1) Chris Wallace
What's the worst transaction of Chris Wallace's career? There's no quick answer to that one is there? You have to think about it.
Here's some of his more colorful Rolaids moments (via Hoopshype.com):
"Traded guards Kenny Anderson and Joseph Forte and center Vitaly Potapenko to the Seattle SuperSonics for forward Vin Baker and guard Shammond Williams.
Traded guards Randy Brown, Joe Johnson, Milt Palacio and a first-round draft pick to the Phoenix Suns for guard Tony Delk and forward Rodney Rogers.
Selected guard Joe Johnson (10th overall pick), forward Kedrick Brown (11th overall pick) and guard Joseph Forte (21st overall pick).
Traded center Andrew DeClercq and a 1999 first-round pick to the Cleveland Cavaliers for center Vitaly Potapenko." (The pick would have been used on Shawn Marion.)
"Traded guards Chauncey Billups and Dee Brown and forwards John Thomas and Roy Rogers to the Toronto Raptors for guard Kenny Anderson, forward Popeye Jones and center Zan Tabak."
...and then there's my personal favorite: "Announced they will exercise the option on the Denver Nuggets' first-round pick, 11th overall, in the 2001 draft."
ARRRGH! All he had to do was be patient that year! Denver stunk. The Celtics were already bringing in two first rounders. If they just rolled that pick over a few seasons Boston could have ended up with Amare Stoudemire. Ugh.
Mr. Wallace has on moved to Memphis and look: "Traded forward Pau Gasol to the Los Angeles Lakers for guards Aaron McKie and Javaris Crittenton, forward Kwame Brown, the draft rights to center Marc Gasol and first-round picks in 2008 and 2010 to the Memphis Grizzlies for forward Pau Gasol." Wow.
Ok, so mean old Rick Pitino made him do some of those bad things, and miserly Paul Gaston made him do others, and now Michael Heisley the 380th richest American, is taking some credit for the latest debacle. I have ask though, if you know anything about this game wouldn't you make at least an occasional good trade? Wouldn't you draft well once in a while? And most recently wouldn't you call around the league to force higher offers after talking to the Lakers? Wouldn't you? I need to know. I'm asking here. I'm desperate. This really bothers me.
All I can say is, thank each and every angel in heaven that Chris Wallace runs a different franchise now.
2) Underestimated
I have three favorite games so far this season: The game in Detroit, the Dallas game, and now the Spurs game. Oddly it's been just as exciting winning without Garnett than it was winning with him. I didn't think the Celtics could play nearly this well without their best player.
3) Big Game? Big Baby!
...Two of those three games were Glen Davis' finest performances of the year. In Detroit he outscored all seven all stars in the fourth quarter while virtually shutting down Rasheed Wallace. Then yesterday he played Tim Duncan better than anyone could have guessed. You couple his performance with the outstanding contributions of Leon Powe and you just shake your head.
I mean, I made some crazy preseason predictions, some that actually came true, but Glen Davis stymieing Tim Duncan and leading the team to victory was not among them.
4) The Streak
...which leads to this: It's been building day after day, week after week, month after month. For some reason San Antonio simply cannot beat the Boston Celtics. It's the St. Patrick's Day curse. For those counting, the long losing streak is now up to two games. When will it end? No one knows. The pressure continues to build on the Spurs.
5) 16-0
Among all the amazing things that have happened so far this season, none is more amazing than the fact that the Celtics are 16-0 against the mighty Western Conference. What the hey? Boston has beaten the Spurs and Mavs without Kevin Garnett, handily dispatched the Lakers, humiliated Denver and Golden State, beat Houston and Utah, and toyed with most of the rest. The western team that gave them the most trouble was Minnesota, twice.
6) Doc
Can't coach? CAN'T COACH? Are you kidding me? What you have witnessed in the past few weeks is the best Celtics coaching performance since Tommy Heinsohn patrolled the bench with long sideburns and a plaid jacket. The Celtics are 5-2 without Kevin Garnett. They outfought the defending champions. They lost every tall person on the roster. Doc Rivers is not doing a good job this season; he is doing a GREAT job!
7) No Doubt
The doubters have been silenced. The Spurs game muted the last of them. I read some of the recent comments on some large Western Conference fan forums like dallas-mavs.com and spurstalk and no one's questioning the Celtics anymore. They are bickering among themselves a lot which is always entertaining, but no one is saying the Celtics cannot win the title.
8) East
Unlike the 80's it's nice to be in the East. Back then scary teams like Philly, Milwaukee, and Doc Rivers' Hawks roamed the Earth. Now though it's the West that's brutally competitive. As of this writing, Houston and Golden State are both 30-20, and one of them wouldn't even make the playoffs. In the East they'd be seeded fourth.
Still, it will not be an easy road for the Celtics to reach the Finals. 16-0 against the West means all nine losses have come in the East. Boston will need to be healthy to get past Cleveland and Detroit. That's why it's critical to rest Garnett and Perkins now. Get them healthy, even if they miss the entire west coast trip after the all star game, and even if it costs the team some wins. It's the playoffs that matter.
9) Rondo
I love Rondo. I think he's my favorite player since Havlicek. I would not be surprised if Rondo makes the whole silly "big three" controversy completely obsolete, because soon there will not be a big three; there will be a big four.
10) Davis on Duncan
I don't know if you saw it on the postgame show, but Greg Dickerson interviewed Baby right after the game and asked him if all that jabbering he and Duncan were doing was trashtalk. Big Baby said (paraphrasing), "Oh no. That was Tim Duncan! He's like Kevin Garnett! I was just soaking up the immortality."
Monday, February 11, 2008
Thursday, January 31, 2008
10 things
1) Miami Game
First off, Who kidnapped Bob Cousy and replaced him with Barney? "I love you. You love me. We're a happ-ee fam-a-lee." What happened to the acid spitting Cous whose disposition resembled the monster from Alien? Winning changes everything.
2) Miami Game Again
It was nice to see Mark Blount giving his all for another team in a 30 point loss. Let's face it: You can't stop Mark Blount. You can only hope to trade him.
Speaking of Mr. Blount, my brilliant and beautiful wife made the following observation: She pointed out that after scoring Blount goes completely rigid when he runs to the other end, whereas Tony Allen does just the opposite; after he scores he goes totally loose and floppy as he moves the other way. I don't think it means anything, but it's funny.
3) Rondo
Give me a break you Rondo critics. Repeat after me: "Rajon Rondo is the man." Did you say it? Good.
He's young and extremely talented. The team suffers more when he's sidelined than anyone besides Garnett and Pierce. He's the single most important key to maintaining the tempo. He's a vital contributor to the team's early season awesomeness. Recently he missed a few games and is currently playing HURT. Keep developing him. Tough games now will be paid back later with playoff wins.
The kid's a future all star. The man I tell you! The man!
4) Damon and Sam
I'm not a big Damon Stoudamire guy. He's less selfish on the floor than he used to be, but is still a Damon-first point guard . He's also got Telfair disease on defense- too small and does not have Rondo arms to make up for it. I warned you about Telfair after the Portland trade. Well I'm warning you again. Overall, Damon probably won't give you more than Eddie House as a point.
5) Tony Allen
Also, floppy Tony Allen is just starting to come into his own, right on schedule. Recovery from knee surgery actually does take some time. Really. I don't know why anyone expected Tony to come out of training camp in top form. I also don't know why anyone thought he wouldn't improve (and will continue to improve) as the season goes on.
In other words Danny Ainge is doing the right thing by holding out for Sam Cassell or some other agreeable point guard. Sam's big, so he doesn't give away the farm against Billups. Sam's poised, so he'll keep his head in big games. Sam's a good guy too; he won't screw up the boulliabase.
5) Midseason blues
Are you feeling down because the Celtics are 6-4 in their last 10? Chin up there fella. Everything's fine. The Celtics are in a dip for temporary health reasons. Ray Allen is worn down. Keving Garnett is out. Posey missed some games. And Rondo who supercharges the whole team— we've already covered him. They'll all get better.
When they do, the Celtics will go back to obliterating people again and everyone will be as jovial as Bob Cousy.
6) Dallas
I've been looking forward to this next game since about Halloween. Nowitzki has been the bane of my brain since the Celtics barely missed out on him in the 1998 draft. Don't get me wrong— Paul Pierce is not exactly what you'd call a consolation prize, but big bad Dirk is someone the Celtics have never come close to matching up with...
...until now. Garnett easily cancels Dirk out, and maybe is a bit better. KG is a rare player that can challenge Dirk defensively. So here's hoping for some serious abdominal healing, because without Mr. Garnett the Celtics are in for a rough night, and with him it's probably the other way around.
7) Leon Powe and Glen Davis
If my calculations are correct, that makes three contributing undersized second-round widebody frontcourters for Danny Ainge in the past three years. It's great to see Davis and Powe tenderize the opposition at the same time. One grown man. One big baby. That's a lot of results no matter what age they might appear to be.
Throw in the fact that Perkins is starting to break himself of the bad habit of bringing the ball down before he shoots, and the Celtics are getting a lot of unexpected production from the three toros.
8) The Gerald Henderson Effect
The Gerald Henderson Effect is a simple thing. It goes like this: When you have a great team the trade value of marginal players skyrockets.
Back in the 80s Henderson was a pretty decent guard. But since he played with Bird, McHale, Parish, etc., he was perceived to be far better than he actually was. Red Auerbach took advantage of this and traded Gerald to Seattle for the second pick in the entire draft.
The same thing happened to Rick Robey. Robey wasn't very good, not to mention he kept Bird out in the bars all night; but because he played on such a great team his trade value was very high. He landed Dennis Johnson for the Celtics.
Keep this in mind over the next year or two, because guys who are currently 7 to 13 on the depth chart might eventually land amazing returns in a lopsided trade a la Mr. Henderson and Mr. Robey.
(Winning the title would greatly magnify the effect.)
9) Havlicek
Seeing John Havlicek in the stands of the Miami game gave me goosebumps. I wonder, did the people sitting around him even know who he was? That man was utterly unique in the history of this sport, and Hollinger-type robotic number crunching does not tell the tale of this terrific player. Havlicek was a great scorer and he was a great defender, but the best thing he did— the thing he did as well as anyone who has ever played, is control tempo and wear the opposition down. He sprinted non-stop. His whole game was aimed at making the other guy too tired to be effective in the 4th quarter, and WOW was he good at it. Ask former Senator Bradley.
10) Playoffs
Are you starting to peek at the standings with an eye toward playoff seeds yet? It's my firm belief that the Celtics will maintain their top position in the East. I also think Detroit will be second and Cleveland third, putting those two dangerous teams in the opposite bracket. The big question then is, who will be the 4-5 seeds? Right now it looks like some combination of Orlando, Washington and Toronto. However it goes, that will make for a high energy second round series between the Celtics and the survivor of that group.
First off, Who kidnapped Bob Cousy and replaced him with Barney? "I love you. You love me. We're a happ-ee fam-a-lee." What happened to the acid spitting Cous whose disposition resembled the monster from Alien? Winning changes everything.
2) Miami Game Again
It was nice to see Mark Blount giving his all for another team in a 30 point loss. Let's face it: You can't stop Mark Blount. You can only hope to trade him.
Speaking of Mr. Blount, my brilliant and beautiful wife made the following observation: She pointed out that after scoring Blount goes completely rigid when he runs to the other end, whereas Tony Allen does just the opposite; after he scores he goes totally loose and floppy as he moves the other way. I don't think it means anything, but it's funny.
3) Rondo
Give me a break you Rondo critics. Repeat after me: "Rajon Rondo is the man." Did you say it? Good.
He's young and extremely talented. The team suffers more when he's sidelined than anyone besides Garnett and Pierce. He's the single most important key to maintaining the tempo. He's a vital contributor to the team's early season awesomeness. Recently he missed a few games and is currently playing HURT. Keep developing him. Tough games now will be paid back later with playoff wins.
The kid's a future all star. The man I tell you! The man!
4) Damon and Sam
I'm not a big Damon Stoudamire guy. He's less selfish on the floor than he used to be, but is still a Damon-first point guard . He's also got Telfair disease on defense- too small and does not have Rondo arms to make up for it. I warned you about Telfair after the Portland trade. Well I'm warning you again. Overall, Damon probably won't give you more than Eddie House as a point.
5) Tony Allen
Also, floppy Tony Allen is just starting to come into his own, right on schedule. Recovery from knee surgery actually does take some time. Really. I don't know why anyone expected Tony to come out of training camp in top form. I also don't know why anyone thought he wouldn't improve (and will continue to improve) as the season goes on.
In other words Danny Ainge is doing the right thing by holding out for Sam Cassell or some other agreeable point guard. Sam's big, so he doesn't give away the farm against Billups. Sam's poised, so he'll keep his head in big games. Sam's a good guy too; he won't screw up the boulliabase.
5) Midseason blues
Are you feeling down because the Celtics are 6-4 in their last 10? Chin up there fella. Everything's fine. The Celtics are in a dip for temporary health reasons. Ray Allen is worn down. Keving Garnett is out. Posey missed some games. And Rondo who supercharges the whole team— we've already covered him. They'll all get better.
When they do, the Celtics will go back to obliterating people again and everyone will be as jovial as Bob Cousy.
6) Dallas
I've been looking forward to this next game since about Halloween. Nowitzki has been the bane of my brain since the Celtics barely missed out on him in the 1998 draft. Don't get me wrong— Paul Pierce is not exactly what you'd call a consolation prize, but big bad Dirk is someone the Celtics have never come close to matching up with...
...until now. Garnett easily cancels Dirk out, and maybe is a bit better. KG is a rare player that can challenge Dirk defensively. So here's hoping for some serious abdominal healing, because without Mr. Garnett the Celtics are in for a rough night, and with him it's probably the other way around.
7) Leon Powe and Glen Davis
If my calculations are correct, that makes three contributing undersized second-round widebody frontcourters for Danny Ainge in the past three years. It's great to see Davis and Powe tenderize the opposition at the same time. One grown man. One big baby. That's a lot of results no matter what age they might appear to be.
Throw in the fact that Perkins is starting to break himself of the bad habit of bringing the ball down before he shoots, and the Celtics are getting a lot of unexpected production from the three toros.
8) The Gerald Henderson Effect
The Gerald Henderson Effect is a simple thing. It goes like this: When you have a great team the trade value of marginal players skyrockets.
Back in the 80s Henderson was a pretty decent guard. But since he played with Bird, McHale, Parish, etc., he was perceived to be far better than he actually was. Red Auerbach took advantage of this and traded Gerald to Seattle for the second pick in the entire draft.
The same thing happened to Rick Robey. Robey wasn't very good, not to mention he kept Bird out in the bars all night; but because he played on such a great team his trade value was very high. He landed Dennis Johnson for the Celtics.
Keep this in mind over the next year or two, because guys who are currently 7 to 13 on the depth chart might eventually land amazing returns in a lopsided trade a la Mr. Henderson and Mr. Robey.
(Winning the title would greatly magnify the effect.)
9) Havlicek
Seeing John Havlicek in the stands of the Miami game gave me goosebumps. I wonder, did the people sitting around him even know who he was? That man was utterly unique in the history of this sport, and Hollinger-type robotic number crunching does not tell the tale of this terrific player. Havlicek was a great scorer and he was a great defender, but the best thing he did— the thing he did as well as anyone who has ever played, is control tempo and wear the opposition down. He sprinted non-stop. His whole game was aimed at making the other guy too tired to be effective in the 4th quarter, and WOW was he good at it. Ask former Senator Bradley.
10) Playoffs
Are you starting to peek at the standings with an eye toward playoff seeds yet? It's my firm belief that the Celtics will maintain their top position in the East. I also think Detroit will be second and Cleveland third, putting those two dangerous teams in the opposite bracket. The big question then is, who will be the 4-5 seeds? Right now it looks like some combination of Orlando, Washington and Toronto. However it goes, that will make for a high energy second round series between the Celtics and the survivor of that group.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Grenvy
1) Big Baby
An NBA record was set Saturday night: Never before have so many people simultaneously pointed at their TVs and screamed the word "Baby!"
Taking a page from the Kendrick Perkins We-Shall-Not-Be-Moved school of defense, Glen Davis stymied Rasheed Wallace on one end of the floor while decimating the Pistons on the offensive side. With seven all stars sharing the court it was rookie Davis who stole the evening. His fast feet (also known as baby steps), superb hands and great use of bulk stunned the Pistons.
Time and again Paul Pierce drove the lane and dished to the rookie. Detroit, not believing what they were seeing, made no adjustments, continuing to over-cover the big three while leaving Glen Davis free to position himself under the basket.
The beautiful thing is: let the Pistons adjust. Next time the teams play they'll pay full attention to Big Baby, and when they do Garnett or Pierce or Allen will be left in single coverage.
Now it's Detroit that's uncertain.
2) Best Western
Which leads to this: I'm getting weary of hearing about how the Celtics haven't played the Suns, Mavs or Spurs. The Celtics are playing basketball on a level seen once every hoops epoch. The Spurs are a four time champion. They've earned the respect of being considered the ultimate test— but the Mavs and Suns? Those two franchises have as many rings as the Bobcats.
IMSO (In my swaggerly opinion) the Celtics are the best team in basketball. It's Dallas and Phoenix that have to prove themselves against Boston, NOT the other way around.
3) Grenvy
Around the nation and the world, followers of other teams have become increasingly bitter. They jealously claim Ainge was "handed" this team, or that the Celtics have had an easy schedule (see above), or blindly say that it won't last.
I have a word for this: Grenvy. It's what you get when you blend "Green" and "Envy." So next time you read someone sourly discounting the jaw-dropping resurgence of basketball's preeminent franchise, you don't have to respond. They're just grenvious.
4) Consider this:
I don't think there have been more than two games all year where all three of the trio grande have had great shooting nights on the same evening. Part of the reason is that Ray Allen still hasn't gotten his shot locked down yet, which is not to say Ray hasn't contributed to every win he's played in. (The Celtics beat Toronto and Milwaukee with one Allen tied behind their back.) Ray's defense has been FAR better than advertised. His savvy positioning on the court has played havoc with the opposition. They cannot lay off him.
I think his out of sync shooting is largely caused by the off-season surgery. When your ankles feel different it takes some time to adjust. That will happen— probably sooner rather than later. You can see how near he is to getting the stroke back. He's very close. It's just a matter of time.
Regardless, Ray Allen was a great throw-in in the Glen Davis trade.
5) Allen part deux
Tony Allen is coming around too. He's really been contributing recently.
The funny thing about Tony is he scares the hell out of fans of BOTH teams every time he has the ball. He's constantly swaying and jerking back and forth. You just can't predict whose heart he's going to break with his next movement. He's like that even in postgame interviews— swaying back and forth while answering questions. I keep reflexively reaching out toward the television to catch him.
Anyway, Tony Allen is the big wild card. If he keeps growing like this, he makes life a grenvious hell for other teams.
6) Why this will continue
The reason the record is no illusion is because it's based on defense. Offense comes and goes, but the D has been rock solid every game not played in Salt Lake City.
I'm not saying I expect the Celtics to maintain this other-worldly pace of winning. That would be close to impossible. But I expect their high level of energy and defense to continue. That should be enough to raise a tall crop of Ws by harvest time in April.
7) Open roster spots
We know the following:
*There are two open roster spots
*Brandon Wallace was let go because he couldn't help now.
*Though he's showed promise, Gabe Pruitt doesn't seem to be in the plans for this year.
*The Celtics could use a nifty back up point guard.
*Most importantly, there are plenty of disgruntled vets and cheap owners out there. The best combo that comes to mind is Donald Sterling and Sam Cassell. Sam is a buddy of Garnett, a good guy to have on any team, and wants out of the not-evil LA franchise.
Wouldn't it be nice if Reggie Lewis' old Baltimore protege ended up here?
7) Danny
Talk about doing no wrong... Every guy Danny Ainge brought in this off-season has contributed on a level ranging from pleasant surprise to league MVP. Pruitt, Davis, Pollard, House, Posey, Allen, Garnett. Not a dud in the bunch.
8) Tommy
Notice how the fomenting grenvy across America is so often vented at the greatest basketball broadcaster in the land? Thanks to League Pass, I never read comments on a Celtic game from opposing fans that don't include some anti-Tommy raving.
Don't these nice folks realize that the broadcasts are meant for us, and that they're just eavesdropping?
9) Speaking of which
It's great for all the Celtics broadcasters and long-time beat writers to get to cover this team after so many down years. Their lives must be more pleasant now. Of course in wishing the local press well I do not necessarily include every columnist from the Boston Globe, the last of whom finally acknowledged the true prominence of this team only after the recent west coast sweep.
Their opinions on Danny Ainge the last few years speak for themselves. Sometimes smart people can be so dumb.
10) Changing times
All this winning has led to steady Celtics talk during the heart of the Patriots run for undefeated immortality. You'd think there would be a green blackout until after the Uberbowl. But no. The Celtics are back, the buzz keeps building, and the new era has only just begun.
An NBA record was set Saturday night: Never before have so many people simultaneously pointed at their TVs and screamed the word "Baby!"
Taking a page from the Kendrick Perkins We-Shall-Not-Be-Moved school of defense, Glen Davis stymied Rasheed Wallace on one end of the floor while decimating the Pistons on the offensive side. With seven all stars sharing the court it was rookie Davis who stole the evening. His fast feet (also known as baby steps), superb hands and great use of bulk stunned the Pistons.
Time and again Paul Pierce drove the lane and dished to the rookie. Detroit, not believing what they were seeing, made no adjustments, continuing to over-cover the big three while leaving Glen Davis free to position himself under the basket.
The beautiful thing is: let the Pistons adjust. Next time the teams play they'll pay full attention to Big Baby, and when they do Garnett or Pierce or Allen will be left in single coverage.
Now it's Detroit that's uncertain.
2) Best Western
Which leads to this: I'm getting weary of hearing about how the Celtics haven't played the Suns, Mavs or Spurs. The Celtics are playing basketball on a level seen once every hoops epoch. The Spurs are a four time champion. They've earned the respect of being considered the ultimate test— but the Mavs and Suns? Those two franchises have as many rings as the Bobcats.
IMSO (In my swaggerly opinion) the Celtics are the best team in basketball. It's Dallas and Phoenix that have to prove themselves against Boston, NOT the other way around.
3) Grenvy
Around the nation and the world, followers of other teams have become increasingly bitter. They jealously claim Ainge was "handed" this team, or that the Celtics have had an easy schedule (see above), or blindly say that it won't last.
I have a word for this: Grenvy. It's what you get when you blend "Green" and "Envy." So next time you read someone sourly discounting the jaw-dropping resurgence of basketball's preeminent franchise, you don't have to respond. They're just grenvious.
4) Consider this:
I don't think there have been more than two games all year where all three of the trio grande have had great shooting nights on the same evening. Part of the reason is that Ray Allen still hasn't gotten his shot locked down yet, which is not to say Ray hasn't contributed to every win he's played in. (The Celtics beat Toronto and Milwaukee with one Allen tied behind their back.) Ray's defense has been FAR better than advertised. His savvy positioning on the court has played havoc with the opposition. They cannot lay off him.
I think his out of sync shooting is largely caused by the off-season surgery. When your ankles feel different it takes some time to adjust. That will happen— probably sooner rather than later. You can see how near he is to getting the stroke back. He's very close. It's just a matter of time.
Regardless, Ray Allen was a great throw-in in the Glen Davis trade.
5) Allen part deux
Tony Allen is coming around too. He's really been contributing recently.
The funny thing about Tony is he scares the hell out of fans of BOTH teams every time he has the ball. He's constantly swaying and jerking back and forth. You just can't predict whose heart he's going to break with his next movement. He's like that even in postgame interviews— swaying back and forth while answering questions. I keep reflexively reaching out toward the television to catch him.
Anyway, Tony Allen is the big wild card. If he keeps growing like this, he makes life a grenvious hell for other teams.
6) Why this will continue
The reason the record is no illusion is because it's based on defense. Offense comes and goes, but the D has been rock solid every game not played in Salt Lake City.
I'm not saying I expect the Celtics to maintain this other-worldly pace of winning. That would be close to impossible. But I expect their high level of energy and defense to continue. That should be enough to raise a tall crop of Ws by harvest time in April.
7) Open roster spots
We know the following:
*There are two open roster spots
*Brandon Wallace was let go because he couldn't help now.
*Though he's showed promise, Gabe Pruitt doesn't seem to be in the plans for this year.
*The Celtics could use a nifty back up point guard.
*Most importantly, there are plenty of disgruntled vets and cheap owners out there. The best combo that comes to mind is Donald Sterling and Sam Cassell. Sam is a buddy of Garnett, a good guy to have on any team, and wants out of the not-evil LA franchise.
Wouldn't it be nice if Reggie Lewis' old Baltimore protege ended up here?
7) Danny
Talk about doing no wrong... Every guy Danny Ainge brought in this off-season has contributed on a level ranging from pleasant surprise to league MVP. Pruitt, Davis, Pollard, House, Posey, Allen, Garnett. Not a dud in the bunch.
8) Tommy
Notice how the fomenting grenvy across America is so often vented at the greatest basketball broadcaster in the land? Thanks to League Pass, I never read comments on a Celtic game from opposing fans that don't include some anti-Tommy raving.
Don't these nice folks realize that the broadcasts are meant for us, and that they're just eavesdropping?
9) Speaking of which
It's great for all the Celtics broadcasters and long-time beat writers to get to cover this team after so many down years. Their lives must be more pleasant now. Of course in wishing the local press well I do not necessarily include every columnist from the Boston Globe, the last of whom finally acknowledged the true prominence of this team only after the recent west coast sweep.
Their opinions on Danny Ainge the last few years speak for themselves. Sometimes smart people can be so dumb.
10) Changing times
All this winning has led to steady Celtics talk during the heart of the Patriots run for undefeated immortality. You'd think there would be a green blackout until after the Uberbowl. But no. The Celtics are back, the buzz keeps building, and the new era has only just begun.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
The Answer Is Yes
1) The Answer
Up until now there have been lingering doubts. Around the country people were skeptical. They kept questioning different aspects of the new Celtics: The defense, the bench, Perkins and Rondo, chemistry, willingness to share the ball, the coaching, and lastly the schedule. One by one those questions have been dispensed with as resoundingly as the hapless Lakers.
Even within the great green nation people doubted, and why not? No one had seen this team before. No one was prepared for what would happen. No one, not even the most optimistic voices could have foreseen just how quickly and powerfully this team would come together.
This west coast sweep has done it. For the first time since the legendary squad of 1986, the Celtics returned from a west coast swing undefeated. Four games in five nights. They were pounded on, scratched, worn down, even tackled; but they passed every test.
The question is: "Is this a bonafide championship contender?"
The answer is yes.
2) Speaking of Coaching
Doc Rivers deserves enormous credit for these four wins. Going into the trip he decided not to uptempo, knowing that it would sap the team's energy and they wouldn't have enough juice to win the latter games. Instead they played deliberately on the offensive end, suffocated everyone but Utah and Delonte West with their defense, and just looked awesome. Kudos to Doc. (How come kudos always come in bunches? You never hear of someone getting only one kudo.)
Furthermore, in the final game the Los Angeles coach made what I thought was an obvious error. When Rondo went down I guessed Boston would lose (the first time I've thought that all year). It seemed so obvious that the Lakers would press the hell out of Tony Allen and Eddie House to keep the Celtics from maintaining any offensive flow. The Lakers never did it. They never used the press.
3) Detroit
With San Antonio banged up, right now the two best teams in basketball play in the East. That's correct.
The Pistons are very impressive. They are #1 in the league in scoring and #2 in limiting opponent's scoring— an amazing combination. (The Celtics are #6 and #1.) As of this moment, the Pistons point differential is 10.6, second only to the Celtics incredible 13.8. 12.3 is the all time record!
I can't help but look past Houston and Memphis to Saturday's rematch in Detroit. Regardless of the outcome of that game, these two teams will be angling for position all season. They appear to be relentlessly heading toward a collision in late May and only one thing can stop that from happening...
4) Cleveland
There is a third team that could challenge in the East. The Cavaliers have finally gotten their roster together and are just starting to search under the couch cushions for their mojo. After what they did last season Cleveland cannot be overlooked. A hot streak from LeBron can sink anyone.
Here's the important thing: The Celtics have a lead on Detroit right now but it's by no means insurmountable. Boston must maintain their #1 seeding. That could force the Cavs and Pistons to wear each other down in the Eastern semis. It's a huge advantage for any of these three teams to face only one of the other contenders instead of both. (I do expect the Cavs will finish with the third best record.)
A side note: I respect Orlando but think they're not ready yet.
5) Ray Allen
A beautiful thing has happened since Ray Allen rested. He's getting his stroke back. Oh my. Do people around the league realize that the Celtics are starting to play BETTER? With Ray Allen shooting like Ray Allen it's not even fair.
6) Paul Pierce
The contest in LA was one of the better two way games Pierce has ever played. He hit a bunch of big shots and channeled Walt Frazier on defense at the end of the third quarter. He's been amazing on defense all season. The great thing is that even after numerous all star appearances, you can see how much he's learning playing on this team. Kevin Garnett has been a gift from heaven (or Minnesota, I forget which) but Paul Pierce is the guy who has made big strides in his game.
7) Improvement
Between now and the playoffs I expect to see further improvement. Since the team's chemistry was so great out of the box, you might figure that was it. Nuh uh. The Celtics are continually improving. Roles are becoming more defined, Rondo is on a rapid learning curve (via Mark Murphy in the Herald: ZERO turnovers on the west coast for Rajon!) and the team is just maintaining a remarkable level of dedication. They NEVER take a game off.
I'm biased, but feel that in springtime if both the Celtics and Pistons are playing their best, the Celtics take them.
8) But...
Tommy Heinsohn also said on the postgame after the win in LA, that this Celtic team is still learning: They still have not seen all the critical situations that must be mastered to win a title. (Yes I love this team so much I stayed up to 1:30 AM to hear every word of the postgame show.) Tommy's right. There are obstacles along the way. But every time you hear any member of the Celtics speak, whether it be KG, Pierce, or Doc, they always have exactly the right attitude: "We haven't done anything yet." "We're taking one game at a time." "We're just working on getting better."
It's so beautiful, I think I've passed on to some other-worldly realm...
9) New Era
...I mean here it is New Year's Day— Happy New Year everyone! —and the Celtics have two more wins than they had all of last season. I still cannot completely figure out how this was pulled off. Do you notice Danny Ainge is hardly ever seen or heard from this year? No one's talking much about him. I guess GMs are like refs: you know they're doing a great job when they're not the topic of conversation.
10) That Record
According to my calculations, 35-18 the rest of the way breaks that all time year to year win improvement mark.
Up until now there have been lingering doubts. Around the country people were skeptical. They kept questioning different aspects of the new Celtics: The defense, the bench, Perkins and Rondo, chemistry, willingness to share the ball, the coaching, and lastly the schedule. One by one those questions have been dispensed with as resoundingly as the hapless Lakers.
Even within the great green nation people doubted, and why not? No one had seen this team before. No one was prepared for what would happen. No one, not even the most optimistic voices could have foreseen just how quickly and powerfully this team would come together.
This west coast sweep has done it. For the first time since the legendary squad of 1986, the Celtics returned from a west coast swing undefeated. Four games in five nights. They were pounded on, scratched, worn down, even tackled; but they passed every test.
The question is: "Is this a bonafide championship contender?"
The answer is yes.
2) Speaking of Coaching
Doc Rivers deserves enormous credit for these four wins. Going into the trip he decided not to uptempo, knowing that it would sap the team's energy and they wouldn't have enough juice to win the latter games. Instead they played deliberately on the offensive end, suffocated everyone but Utah and Delonte West with their defense, and just looked awesome. Kudos to Doc. (How come kudos always come in bunches? You never hear of someone getting only one kudo.)
Furthermore, in the final game the Los Angeles coach made what I thought was an obvious error. When Rondo went down I guessed Boston would lose (the first time I've thought that all year). It seemed so obvious that the Lakers would press the hell out of Tony Allen and Eddie House to keep the Celtics from maintaining any offensive flow. The Lakers never did it. They never used the press.
3) Detroit
With San Antonio banged up, right now the two best teams in basketball play in the East. That's correct.
The Pistons are very impressive. They are #1 in the league in scoring and #2 in limiting opponent's scoring— an amazing combination. (The Celtics are #6 and #1.) As of this moment, the Pistons point differential is 10.6, second only to the Celtics incredible 13.8. 12.3 is the all time record!
I can't help but look past Houston and Memphis to Saturday's rematch in Detroit. Regardless of the outcome of that game, these two teams will be angling for position all season. They appear to be relentlessly heading toward a collision in late May and only one thing can stop that from happening...
4) Cleveland
There is a third team that could challenge in the East. The Cavaliers have finally gotten their roster together and are just starting to search under the couch cushions for their mojo. After what they did last season Cleveland cannot be overlooked. A hot streak from LeBron can sink anyone.
Here's the important thing: The Celtics have a lead on Detroit right now but it's by no means insurmountable. Boston must maintain their #1 seeding. That could force the Cavs and Pistons to wear each other down in the Eastern semis. It's a huge advantage for any of these three teams to face only one of the other contenders instead of both. (I do expect the Cavs will finish with the third best record.)
A side note: I respect Orlando but think they're not ready yet.
5) Ray Allen
A beautiful thing has happened since Ray Allen rested. He's getting his stroke back. Oh my. Do people around the league realize that the Celtics are starting to play BETTER? With Ray Allen shooting like Ray Allen it's not even fair.
6) Paul Pierce
The contest in LA was one of the better two way games Pierce has ever played. He hit a bunch of big shots and channeled Walt Frazier on defense at the end of the third quarter. He's been amazing on defense all season. The great thing is that even after numerous all star appearances, you can see how much he's learning playing on this team. Kevin Garnett has been a gift from heaven (or Minnesota, I forget which) but Paul Pierce is the guy who has made big strides in his game.
7) Improvement
Between now and the playoffs I expect to see further improvement. Since the team's chemistry was so great out of the box, you might figure that was it. Nuh uh. The Celtics are continually improving. Roles are becoming more defined, Rondo is on a rapid learning curve (via Mark Murphy in the Herald: ZERO turnovers on the west coast for Rajon!) and the team is just maintaining a remarkable level of dedication. They NEVER take a game off.
I'm biased, but feel that in springtime if both the Celtics and Pistons are playing their best, the Celtics take them.
8) But...
Tommy Heinsohn also said on the postgame after the win in LA, that this Celtic team is still learning: They still have not seen all the critical situations that must be mastered to win a title. (Yes I love this team so much I stayed up to 1:30 AM to hear every word of the postgame show.) Tommy's right. There are obstacles along the way. But every time you hear any member of the Celtics speak, whether it be KG, Pierce, or Doc, they always have exactly the right attitude: "We haven't done anything yet." "We're taking one game at a time." "We're just working on getting better."
It's so beautiful, I think I've passed on to some other-worldly realm...
9) New Era
...I mean here it is New Year's Day— Happy New Year everyone! —and the Celtics have two more wins than they had all of last season. I still cannot completely figure out how this was pulled off. Do you notice Danny Ainge is hardly ever seen or heard from this year? No one's talking much about him. I guess GMs are like refs: you know they're doing a great job when they're not the topic of conversation.
10) That Record
According to my calculations, 35-18 the rest of the way breaks that all time year to year win improvement mark.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Power rankings
I didn't want to title this post "Power Rankings By Gant." That sounds too disturbingly Wade Boggsish, talking about myself in the third person...
Traditional Power rankings need a jump start. Let's face it, the
parameters are old and tired: An esteemed journalist ranks the teams from 1-30, fans argue, repeat. Snooze. So I'm going to experiment and rank teams according to strength on the one hand as everyone else does; but unlike everyone else, I'll actually admit I'm completely biased and put teams where I want them.
Here we go:
1) Boston Celtics. 20-2. Last week (first): The Celtics are the
best defensive team in the league. They have the best record in the
league. They are morally and ethically superior. Their basketball
prowess is unmatched. Everyone in the organization is witty,
handsome, and warm-hearted. Every decent human being loves them. They have great broadcasters. They have the best GM and coach in the league. Their trainer walks through the snow for pizza. Like the team, their fans are uniformly attractive, intelligent, and innately good.
2) Nobody. I just wanted to put some distance between Boston and
the next team.
3) San Antonio. 18-5. Last week (unranked): The Duncan swipers
parlayed one little bit of luck into four titles. Despite having
some talented likable players and a great recent history, there's
very little chance of them rising above the #3 position in these
rankings regardless of the outcome of any future games.
4) Detroit. 17-7. Last week (unranked): They rank extra high
because these guys dismantled the Laker title run a few years back.
They're skilled, poised and professional. They can beat any team on
a given night, but are henceforth doomed to fall short of any pending
finals appearances due to the awesome irresistible might of the
reborn Boston Celtics.
5) Phoenix. 17-7. Last week (unranked): They play like the old
Tommy Heinsohn coached Celtics— flying up the floor, fastbreaking off free throws and made baskets. But unlike Tommy's teams they don't play great defense. They get an A for reminding me of the old Celtics, and a D for not being the old Celtics.
6) Orlando. 17-8 and dropping. Last week (unranked): They've got
Dwight Howard. Man he's good. But the Magic have been falling recently. They're the only team in the league to beat the Celtics and not lose to them (a situation to be remedied this coming Sunday).
7) Dallas. 16-9. Last week (unranked): The thought of Texas makes
me so unhappy these last seven years... I should really rank them
lower for all that extracurricular stuff going on in our nation's
capitol, but it's probably not the Mavericks' fault. This has been
an extremely well-coached team for many seasons. No rings though.
This year? Uh uh, no ring again.
8) New Orleans: 15-9. Last week (unranked): You gotta love Chris
Paul. Plus you gotta feel for the great city of Louis Armstrong and
Sidney Bechet. In fact, they probably should be ranked like 4th just
because of the music, but their frontcourt isn't nearly as good as
their point guard or horn section.
9) Minnesota. Record- undisclosed. Last week (unranked): They've
got Big Al! They've got Gerald and Gomes! They beat Phoenix! I
love the Timberwolves! I have not seen their season record, but
whatever it is, it will not affect Minnesota's power rank. Please no
one email it to me; I don't want to know. I'm shutting my eyes and
covering my ears. "La la la la la."
10) Good Milwaukee. 10-0. Last week (unranked): This team is
undefeated. When they win they beat everybody. I miss Earl Boykins
though.
11) Denver. 14-10. Last week (unranked): Wow, this is one strange
conglomeration of fine basketball talent running wild. They're
great; they're good; they're fair; they suck. They're
inconsistent. ...not a tremendous formula for playoff success.
12) Utah. 14-11. Last week (unranked): They get a slight boost for
sharing a D-league team with the Celtics. Utah is a beautiful
place. Their lake is salty.
13) Washington. 13-10. Last week (unranked): No Arenas. Too bad
because I loved Gilbert when he talked a lot and backed it up. But
guess what? I love Gilbert when he talks a lot and doesn't back it
up too! Get well soon Gil. In the meantime the team's doing pretty
well.
14) Golden State. 13-11. Last week (unranked): Remember when Don Nelson used Manute Bol as a 3 point specialist? He does a lot of things that go beyond "creative." I think maybe Don takes the old
Celtic style, draws up a bunch of plans on the blackboard, and then
drops some acid before each game. His 1969 finals game seven shot
that bounced straight up and dropped down through the rim crushing
the Laker's hopes is just about the greatest moment in the history of
the sport.
15) Indiana. 12-12. Last week (unranked): Once again Jim O'Brien
wrings every last win out of his talent, but this time it's not
completely insane looking. Good for him and Larry. Oh and God bless
Jamaal Tinsley and Jermaine O'Neal. There's something very likable
about both those guys, isn't there?
16) Houston. 12-12. Last week (unranked): You look at Yao Ming
and you just shake your head in awe— and I'm not even talking about
basketball. I mean I saw a little of the Houston-Dallas game this
week and Yao makes 7 foot wide-body Dampier look like a little kid.
You throw in McGrady and you'd think this team would be like 24-0.
Nope.
17) Cleveland. 10-14. Last week (unranked): They've just gotten
their guys back. They've got you-know-who. As everybody in the East
found out last year, this is a really scary team to have to face in
the playoffs. Still, 10-14? You guys suck so far.
18) Chicago. 8-13. Last week (unranked): They've got depth. Oh
my yes. Such depth. The preseason champs-on-paper have fallen short record-wise to this point. They could make the playoffs though. Really, I mean it.
19) Portland. 12-12. Last week (unranked): They're on a hot
streak. They're young. They're good. They're doing without
Aldridge and Oden right now. Since I don't know how this is
happening, I'm dropping them 4 positions. (I love being in charge of
the rankings.)
20) Atlanta. 11-12. Last week (unranked): I'm really glad the
Hawks are doing so much better. I always felt like Sally Struthers
should do a charitable infomercial for them in past seasons. Is the
ownership thing straightened out yet? Does anyone know? Or care?
21) Philly. 10-14. Last week (unranked): They rise 4 positons for
being feisty. Cripes, if they weren't so morally upright and would
just tank a few seasons, they could turn this thing around.
22) Jersey. 10-14. Last week (unranked): What a weird vibe this club
has. They've got winners and they've got whiners. No their big 3 is
not nearly nearly nearly as good as our big 3. Their successful era
has just ended and they haven't made the next move yet.
23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28) Clippers, Sacramento, Charlotte, Seattle,
Memphis, and Miami. 9-14, 9-14, 8-14, 7-18, 7-16, 6-17. Last week
(unranked) : All of you are such a bitter disappointment to me. The
old Chris Wallace magic is working in Memphis.
29) Bad Milwaukee. 0-13. Last week (unranked): This team has yet
to win. When they lose they can't beat anybody. I like Yi long term.
30) New York. 7-16. Last week (unranked): I fear Isiah is going to
lose his job and hope this does not happen because I love him in New York. I got your back Zeke.
31) Toronto. 14-11. Last week (unranked): I actually like the
Raptors a lot, but their online fans are so out-of-control I thought
I'd needle them a bit by putting Toronto here.
32) Lakers. 14-9. Last week (last): The Lakers are an organization
dedicated to pure evil. They will not rest until they have
obliterated everything good and decent from the face of the Earth.
For now their nefarious plans have been derailed.
How come no one else was swift enough to draft Bynum before the 10th pick in 2005?
Date of next rankings: never.
Traditional Power rankings need a jump start. Let's face it, the
parameters are old and tired: An esteemed journalist ranks the teams from 1-30, fans argue, repeat. Snooze. So I'm going to experiment and rank teams according to strength on the one hand as everyone else does; but unlike everyone else, I'll actually admit I'm completely biased and put teams where I want them.
Here we go:
1) Boston Celtics. 20-2. Last week (first): The Celtics are the
best defensive team in the league. They have the best record in the
league. They are morally and ethically superior. Their basketball
prowess is unmatched. Everyone in the organization is witty,
handsome, and warm-hearted. Every decent human being loves them. They have great broadcasters. They have the best GM and coach in the league. Their trainer walks through the snow for pizza. Like the team, their fans are uniformly attractive, intelligent, and innately good.
2) Nobody. I just wanted to put some distance between Boston and
the next team.
3) San Antonio. 18-5. Last week (unranked): The Duncan swipers
parlayed one little bit of luck into four titles. Despite having
some talented likable players and a great recent history, there's
very little chance of them rising above the #3 position in these
rankings regardless of the outcome of any future games.
4) Detroit. 17-7. Last week (unranked): They rank extra high
because these guys dismantled the Laker title run a few years back.
They're skilled, poised and professional. They can beat any team on
a given night, but are henceforth doomed to fall short of any pending
finals appearances due to the awesome irresistible might of the
reborn Boston Celtics.
5) Phoenix. 17-7. Last week (unranked): They play like the old
Tommy Heinsohn coached Celtics— flying up the floor, fastbreaking off free throws and made baskets. But unlike Tommy's teams they don't play great defense. They get an A for reminding me of the old Celtics, and a D for not being the old Celtics.
6) Orlando. 17-8 and dropping. Last week (unranked): They've got
Dwight Howard. Man he's good. But the Magic have been falling recently. They're the only team in the league to beat the Celtics and not lose to them (a situation to be remedied this coming Sunday).
7) Dallas. 16-9. Last week (unranked): The thought of Texas makes
me so unhappy these last seven years... I should really rank them
lower for all that extracurricular stuff going on in our nation's
capitol, but it's probably not the Mavericks' fault. This has been
an extremely well-coached team for many seasons. No rings though.
This year? Uh uh, no ring again.
8) New Orleans: 15-9. Last week (unranked): You gotta love Chris
Paul. Plus you gotta feel for the great city of Louis Armstrong and
Sidney Bechet. In fact, they probably should be ranked like 4th just
because of the music, but their frontcourt isn't nearly as good as
their point guard or horn section.
9) Minnesota. Record- undisclosed. Last week (unranked): They've
got Big Al! They've got Gerald and Gomes! They beat Phoenix! I
love the Timberwolves! I have not seen their season record, but
whatever it is, it will not affect Minnesota's power rank. Please no
one email it to me; I don't want to know. I'm shutting my eyes and
covering my ears. "La la la la la."
10) Good Milwaukee. 10-0. Last week (unranked): This team is
undefeated. When they win they beat everybody. I miss Earl Boykins
though.
11) Denver. 14-10. Last week (unranked): Wow, this is one strange
conglomeration of fine basketball talent running wild. They're
great; they're good; they're fair; they suck. They're
inconsistent. ...not a tremendous formula for playoff success.
12) Utah. 14-11. Last week (unranked): They get a slight boost for
sharing a D-league team with the Celtics. Utah is a beautiful
place. Their lake is salty.
13) Washington. 13-10. Last week (unranked): No Arenas. Too bad
because I loved Gilbert when he talked a lot and backed it up. But
guess what? I love Gilbert when he talks a lot and doesn't back it
up too! Get well soon Gil. In the meantime the team's doing pretty
well.
14) Golden State. 13-11. Last week (unranked): Remember when Don Nelson used Manute Bol as a 3 point specialist? He does a lot of things that go beyond "creative." I think maybe Don takes the old
Celtic style, draws up a bunch of plans on the blackboard, and then
drops some acid before each game. His 1969 finals game seven shot
that bounced straight up and dropped down through the rim crushing
the Laker's hopes is just about the greatest moment in the history of
the sport.
15) Indiana. 12-12. Last week (unranked): Once again Jim O'Brien
wrings every last win out of his talent, but this time it's not
completely insane looking. Good for him and Larry. Oh and God bless
Jamaal Tinsley and Jermaine O'Neal. There's something very likable
about both those guys, isn't there?
16) Houston. 12-12. Last week (unranked): You look at Yao Ming
and you just shake your head in awe— and I'm not even talking about
basketball. I mean I saw a little of the Houston-Dallas game this
week and Yao makes 7 foot wide-body Dampier look like a little kid.
You throw in McGrady and you'd think this team would be like 24-0.
Nope.
17) Cleveland. 10-14. Last week (unranked): They've just gotten
their guys back. They've got you-know-who. As everybody in the East
found out last year, this is a really scary team to have to face in
the playoffs. Still, 10-14? You guys suck so far.
18) Chicago. 8-13. Last week (unranked): They've got depth. Oh
my yes. Such depth. The preseason champs-on-paper have fallen short record-wise to this point. They could make the playoffs though. Really, I mean it.
19) Portland. 12-12. Last week (unranked): They're on a hot
streak. They're young. They're good. They're doing without
Aldridge and Oden right now. Since I don't know how this is
happening, I'm dropping them 4 positions. (I love being in charge of
the rankings.)
20) Atlanta. 11-12. Last week (unranked): I'm really glad the
Hawks are doing so much better. I always felt like Sally Struthers
should do a charitable infomercial for them in past seasons. Is the
ownership thing straightened out yet? Does anyone know? Or care?
21) Philly. 10-14. Last week (unranked): They rise 4 positons for
being feisty. Cripes, if they weren't so morally upright and would
just tank a few seasons, they could turn this thing around.
22) Jersey. 10-14. Last week (unranked): What a weird vibe this club
has. They've got winners and they've got whiners. No their big 3 is
not nearly nearly nearly as good as our big 3. Their successful era
has just ended and they haven't made the next move yet.
23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28) Clippers, Sacramento, Charlotte, Seattle,
Memphis, and Miami. 9-14, 9-14, 8-14, 7-18, 7-16, 6-17. Last week
(unranked) : All of you are such a bitter disappointment to me. The
old Chris Wallace magic is working in Memphis.
29) Bad Milwaukee. 0-13. Last week (unranked): This team has yet
to win. When they lose they can't beat anybody. I like Yi long term.
30) New York. 7-16. Last week (unranked): I fear Isiah is going to
lose his job and hope this does not happen because I love him in New York. I got your back Zeke.
31) Toronto. 14-11. Last week (unranked): I actually like the
Raptors a lot, but their online fans are so out-of-control I thought
I'd needle them a bit by putting Toronto here.
32) Lakers. 14-9. Last week (last): The Lakers are an organization
dedicated to pure evil. They will not rest until they have
obliterated everything good and decent from the face of the Earth.
For now their nefarious plans have been derailed.
How come no one else was swift enough to draft Bynum before the 10th pick in 2005?
Date of next rankings: never.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Quiet Joy
Less Griping, Less Typing
There's a strange counterintuitive phenomenon taking place. Before the season started I expected activity on Celtic boards to grow with the team's winning percentage. If anything the opposite seems to be happening.
Take a look at Celtic forums around the web. With the team great again, you'd anticipate a fury of activity; thousands of new voices being heard; an avalanche of green-tinted posts and opinions. Unexpectedly just the opposite appears to be taking place. So far the busiest Celtic discussion groups seem slower. The team's phenomenal early season success has had a deadening effect on online banter.
This is all very unscientific and is based only on my own foggy perception, but it sure seems real...
You may well ask- How come?
I have 10 theories:
1) The Inertia of Bliss
Happy fans are just sitting back and enjoying this.
People are just not moved to type, "The team sure looks good."
Or to respond, "Yup. They sure do."
2) Nattering Nabobs Are Hushed
Do you hear those squeaky wheels? Not too much anymore. Most of the formerly negative voices have come over to the light side of the force. Welcome!
3) So Are The Pathological
As for the rest- well even crazy people generally don't want to appear crazy. (As a side note, you can tell who these nice folks are because they generally start off saying "I was right all along, BUT..." or they're still just going along same as ever— steadfastly criticizing the rotations, management, or searching for imaginary character flaws instead of enjoying success.)
4) Serial Traders Are On Vacation
Why propose moving a guy out when he's helping the team win? ...and everybody seems to be helping the team win.
5) What College Game?
No one's talking about the 2008 draft. Last year at this time I was watching every Ohio State game I could. This year, I know there's some guy named Beasley and some guy named Rose out there, but I've never seen them play and probably won't until midwinter.
6) Pink Hatters Aren't Joining Up
Would you? You come into a place where people are saying things like: "Have you seen Rondo's rising mid-range hot zones?" "Glen Davis has an incredible PER." You've got fanatics discussing every arcane statistical and historical detail of the sport— it's probably intimidating to hesitant pink toppers at the entryway.
7) Basketball Viewing of the Diehards Has Changed
A lot of folks who previously posted in game threads have bought season tickets and are now cheering in person. Others are watching Ray Allen with bandwagon jumping friends instead of brooding alone with Allan Ray. When you watch with flesh and blood others, you probably post less.
8) Green Discussion Has Spread To New Places
Though the Celtic talk has subsided a bit on our own boards, it's exploded everywhere else. Celtic fanatics who have huddled together in the darkness for years are now boldly going forth and interacting with fans of other teams.
9) Nobody Disagrees
There's no controversy. We all like... well, we all like everything. Who wants to talk about that?!?
10) It's All New
Unlike previous great teams, this one is so unknown. This is a group that no one had seen before. They didn't just add one or two key guys. Instead it was pretty much a full roster makeover. So final conclusions are slow to arrive since we're seeing each situation for the first time.
I do not expect the mass silence to continue. When the playoffs loom there will be an explosion of activity. There will be a cacophony of joyful online noise— the first great green eruption of the internet era. The Celtics had one of the worst records in the league last season. Now they're a leading title contender.
We're all adjusting.
There's a strange counterintuitive phenomenon taking place. Before the season started I expected activity on Celtic boards to grow with the team's winning percentage. If anything the opposite seems to be happening.
Take a look at Celtic forums around the web. With the team great again, you'd anticipate a fury of activity; thousands of new voices being heard; an avalanche of green-tinted posts and opinions. Unexpectedly just the opposite appears to be taking place. So far the busiest Celtic discussion groups seem slower. The team's phenomenal early season success has had a deadening effect on online banter.
This is all very unscientific and is based only on my own foggy perception, but it sure seems real...
You may well ask- How come?
I have 10 theories:
1) The Inertia of Bliss
Happy fans are just sitting back and enjoying this.
People are just not moved to type, "The team sure looks good."
Or to respond, "Yup. They sure do."
2) Nattering Nabobs Are Hushed
Do you hear those squeaky wheels? Not too much anymore. Most of the formerly negative voices have come over to the light side of the force. Welcome!
3) So Are The Pathological
As for the rest- well even crazy people generally don't want to appear crazy. (As a side note, you can tell who these nice folks are because they generally start off saying "I was right all along, BUT..." or they're still just going along same as ever— steadfastly criticizing the rotations, management, or searching for imaginary character flaws instead of enjoying success.)
4) Serial Traders Are On Vacation
Why propose moving a guy out when he's helping the team win? ...and everybody seems to be helping the team win.
5) What College Game?
No one's talking about the 2008 draft. Last year at this time I was watching every Ohio State game I could. This year, I know there's some guy named Beasley and some guy named Rose out there, but I've never seen them play and probably won't until midwinter.
6) Pink Hatters Aren't Joining Up
Would you? You come into a place where people are saying things like: "Have you seen Rondo's rising mid-range hot zones?" "Glen Davis has an incredible PER." You've got fanatics discussing every arcane statistical and historical detail of the sport— it's probably intimidating to hesitant pink toppers at the entryway.
7) Basketball Viewing of the Diehards Has Changed
A lot of folks who previously posted in game threads have bought season tickets and are now cheering in person. Others are watching Ray Allen with bandwagon jumping friends instead of brooding alone with Allan Ray. When you watch with flesh and blood others, you probably post less.
8) Green Discussion Has Spread To New Places
Though the Celtic talk has subsided a bit on our own boards, it's exploded everywhere else. Celtic fanatics who have huddled together in the darkness for years are now boldly going forth and interacting with fans of other teams.
9) Nobody Disagrees
There's no controversy. We all like... well, we all like everything. Who wants to talk about that?!?
10) It's All New
Unlike previous great teams, this one is so unknown. This is a group that no one had seen before. They didn't just add one or two key guys. Instead it was pretty much a full roster makeover. So final conclusions are slow to arrive since we're seeing each situation for the first time.
I do not expect the mass silence to continue. When the playoffs loom there will be an explosion of activity. There will be a cacophony of joyful online noise— the first great green eruption of the internet era. The Celtics had one of the worst records in the league last season. Now they're a leading title contender.
We're all adjusting.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
10 things about Orlando, Sherpas, and the rotation
1) Orlando
Have you been reading the Orlando box scores? The faint of heart should probably move to the next paragraph because what I'm about to tell you is something so disturbing that it may cause irreversible trauma: Stan Van Gundy has recently been playing his main guys close to 40 minutes per game! Shocking but true.
This is the most outrageously reckless act I have ever heard of. Is he insane? Doesn't the Magic coach realize that playing key players long minutes in consecutive games is incredibly dangerous? Doesn't Coach Van Gundy realize that playing starters for (gasp!) 39 minutes can cause an explosive chain reaction that could obliterate virtually all life from the face of the Earth?
It's happened before. Remember Vincent Price? Remember Charlton Heston?
Please Stan Van Gundy. Keep us safe. Rest your starters. Play Pat Garrity. (Oh yeah, the Magic DID win those two games against top teams.)
2) Rivalry
Orlando and Boston had a nice little contest the other night. It almost made me remember how furious a REAL rivalry can feel- because this is no such thing. It was just a contested game. At various times in history the Celtics have had authentic rivalries with opponents like the Knicks, Sixers and the evil Lakers. Those games were so intense it made you have a physical reaction for days before and days after. If the Celtics won everyone felt euphoric. If they lost, all you felt was a focused desire for revenge. The vile bitterness built and built and lasted for years. What lighthearted fun.
I bring this up because I realize that younger Greeniacs have never experienced the powerful emotions of a true rivalry. That's because they've never seen great Celtic basketball. Oh maybe people thought they felt some mild emotion aimed at New Jersey a few years ago or with Indiana a while before that; but those weren't rivalries— that was just a couple of clubs accidentally bumping into each other.
When the real thing comes along, you'll know it.
3) Stan n' Pat
Orlando does look very good . They've got the monster in the middle and stingers on the wings. They're well coached too. Don't get too attached to Stan Van Gundy though. If the Magic ever do look like they're serious title contenders, won't Pat Riley somehow try to chloroform Stan and steal his job again? What's that you say, Bodyfat Pat can't do it this time? Perhaps not, but if I were Mr. Van Gundy I'd hire some husky ex-mercenary bodyguards from the Happiest Place On Earth just in case.
4) The History of Film
Bear with me on this one.
In the 19th century two rich guys who were also horse racing aficionados had a disagreement. One of them claimed that while racing there were times when all four of a thoroughbred's hooves left the ground at the same time. The other rich guy said this was impossible. Basically they argued over whether horses ever flew. So they made a sizable wager.
How to prove it? They found an enterprising photographer who set up a series of still cameras at ground level along the sidelines of a racetrack. He attached fragile invisible wires across the track from each camera. When the horses galloped by they tripped the wires and created a series of photos. When these photos were viewed in sequence they revealed that horses did at times completely leave the ground. Horses did fly.
I was reminded of all his while watching Ray Allen move around the court. He seems to glide just like those horses- wisely expending energy. At times his feet seem like they're barely touching the floor.
5) Sixth Man
Speaking of Ray Allen— my inner rotation manager (do you have one of those?) keeps suggesting that Ray ought to be this team's 6th man.
The reasons:
It would cut down the potentially catastrophic planet-killing minutes problem.
It would bring enormous firepower off the bench while still leaving the starters with plenty of ammo.
It works really well in San Antonio with Ginobili.
If Havlicek and McHale could do it, why not Ray?
You would still end the game with the big 3 on the floor.
Who would start? House, Tony Allen or Posey? Probably Posey. Eh, I go back and forth on this. Maybe it's crazy.
...actually since this idea is coming from a voice in my head, it likely is crazy and therefore should be treated with powerful prescription drugs made by giant pharmaceutical companies. It's our new national tradition- just say "No" to drugs and "Yes" to medication. God bless America.
Wait, did I get off topic? I'll fix that with a little thought about Sherpas:
6) Sherpas
Celtic TV Ratings are up. There's lots more local and national coverage, more ticket sales, more buzz. But when times were dark (like say the last few years) who was watching the team? Who was keeping the flame burning? You were! Yes I do mean you- anyone reading this now -the hardcore greenhearts.
You're like Sherpas; those dedicated guys that walk up Mt. Everest lugging someone else's gear. Anyone who stuck by this franchise when times were hard should be congratulated. If anything great happens this season, you deserve it. How the hell did you ever walk up that enormous mountain? No matter what else happens, be sure to fully enjoy this season. You deserve it, you hearty bunch of Tenzing Norgays.
7) Kevin n' Paul
I really like the postgame dual press conferences hosted by Garnett and Pierce. Talking to reporters is obligatory so they take on the task together. It makes for a fun dynamic as the two pass questions back and forth. I've heard Garnett isn't crazy about talking to the esteemed fourth estate after games and this twin presser is the result. Good entertainment.
Funny though— for someone who supposedly doesn't like such things, Kevin Garnett is great at it. His way of thinking and speaking is fascinating.
8) 36
Many pointed out after I asked last week that it was the 1997-98 San Antonio Spurs who had the greatest increase in wins from one season to the next. 36. They were led by David Robinson who had returned from missing the most of the previous year with injury and rookie (ugh) Tim Duncan.
There's an enchanted symmetry going on here. Wouldn't it be fitting if this Celtics team went 61-21 and broke the record?
Wait, don't answer yet. There's more: Doc Rivers' career coaching record going into this season was 273-312, or 39 games under .500. A 61-21 record would make him 334-333.
It just seems so meant-to-be.
9) Rondo crunching revisited
This summer I wrote a thing about Rondo's rising shooting ability. Though he was barely over 40% last season in fg%, once he got regular minutes and started, he shot 47.3%. A steep upward trend. This year he's in the high 50's.
I'm glad the Celtics have not yet gotten a vet point. It gives Rondo a chance to grow more quickly. He's more than the future at point. He's the point right now. If they want to get Cassell or someone like that at the trade deadline, great. In the meantime let Rondo continue to grow.
Unexpected: Rondo's defense which was his trademark has been uneven so far though. He tries to angle his man off too much and go for the steal instead of staying in front of the guy. It's easily correctible, and Doc pointed it out this week so the mistake is being fixed as we speak.
Soon everyone will pay for doubting Rondo. Oh how they will pay.
10) Golden State
Another 20 point win. Another night of great defense. Another night of great offense. Another night of great rebounding. Everything is right with the world.
Happy Thanksgiving everybody.
Have you been reading the Orlando box scores? The faint of heart should probably move to the next paragraph because what I'm about to tell you is something so disturbing that it may cause irreversible trauma: Stan Van Gundy has recently been playing his main guys close to 40 minutes per game! Shocking but true.
This is the most outrageously reckless act I have ever heard of. Is he insane? Doesn't the Magic coach realize that playing key players long minutes in consecutive games is incredibly dangerous? Doesn't Coach Van Gundy realize that playing starters for (gasp!) 39 minutes can cause an explosive chain reaction that could obliterate virtually all life from the face of the Earth?
It's happened before. Remember Vincent Price? Remember Charlton Heston?
Please Stan Van Gundy. Keep us safe. Rest your starters. Play Pat Garrity. (Oh yeah, the Magic DID win those two games against top teams.)
2) Rivalry
Orlando and Boston had a nice little contest the other night. It almost made me remember how furious a REAL rivalry can feel- because this is no such thing. It was just a contested game. At various times in history the Celtics have had authentic rivalries with opponents like the Knicks, Sixers and the evil Lakers. Those games were so intense it made you have a physical reaction for days before and days after. If the Celtics won everyone felt euphoric. If they lost, all you felt was a focused desire for revenge. The vile bitterness built and built and lasted for years. What lighthearted fun.
I bring this up because I realize that younger Greeniacs have never experienced the powerful emotions of a true rivalry. That's because they've never seen great Celtic basketball. Oh maybe people thought they felt some mild emotion aimed at New Jersey a few years ago or with Indiana a while before that; but those weren't rivalries— that was just a couple of clubs accidentally bumping into each other.
When the real thing comes along, you'll know it.
3) Stan n' Pat
Orlando does look very good . They've got the monster in the middle and stingers on the wings. They're well coached too. Don't get too attached to Stan Van Gundy though. If the Magic ever do look like they're serious title contenders, won't Pat Riley somehow try to chloroform Stan and steal his job again? What's that you say, Bodyfat Pat can't do it this time? Perhaps not, but if I were Mr. Van Gundy I'd hire some husky ex-mercenary bodyguards from the Happiest Place On Earth just in case.
4) The History of Film
Bear with me on this one.
In the 19th century two rich guys who were also horse racing aficionados had a disagreement. One of them claimed that while racing there were times when all four of a thoroughbred's hooves left the ground at the same time. The other rich guy said this was impossible. Basically they argued over whether horses ever flew. So they made a sizable wager.
How to prove it? They found an enterprising photographer who set up a series of still cameras at ground level along the sidelines of a racetrack. He attached fragile invisible wires across the track from each camera. When the horses galloped by they tripped the wires and created a series of photos. When these photos were viewed in sequence they revealed that horses did at times completely leave the ground. Horses did fly.
I was reminded of all his while watching Ray Allen move around the court. He seems to glide just like those horses- wisely expending energy. At times his feet seem like they're barely touching the floor.
5) Sixth Man
Speaking of Ray Allen— my inner rotation manager (do you have one of those?) keeps suggesting that Ray ought to be this team's 6th man.
The reasons:
It would cut down the potentially catastrophic planet-killing minutes problem.
It would bring enormous firepower off the bench while still leaving the starters with plenty of ammo.
It works really well in San Antonio with Ginobili.
If Havlicek and McHale could do it, why not Ray?
You would still end the game with the big 3 on the floor.
Who would start? House, Tony Allen or Posey? Probably Posey. Eh, I go back and forth on this. Maybe it's crazy.
...actually since this idea is coming from a voice in my head, it likely is crazy and therefore should be treated with powerful prescription drugs made by giant pharmaceutical companies. It's our new national tradition- just say "No" to drugs and "Yes" to medication. God bless America.
Wait, did I get off topic? I'll fix that with a little thought about Sherpas:
6) Sherpas
Celtic TV Ratings are up. There's lots more local and national coverage, more ticket sales, more buzz. But when times were dark (like say the last few years) who was watching the team? Who was keeping the flame burning? You were! Yes I do mean you- anyone reading this now -the hardcore greenhearts.
You're like Sherpas; those dedicated guys that walk up Mt. Everest lugging someone else's gear. Anyone who stuck by this franchise when times were hard should be congratulated. If anything great happens this season, you deserve it. How the hell did you ever walk up that enormous mountain? No matter what else happens, be sure to fully enjoy this season. You deserve it, you hearty bunch of Tenzing Norgays.
7) Kevin n' Paul
I really like the postgame dual press conferences hosted by Garnett and Pierce. Talking to reporters is obligatory so they take on the task together. It makes for a fun dynamic as the two pass questions back and forth. I've heard Garnett isn't crazy about talking to the esteemed fourth estate after games and this twin presser is the result. Good entertainment.
Funny though— for someone who supposedly doesn't like such things, Kevin Garnett is great at it. His way of thinking and speaking is fascinating.
8) 36
Many pointed out after I asked last week that it was the 1997-98 San Antonio Spurs who had the greatest increase in wins from one season to the next. 36. They were led by David Robinson who had returned from missing the most of the previous year with injury and rookie (ugh) Tim Duncan.
There's an enchanted symmetry going on here. Wouldn't it be fitting if this Celtics team went 61-21 and broke the record?
Wait, don't answer yet. There's more: Doc Rivers' career coaching record going into this season was 273-312, or 39 games under .500. A 61-21 record would make him 334-333.
It just seems so meant-to-be.
9) Rondo crunching revisited
This summer I wrote a thing about Rondo's rising shooting ability. Though he was barely over 40% last season in fg%, once he got regular minutes and started, he shot 47.3%. A steep upward trend. This year he's in the high 50's.
I'm glad the Celtics have not yet gotten a vet point. It gives Rondo a chance to grow more quickly. He's more than the future at point. He's the point right now. If they want to get Cassell or someone like that at the trade deadline, great. In the meantime let Rondo continue to grow.
Unexpected: Rondo's defense which was his trademark has been uneven so far though. He tries to angle his man off too much and go for the steal instead of staying in front of the guy. It's easily correctible, and Doc pointed it out this week so the mistake is being fixed as we speak.
Soon everyone will pay for doubting Rondo. Oh how they will pay.
10) Golden State
Another 20 point win. Another night of great defense. Another night of great offense. Another night of great rebounding. Everything is right with the world.
Happy Thanksgiving everybody.
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