Here it is New Year's Eve and I am probably one of the few who plans on celebrating by watching the Celtics game tonight. Sad, I know. A win would really make my night, though. Until then, here is what is going on around the Celtics Nation today:

The Herald has two articles that look back on 2006. The first by Steve Bulpett discusses the many losses the Celtics had in 2006, including the loss of their patriarch, Red Auerbach. In it, Pierce expresses his desire to keep a core group together to grow together. Sounds like he still has patience with the kids. The second, also by Bulpett, gives the highs and lows of the past year. Highs include Pierce's play, our 5 game win streak, coming back from down 20 to beat the Nets, Pierce's extension, and Jefferson's emergence. The lows are topped by the loss of Red and include Al's injury woes, fire Doc chants, six game losing streak after the trade for Wally, and last but not least, the first Celtics dance team.

Scott Souza gives some resolutions for a happy 2007 for the Celtics. He offers that if the Celtics stay healty, keep feeding Al in the post, give Green minutes, give the PG's a chance to play their game, and remain in the Atlantic division, they should have a happy 2007. Peter May also gives some resolutions for the Celtics. Then he goes on to discuss pretty much everything under the sun. Guess he had a lot on his mind to end the year.

The Herald also has an article about Tommy Heinsohn and the fact that he keeps the Celtics tradition and pride alive. Tommy represents everything that his good in this franchise. I wish Doc would bring him into practice and let him give some of his insights and experience to the team.

The Hartford Courant reports that there have been a lot of injuries this season that have changed the fortunes of many team, especially the Celtics. But we aren't the only ones, many other teams have been without their stars for a period of time as well.

The Waterbury Republican reports that Gomes is glad that a trade didn't go down for Iverson. He echoes the thoughts of Pierce that the young core of players wants to grow together and he feels that they will continue to grow as a team and get better. I tend to agree with them. Chemistry is very important on teams and if this core group of young players are allowed to grow together, it will pay off in the long run.

Bob Ryan has plenty to talk about even though there aren't any championships in Boston this year.

I still like Al Jefferson. I still like Delonte West. I still like Ryan Gomes (who could be dropped into the Spurs’ lineup tonight and flourish, even without a single practice). I am very impressed with Tony Allen. I am surprised that I like Rajon Rondo, who, crummy shot or not, so often has a direct effect on the game with his speed and aggressiveness on defense.