to and they will. Paul and Ray will rarely have as bad shooting games combined as they did last night. Kevin and the other bigs will have to control the boards more and they will. They have done it all year. They will or dreams will die.

Still, it makes you wonder if Danny should fill those 2 open spots.

Celtics have interest in Barry, Magloire, and Andersen

I have no idea what big could be had. Jamal Magloire was just released from New Jersey. I'm not sure what he has left. Apparently not much. But Marc Spears of the Globe has reported that the Celtics will inquire about him.

Marc also said that the Celtics (and all of the other play-off bound west coast teams) are interested in recently released sharp shooting (43% from downtown this year, 95% Foul shooting, 68 play-off games and 2 championships) Brent Barry. The Cs look to be a long shot as he could ply his trade on the west coast which is closer to home.

The Cs are also said to be interested in soon-to-be-reinstated big man (6' 10" ) Chris Andersen of the New Orleans Hornets, if he is released from the team, as is expected.

Rumors abound that the Clippers are finally thinking of a buy out for Sam Cassell...again. Sam won't play better defense than Rondo, but he can make some big time 4th quarter plays on the other end.

Anyway, this rumor has been going on for a while, we should know if there is anything to it soon. Coincidentally, March 1 is the next important date. Sam must be released by then to be included on a play-off roster on another team this season. The Celtics play the Clippers on Monday, March 3rd. They would actually have to wait until Tuesday at 6:00pm for him to clear waivers according to Marc.

The Celtics first go to Portland for a game on Sunday.

Posted by Tom on 1:11 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Celtics Discombobulated: Lose to Suns

A-d-v-e-r-s-i-t-y. Find out what it means to me.

Apologies to Aretha as the Celtic Summer of Love, turned Winter of Wins, runs into a west coast drought.

Spin doctors assemble.

The Boston Celtics lost to the Phoenix Suns in Phoenix in a very untypical game for both teams. Helter Skelter might be a good description. The game was very physical, there was lots of talking between the players, especially between Garnett and Amare Stoudamire and they should have erected a sign that said, "Danger - Flying Elbows." Multiple players took hard shots throughout the contest.

That is 3 straight losses for the first time this season - all to western play-off teams - by losing to the Suns 85-77. They can't quite get the ship balanced. They lost two by not playing defense and last night against the Suns, they played defense but forgot how to shoot the ball, pass the ball and rebound the ball. Other than that, they played great. They are only 3 losses better than Detroit now.

Time to start checking the Celtics place in the lottery? No. But they are losing their grip on home court advantage for every round of the play-offs. Is there really anything to be concerned about? Yes, there is. But it isn't anything that is not fixable.

As the Celtics beat themselves time and again last night, I wondered about the over all team make up and it's play-off prospects.

But the Celtics have simply hit a tough time with Garnett making his return as a very tough west
coast trip began.

Doc Rivers was even heard to say in a 4th quarter huddle that they need games like these where things aren't going right and they are still in the hunt for a win.

In this game, the Celtics made an admirable recovery from a blazing start from the fast breaking Suns. The Suns jumped out to a big lead, before the Celtics clamped down for a 12 minute period when they did not allow a Suns field goal, and almost caught up 27-26, before the Suns ran the lead back up to 43-30. The Celtics never led in this entire game.

There are a few things to take from this game.

It was a contest where little went right for the Celtics. Paul Pierce and Ray Allen shot a combined 5-25. The Celtics were pummeled on the boards 50-32. They were beaten on the boards by 18-4 in the first quarter alone. They made dumb passes and threw the ball away (20 times), often as they were about to close the gap. It was frustrating to see them blow so many fast breaks for sure lay-ups. They were simply a tight team.

But I actually liked seeing Rondo assert himself offensively. His shot total was up (12), but his assist total was down (2). He wasn't overly successful offensively, but he is still learning to be aggressive out there and was successful enough to know that he should continue to build his repertoire. Defensively, it was his third straight night against a top point guard (Steve Nash) and another learning experience, to say the least.

Tony Allen played both well and poorly, as he had some of the worse turnovers and best offensive plays. Ray Allen took a hard elbow to the head and so did Glen Davis. Paul Pierce badly miss timed a dunk and stuck it on the front rim.

Kevin Garnett was the most productive Celtic with 19 points, 5 rebounds, and he led the team with 4 assists.

Kendrick Perkins played a rough game, had 3 blocks and received a flagrant foul when he hit Amare Stoudamire in the neck with his arm.

In an unusual move, Coach D'Antoni played the deep end of the bench, Sean Marks, Brian skinner and DJ Strawberry, in the first quarter for a few minutes.

Not that the Suns played a masterpiece either. The Celtics actually held Phoenix well below their season average and had them at 29 points midway through the second quarter, after allowing 24 first quarter points.

The Suns managed to not lose control of the score or the game though the Celtics mounted many charges to try to overtake the Suns.

As things stand, the Celtics have to pull a Barry Manilow, and try to 'get that feeling again.' Hopefully they find it in Portland on Sunday the 24th.

Posted by Tom on 1:37 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 21, 2008

Trades Galore but Celtics Stand Pat

The Thursday 3:00 pm deadline finally passed with a flurry of moves to make some teams better, other teams worse, and other teams re-organizing for the future.

Notable is the fact that the Clippers weren't going to let Sam Cassell leave for small change. There was a rumor that Memphis made an offer for Sam. It also brings up the possibility that the Clippers will buy him out. Hello Danny.

Today's Cleveland trade and a few comments....

The Cleveland Cavaliers made the big trade of the day and moved 5 players for 4 more in a three way deal. They got Ben Wallace and Joe Smith from Chicago, Wally Szczerbiak and Delonte West from Seattle, while sending Larry Hughes, Drew Gooden, Shannon Brown and Cedric Simmons to the Bulls. They also sent Donyell Marshall to the Sonics. Seattle received Ira Newble from Cleveland and Adrian Griffin from Chicago - both of who have expiring contracts this season.

Hmm.....

Talent-wise it is an obvious upgrade for Cleveland. They essentially got 4 useful players for 2. It gives Mike Brown some depth, outside scoring, and versatility they didn't have yesterday. They also show LeBron they are serious about trying to get him help this year.

Delonte West vs. Larry Hughes - two totally different games. Neither is a true point guard. Delonte gets a big chance to run the point in a play-off bound team where he won't be counted to be the sole or even main distributor. But it may give LeBron a chance to play 'off the ball' a little more.

Like the Lakers, the ball runs through the team's uber star on most offensive sets. Delonte West has been maligned by many. Yet, looking at what Hughes was contributing in 30 minutes a game this year: 12.3 pts on 37% shooting with 34% from the 3 pt.line, with 81% FT, it is something that West could easily duplicate if he gets the same minutes and finds his rhythm. And he'll do it for a lot less money.

Defensively, it's probably a wash, but D. West has been able to make some big defensive plays in the past and was learning to play well in crunch time for the Celtics as the year drew to a close last year. This year he just wasn't part of the Seattle's plans going forward. Delonte has been quoted recently as saying he feels lost in Seattle.

That being said, Delonte West brings a dimension to the Cavs that Larry Hughes didn't. His big adjustment with be defense in a what was/is a defense oriented team with Mike Brown. The Cavs have liked Delonte for some time. He now will be given a solid chance to prove them right.

Joe Smith and Ben Wallace vs. Drew Gooden - that's what it comes down to. Smith is on the downside of his career but keeps surprising each year with his productive play, as did PJ Brown did for years. They now have a solid but completely different look to throw at teams with Ben Wallace. It will be interesting to see how Brown works Ben into the line up. Wallace's game has been described as creeping southward by many observers this year. But with Zydrunas there, less will be required of each of the 2 centers. How it affects Z is more of a concern, but I always thought that Brown hasn't truly appreciated Ilguaskas' abilities on either end of the court. Drew Gooden was a better offensive player than either Smith or Wallace, and has more career left than either, obviously.

Wally Szcerbiak will give them another outside shooter to go with Boobie Gibson. That will help spread the floor and give West or James a second open shooter when the doubles come to LBJ. He is play-off tested and if he can keep the injuries at bay, will be a solid help come this year's second season.

Conclusion: There will be an adjustment period, but you can put the Cavs right up there with the Celtics, Pistons and Magic as a possible finals entry from the Eastern Conference.

It is now a 4 way race more than ever. Chicago takes a step back as they try and recover from the Ben Wallace debacle. I'm sure he will get to wear his head band in Cleveland without incident.

But it might not be a big step backward for Chicago either as Drew Gooden and Larry Hughes will give the Bulls some things that will help their new team. Larry is a slasher by nature. They must figure out how to get that ability to help the rest of the offense. The Bulls will remain a team without a post-up presence and big time go-to guy.

Posted by Tom on 7:48 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 20, 2008

Davis Delivers at Buzzer

Baron Davis that is. Glen Davis plays big, but not that big.

The Warriors won on a cool as ice, 20 foot, 'not-an-all-star' Baron Davis step back jump shot over Tony Allen, 119-117, leaving just .03 tenths of a second left on the clock. The Cs tried a long desperation throw that missed as time expired. Foiled again.

The Celtics have had only moderate success in close games, going 5-6 in games within 5 points. Rajon Rondo made a costly mental mistake last night, as he fouled with the Warriors only up 3 and 35 seconds left. Doc Rivers could be seen asking him, 'Why?' as he walked by the bench.

James Posey also got an unnecessary technical foul at a critical time, and didn't play again.

But the team's problems went a little deeper than that. The 119 points given up were the 2nd highest total of the year, after giving up 124 points, the highest of the year, just the night before.The Celtic's defense is still not what it was before the break, without KG, let alone with the big guy back. That was obvious with open jumpers and trips down the lane without weak side help for much of the night.

As it was, the Celtics didn't give in or give up. Paul Pierce made 4 pressure packed free throws in the final seconds to almost get the game to overtime, as the last two tied it all up at 117 with 6.5 seconds left. That's when Baron came up with his clutch, game winning shot over Tony Allen.

Tony had actually played solid defense all night on Baron Davis, had 2 big steals, and contributed 18 points in 21 minutes.

Ray Allen led the Celtics in scoring with 32 and had a superb shooting night with 11-17, 6-8 from the three point line to go with 6 assist, 3 rebounds, and a steal.

Paul Pierce was second on the team with 23 points, attacking the paint, and making 12 of 13 from the line. He added 5 assists, 5 rebounds and a steal.

Baron had 29 to lead four Warrior players with 20 or more points. Monta Ellis had a break out game with 26, Al Harrington had 22 points in 27 minutes, and Andris Biedrins added 21 points on 9 baskets, all within three feet of the rim.

It was game of seconds (and doubles).

The Celtics lost their second straight close game on the record breaking Green Machine West Coast Tour. They have drawn record breaking attendance at 2 straight stops now. The 20,711 tonight at the Golden State Warriors Oracle Arena in Oakland was the largest audience to ever watch a basketball game in the state of California, according to the Warriors TV commentators. That follows a record breaking night at Pepsi Arena with the Denver Nuggets.

Everyone wants to see the suddenly dominant Boston Celtics, their three stars, and the best record in basketball. Beating them has been a bonus on both nights for the home teams. Unfortunately, they are setting season records for defensive ineptness at each stop so far.

Yet, if you saw tonight's game you will see why they are drawing the crowds they do. Some think you can't get exciting, hard played basketball in the NBA during the year. They obviously aren't watching these Celtics play.

On almost consecutive plays, you would have seen 6' 8" 280 lb. Glen Davis dive to the ground in an attempt to get and save a rebound, followed by 7' Kevin Garnett doing the same a short time later, as he knocks the ball away from a Golden State guard (Monta Ellis). Glen Davis also crashed to the floor again on that same play to get the loose ball and pass it up court. Even the Warriors' announcers were awed by the Celtics' players hustle.

Kevin Garnett had a double double (17 points, 15 rebounds) as he showed why he was missed on his 2nd night back from an abdominal strain. His inspired play in the 4th quarter helped energize a Celtic team that needed inspiration.

The Celtics still aren't together defensively as tonight's and last night's scores will indicate. But there was improvement at times.

The Warriors came out guns blazing and opened a Don Nelson paced 32-29 first quarter lead on the eye opening play of 21 year old, 3rd year, high-school-to-pro, combo guard Monta Ellis. Not bad for a second round pick. Monta is following up a strong sophomore campaign with even more improvement this season as he is still defining himself as a combo guard in the NBA. The double teaming attention he received from the Celtics tonight was a first, so said the same Warriors talking heads. And he handled it quite well.

Monta is on a roll in February and averaging 26 points a game. You could see why as he drove, dished and hit outside for 10 points and 4 assists as Andris Biedrins was the recipient of most of those assists for dunks when Ellis forced Garnett or Perkins to pick him up. The Celtics defense was slow to 'help the helpers' inside, leaving the Golden State big man open for 10 first quarter points.

The Warriors shot a blistering .636 for the opening stanza. The Celtics almost kept up as Pierce had 9 and Ray Allen 8. Kevin Garnett looked sharper in his 2nd game back with 6 points and 6 boards in 8:29 minutes.

The 2nd quarter was much better as the Celtics defense started to shape up a little and held the high flying Warriors to just 18 points.

The game see-sawed until the Warriors took over later in the game, due partly to Celtic turnovers, but mostly due to unCeltic-like defense.

The Celtics next play the new look Phoenix Suns on Friday with Steve Nash and Shaquille O'Neal. If they don't start playing better D in that game, you could be watching the Celtic's first 3 game losing streak of the year.

The game starts at 10:30pm.

Posted by Tom on 11:46 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Denver Has 'Moe' Offense

By George (Karl), the Nuggets 'Moe' down the Celtics, 124-118.

Doug Moe must be smiling and nodding right now.

The current assistant coach for George Karl, Doug is the winningest coach in Nugget history with a 10 year record of 432-357 (.548). "The Big Stiff", as Doug is affectionately known (according to the Nuggets Media Guide), tried to prove, during his reign, that defense was over rated. His 'pedal to the metal' offense would try to outscore every opponent every game and his teams led the NBA in scoring in six of his ten years as a head coach to prove it.

Last night the talented, but underachieving Denver Nuggets put on a scoring clinic against the NBA's best defensive team, the Boston Celtics, totaling the highest point total allowed by the Cs this year, by a margin of 10, and it was done in front of the largest Denver Nugget audience in history, 19,984. People want to see this Celtic team play. Or is it, to see them get beat?

Denver has one of NBA's best home court records and is now 22-6. This is the Celtics first loss, after 16 straight wins against Western Conference teams and ends a current 5 game Celtic winning streak.

The Celtics had Kevin Garnett back, but he wasn't in sharp game shape, as he played just 21 minutes, scored 4 points on 2-7 but had 8 rebounds. He looked a little out of sync for much of the time.

Paul Pierce led the way for the Cs with 24 points, many of them difficult makes, including a nice power dunk with 2 Nugget defenders, including Marcus Camby no less, right there trying to stop it. In fact, there were a number of athletic plays made in this game by both teams. It was a fun game to watch, except for the porous Celtic defense. They were certainly not sharp coming out of the all-star break.

Rajon Rondo continued to insinuate himself into the offense, and even made a 3 pointer, while scoring 22 for the game. He was a solid 9-15 shooting, with but a single assist, as Pierce led with 7 and Ray Allen had 5 assists.

The Celtics went small a lot, as it was working for them. Leon Powe and James Posey made big contributions. Leon had 13 points and 11 rebounds (6 offensive) and had 2 blocks in 21 minutes. Posey played a heavy 37 minutes and added 13 points, 4 steals and 6 rebounds while having the 2nd best plus/minus (+6) on the team.

Eddie House played nearly 18 minutes and scored 9 points, including a big three in the final moments. The team played well with him on the court as he had a team best plus/minus of +9, though he only shot 4-13. He had a nice assist to Powe on a drive and received one himself on another drive.

Kendrick Perkins was also welcomed back after nursing a shoulder injury, blocked 2 shots, but played only 9:38 minutes. The other returning injured player, Glen Davis played only 7 minutes.

Both teams started fast as the 1st quarter ended with the Nuggets up 36-31. Ray Allen continued his All Star hot shooting with 14 quick points in the quarter. He finished with 20. After hitting 6 of his first 9, he missed his next 8 shots in the game. Ray did come up big at crunch time as he hit a big three and got credit for another on a terrible goal tending call.

I've always felt that the Nuggets have enough talent to compete for the league title over the last few years. I still do. Whether they ever will is still not decided. It is the defensive end of the court that is holding them back.

But they have the pieces to be a solid defensive team. They are active, as they are among the league leaders in steals and shot blocking. Marcus Camby is the reigning Defensive Player if the Year, and was a shot blocking machine last night with 9. Yet the Celtics almost won a game in a pace they didn't want to play, and scored 52 points in the paint, to the Nuggets 38. The question is why do the Nuggets have size, shot blocking and agile players, yet don't play very good defense (except for the 'lone ranger' Marcus Camby)?

Another question is, if the Celtics pounded the paint for 52 points to the Nuggets 38, why was the foul shooting so skewed in Denver's favor? They had 49 attempts to the Celtics 28. Hmmm....

They have been called a selfish team at times, as well. Not last night. They had 29 assists on 41 makes, putting them into the Celtics class for team work and unselfishness. They looked quick, motivated and sharp. Could the first meeting they had with Celtics this year have been in their minds?

The Celtics absolutely dismantled this same Nugget club in their 3rd game of year on Nov. 7 with a half time lead of 77-38 that turned into a 119-93 win. The Celtics shot .645 from the field in that one.

I remember hearing Carmelo Anthony in the locker room after that game saying things like, "That's not the first time that's happened. It won't be the last either."

I was wondering how he could say that and take a pounding like that so lightly. They were humiliated that night. Yet, NBA players know that any loss, no matter how bad, is just one loss. The Nuggets went on to win their next game and are currently 16-6 against the Eastern Conference. They are also 33-12 and 7-3 over their last 10 games, as they make their own play-off run. They are currently tied with Houston for the 7th spot in the highly successful west.

The last time these two teams played, Carmelo said that he had never seen such defense as what the Celtics were playing that night. "It was 4 on 1", he said, every time he touched the ball.

Last night, it was quite a different story as the Nuggets remembered, and got their revenge.

Doug Moe was happy. Tom Thibodeau wasn't.

The Celtics play the Golden State Warriors at 10:30 PM tonight

Posted by Tom on 4:16 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 17, 2008

Celtics: Act Two

This looks every bit the three part drama for the Boston Celtics.

Act One ended with the All Star break. The team leaves the stage to a rousing ovation and the best record in the NBA at 41-9. The Celtics pull up for a break, catch their collective breath, get some rest and physical therapy. They return for Act Two - the drive to be a play-off ready team. Get healthy. Get your roles down. Get after it.

32 games remain in their regular season in order to make the team, like the Marines, 'be all they can be'. For what? The '2nd Season' also known as the play-offs.

It is the only season that this team is concerned with. Everything that happens for 82 games is to get ready for a play-off run.

The Celtics assembled a three star team, drew up simple plays, and threw them to the Wolves....and the Raptors...and so on.

Something strange happened. They started to win immediately. 8-0 to start. No chemistry to work out. No getting to know each other. No problems. Or so it has looked...and has been, for
the most part.

But if you have been watching regularly, a number of things occurred in the first half, almost all of them good.

The main thing, and it is subtle, is that the team is more of a team now. Yes, they might have passed more and won by bigger numbers in the first half of the first half. But they may have even passed too much at times. The unselfishness of everyone might have actually been too extreme. Hard to believe, when you are talking about an NBA team, I know. But it was true.

Talent, energy, focus, unselfishness and defensive intensity 'impersonated' team chemistry to start the season. The three stars, starting with Kevin Garnett, drove the team out of the gate with winning the only thing on their minds. They needed to establish that mindset in their own minds, and in the minds of their opponents. All of the major runs in each early season game included at least one of the three stars to catapult the team to sometimes ridiculous leads. They were crushing teams like some intra mural games everyone remembers when they were kids.

Paul Pierce Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen had to see for themselves just what they could do if they put their 'all' into it. It was something spectacular to behold. Yes, their strength of schedule was among the worse, but bear in mind, so was Detroit's. You still have to play and win the games. They were winning in eye opening fashion and were winning with defense, much to the surprise of many observers.

Doc's first goal was to get the three stars comfortable playing with each other. Now his goal is to keep them healthy and to get consistently strong performances from his other players.

Rajon Rondo is growing by leaps and bounds and is becoming one the league's premiere point guards. He leads the team in ways he could only dream of to start the season. While neither played at all, to start the season, Glen Davis and Leon Powe have become important parts of the puzzle, as Brian Scalabrine has slid down the bench (until recent injuries). Eddie House and James Posey are all you could hope they would be. Kendrick Perkins is playing consistently solid defense, and just enough offense to keep teams honest.

With the loss of Kevin Garnett for the most recent 9 games, it actually helped develop team chemistry a little more, and to get a good reading and give valuable court time to Leon Powe and Glen Davis. Rondo has stepped up a huge way with KG out. It is eye opening to see his development.

Ray and Paul have done what you would hope and expect. They are the book-ends of the offense as they get things going and finish them in most games.

I wouldn't let the recent success without KG get me too optimistic. The team is winning, but there are holes in the defense and they are in the middle. The team can ride for a while without KG and Perkins but they will have a tough time duplicating the recent results in the play-offs with out those two guys. But we know that.

As Act Two begins, it is Doc's job to try to keep everyone healthy and rested enough for the second season. Injuries are unpredictable. Doc can do little about those, save keeping his players rested.

Team chemistry still has room for improvement as players solidify their roles. Glen Davis can still be erratic though he will bring energy every night. Leon Powe has some defensive shortcomings. Eddie House must continue contributing in other ways, even if his shot is off.

Paul, Ray and Kevin seem to take turns as a focus of the offense as you can't run picks and back screens for two players at the same very easily, if at all. But they have managed to make it all work. I think you won't see Kevin Garnett working in the post more until nearer the play-offs, unless there is a compelling reason for it, like seeding and home court advantage.

Finding Tony Allen's role is a little more interesting. In addition to his defense, he can bring an offensive dimension to the team that no one else has. He presents a challenge for Doc, though Rivers has managed to find him regular playing time and Tony has responded with strong, if unspectacular showings. Surprising Tony Allen fact: He has the best 3 point shooting pct on the team. Granted he doesn't take a lot from beyond the arc and his shot can look ugly on release. But it is going in.

Some say you can't know what this team will do under play-off pressure. I would add that we don't know how the refs will make calls either. Will Rondo get treated like a 2nd year man against veteran point guards? Will he get 2 quick fouls and sit? I don't think Glen Davis is going to get the benefit of calls against Tim Duncan in the play-offs, his recent notable defense of Duncan notwithstanding. There are a number of things that are unanswered. But they will only be answered by getting there and playing.

So far, the Celtics have met and passed every test thrown at them. I like their chances going forward.

Act Two begins tonight as the curtain opens in Denver against the talented Nuggets.

Glen Davis, Scot Pollard, and Kendrick Perkins are all probable for tonight's game according to Steve Bulpett of the Boston Herald. Kevin Garnett is also possible. The Cs will need them against Marcus Camby, Kenyon Martin, and Carmelo Anthony. Allen Iverson will give Rondo or Ray Allen fits, depending on how Doc plays it.

This is the first in an extended 5 game road trip.

Posted by Tom on 10:51 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 16, 2008

All Things Celtic: Keeping track and R & R

Just to keep you abreast of all things Celtics during this All Star break:

1) Kevin Garnett might return to action against Denver on Tuesday. The practice before that game will determine that answer.

2) 21 year old Rajon Rondo played with the 2nd year men in the Rookie-Sophomore game and had 6 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds, and 3 steals.

3) Tom Thibodeau, defensive wunderkind, and Celtic Assistant Coach was the head coach for the Sophomores in the Rookie/Sophomore Game. The Sophomores won 136-109. The Sophs created 20 plus turnovers and had only 8 themselves. Go Tom!

4) Paul Pierce was knocked out in the 1st round of the Zo and Magic 8-Ball Challenge, a celebrity pool tournament. Paul won a similar event a few years ago. That's okay. He is on a better run this year.

5) As you know, as owner of the best record (41-9) in the East (and NBA) Doc Rivers is coaching the East Squad. He joked that he was going to play the players from the East Conference contenders - that were not Celtics - a lot of minutes (to get them tired out). Yeah, do it Doc. You rascal.

6) Ray Allen is representing on the East Squad as a replacement pick. 'Humble' Ray is more than happy to get in that way. Right after finding out he was selected, in the Celtics locker room after the Knicks game, he was asked if he would miss having a vacation. "No, I'm honored. I'll have plenty of time for vacations later." We need more players with attitudes like that.

7) Glen Davis is getting treatment for quad sprain and twisted knee that happened when he spun around on a drive that was blocked by Malik Rose against the Knicks. Return unknown.

8) Brian Scalabrine has a groin pull, though I'm not sure if you can treat that. Return unknown.

9) Scot Pollard has recovered from foot and ankle problems and can play if needed. His mind may never be normal, not that it ever was. A unique personality, Boston needs the 'Son of Poison' for it's play-off run.

10) Rajon Rondo lost a side bet he made with Kevin Garnett. He was supposed to make a windmill dunk in the Rook/Soph game. He missed. The bet? 100 push-ups at the winner's
command. We may see Rajon a little more buff, but a little arm weary coming out of the break. Go easy on him KG! We need those long arms for the second half of the season!

As I write this:

11) The Dunk contest just had a great Gerald Green (former Celtic) dunk, where he blew out a candle on a cupcake that seated on the rim as he dunked. The replay show it. I'm not kidding. Quite entertaining, and I don't even really like the dunk contest.

12) Dwight Howard with 3 incredible dunks, including one wearing a Superman outfit. Even entertaining to an 'old school' guy like myself. Well done by a guy who looks like he is flying through the air. Maybe he did come from Krypton. All three dunks were very, very creative. Now, if he could just make a foul shot.....

This week-end showcases the incredible athletic skills of the players in the NBA, and those skills are impressive. No doubt about it.

More on the Celtics incredible season coming.

regards,
T

Posted by Tom on 9:53 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

February 14, 2008

'Rebellious' Celtics Survive Knicks: 2 More Bigs Injured

Paul Pierce called his team "a rebellious group. Not letting the injuries bother us and come together as a team."

They came together and gutted out a win against the Knicks, 111-103.

It wasn't supposed to go this way. The Knicks had a huge height advantage to start with, and it got bigger as the game went on.

You would think that playing against Eddie Curry, Zach Randolph, and substitute David Lee, a tall, talented front line, while the Celtics 2 front line starting bigs (Perkins and Garnett) were already sidelined, would present a problem. It didn't. Then it did. Almost.

The Celtics lost Brain Scalabrine to a groin pull in the first quarter, and Glen Davis to a quad strain in the 2nd quarter, bringing their total available bigs to 1.5, if you add them up, Leon Powe and James Posey.

Along the way, Rajon Rondo got poked in the eye by Fred Jones. Rondo said that he couldn't see out of that eye immediately after.

Surprisingly, the undermanned, undersized Celtics built up a 27 point lead midway through the 3rd quarter, on the strength of lonely Leon's 12 points in the paint, supported by Ray Allen and Paul Pierce's 7 points each. It was almost too easy, as the Celtics weren't even playing great basketball entering the second half. They led a rather listless New York team by 13 (53-40) at the half.

Eddie Curry...

From my point of view, it seems like the same things from last year. Nobody is really coming with anything new. But he is the coach and I have faith in him and what he is trying to implement here.

Zach Randolph...

How hard is it to be positive at 15 -37? "I mean it's hard. Win one, lose eight. You know it's just tough. It's hard for words, it's tough. It takes more than talent to win basketball games. Whatever we're doing, it ain't working."

After running the lead up to a 'here comes Gino' 27 points, on the strength of Leon, the Celtics fell asleep at the wheel. The Knicks responded with 9 points each from Zach Randolph and Jamal Crawford and 7 from David Lee. The Celtics helped awaken the Knicks with 4 turnovers on sloppy passing in the last 2:36 minutes. Pierce committed 3 of them. The lead was back down to 13 as the 3rd quarter ended.

By the time the Celtics stopped the Knicks from getting any closer in the 4th than 97-90, the Knicks had outscored the Celtics by 20 on a 42-22 run over about 12 minutes. During this run, Isaiah Thomas got 2 technicals and was ejected from the game with 2 minutes gone in the 4th period. The 4th quarter was close enough that Gino never got to appear.

Both teams scored a lot of points in the paint (40 plus each). Boston, because the Knicks front line doesn't play much defense, and New York, because Leon Powe and James Posey were the only two bigs left to play in the middle for Boston. Both undersized players responded with strong contributions. Powe played the entire 2nd half and 38:24 total minutes scoring 18 points and had 8 rebounds. James Posey had his season high in rebounds with 11 and added 5 assists.

For the second game in a row, Paul Pierce played the entire second half and finished with another double double, 24 points and 10 rebounds. He added 7 assists, 2 steals, a block, and 6 turnovers.

Rajon Rondo shouldered more of the offense in the second half with 12 points, 18 total, and finished with 5 assists, 3 steals, 3 blocked shots, and zero turnovers. He had a number of highlight reel plays, including his patented 'fake' behind the back pass, only to bring it back around and score.

Ray Allen was once again solid with 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. Tony Allen played well with 14 points off the bench.

As undermanned as the Celtics were, the Knicks, surprisingly, didn't take more advantage of the height mismatches.

David Lee...

At half time, Isaiah was upset we weren't going inside enough...for that reason. Especially with Glen Davis going out. They were really, really short on bigs. That was our advantage tonight, and we didn't utilize that as much as we should have.

Both teams put up 40 plus points in the paint, but the Knicks could have added to that and/or possibly driven Leon Powe from the game with fouls, if they made a more conscious effort to pound it inside.

Doc Rivers...

I don't know if you can ask much more (from the players). The problem with the injuries is the minutes you have to play guys. We're hoping that when we get back from the break, we'll have some healthy bodies.

As it was, many Celtics logged big minutes with Pierce, Posey and Ray Allen all over 40 to go with Leon's big night. The team re-energized in the 4th quarter to get the win with Tony Allen leading the scoring in the 4th with 7, followed by Pierce and Rondo with 6 each.

The two injured big men made it a bittersweet win. If some good can be found, that it happened in the last game before the All Star break, will give the players maximum time to heal.

Ray Allen - All Star after all

Also, the Celtics received good news at half time. Jeff Twiss came in and told Doc Rivers that Ray Allen has been named, as a replacement, to the East All Star team. He will accompany his team mate Paul Pierce, while top vote getter, Kevin Garnett will not play. Fellow Celtic, Rajon Rondo will play in the Sophomore-Rookie game.

Posted by Tom on 2:23 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

February 13, 2008

Celtics Dispose of Pacers 104-97

Workmanlike. That's all you can call this performance as the height challenged Celtics make it a non-issue once again.

The Indiana Pacers are without their one formidable big man, Jermaine O'Neal, so it was a not match up game that might worry Doc Rivers very much.

Paul Pierce and Ray Allen played their roles as team scoring options number 1 and 2 while the rest of the team knew and played their roles very well, too.

Pierce continued his offensive aggressiveness by scoring 28 points and led the team with 12 rebounds. He did it completely within the team concept and didn't even appear to be working hard. He used his hesitations and herky jerky moves in the post to get to the line for 10 points on 12 attempts. He has been to the line for 12,12, and 6 attempts after 2 straight games with one free throw attempt total. Most of it was done against the longer (6' 9") Danny Granger.

Like meat and potatoes, milk and cookies, or peanut butter and jelly, Ray Allen was the perfect complement to Paul Pierce's drives with his outside shooting and added 23 points of his own. It did appear that Ray was the Celtic of choice to attack at times, but to no avail in the end.

As expected, Travis Diener could not keep up Rajon Rondo, and Marquis Daniels was given the assigment for much of the second half. Rajon had another solid game as he cements himself into his position. He was 4-8 with a rare three pointer thrown in for good measure. Add that to 7 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 blocks and 2 steals with only 2 turnovers and you have what is becoming a typical Rondo night.

Leon Powe started at center, played 30 minutes and was the right choice again as he provided a presence in the middle both on offense, scoring 16 points, and defense with 9 boards and a +24 defensive rating.

James Posey had 2 big threes, 6 rebounds, a number of deflections and 2 steals, again just doing what he does best. Brian Scalabrine even played good D and had 2 blocks. Eddie House and Tony Allen both played solid floor games.

Coming off of his eye opening game against the Spurs, Glen Davis couldn't get untracked at either end if the floor last night and ended with 3 points and a rebound in 16 minutes with a poor plus-/minus.

It was a game where the Celtics played as well as they had to, gave up the lead a few times to a team that played their role well as "the underdog who would try but lose in the end."

The Pacers have offense-less Jeff Foster or foul magnet David Harrison in the middle. Their offense revolves around Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy but tonight's game was like a who's who of the Pacer's roster. They played 10 players and 6 reached double digits, while trying to find a combo that would help beat the boys in green.

While the Celtics aren't quite the same, they give up more points in the paint (40 tonight) and are getting outrebounded (48-42) by teams they probably shouldn't be, they are playing well with the parts they have. This group has learned what it takes to win, to get a lead, to retake a lead, and to close teams out.

So the game was close right until the final minutes, with the Pacers within one at 3:08 and only down 4 at 99-85 with 1:20 left. But it wasn't really in doubt, as Pierce hit 2 free throws and a fade away jumper over Granger to give the Cs a 101-95 lead with :52 seconds. It was more than enough as the Cs' weren't really challenged even in those last few minutes.

The Celtics had only 8 TOs, made 10 steals of their own and had 14 fast break points to keep the Pacers on the defensive for most of the game.

The Celtics are now on a 4 game winning streak and are 6-1 over the last 7. They play the Knicks tonight in Boston.

Posted by Tom on 12:17 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 12, 2008

Celtics Visit Pacers Tonight

There is a lot of buzz around the net about Glen "Big Baby" Davis and his performance against the Spurs and Tim Duncan specifically on Sunday. It's all well deserved. Great job by the rotund rambunctious rookie. Heroic even. Glen is learning his role on the team and taking coaching instructions well from Doc.

There is also a buzz about the team's play without Kevin Garnett and Kendrick Perkins. The Celtics are on a modest 3 game win streak and are 5-2 in KG's absence. Depth, my friends, depth. Rondo, House, Posey, and Powe has stepped up huge.

The early season question marks are all being answered with positives. The system instilled early on by Doc Rivers is showing that it isn't simply KG doing his thing.

They roll into Indianapolis tonight to play the Pacers at 7:00 pm.

Kendrick Perkins is again expected to sit and KG will be out until after the All Star break.

That shouldn't be such a problem tonight as team leader Jermaine O' Neal remains sidelined. Jeff Foster will play center. Either of Leon Powe or Glen Davis should be able to off set Foster.

The Pacers are on a mini 2 game win streak after losing 7 in a row, and are 3-8 in O' Neal's absence.

The Pacers' are 11-14 at home. There are a lot of reasons to expect another Celtic win. The Cs are on a mission. The Pacer's are going down hill and have little to play for at this point. But Jim O'Brien would love to catch the Cs napping and steal a win. It is the NBA and strange things happen.

Doc, Paul and Ray must keep the team focused and playing at a high level for a game that would be easy to overlook and be over confident for.

Travis Diener should be over matched against Rajon Rondo. Mike Dunleavy should have his hands full with Ray Allen and Danny Granger must keep Pierce active on defense, because he
will be a difficult match up for Danny on the other end.

Will the KG-less Celtic roll continue?

Posted by Tom on 12:59 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 10, 2008

Celtics Pass Mid Terms

The Boston Celtics have now beaten two of the NBA's finest teams in the last few games and did it without Kevin Garnett. Today downing the defending NBA Champion San Antonio Spurs on national television 98-90. They have just passed their mid term tests with flying colors.

The Mavericks and Spurs were both without their starting point guards, Devin Harris and Tony Parker. But it wasn't like they were without Dirk Nowitzki or Tim Duncan. And in this game, the Celtics were 'short' on height.

Starting center, 6' 10" Kendrick Perkins was held out with a shoulder strain, giving the Cs no one over 6' 9" to guard the middle against the Spurs and the league's toughest bag of low post tricks, Tim Duncan.

Once again a number of players played well with the most surprising performance being Glen Davis' guarding Tim Duncan capably in the second half.

But Paul Pierce's 35 points (11 of 18 from the floor, and 5 of 9 from 3 point land) and Rajon Rondo's double-double the hard way (rebounds 11, assists 12 - career high) shouldn't get lost in all the attention that Davis' fine performance will draw. Neither should Ray Allen's 19 points, Eddie House's 10 second quarter, nor Tony Allen's defense on Manu Ginobili and 8 fourth quarter points. The Celtic's team, and the bench particularly, are all finding ways to contribute.

Paul Pierce was on the floor for the entire 2nd half to anchor the team's inspirational effort.

Pierce got them going in the first quarter with 14 points including 11 of the first 13. Manu Ginobili almost matched with 11 early on. Paul closed his fine performance with 9 in the 4th quarter.

Rajon Rondo recently showed he can score with a career high 24 points. Tonight he showed how he can impact a game without scoring. He was the team's leading rebounder for a third time since KG went out. He also logged a career high in assists with 12. He had 5 points. There was a height shortage but there wasn't a 'heart' shortage.

Because it is Sunday......I bring you.....The Gospel According to Paul Pierce....

"Everytime he leads us in rebounds we win, so keep crashing the boards Rondo."

Can I get an Amen.

But the Glen Davis Rookie Adventures took a turn for the worse...and then for the better this
afternoon.

With Garnett, Perkins and Pollard all out with injuries, long armed, 6' 8" Leon Powe drew the starting assignment and quickly drew two fouls in the first 2 minutes of the game against 4 time NBA champion Tim Duncan.

Enter Glen Davis. His first half was better than Leon's, but not a whole lot. He had to be careful of fouling, yet drew 2 himself, had a rebound knocked away after appearing that he was fouled, missed three shots and had 3 turnovers. While playing what would normally be considered decent defense, Tim Duncan made 2 shots right over him. Nothing seemed to be going Glen's way. Glen did lead the team in hustle and floor burns.

In the second half, you could see Glen rise to the challenge, push Tim out of his comfort zone and hound Tim on every catch. He jumped in front of Tim to steal two passes, deflected a number of other attempts and frustrated a number of dribble move attempts by Tim. He was quick, proactive and far more nimble than you would expect for a man his size.

Glen Davis...

"Instead of reacting to him, I wanted to make him react to me."

With some help, he turned Duncan into more of a passer than he wanted to be in the 4th quarter. He outscored Duncan 7 to 6 in the quarter.

Doc Rivers comments on the match up....

"What we told Glen was, "He's taller than you. You're heavier than him.You know, literally. and we said, "You're lower than him. You're not going to grow today. He's going to be taller than you by the end of this day. But because you're low, and you have a low center of gravity, get into his legs, and try to push him off the block. And try to keep him out of the middle, and beat him to the spot baseline."

We told him, 'we're not going to give you a lot of help.' But I thought our helps were pretty good for the most part, but we didn't trap him. I'm sure most people thought, going into the game, that we were going to trap Duncan every single time."

So yes, Davis played Duncan straight up a number of times and got late help when it was needed. Tim had a solid stat line (22 points, 14 rebounds, 8 offensive), but was unable to take over the game when he most wanted to.

Glen said this afterwards....

"They have one of the greats on the team. To match up against Tim today, it meant a lot..you know...for my confidence...and for my team. My coach gave me a lot of confidence, putting me out there. It just felt good."

Coach Popovich had this to say about Glen Davis...

"He has good athletic attributes. I think he played well within himself. He's got such a physique [but] he doesn't try to be overly macho. A lot of guys will fall into that trap. He had a good rhythm going. I liked his pace."

It seemed that the Spurs missed Parker as Tim Duncan led the team with 6 assists. Manu Ginobili has picked up the passing slack of late with 8 and 10 assists in the past few games, but was unable to duplicate that today, finishing with just 4 assists.

When I asked if he was being asked to take on more passing responsibility until newly acquired
Damon was more acquainted with the team's sets he responded....

"well yes, a little more ball handling. But it's because my number is being called more often (with Tony out). Opponents are paying more attention to me. I'm getting some more blitz(ing). But I don't have to shoot when I drive. I try to find the open shooters. Today a little less, but that's what I've been trying to do. When they call my number, it doesn't mean I have to shoot. If I draw enough attention, I've got to be smart enough to find my team mates open."

The key to the Celtics win was keeping the offense moving and rebounding well. They did both as they had 18 fastbreak points to none for the Spurs, and 46 boards to 37 for the Spurs.

It was another great 'test' win to a sold out arena on a Sunday afternoon. The fans were into it from the start and got their money's worth with a smart heart fulled performance by a well coached team and an important win against a possible finals team.

Posted by Tom on 9:06 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 9, 2008

San Antonio - 'Pop' Quiz

The Celtics needed test games. They needed measurement games. The broadcasting network is billing this game as a 'possible finals preview.'

So, Sunday is 'Pop' Quiz day.

That's better than a 'Finals' Exam without Kevin Garnett

We knew that Kevin Garnett wasn't going to play, so what has else 'popped' up?

Greg 'Pop'ovich's San Antonio Spurs are in town, and Kendrick Perkin's shoulder was strained (popped out?) in the last game and won't play.

The Celtics only other big of legitimate size (Pollard is out) may be unable to play. 6' 10' Kendrick Perkins came up with a shoulder injury in the third quarter of the Minnesota game. He has had a shoulder dislocation in his past, so I'm hoping it hasn't been aggravated in any way. He says he is fine and ready to play. Doc Rivers says he will be evaluated on game day.

But the real test is ongoing and the Celtics are coming up with multiple choice answers every game. Sometimes it is - All of the Above.

Every game they play without Garnett is a test for the rest of the team. They have definitely had different answers on different nights. It has really been impressive how well the team is rising to the occasion. They are 4-2 without Garnett, and while the defense has suffered somewhat, the offense has done very well. But even the losses to play-off bound Cleveland and Orlando were by 1 and 3 points respectively.

What is quite satisfying is seeing the team run the plays and pass the ball even with the non stars in the game. They are all trying to play solid defense as well. It's just not as easy without 8 time All Defensive Team (5 times First Team) Kevin Garnett in there.

The Celtics were burned for 50 points in the paint against the smallish Minnesota Timberwolves. But we all know that size isn't everything, especially when Perkins went out and Davis and Powe especially, stood tall.

The NBA Champions San Antonio Spurs are currently 5th in the west at 32-16 but are on a 4 game winning stre