1) A Big Name Free Agent Next Summer?
Whether it's Wade or someone else... On the free agent question there is only one thing to remember: At first glance it might seem like a longshot but the Celtics honchos think it's plausible. They've been targeting this for a long time.
2) The Knee
Bill Simmons tried to throw a gummy bear into the cogs of the coming season with his energetic tweet about OMG STAPLES! in Garnett's knee, but where did that come from? Does anyone have any solid information about either the surgery or how the big guy is looking right now? All I've heard is vague second hand rumors.
Maybe Sportsguy's right. Or maybe not.
3) Rondo
I don't understand the people who rank this guy so low among point guards. Did he not just outplay Derrick Rose (who was stellar himself) head to head? Does he not obliterate Devin Harris and Steve Nash every single time? He also plays Billups and Parker to a standstill.
Going into a game I never worry about the point guard match up. If anything I worry about the opposing point guard. Rondo's top 5 now and threatening to move higher.
4) Less Minutes For 3 People You Know
The Big Three will be playing less and this time Doc means it. Last year they wanted to play Pierce, Allen and Garnett significantly fewer minutes but the injury tsunami drowned the frontcourt (at one point forcing Bill Walker to play power forward). This year's bench is deep. The Big Three should all average in the low 30's or less.
5) Big Baby
I don't know if you heard that recent interview with Paul Pierce, but he raved about how good Big Baby looked. "He looks GOOOOOD." Mr. Baby has dramatically slimmed down and should be much quicker. He's once again in a contract year and is going to be way better this season.
6) Big Bench
Back on the minutes thing- Sportsguy also tweeted that the Celtics signing of Rasheed, Baby, and Shelden Williams was further proof of the dire state of Garnett's health. Well it could also be interpreted as further proof the Celtics really are committed to lessen those minutes.
7) Medium Bench
Marquis is the neoPosey, giving you all this:
*He allows Eddie House to stay on the floor more since he can bring the ball up and cover a variety of guys on defense.
* He rests Pierce.
* He rests Ray.
* He shreds the opposing defense with his drives further opening shots for the green bombardiers.
8) Small Bench
Right now it's Eddie House and no one else. I forsee Lester Hudson making the team but spending his winter in the great state of Maine. By the way just as Pierce lauded Big Baby, Rondo lauded Lester.
Go Red Claws!
9) More on Marquis
Does anyone else feel the Celtics might have lucked out when Grant Hill said "No thanks" and the Celtics ended up with Daniels? This is just like two years ago when Reggie Miller declined, opening the door for Posey.
10) Nine
There might be more but nine guys will get regular and significant minutes: Rondo, Ray Allen, Pierce, Garnett, Perkins, Wallace, Daniels, Baby, and House. That's written in something approaching the hardness of stone.
With the Minute Limitation Edict solidly in place uneven playing time could go to practically anyone else: Scalabrine, Giddens, Walker, Tony Allen... and depending on the condition of The Knee, Shelden Williams.
Finally, a prediction: Delonte West will not play the season opener against his old team due to being very very suspended.
Just a little while longer to camp. I miss hoops so much it hurts.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
10 quick things
1. Baby and the Kid
The kid in the white shirt did establish position, but had both feet out of bounds so it wasn't a charge. It's a no-call.
2. Baby and the Rising Level of Play
Remember all the people who wanted to trade, cut, or otherwise harm Big Baby when he played poorly the first part of the season? I'll say this again: Never judge a player when he's injured or out of shape (unless he's like Eddie Curry and never gets into shape).
3. Baby and the Shot
We've watched as his jumper has gone from unreliable, to spotty, to decent, to good, and now to STONE COLD CLUTCH. Good things happen when you practice a lot. That was a bolt of lightning straight from the cradle to Orlando's grave!
4. Pierce and the Pass
Remember it was only a few years ago when every end of game shot was Pierce against the world? No more. Paul drew the double, expertly hit the open infant, and crushed the spirit of the southern sorcerers.
5. Sam Jones
I always wondered why Sam was hardly ever around at any Celtic events all these decades. From Dan Shaughnessy's column in today's Globe: "According to Jones, he only has been to Boston twice since hanging 'em up after the 1969 championship season. "I came back for Red," said Jones, 75, who lives less than two hours from the Orlando arena. "I never go any place unless I'm invited and I haven't been invited."
Also: "Celtics coach Doc Rivers requested an audience with Jones outside the locker room before the game. "He's one of the few Celtics that I hadn't met," said Rivers. "It was pretty cool."
Huh. Somebody send Sam some invitations.
6. How Unlikely
The Celtics just beat the Magic after getting a total of 2 points from their bench, on the road, with no Garnett, no Powe, Perkins hurting, Ray Allen not shooting well, and Paul Pierce out for a critical period in the second half with foul trouble. Now that's magic!
7. Grape Fermenters
I am finding the incessant whining about referee bias in favor of Boston very irritating. (I'm talking to you, you Florida vintners!) Yes the Celtics got a break on the non-goaltend against Rondo. But a red hot Pierce was unfairly put on the bench with phantom fouls. If that doesn't happen one or two calls mean nothing- Boston wins easily and doesn't need Big Baby's heroics.
Here the undeniable nugget: If the refs favor Boston, they don't keep putting Paul Pierce on the bench. Also the foul calls and free throws would be lopsided in Boston's favor, which they are not.
8. Unlikely Wins
I would have bet everything (not that I ever bet anything) that Boston/Houston twin victories would not happen yesterday. The two most injury decimated teams in the playoffs came up huge and gave hope to all that believe in liberty, humanity, justice, and a morally sound universe.
9. Speaking of Magic
About twenty years ago I was in the inland mountain region of the island of Bali where the people are strong believers in magic. On parting, a Balinese friend gave me a special ring with a big dark stone which he said contained powerful magic. (He additionally said I should never wear it while using the bathroom or the magic would disappear.)
Yesterday I was going through some drawers and found the ring. I put it on for the first time since the 80's and wore it while watching the game.... I just wanted you to know why the Celtics really won: The magic ring beat the Magic.
10. On We Go
Back to Boston. Two out of three. The Celtics limp but they live!
The kid in the white shirt did establish position, but had both feet out of bounds so it wasn't a charge. It's a no-call.
2. Baby and the Rising Level of Play
Remember all the people who wanted to trade, cut, or otherwise harm Big Baby when he played poorly the first part of the season? I'll say this again: Never judge a player when he's injured or out of shape (unless he's like Eddie Curry and never gets into shape).
3. Baby and the Shot
We've watched as his jumper has gone from unreliable, to spotty, to decent, to good, and now to STONE COLD CLUTCH. Good things happen when you practice a lot. That was a bolt of lightning straight from the cradle to Orlando's grave!
4. Pierce and the Pass
Remember it was only a few years ago when every end of game shot was Pierce against the world? No more. Paul drew the double, expertly hit the open infant, and crushed the spirit of the southern sorcerers.
5. Sam Jones
I always wondered why Sam was hardly ever around at any Celtic events all these decades. From Dan Shaughnessy's column in today's Globe: "According to Jones, he only has been to Boston twice since hanging 'em up after the 1969 championship season. "I came back for Red," said Jones, 75, who lives less than two hours from the Orlando arena. "I never go any place unless I'm invited and I haven't been invited."
Also: "Celtics coach Doc Rivers requested an audience with Jones outside the locker room before the game. "He's one of the few Celtics that I hadn't met," said Rivers. "It was pretty cool."
Huh. Somebody send Sam some invitations.
6. How Unlikely
The Celtics just beat the Magic after getting a total of 2 points from their bench, on the road, with no Garnett, no Powe, Perkins hurting, Ray Allen not shooting well, and Paul Pierce out for a critical period in the second half with foul trouble. Now that's magic!
7. Grape Fermenters
I am finding the incessant whining about referee bias in favor of Boston very irritating. (I'm talking to you, you Florida vintners!) Yes the Celtics got a break on the non-goaltend against Rondo. But a red hot Pierce was unfairly put on the bench with phantom fouls. If that doesn't happen one or two calls mean nothing- Boston wins easily and doesn't need Big Baby's heroics.
Here the undeniable nugget: If the refs favor Boston, they don't keep putting Paul Pierce on the bench. Also the foul calls and free throws would be lopsided in Boston's favor, which they are not.
8. Unlikely Wins
I would have bet everything (not that I ever bet anything) that Boston/Houston twin victories would not happen yesterday. The two most injury decimated teams in the playoffs came up huge and gave hope to all that believe in liberty, humanity, justice, and a morally sound universe.
9. Speaking of Magic
About twenty years ago I was in the inland mountain region of the island of Bali where the people are strong believers in magic. On parting, a Balinese friend gave me a special ring with a big dark stone which he said contained powerful magic. (He additionally said I should never wear it while using the bathroom or the magic would disappear.)
Yesterday I was going through some drawers and found the ring. I put it on for the first time since the 80's and wore it while watching the game.... I just wanted you to know why the Celtics really won: The magic ring beat the Magic.
10. On We Go
Back to Boston. Two out of three. The Celtics limp but they live!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
10 things about the playoffs so far
1) That Toddlin Town
Before commenting on anything else I have a few choice words on the Chicago series and to the wonderful basketball fans of that great metropolitan area: QUIT WHINING! (You bunch of babies.)
It was a fantastic series of historic splendor marred only by your constant sniffling about referee bias and rough play by those terribly mean Celtics. Boo-freakin'-hoo. The Bulls played great. They lost. The refs didn't beat your team; the Celtics did.
I can see why they call Chicago "the whiny city."
2) Now Orlando
Not to be outdone, the good residents of the Magic Kingdom seem to wish to repeat this unseemly whimpering.
Last night Orlando outshot Boston from the free throw line 37 to 25; the refs called early fouls on Paul Pierce effectively taking him out of the game; and many Magic followers complain about bias FOR the Celtics?
Stop right now before you stoop all the way down to Chicago level.
3) Crazy Old Rafer
Admit it, you were surprised Rafer Alston made it through six quarters without doing something completely insane. Then WHAP! he smacks Eddie House on the noggin after a basket, filmed from five different angles, for no reason, accomplishing nothing, and possibly getting himself suspended.
What took him so long?
5) Scal
Nothing makes the loss of Kevin Garnett and Leon Powe easy to swallow but Scal is doing all he can. With Scalabrine in the rotation, the holes in the defense are sealed. Plus he's knocking down some shots.
You know I was a critic of signing Scal way back when but now I see what Danny was doing. I'm sorry Scal. You're the man. I apologize. What was I thinking?
6) Rondo
All season long you've read comments from the national legion of dumbness saying: "Rondo only gets his stats because of Garnett." "Rondo's a scrub." "Calderon's better that Rondo." "Duhon's as good as Rondo." "Rondo wouldn't be anything on another team." ...and so on.
I do not believe I have ever seen a player open a larger can of Shut Up. All that talk of Rondo not being able to play has been replaced by pure hatred of him...
...and in the world of basketball fandom isn't seething hatred the biggest compliment of all?
7) An Announcing Oddity
I've noticed in these playoffs that many members of the media, particularly announcers on ESPN and TNT have taken to using the phrase, "Scoring The Basketball," as in "Ray Allen's really scoring the basketball tonight."
Even in an increasingly confusing world, I find this phrase a real stumper. It's kinda redundant isnt' it? Scoring the basketball? Is there something else you could put through the net to get points in this sport?
8) Midseason Acquisitions
Last year it was Sam and PJ. This year it's Mikki and Steph. Both years it's been a mixed bag.
Marbury's starting to contribute, but Moore hasn't done well enough and has lost his spot in a decimated rotation already down two big men. There's still time for him to turn it around but he's not looking good so far.
9) Garnett
The big fella still hasn't had his operation and yesterday on WEEI Danny Ainge once again stated there's a small chance Garnett could return if the Celtics make it to the Conference Finals or maybe the final Finals.
From Bill Doyle in the Worcester Telegram: "Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge told WEEI yesterday Garnett might be able to play if the team reaches the Eastern Conference finals or the NBA Finals, but he wasn't counting on it because Garnett still is limping. Ainge said Garnett's return would be based on how much pain he could withstand. The decision would be up to him and the team doctor."
Hmm. I don't know what to think...
Wait, yes I do: GO SCAL!
10) Seeds Of Hope
It's kind of a shame the Celtics couldn't have somehow gotten the number one seed, because the Magic might have been able to take out Cleveland giving the Celtics a downward slope to the final Finals. Still the Cavs earned their favorable road.
I do know this though: The Celtics are not done yet. There are eight teams left and Boston is one of them. As long as they're alive there's hope.
Before commenting on anything else I have a few choice words on the Chicago series and to the wonderful basketball fans of that great metropolitan area: QUIT WHINING! (You bunch of babies.)
It was a fantastic series of historic splendor marred only by your constant sniffling about referee bias and rough play by those terribly mean Celtics. Boo-freakin'-hoo. The Bulls played great. They lost. The refs didn't beat your team; the Celtics did.
I can see why they call Chicago "the whiny city."
2) Now Orlando
Not to be outdone, the good residents of the Magic Kingdom seem to wish to repeat this unseemly whimpering.
Last night Orlando outshot Boston from the free throw line 37 to 25; the refs called early fouls on Paul Pierce effectively taking him out of the game; and many Magic followers complain about bias FOR the Celtics?
Stop right now before you stoop all the way down to Chicago level.
3) Crazy Old Rafer
Admit it, you were surprised Rafer Alston made it through six quarters without doing something completely insane. Then WHAP! he smacks Eddie House on the noggin after a basket, filmed from five different angles, for no reason, accomplishing nothing, and possibly getting himself suspended.
What took him so long?
5) Scal
Nothing makes the loss of Kevin Garnett and Leon Powe easy to swallow but Scal is doing all he can. With Scalabrine in the rotation, the holes in the defense are sealed. Plus he's knocking down some shots.
You know I was a critic of signing Scal way back when but now I see what Danny was doing. I'm sorry Scal. You're the man. I apologize. What was I thinking?
6) Rondo
All season long you've read comments from the national legion of dumbness saying: "Rondo only gets his stats because of Garnett." "Rondo's a scrub." "Calderon's better that Rondo." "Duhon's as good as Rondo." "Rondo wouldn't be anything on another team." ...and so on.
I do not believe I have ever seen a player open a larger can of Shut Up. All that talk of Rondo not being able to play has been replaced by pure hatred of him...
...and in the world of basketball fandom isn't seething hatred the biggest compliment of all?
7) An Announcing Oddity
I've noticed in these playoffs that many members of the media, particularly announcers on ESPN and TNT have taken to using the phrase, "Scoring The Basketball," as in "Ray Allen's really scoring the basketball tonight."
Even in an increasingly confusing world, I find this phrase a real stumper. It's kinda redundant isnt' it? Scoring the basketball? Is there something else you could put through the net to get points in this sport?
8) Midseason Acquisitions
Last year it was Sam and PJ. This year it's Mikki and Steph. Both years it's been a mixed bag.
Marbury's starting to contribute, but Moore hasn't done well enough and has lost his spot in a decimated rotation already down two big men. There's still time for him to turn it around but he's not looking good so far.
9) Garnett
The big fella still hasn't had his operation and yesterday on WEEI Danny Ainge once again stated there's a small chance Garnett could return if the Celtics make it to the Conference Finals or maybe the final Finals.
From Bill Doyle in the Worcester Telegram: "Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge told WEEI yesterday Garnett might be able to play if the team reaches the Eastern Conference finals or the NBA Finals, but he wasn't counting on it because Garnett still is limping. Ainge said Garnett's return would be based on how much pain he could withstand. The decision would be up to him and the team doctor."
Hmm. I don't know what to think...
Wait, yes I do: GO SCAL!
10) Seeds Of Hope
It's kind of a shame the Celtics couldn't have somehow gotten the number one seed, because the Magic might have been able to take out Cleveland giving the Celtics a downward slope to the final Finals. Still the Cavs earned their favorable road.
I do know this though: The Celtics are not done yet. There are eight teams left and Boston is one of them. As long as they're alive there's hope.
Monday, March 9, 2009
10 things while waiting for guys to heal
1) Orlando Game
If I'm Orlando (though I rarely find myself morphing into metro areas) I'm not feeling too good about that win. Up a gazillion to a team down two starters and three more rotation players who is also blending in two new guys, the Magic barely escaped. Do you believe in magic? I do not. A healthy Celtics team will buzzsaw Orlando.
2) Health
Let's take an inventory:
Tony Allen: Out for the entire regular season.
Scalabrine: Out until April.
Big Baby: He was on crutches yesterday and is listed day to day.
Garnett: Good news from Marc Spears in the Globe: Kevin Garnett could return as soon as Sunday in Milwaukee.
Rondo: More good news from Marc Spears: Rondo could return as soon as Wednesday at Miami.
3) Rondo
You know how so many people have been saying Rajon Rondo is the most important player on the Celtics? And you know how the heathen worshippers of false franchises snickered at that statement? Well, yesterday showed just how critical he is.
Without Rondo the Celtics were lost on both ends. Only when they shifted to "Ray in Seattle" mode did the Celtics mount their comeback. But "Ray in Seattle" mode, and for that matter "Paul alone" mode will only get you so far. For the Celtics to optimize their mojo on both ends they absolutely NEED Rondo. He pushes the tempo and stymies his opposite number. Without him the Celtics depend on individual play and are much less effective.
4) Marbury
If you're hard on Marbury purely for bad play you're making a mistake. He's struggling on the floor; that's not a worry. He'll get his legs and game back.
The worry about Stephon Marbury was his attitude not his talent, remember? Also recall how long it took PJ Brown to contribute last season? Stephon Marbury is on the right path.
5) Minutes
Due to the fickle nature of chance the Celtics have been forced to play Ray n' Paul extended minutes. This can't go on for too much longer. The team has got to think Health First. If it costs a spot in the standings so be it.
The fact that Ray n' Paul have played long minutes in early March does not matter. It's what they do over the next five weeks that will impact the playoffs. They have to get a little more rest. The return of tall guy and fast guy will help, but in the meantime I haven't seen anything from Bill Walker that says he shouldn't play.
6) Schedule
Remember how brutal the early schedule was with so many games packed into such a short period of time? Unfortunately the Celtics have a week like that coming up just when they need it least. They play 5 games in 7 days starting Sunday against the Milwaukee Bucks and ending the following Saturday versus the Memphis Gasol-Donaters.
After that it's calm seas for the rest of the regular season.
7) When They Have Everybody
You know the line, "Can't anybody here play this game?" With luck the Celtics will have to answer the opposite question: When everyone returns who sits? You have 5 big men, 3 little guys, 3 wings, and Scal whatever he is; all who have earned minutes. That's 12. No team plays 12 in the playoffs.
8) Leon
One guy who will play is Leon Powe. Man has he been effective.
9) Pierce Now Third
As you know Paul Pierce has moved into third position on the all time Celtics scoring list behind only John Havlicek and Larry Bird. This is an extraordinary accomplishment. Generally stars who play on as many bad teams as Pierce did, don't stick around. They move on. That's a shame because playing with one team your entire career has a special lustre. (Nothing was sadder than seeing Robert Parish (Warriors don't count) as a Bull or Walt Frazier as a Cavalier.)
Congrats to Paul Pierce! May he someday retire a Celtic!
10) Dirty Celtics?
There were vile allegations of "dirty play" by the Celtics after Big Baby's gentle handling of Varejao in the Cleveland game. This is SO terribly untrue. Varejao went right at Baby's forearm, viciously attacking with his head. There is nothing uglier than an aggressive headbutt. Glen Davis to his credit remained calm. He took the hit and did not retaliate even though his forearm could have been severely injured.
If I'm Orlando (though I rarely find myself morphing into metro areas) I'm not feeling too good about that win. Up a gazillion to a team down two starters and three more rotation players who is also blending in two new guys, the Magic barely escaped. Do you believe in magic? I do not. A healthy Celtics team will buzzsaw Orlando.
2) Health
Let's take an inventory:
Tony Allen: Out for the entire regular season.
Scalabrine: Out until April.
Big Baby: He was on crutches yesterday and is listed day to day.
Garnett: Good news from Marc Spears in the Globe: Kevin Garnett could return as soon as Sunday in Milwaukee.
Rondo: More good news from Marc Spears: Rondo could return as soon as Wednesday at Miami.
3) Rondo
You know how so many people have been saying Rajon Rondo is the most important player on the Celtics? And you know how the heathen worshippers of false franchises snickered at that statement? Well, yesterday showed just how critical he is.
Without Rondo the Celtics were lost on both ends. Only when they shifted to "Ray in Seattle" mode did the Celtics mount their comeback. But "Ray in Seattle" mode, and for that matter "Paul alone" mode will only get you so far. For the Celtics to optimize their mojo on both ends they absolutely NEED Rondo. He pushes the tempo and stymies his opposite number. Without him the Celtics depend on individual play and are much less effective.
4) Marbury
If you're hard on Marbury purely for bad play you're making a mistake. He's struggling on the floor; that's not a worry. He'll get his legs and game back.
The worry about Stephon Marbury was his attitude not his talent, remember? Also recall how long it took PJ Brown to contribute last season? Stephon Marbury is on the right path.
5) Minutes
Due to the fickle nature of chance the Celtics have been forced to play Ray n' Paul extended minutes. This can't go on for too much longer. The team has got to think Health First. If it costs a spot in the standings so be it.
The fact that Ray n' Paul have played long minutes in early March does not matter. It's what they do over the next five weeks that will impact the playoffs. They have to get a little more rest. The return of tall guy and fast guy will help, but in the meantime I haven't seen anything from Bill Walker that says he shouldn't play.
6) Schedule
Remember how brutal the early schedule was with so many games packed into such a short period of time? Unfortunately the Celtics have a week like that coming up just when they need it least. They play 5 games in 7 days starting Sunday against the Milwaukee Bucks and ending the following Saturday versus the Memphis Gasol-Donaters.
After that it's calm seas for the rest of the regular season.
7) When They Have Everybody
You know the line, "Can't anybody here play this game?" With luck the Celtics will have to answer the opposite question: When everyone returns who sits? You have 5 big men, 3 little guys, 3 wings, and Scal whatever he is; all who have earned minutes. That's 12. No team plays 12 in the playoffs.
8) Leon
One guy who will play is Leon Powe. Man has he been effective.
9) Pierce Now Third
As you know Paul Pierce has moved into third position on the all time Celtics scoring list behind only John Havlicek and Larry Bird. This is an extraordinary accomplishment. Generally stars who play on as many bad teams as Pierce did, don't stick around. They move on. That's a shame because playing with one team your entire career has a special lustre. (Nothing was sadder than seeing Robert Parish (Warriors don't count) as a Bull or Walt Frazier as a Cavalier.)
Congrats to Paul Pierce! May he someday retire a Celtic!
10) Dirty Celtics?
There were vile allegations of "dirty play" by the Celtics after Big Baby's gentle handling of Varejao in the Cleveland game. This is SO terribly untrue. Varejao went right at Baby's forearm, viciously attacking with his head. There is nothing uglier than an aggressive headbutt. Glen Davis to his credit remained calm. He took the hit and did not retaliate even though his forearm could have been severely injured.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
10 things during a transition
1) Above All Else...
Don't panic.
Lemme take you back to last March. The Celtics were playing great. They'd just become the first team since 2002 to sweep the Texas triangle. The sun was shining and all was pleasant on the green planet. Then the Celtics brought in PJ Brown and Sam Cassell. In New Orleans on the last game of that otherwise glorious road trip, Sam and PJ took the floor. The Celtics led by 13 points after the first quarter but when the green-neophytes came in, everything fell apart. The new guys both played poorly. The Celitcs lost, and they lost the following game too.
One year later the very same thing is happening. Two new players (one who'd been sitting out) are tossed into the race only to falter. This time the Celtics have the further liabilty of Kevin Garnett being absent as well.
Let's pause for a subtotal:
Add 2 new players
minus Garnett
minus his back up Scalabrine
minus Tony Allen
= a rough patch.
This is inevitable. It will get better.
2) Not For a While Though
Kevin Garnett is out. He will remain off the floor a while longer. The Celtics have done a miraculous job of winning without him but that balloon seems to have popped. They absolutely definitely unquestionably need the big guy back. Without him they lost to the Clippers and until he comes back they will lose more games.
What does this mean?: it is very possible that the Celtics will not have homecourt advantage in the final two rounds this spring.
Do not panic...
3) 1969
1969 was Bill Russell's last season. (Sam Jones too.) The Celtics limped into the playoffs 4th in the East. They had to win on the road in every series. That is exactly what they did, culminating in what was arguably the greatest game in franchise history when the celebratory balloons remained in the rafters of the LA Forum while the Russell and his friends celebrated their 11th title below.
This team is like that team: veteran, poised, cool under pressure, capable of winning anywhere. The 2008-2009 Boston Celtics can win the championship no matter where the games are played.
4) More Than the Minimum
Stephon Marbury signed for more than the minimum. This is huge. HUGE!!!
What is means is the Celtics ownership is not among those that are dumping salary at all costs. It means the Celtics will STILL spend to win. Way to go Wyc!
5) Rondo's "Bad Game"
People tell me Rondo had a bad game against Indiana. It must be true since I've heard it from so many different places.
All I can say is Rondo had 17 assists. I mean Chauncey Billups had a bad game against Boston last week and his stats read: 5 assists, 4 turnovers, and three points. So if Rondo has a bad game and gets 17 assists that should tell you something. It was probably the best "bad game" in the history of the sport.
(A sidenote: Jim O'Brien's entire defense was set up to prevent penetration. In other words he was scheming to shut off Rondo and Pierce from driving. You couple that with the Celtics getting creamed on the boards which effectively cut off the Boston fastbreak and it's not surprising that Rondo has such a "bad game.")
6) Ray Allen
Ray had a bad game too, against Detroit. I'm sure everybody's noticed but Mr. Jesus has been keeping this team flying all season. He's been the Celtics most consistent player. Last year his play was spotty. It's amazing what two sound ankles will do for you.
7) Marbury
In his entire 13 year career Stephon Marbury has played 18 playoff games. He will likely surpass 18 games in the coming playoffs alone.
8) Yaks
I said this before: the new Portland NBDL franchise should be called The Maine Yaks (maineyaks). It's the only way to keep from having a moose as a mascot.
Having a local minor league affiliation is fabulous idea. We overly exuberant sorts who pay an unhealthy amount of attention to the team will benefit from regular eyeball reports from Portland. Former Celtics assistant coach Jon Jennings who's fronting the Yaks always seemed like a very good guy.
The NBDL has got to get some other eastern teams going as well, otherwise the travel will be obscene.
9) Cancer
I always hated the word "cancer" being used to label a player. It's part of the landscape though.
Stephon Marbury's been described with that term. All I can say is, so was Robert Parish and Dennis Johnson. The Celtics have a strong history of successful oncology.
10) Playoffs
Now that injuries have put the Celtics own seeding in doubt and seeing that the rest of the East is in constant movement, trying to figure who they will draw in the postseason is impossible.
It doesn't matter. The Celtics are battling themselves, not anyone else. Above all they need to be healthy. If that happens they can take anyone they face anywhere they play them. Detroit in the first round? Fine. Then Orlando? No problem. Cleveland and LA on the road? Too bad for them... as long as the Celtics are healthy.
Don't panic.
Lemme take you back to last March. The Celtics were playing great. They'd just become the first team since 2002 to sweep the Texas triangle. The sun was shining and all was pleasant on the green planet. Then the Celtics brought in PJ Brown and Sam Cassell. In New Orleans on the last game of that otherwise glorious road trip, Sam and PJ took the floor. The Celtics led by 13 points after the first quarter but when the green-neophytes came in, everything fell apart. The new guys both played poorly. The Celitcs lost, and they lost the following game too.
One year later the very same thing is happening. Two new players (one who'd been sitting out) are tossed into the race only to falter. This time the Celtics have the further liabilty of Kevin Garnett being absent as well.
Let's pause for a subtotal:
Add 2 new players
minus Garnett
minus his back up Scalabrine
minus Tony Allen
= a rough patch.
This is inevitable. It will get better.
2) Not For a While Though
Kevin Garnett is out. He will remain off the floor a while longer. The Celtics have done a miraculous job of winning without him but that balloon seems to have popped. They absolutely definitely unquestionably need the big guy back. Without him they lost to the Clippers and until he comes back they will lose more games.
What does this mean?: it is very possible that the Celtics will not have homecourt advantage in the final two rounds this spring.
Do not panic...
3) 1969
1969 was Bill Russell's last season. (Sam Jones too.) The Celtics limped into the playoffs 4th in the East. They had to win on the road in every series. That is exactly what they did, culminating in what was arguably the greatest game in franchise history when the celebratory balloons remained in the rafters of the LA Forum while the Russell and his friends celebrated their 11th title below.
This team is like that team: veteran, poised, cool under pressure, capable of winning anywhere. The 2008-2009 Boston Celtics can win the championship no matter where the games are played.
4) More Than the Minimum
Stephon Marbury signed for more than the minimum. This is huge. HUGE!!!
What is means is the Celtics ownership is not among those that are dumping salary at all costs. It means the Celtics will STILL spend to win. Way to go Wyc!
5) Rondo's "Bad Game"
People tell me Rondo had a bad game against Indiana. It must be true since I've heard it from so many different places.
All I can say is Rondo had 17 assists. I mean Chauncey Billups had a bad game against Boston last week and his stats read: 5 assists, 4 turnovers, and three points. So if Rondo has a bad game and gets 17 assists that should tell you something. It was probably the best "bad game" in the history of the sport.
(A sidenote: Jim O'Brien's entire defense was set up to prevent penetration. In other words he was scheming to shut off Rondo and Pierce from driving. You couple that with the Celtics getting creamed on the boards which effectively cut off the Boston fastbreak and it's not surprising that Rondo has such a "bad game.")
6) Ray Allen
Ray had a bad game too, against Detroit. I'm sure everybody's noticed but Mr. Jesus has been keeping this team flying all season. He's been the Celtics most consistent player. Last year his play was spotty. It's amazing what two sound ankles will do for you.
7) Marbury
In his entire 13 year career Stephon Marbury has played 18 playoff games. He will likely surpass 18 games in the coming playoffs alone.
8) Yaks
I said this before: the new Portland NBDL franchise should be called The Maine Yaks (maineyaks). It's the only way to keep from having a moose as a mascot.
Having a local minor league affiliation is fabulous idea. We overly exuberant sorts who pay an unhealthy amount of attention to the team will benefit from regular eyeball reports from Portland. Former Celtics assistant coach Jon Jennings who's fronting the Yaks always seemed like a very good guy.
The NBDL has got to get some other eastern teams going as well, otherwise the travel will be obscene.
9) Cancer
I always hated the word "cancer" being used to label a player. It's part of the landscape though.
Stephon Marbury's been described with that term. All I can say is, so was Robert Parish and Dennis Johnson. The Celtics have a strong history of successful oncology.
10) Playoffs
Now that injuries have put the Celtics own seeding in doubt and seeing that the rest of the East is in constant movement, trying to figure who they will draw in the postseason is impossible.
It doesn't matter. The Celtics are battling themselves, not anyone else. Above all they need to be healthy. If that happens they can take anyone they face anywhere they play them. Detroit in the first round? Fine. Then Orlando? No problem. Cleveland and LA on the road? Too bad for them... as long as the Celtics are healthy.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
10 things, some fascinating, some not
1) No Garnett?
Four days ago in Utah Kevin Garnett limped off the court with what appeared to be a serious knee injury. That was a very unpleasant moment. Forty eight hours later we heard the injury was not critical. What a relief to finally take in some air after two straight days of breath holding. I never realized how important oxygen was!
So what have the Celtics done without their best player? Win. Boston is 5-0 this season without Mr. Garnett and 14-2 without him since he moved over from the land o' lakes. That's incredible!
They can't win a title without Garnett but they can win some games for a while.
2) Doc
This nonKevin winning percentage alone is adequate proof of just how great a coach Doc Rivers is. This is not like filling Robert Parish's spot with Bill Walton for a short time. Doc subs Brian Scalabrine for Garnett and wins. Then Scalabrine goes down and he plugs in Big Baby and still wins... against good teams on the road. The team never loses faith in one another. The team just keeps going forward. Great great job Doc.
3) Scalabrine
Speaking of Brian Scalabrine-- No one has risen in the eyes of Celtic observers more. In just a few months he's gone from a novelty equivalent of the departed mascot Lucky to indispensible understudy and calming veteran presence. Admit it: When Scal went out you said to yourself, "Oh no! We NEED him!"
4) Scalabrine and Rondo
And speaking more of Scalabrine-- Rajon Rondo made a fascinating statement that he loves playing with Scal on the floor because the big redhead regularly moves to the corner on offense taking a tall defender with him. This opens up the middle for Rondo's drives. With Jersey Red on the floor opportunities are created for Rondo that are not available when Garnett, Perkins, Baby, and Powe play in some tandem combination.
Last night is a perfect example. Scal plays most of the first quarter and Rondo scores 11. Scal goes out and Rondo only scores 3 the rest of the way.
5) Rondo
The incredible Rondo has run another point guard gauntlet on this extended road trip: So far he's faced Chris Paul, Jason Kidd, Steve Nash, Deron Williams, and Chauncey Billups. That's five straight guys who will some day get hall of fame consideration.
Question: How did he do? Answer: On average a lot better than they did.
Here's Rondo vs. 5 all stars over that period:
Points: Rondo 86, All Stars 66.
Assists: Rondo 50, All Stars 41.
Rebs: Rondo 38, All Stars 11.
If it wasn't for early foul trouble in Utah it would have been even more lopsided.
6) 666666
Phew, compiling data is hard! I'm never doing that again.
Hey while I was laboring I noticed an oddity in the box score from the Phoenix game: 6 guys were tied for the game high in rebounds at 6 each: Rondo, Perkins, Pierce, House, Powe, and Shaq. Is that an all time record of lowest top rebounder in a game? Anybody know?
7) Mikki Moore to the Rescue
The Moore I think about it, the Moore I believe this will work. Yes he's not strong, doesn't rebound much, or block shots, but what he does well will be magnified and multiplied on this wonderful Celtic team. He brings energy, plays good team defense (as opposed to bodying down low), can shoot the midranger, can run, and is tall. In Boston he'll inject that energy into the team. He'll be faster, taller, and will shoot better...
...well that last statement is a fabrication, but you get the idea.
8) More Rondoness
It's been argued over and over by the addled antiRondo faction on the internet that Rondo's stats are bogus; that they are inflated because he plays with Garnett. So when Garnett goes out what happens to Rondo's stats? Minutes- up. Shots- up. Points- up. Rebounds- up. Assists- up. Rondo critics, shut- up.
9) Saer Sene and the Renounced Senegalese
The man with the longest arms in the history of the NBA is available. Mouhamed Saer Sene has been waived by OKC. Want him? No? Didn't think so.
Cheikh Samb also of Senegal, has likewise been waived. Is it an international conspiracy against this African nation?
10) Baby and Powe
It would be wrong to not save the last "thing" to briefly discuss the contributions of Glen Big Baby Davis and Leon Powe. As previously mentioned they are both playing well at the same time, something that has not happened before. They are playing together and gaining poise. It cannot be overstated how important this is. If they continue on their current path, it is the difference between a championship and no championship.
Four days ago in Utah Kevin Garnett limped off the court with what appeared to be a serious knee injury. That was a very unpleasant moment. Forty eight hours later we heard the injury was not critical. What a relief to finally take in some air after two straight days of breath holding. I never realized how important oxygen was!
So what have the Celtics done without their best player? Win. Boston is 5-0 this season without Mr. Garnett and 14-2 without him since he moved over from the land o' lakes. That's incredible!
They can't win a title without Garnett but they can win some games for a while.
2) Doc
This nonKevin winning percentage alone is adequate proof of just how great a coach Doc Rivers is. This is not like filling Robert Parish's spot with Bill Walton for a short time. Doc subs Brian Scalabrine for Garnett and wins. Then Scalabrine goes down and he plugs in Big Baby and still wins... against good teams on the road. The team never loses faith in one another. The team just keeps going forward. Great great job Doc.
3) Scalabrine
Speaking of Brian Scalabrine-- No one has risen in the eyes of Celtic observers more. In just a few months he's gone from a novelty equivalent of the departed mascot Lucky to indispensible understudy and calming veteran presence. Admit it: When Scal went out you said to yourself, "Oh no! We NEED him!"
4) Scalabrine and Rondo
And speaking more of Scalabrine-- Rajon Rondo made a fascinating statement that he loves playing with Scal on the floor because the big redhead regularly moves to the corner on offense taking a tall defender with him. This opens up the middle for Rondo's drives. With Jersey Red on the floor opportunities are created for Rondo that are not available when Garnett, Perkins, Baby, and Powe play in some tandem combination.
Last night is a perfect example. Scal plays most of the first quarter and Rondo scores 11. Scal goes out and Rondo only scores 3 the rest of the way.
5) Rondo
The incredible Rondo has run another point guard gauntlet on this extended road trip: So far he's faced Chris Paul, Jason Kidd, Steve Nash, Deron Williams, and Chauncey Billups. That's five straight guys who will some day get hall of fame consideration.
Question: How did he do? Answer: On average a lot better than they did.
Here's Rondo vs. 5 all stars over that period:
Points: Rondo 86, All Stars 66.
Assists: Rondo 50, All Stars 41.
Rebs: Rondo 38, All Stars 11.
If it wasn't for early foul trouble in Utah it would have been even more lopsided.
6) 666666
Phew, compiling data is hard! I'm never doing that again.
Hey while I was laboring I noticed an oddity in the box score from the Phoenix game: 6 guys were tied for the game high in rebounds at 6 each: Rondo, Perkins, Pierce, House, Powe, and Shaq. Is that an all time record of lowest top rebounder in a game? Anybody know?
7) Mikki Moore to the Rescue
The Moore I think about it, the Moore I believe this will work. Yes he's not strong, doesn't rebound much, or block shots, but what he does well will be magnified and multiplied on this wonderful Celtic team. He brings energy, plays good team defense (as opposed to bodying down low), can shoot the midranger, can run, and is tall. In Boston he'll inject that energy into the team. He'll be faster, taller, and will shoot better...
...well that last statement is a fabrication, but you get the idea.
8) More Rondoness
It's been argued over and over by the addled antiRondo faction on the internet that Rondo's stats are bogus; that they are inflated because he plays with Garnett. So when Garnett goes out what happens to Rondo's stats? Minutes- up. Shots- up. Points- up. Rebounds- up. Assists- up. Rondo critics, shut- up.
9) Saer Sene and the Renounced Senegalese
The man with the longest arms in the history of the NBA is available. Mouhamed Saer Sene has been waived by OKC. Want him? No? Didn't think so.
Cheikh Samb also of Senegal, has likewise been waived. Is it an international conspiracy against this African nation?
10) Baby and Powe
It would be wrong to not save the last "thing" to briefly discuss the contributions of Glen Big Baby Davis and Leon Powe. As previously mentioned they are both playing well at the same time, something that has not happened before. They are playing together and gaining poise. It cannot be overstated how important this is. If they continue on their current path, it is the difference between a championship and no championship.
Friday, February 13, 2009
10 things at the break
1) A Call For Charity
Rondo is so good with so much room to grow it's scary.
I do not (DO NOT) understand the vocal legion of basketball viewers who STILL insist he is sub par. This is wanton dumbness that can only be hurting these fine people in other aspects of their lives.
Can't anyone help them?
2) Coach Thibs
Doc got booted and Mr.T (I pity the poor fool who doesn't play defense) took over. He did what I would do if I ran the zoo: Keep Rondo In The Game. I mean I understand Rondo's a slightly built fellow who takes a pounding but when he's pacing the offense everything becomes simple and beautiful.
Mr. T just kept Rondo in there, something he could afford to do with a week of rest approaching; with Rondo playing Robin to Pierce's caped crusader the Celtics took the game over in the fourth and swept by the hapless unbranded cows.
3) Trade Deadline Nears
Will they or won't they? After much thought my best guess is... I dunno. Trades often come together at the last possible minute so to coin a phrase "anything is possible." Around the league some owners are desperately trying to win while others are just as desperately trying to keep their business empires afloat. Between those factors there are plenty of teams looking to Monty Hall it this week.
In all the chaos there is a possibility for the Celtics to get involved, perhaps as a third team facilitating a deal.
4) Perkins...
...has not been the same since his shoulder injury. At least he's not out though. With so many big name guys going down for the season there's something to be thankful for, and isn't Valentine's Day all about giving thanks? (Oh wait that's the November one isn't it?)
5) Nowitzki and Pierce
The two have been linked since they went back to back in the draft years ago. For a long time everybody felt sorry for Pierce while saying how lucky Dirk was to play with a talented franchise and for a deep-pocketed free-spending owner.
As the old song goes, who's sorry now? Dallas is ok but no contender. Dirk doesn't have much talent around him. Mr. Cuban is still wealthy but somehow eerily disturbing (don't you think?) While Paul Pierce is the happy thriving defending champ and Finals MVP.
6) A Lack Of Tallness?
Perhaps.
Do you toss and turn wondering what will become of you in May and June with only Baby and Powe anchoring the interior of the second unit? Think of this: They've never both played well at the same time until now. Yes it's true. For the first time ever Leon and Glen are starting to play well as a pair.
Shhh... don't tell anyone but this could be huge.
7) Marion Traded To Toronto
First off Jermaine's not really helping Miami. He's not really helping anybody. He's only a place holder now.
The other thought: Is there a clause in Marcus Banks and Shawn Marion's contracts that says they must never ever be parted til the end of time? Antoine Walker and Tony Delk did the same dance a few years back, remember?
No Raptor fans, this doesn't help you much either. Since his contract is short, you do get to rid yourself of Marion soon though. Just know that Marcus Banks has to leave at the same time.
Also your future's very bright with Joey, Kris and Jason.
8) One-handed Rebound
Did anyone else see Rondo rebound the ball one handed in the middle of the lane to start a break (I think in the first half)? The ball caromed out and Rondo just caught it one handed like it was a softball and he had a glove on.
Connie Hawkins used to do that, but I've never seen a point guard do it.
9) Record
The Celtics are one game ahead of last year's pace. True.
10) Title
It's coming. Again. Have faith.
If you're complaining instead of enjoying this team please change before you ruin your life. It's for your own good.
Rondo is so good with so much room to grow it's scary.
I do not (DO NOT) understand the vocal legion of basketball viewers who STILL insist he is sub par. This is wanton dumbness that can only be hurting these fine people in other aspects of their lives.
Can't anyone help them?
2) Coach Thibs
Doc got booted and Mr.T (I pity the poor fool who doesn't play defense) took over. He did what I would do if I ran the zoo: Keep Rondo In The Game. I mean I understand Rondo's a slightly built fellow who takes a pounding but when he's pacing the offense everything becomes simple and beautiful.
Mr. T just kept Rondo in there, something he could afford to do with a week of rest approaching; with Rondo playing Robin to Pierce's caped crusader the Celtics took the game over in the fourth and swept by the hapless unbranded cows.
3) Trade Deadline Nears
Will they or won't they? After much thought my best guess is... I dunno. Trades often come together at the last possible minute so to coin a phrase "anything is possible." Around the league some owners are desperately trying to win while others are just as desperately trying to keep their business empires afloat. Between those factors there are plenty of teams looking to Monty Hall it this week.
In all the chaos there is a possibility for the Celtics to get involved, perhaps as a third team facilitating a deal.
4) Perkins...
...has not been the same since his shoulder injury. At least he's not out though. With so many big name guys going down for the season there's something to be thankful for, and isn't Valentine's Day all about giving thanks? (Oh wait that's the November one isn't it?)
5) Nowitzki and Pierce
The two have been linked since they went back to back in the draft years ago. For a long time everybody felt sorry for Pierce while saying how lucky Dirk was to play with a talented franchise and for a deep-pocketed free-spending owner.
As the old song goes, who's sorry now? Dallas is ok but no contender. Dirk doesn't have much talent around him. Mr. Cuban is still wealthy but somehow eerily disturbing (don't you think?) While Paul Pierce is the happy thriving defending champ and Finals MVP.
6) A Lack Of Tallness?
Perhaps.
Do you toss and turn wondering what will become of you in May and June with only Baby and Powe anchoring the interior of the second unit? Think of this: They've never both played well at the same time until now. Yes it's true. For the first time ever Leon and Glen are starting to play well as a pair.
Shhh... don't tell anyone but this could be huge.
7) Marion Traded To Toronto
First off Jermaine's not really helping Miami. He's not really helping anybody. He's only a place holder now.
The other thought: Is there a clause in Marcus Banks and Shawn Marion's contracts that says they must never ever be parted til the end of time? Antoine Walker and Tony Delk did the same dance a few years back, remember?
No Raptor fans, this doesn't help you much either. Since his contract is short, you do get to rid yourself of Marion soon though. Just know that Marcus Banks has to leave at the same time.
Also your future's very bright with Joey, Kris and Jason.
8) One-handed Rebound
Did anyone else see Rondo rebound the ball one handed in the middle of the lane to start a break (I think in the first half)? The ball caromed out and Rondo just caught it one handed like it was a softball and he had a glove on.
Connie Hawkins used to do that, but I've never seen a point guard do it.
9) Record
The Celtics are one game ahead of last year's pace. True.
10) Title
It's coming. Again. Have faith.
If you're complaining instead of enjoying this team please change before you ruin your life. It's for your own good.
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