|
|
RETRIEVING CONTENT...PLEASE WAIT
Comments from the Other Side - Nets 2/5
Saturday, February 6, 2010
by FLCeltsFan 11:27 AM
Devin needs to make an example out of Rondo tonight.
Harris isn’t perfect, but Rondo is a cancer. Boston having all these locker room issues, you know Rondo is at the center of them.
Without the Big Three….rondo would be just a regular player or less (attitude)….If Harris was there instead of Rondo it would be the Big Four……
IMO, they’re both awful defensively. They’re both mediocre passers. They’re both awful shooters. They’re both primadonnas. Rondo is just better at scoring this year, and he’s VERY durable. Gotta like that.
Meh, I don’t see it. Put Devin on that team I think they are the same… put Rondo on this years Nets, and I think the Nets would be in WORSE shape.
Yeah Rondo does a great job passing to KG, Paul Peirce, Ray Allen, and Eddie House. I could get 10 assists a game on that team.
Friday night with the nets awesome
Vince Carter used to hit threes with guys in his face. That's why every time Lee misses a wide open three, I die a little bit on the inside.
Well VC wasn't gonna help us get wall.
How fitting is it, that after missing two wide open jumpers the Nets commercial comes on calling Yi Jianlian "The Shooter" its just been that type of season I guess.
Lmao well you can't really call him the hustle man or the banger.
Watching the Celtics broadcast which of course means I'm muting Tommy Heinsohn.
Allen, Garnett and Yi have burned the Nets a couple of possessions each.
I'm not even gonna bother to watch
At least the nets are not getting their butts handed to them so far
Beautiful. Lopez steals a Rondo pass, passes it to Hayes, passes to Lee, layup and1 for Courtney. 54-49 Nets. Not kidding.
Devin Harris looks great, Rondo looks terrible
Rondo: 4-5 4-4 12 Pts 4 Assists 3 Steals and a block. Stretch to say he's looked terrible.
His D is worse than Yi's
Nets look good...Its going to be hard to keep shooting over 60% for the game so they need to play some defense now!
We've seen this play out before. Celtics go on a 20-3 run to start the half or something.
Dunno, prove me wrong Nets.
Celts' announcer Mike Gorman, which I have to admit is gold: "The good news is the Nets are 2-11 when leading at the half."
I don't get excited about half time leads. Our third quarter is where we lose most games. If the nets played only half a games they wouldn't be so bad. I noticed our 2nd quarter is our strongest for the most part, then we become horrid in the third. I do not know what KIKI tells them in the locker room at half, but it isnt working.
Lead gone two minutes in.
Maybe just me but that Boston crowd was absurdly loud following that Allen three. And it lasted for the entire twenty-second possession.
Nets are UNSTOPPABLE! We're even scoring baskets for the Celts.
Lopez just flat out screamed at Humphries for tipping in a Celt shot. Proceeds to dunk the rim on the next possession then draws a foul the following possession.
Oh my god. Lopez looked insane.
I think Lopez's screaming rattled Hump a bit. I've never seen Brook that angry.
The Celts announcers, bias as they are, were wondering how come a foul wasn't call when Lopez went up on that feed from Twill. Refs gonna slowly help us give this one away
Random Celtic fan: "LeBron James gets that call!"
Twice Glen Davis has pwned Lopez. Wow.
I hate the city of Boston. Not feeling particularly fond of these New Jersey players either. Harris and that three-pointer, and the refusal to stay on Eddie House.
Dang Brook Lopez taking the worst dang shots on the court, again. Well Garnet took worse forced shots, but his went in.
Devin is the absolute worst crunch time player I have ever witnessed.
I'm gonna restrain myself and simply say that I want Devin Harris gone yesterday.
Why is Harris taking the threes?
One word. Tank
We're tanking well enough. it's not like anyone is going to out tank us.
The other game it was scal now it's house. Former nets trying to kill us.
Eddie House. Another Ratner/Thorn mistake. God Bless The Nets.
Rajon Rondo owns Devin Harris. Some of the displays that bum Harris has put on when playing against Boston has been absolutely pathetic
They just gave Allen more trade value
Devin Harris single handedly handed the victory to the Celtics in the last few minutes of the game. This team desparately needs a pass-first PG.
Rajon Rondo is 3 times better then Devin Harris in every single aspect of the game…except maybe flopping, Devin’s great at that.
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 2/5
Friday, February 5, 2010
by FLCeltsFan 1:13 PM
Herald Walker won’t dunk for the D-League; Pierce in 3-point test
Paul Pierce quickly afoot
Sunday super for Marquis Daniels?
Scouting report: Nets at Celtics
Blazers rally for 96-93 victory over Spurs
LeBron James, Cavs beat Heat, win 10th straight
Globe Rivers says Pierce is doubtful for Nets
Walker will pass on D-League Dunk Contest
History teaches us some old lessons
Pierce at least will give it an All-Star shot
Nets thumbnails
A program note on ‘biggest loser’
CelticsBlog Marquis May Return Sunday
Celtics Green Celtics Welcome Woeful Nets
Red's Army Pierce Sits, Daniels Returns to Practice
Your Morning Dump... Run, Quis, Run
Celtics primed for a second half run?
Your (Final) KG Face of the Day
Courtside View Thursday Celtics practice update: Daniels works out, Pierce could play Sunday
Green Street Preview: Celtics vs. Nets
Alston wanted to play for Celtics
Bill Walker chosen for D-League Dunk Contest
Pierce on injury: ‘It’s not the end of the world’
Daniels getting ’some rhythm’
Eddie House on D&H: Rondo, Pierce and 3’s
CSN-NE Pierce has stars in his eyes
Allen-to-Chicago rumor? A lot of Bull
Celtics Hub Rumor: Ray to Chicago for Hinrich/Tyrus Thomas?
The Only Trade I Would Make
NESN Celtics Should Have No Trouble Picking up Third Straight Win
Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak Shoots Down Trade Talk
Report: Paul Pierce to Participate in NBA's Three-Point Contest
Rajon Rondo's Comments Mark His Development of Leadership Ability
Dana Barros: Doc Rivers Must Keep Paul Pierce Off the Court Until He's Healed
Paul Pierce Could Return Friday Versus New Jersey Paul Pierce Could Return Friday Versus New Jersey
Loscy A 3-point good luck message to our Cap’n «
North Station Sports Celtics Vs. Nets Preview
Celtics Town Rajon Rondo doesn’t know what’s in store
Pierce, Walker chosen for All-Star festivities
Pierce feeling good, upbeat after mid-foot sprain
Highlight Reel: Hickson turns tables on Wade
Hardwood Houdini Paul Pierce Will Get His Shot At Redemption
Let Me Tell You What You Already Know About LeBron James
Kevin Garnett and Celtics Special Time Schedule
Lex Nihil Novi Lakers are 11-3 in Playoffs
Red's Last Motivational Speech as Head Coach
CelticsLife Stats Don't Lie, NBA Games 2/3
Pierce Gets Invite to 3-Point Contest
The Allen's: Ray vs. Tony
What the Hell Happened to...Ramon Rivas?
ESPN In the 'bag: Trade talk
Pierce invited to NBA 3-point Shootout
Thursday's practice report: Pierce eyes Sunday return
Yahoo CAA stands at head of 2010 free-agent class
Philly.com Bob Cooney: Time for Sixers to make a fresh start
Mass Live Celtics buzz: Big Three breakdown expected, Doc Rivers OK with Rajon Rondo's comments, and more
Sporting News Boston's Big Three Aging on Schedule -
The Comment Pierce, Celtics limp into All-Star break
Rhymes with Hondo A New Handle for the Point Guard
Daily News Tribune Celtics are on the mend
ProJo Marquis Daniels hopes to return Sunday versus Orlando
American Chronicle Time to point out Rondo's strengths
Bleacher Report Pivot Points: Have The Lakers Found The Attitude To Match Their Talent?
CBS Sports Nets-Celtics Preview
Ridiculous Upside Celtics' Bill Walker Says No Thanks to D-League Dunking
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

Celtics Welcome Woeful Nets
by FLCeltsFan 1:07 PM
at ![[image]](http://images.footballfanatics.com/productImages/_258000/FF_258350_s.jpg)
New Jersey Nets (4-44) at Boston Celtics (31-16)
Friday, February 5
7:30 PM ET
Game #48 Home Game #23
TV: CSN-NE, YES HD, NBA-LP 755, 756
TD Garden
Referees: Mike Callahan, Mark Ayote, Mark Lindsay
The Nets have been suffering through a terrible season. They have won just 4 games so far this season, beating only Charlotte, Chicago, New York, and the Clippers. Needless to say, now that they have proved to be so dismal, teams will be putting out extra effort so as not to join the limited club of teams that have lost to the woeful Nets.
The Nets are 1-24 on the road and 1-9 in their last 10 games while the Celtics are 14-8 at home and 4-6 in their last 10. The Nets are on a 4 game losing streak while the Celtics are on a modest 2 game win streak.
The Celtics seem to be getting back on track as they get healthier. They are expected to be without Paul Pierce again in this game but with the way Tony has been playing, he should be able to once again fill in for the injured Captain. On the other hand, the Nets appear to have given up on the season and are looking forward to the John Wall sweepstakes.
While posting the Nets' roster, I kept thinking: "He's still in the league?" They have a nice starting lineup, but their bench is mostly expiring contracts waiting for the big 2010 free agent class. But, in spite of all this, the Celtics can't overlook this team. There are 4 teams in the Nets loss column who prove this. The Celtics should win this one easily as long as they come in focused and not take the Nets for granted.
ProbableStarting Matchups
Point Guard
vs ![[image]](http://a.espncdn.com/i/headshots/nba/players/65/2382.jpg)
Rajon Rondo vs Devin Harris
Shooting Guard
vs ![[image]](http://a.espncdn.com/i/headshots/nba/players/65/3445.jpg)
Ray Allen vs Courtney Lee
Small Forward
vs ![[image]](http://a.espncdn.com/i/headshots/nba/players/65/1980.jpg)
Tony Allen vs Jarvis Hayes
Power Forward
vs ![[image]](http://a.espncdn.com/i/headshots/nba/players/65/3214.jpg)
Kevin Garnett vs Yi Jianlian
Center
vs ![[image]](http://a.espncdn.com/i/headshots/nba/players/65/3448.jpg)
Kendrick Perkins vs Brook Lopez
Key Matchups
vs ![[image]](http://www.sportsecyclopedia.com/nba/nj/DevinNJ.jpg)
Rajon Rondo vs Devin Harris
Last season, Harris beat out Rondo for a spot on the All Star team and this year Rondo beat out Harris for the All Star spot. This should be a good matchup of 2 very quick point guards. Hopefully Rondo will continue to play aggressively as he has in the Celtics last two games.
vs ![[image]](http://www.sportsecyclopedia.com/nba/nj/LopezNJ.jpg)
Kendrick Perkins vs Brook Lopez
Lopez has been one of the bright spots for the Nets in an otherwise dismal season. Lopez is the team's scoring leader at 18.9 ppg, in rebounds at 9.1 rpg and in blocks at 2.0 ppg. If Perk can slow down Lopez, this should be a fairly easy win.
Honorable Mention
Kevin Garnett vs Yi Jianlian
KG has been showing improvement with each game he plays. He should be able to win this matchup if he continues on that path of improvement.
Keys to the Game
Limit Turnovers The Celtics must take better care of the basketball. They have been turning the ball over at an alarming rate and must make better passes and keep their focus so as to limit these turnovers. They improved somewhat against the Heat and need to continue to make this a priority.
Rebound Rebounding shows the amount of effort and desire a team has. The Celtics must bring both effort and desire and crash the boards on both ends. They out rebounded an opponent for the first time in several games against Miami. They need to continue to put out effort on the glass.
Defense No explanation needed. Defense is the key to winning. Period.
Play 48 Minutes The Celtics seem to either be hot at the beginning and then let up at the end of games or they come out sluggish and have to play catch up the entire game. They must come out focused and stay focused for the full 48 minutes.
X-Factor
Trap Game
As bad as the Nets have been, it would be easy to look past them to the Magic on Sunday. But that would be a mistake because the Nets have played teams hard but just can't seem to finish. If the Celtics let up, they might just be surprised by a team who decides to try a bit harder to beat a division rival. |
|
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 2/4
Thursday, February 4, 2010
by FLCeltsFan 3:20 PM
Herald Kevin Garnett: Team not pointing fingers
Doc Rivers fanned the ire with team criticism
Celtics go fourth, prosper
After Ainge talk, Ray Allen’s in a good place
Sigh of relief for Paul Pierce
Hornets fall with no Chris Paul
Lakers nip Bobcats, 99-97
Basketball is the easy part for Kobe Bryant Basketball is the easy part for Kobe Bryant
Hall of Famer Dick McGuire dies at age 84
Globe Celtics 107, Heat 102
Ainge and Allen sift through the rumors
Allen gives Rondo an urgent message
Pierce "relieved" about results of MRI
House: Pierce invited to 3-Point Contest
Garnett: It’s under control
It’s a season of change
Celtics 107, Heat 102 -Photos
Celtics turn up pressure on Heat
CelticsBlog Glen Davis chooses favorite CelticsBlog nickname
Celtics Sweep Heat
Celtics right some wrongs, beat Heat
2nd Guessing The Leon Powe Decision
Celtics Green Tough Time For Ainge
Comments from the Other Side - Heat 2/3
MetroWest Daily Celtics 107, Heat 102: C's take care of business
Celtics.com Ford Keys to the Game: Heat at Celtics
Perkisabeast Things are starting to Heat Up: 107-102 C’s
Red's Army Did TA really strip D-Wade with the game on the line?
Your Morning Dump... Where the C's are handling things as men
Another dose of perspective
Enemy Chatter: Rondo is a turd
Celtics Hub Enough to Win: C’s 107, Heat 102
Thursday’s Notebook: Ainge & Ray Allen talk trade rumors, Daniels Injury Update, KG addresses Rondo’s comments
Rumor: Ray to Chicago for Hinrich/Tyrus Thomas?
North Station Sports Rondo, Ray Lift C's Past Heat 107-102 2/3/10
Similarities Between The Old and New Big Three
Kevin Garnett: What Happens Behind Closed Doors Needs to Stay There
Ray Allen Still Has Banner 18 for Boston Celtics On His Mind!
Celtics Town Morning Walkthrough: Sense of urgency not the same
Ray Allen: ‘We have a roster that can win it’
Marquis Daniels wants to resign with the Boston Celtics
Highlight Reel: There’s an NBA Amateur Slam Dunk Contest?
Rajon Rondo doesn’t know what’s in store
Hardwood Houdini Danny Ainge’s Unncessary Comments on Rondo’s Necessary Comments
Marquis Daniels Will Return To Practice Tomorrow
Dwyane Wade STILL Can’t Beat Celtics
Paul Pierce Return – Daily Poll
Lex Nihil Novi Kevin McHale: The Celtics are Fine
Celtics Await Winner of Lakers-Suns Series
Jabbar Starts Surge Past Suns and into the Finals
Lakers Say Getting Swept was a Learning Experience
Lakers Not Worried about Letdown
You Say You're Worried about How We're Playing Now?
CelticsLife Celtics/Heat Post Game Videos
Celtics 107, Heat 102 Highlights
Celtics finally close out a game to beat Heat
NBA Plays of the Week
Another Hinrich Rumor
Gino's Jungle The New And Improved Tony Allen
Celtics Stuff Live Gold Rarities Postgame 2/3: Celtics v. Heat
Ray Should Stay for a While, Maybe Longer, If He Does
Yahoo Celtics cool off Heat with fourth-quarter burst
SB Nation He Will Hereby Be Known As Glen "The Eleventh Hour" Davis
Breaking Down The NBA Trade Deadline, Team By Team
Dimemag Austin Rivers H.S. Hoop Diary: Tragedy and Triumph
Newsday Pierce day-to-day, but Lee likely isn't on deck
Green Street Daniels wants to re-sign with C’s
Doc: At least Rondo’s been listening
Fast Break: Celtics vs. Heat
Ray to Rondo: ‘This could be your last shot’
NBA Power Rankings 2/4
Rivers on D&C: ‘I’ll take us against anybody’
Ray Allen: ‘Anything Can Happen’
Ainge on The Big Show: Pierce, Allen, Rondo
Jet waits as NBA delays Shootout announcement
Team to watch at trade deadline
ESPN Rajon Rondo speaks volumes on court after causing stir with comments
First impressions: Celtics 107, Heat 102
TA steals the spotlight
Rondo's play speaks volumes
House answers the call
Postgame notes: Chemistry questions
Rajon Rondo hints at locker room issues for the Boston Celtics.
Sun Sentinel Celtics 107, Heat 102
Miami Heat: Falls to Boston Celtics despite 30 points from Dwyane Wade
Bleacher Report Top 10 NBA Trade Rumors
All Signs Point to Joe Johnson's Return to Boston
NBC Miami Tumbling Heat Lose in Boston
Basketball Outsider Rondo’s Team
CSN-NE Boston 107, Miami 102: Live Blog
Boston 107, Miami 102: Live Blog
Celtics 'D' delivers, turns off the Heat
Celtics notes: Ray Allen unlikely to be traded
Rich Levine: Rondo accepts the challenge
Celtics notes: Ray Allen unlikely to be traded
CT News Rajon And Ray Overcome the Heat: 107-102
Telegram Pierce’s foot sprained
C’s, Rondo find way to beat Heat, 107-102
NESN Shelden Williams Deserves Playing Time for Celtics
Kevin Garnett Puts Locker-Room Tension in Rearview Mirror
Doc Rivers Working Wonders With Shorthanded Celtics Lineup
Pesky Ray Allen Trade Rumors Make Little Sense For Celtics
Live Blog: Celtics vs. Heat - Boston Celtics
Celtics Hold Off Hot-Shooting Heat for 107-102 Win
Rajon Rondo Says Celtics Lack Spirit, Camaraderie From Championship Season
Sun Times Rumor mill: Hinrich for Celtics' Allen
D-League Digest D-League All-Stars as NBA Players
ProJo Rondo leads the way as Celtics beat the Heat
Report: Some on Celtics think Garnett should sit out
Hoopsworld NBA AM: The Stoudemire Curve Ball
Fire Danny Ainge Paul Pierce’s hidden agenda and selfish self.
Hoopsvibe Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Boston Celtics aren’t dead
Huffington Post What's Wrong With the Celtics?
NBC Sports Wizards blame officiating for loss to Celtics
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

Comments from the Other Side - Heat 2/3
by FLCeltsFan 1:03 PM
What HEAT team will show up?!?!
...not sure it matters
I think it does, this team has showed that it can compete with anyone when it wants too. They have also showed they could lose to anyone so IDK.
Beat these green ugly leprechauns!!
what's the use of making playoffs when we can't go all the way to the ECF let alone the finals? Not saying we should quit but making playoffs just to get beaten in the 1st round sounds pretty useless to me when we can Rest Wade ready for next season because you all know damn well Wade will have to carry this sorry arse team in the playoffs yet again.
I see the HEAT taking this game. Pierce is probably out and KG is playing at 70%.
Unforunally they have rondo, Which he kicks our *** every game!!
I don't think Pierce will play...KG and Allen are not fully Healthy...as long as we shut down Rondo, we should be ok.
Perkins is not a significant offensive force but I get a feeling he will abuse Joel And I hate to see Rasheed hitting clutch (nasty) threes against us. He has done that quite a few times in his Detroit days.
This squad has been unwatchable the last couple of games. I'm still debating on whether I want to torture myself tonight or not by watching this game.
Hopefully the turnaround starts here. Let's not suck.
Keep in mind Pierce is out , Kevin is old, and Allen is basically only good for a backup to a superstar now. I'm not saying they are easy to win at all. They are a good team still. I'm just saying No pierce will probably be the key to us winning.. Kind of Like how we lost to Toronto without Beas..
Not sure if its the same as missing beasley..but I think Boston is about to take noise dive...
If I am Miami, I want desperately to face them in the first round..
More proof Beasley is a bust - People say he is a good ball handler and player maker but he just turned the ball over on a weak, soft pass - why? Because he is soft and a bust. This is yet another game that Beasley is going to get destroyed on both ends of the floor.
JO is garbage
Ray Allen scores as he goes 4 on 1, great D
We are shooting 63% and losing
Someone needs to tell Rondo his headband is upside down.
Beasley should be able to give scal or Davis the business.
Oh, now Eddie House is gonna burn us.
Officiating has been very slanted towards Boston to this point so far, they've also gotten a number of and-1's where the whistle was blown way after the shot.
Lol @ this officiating, we can't even touch Boston. Just ridiculous.
I'm looking multiple times at each loose ball foul and I dunno where the contact is. Is being in better position a foul?
Its almost half time and JO has Zero rebounds
There is an unwritten rule when you play the Celtics that Rondo is allowed to hit the rebounder's arm if he's trying to steal an offensive rebound. I see him do it at least once every Celtics game, they never call him for a foul.
Boston just attacks the paint sooooooooooooo much better than we do outside of Wade.
Tonight we're playing 5-on-8, I've accepted it.
Its Garrnet he never fouls or sets illegal screens
Why the hell do we always get torched by players that suck at how they torch us
For example, rajon rondo has 2 threes.
Glen Davis cant jump
Boy the Celtics have this magical ability to just never foul players, its amazing!
It just baffles me that they let Rondo roll the ball all the way up to midcourt and not make him touch the ball prior to that.
The refs really need to call the pushoffs under our boards That's why we cant get any rebounds...
Spoelstra is the dumbest coach in the nba.
Hubie brown : big baby got away wid a travel <--- atleast sum1 sees it
Why do the refs always screw us against the top teams?
I hate ray Allen and his timely threes....
Ray "dagger" Allen!!
Dam I really think its going to be hard for the heat to make the playoffs
At this point id rather have the lottery pick
Beasley>Ballboy>JO
No calls for us the entire game
Despite them getting EVERY call we are still in this... That's nice.... But we still suck
The NBA officials are a circle, and organization that has their picked teams and what not .. Boston is a fav..
Jermaine O'Neal 0 Rebounds
Michael Beasley 4 rebounds
There are 6 players on Boston with more boards, including their point guard,shooting guard, and small forward.
Did you guys expect to win tonight...cause I don't let myself get excited anymore knowing this team has a bad coach, bad players, and wade cant do anything clutch anymore, its a recipy for not making the playoffs....Bad teams find ways to lose!
Those refs were awful all **** night. How are we supposed to beat the Celtics on the road with all those bogus calls?
Eddie House sent his regards to Riles tonight.
Oh yeah, it look like a fix was in.
Some of those calls were straight deplorable, even when Alston got the tech, he was already walking away from the ref.
I wonder what was the Vegas spread for this one.
Maybe our guys should take that 5hr Energy drink? I've seen little six packs at Walmart.
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

Tough Time For Ainge
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
by bballee 4:38 PM
 On the Horns of a Dilemma For forty-eight weeks a year playing armchair general manager is fun and exciting (although ultimately frustrating). The other four weeks, however, the criticality of decisions and sheer volume of choices make the job an absolute nightmare. You know the types: the bolt upright at night in a cold sweat; or find an unrecognizable face with red-rimmed eyes, white lips, and 1000-yard stare blearing out at you from the mirror; or slump in a corner hugging yourself and whimpering at the overwhelming complexity. Danny Ainge may prefer the behind the scenes GM work to the every day frenzy of coaching but his heart attack took place during his tour at the helm of the front office rather than in the daily rigor of directing the bench.
One of the two-week periods is the week of the draft and the following week of free agent limbo. The magnitude of the effects of spending that precious first-round pick can make or break a decade for a franchise. Think Bias, or Darko vs. Carmelo, or Bowie vs. Jordan, or Durant vs. Oden, or Moiso vs. well, almost anybody else. Hard on the heels of the draft there are contract options to picked up (or turned down), MLE decisions that tint the entire next season, cap-room teams unable to lure a talented free-agent, teams outbid for a mercenary talent eking out one more year from another more-desperate bidder. Think House/Tony rather than Posey; or cap-flush, post-Mikie Chicago unable to lure anyone with game to the shambles of the disbanded Bulls team. These are the times that try men's' souls.
We are at the doorstep of the other two-week period of white knuckles. The trade deadline where shattered dreams abandon the last shreds of hope and dismantle their teams for a lottery run. Where wanna-be's play the game of chicken waiting for a better option, more-desperate seller, or useful buyout while peering fearfully over their shoulders at their competitors growing stronger. What would be that move that will thrust them over the top? Can they incorporate the addition(s) fast and well enough to make full (partial, enough) use of the asset; or will it be a mismatched piece, or one that never catches on? Will the egos, or games, clash? Will the acquired piece be reborn and reenergized, or was the vein truly played out? On the resolution of such conundrums are championships won, or lost.
These are dicey times in the most stable of years, of which this year is anything but. The cream at the top are all flawed and are most decidedly serious buyers. The flotsam at the bottom are bleeding red ink, playing to dwindling crowds and empty luxury boxes. Also many of the owners find a professional basketball franchise is just one of many of their assets that is worth only a fraction of what it was two years ago--sellers, fire-sellers, and occasionally close-out sale holders. Even those in the middle (and that middle class is just as much an endangered species as John Q. Public) shudder at the thought that their once seemingly reasonable contracts will leave them, under a new CBA and hard cap, with all their money doled out for half a team of players. The much-ballyhooed free-agent class of 2010 looks more and more like a few rich players getting much richer and mostly the rest getting left with the dregs.
Enter Danny Ainge with major decisions, many of which are mutually exclusive, necessarily based on incomplete information. Add to that the fact that there is only one acceptable outcome because make no mistake, if he blows it up (even if it is the best way to go) he may not survive the coulda/woulda/shoulda blowback from the frustrated and unwashed masses.
Consider first the questions, mostly unanswerable, upon which this decision matrix hinges. 1) Kevin Garnett? When will, if ever, the Big Ticket be right? Will almost right be enough? 2) Paul Pierce? Is this season star-crossed? First a knee, then multiple additional blows to and tweaks of that same knee. Next a foot. Many are taking comfort in that it appears to be a strain rather than a break--but most should recall that a sprain can be a liability long after a break would be healed and a non-issue. When will the Truth be right? Will almost right be enough? 3) Ray Allen (and this completes the Big Three who were expected to be the core and strength of this championship contender)? Career low numbers and continuing to drop. Slump or beginning of the end? And that's on offense, on defense he has become the swinging gate leaving the big men behind him to constantly clean up the driver who eluded Ray. Wasn't that what Rondo was so roundly criticized for in the past? We may never know if he could become the 20-minute per game assassin that marked Reggie's declining years because Allen has been the only healthy member of the Big Three and has logged nearly 40 minutes a game. Would he be better if playing only enough to keep his rhythm, always on fresh legs? 4) Big Baby, and I stay with that appellate because of the apt description, if he wants to be known otherwise, earn it! The Pudgy Papoose has made like one jump shot this season. This was a year when he needed to work on his flaws, develop new dimensions, and show consistency. He has instead missed a third of the season due to a drunken brawl with his homie, struggled to contribute even though handed minutes that others have to earn, and found a seemingly endless series of antics to deny himself and his team focus for the task at hand. With Tony's recent surge, Davis has become the player I would most like to upgrade. With his awkward base-year-player status even moving him for value has become problematic. 5) Sheed. Initially he shown brightly in a limited role, providing the height and individual on-ball defense previously lacking in the Celtics' backup big men. Pressed into extended service by Garnett's and Davis' absence, his flaws (age, conditioning, rotation defense, and steadily declining distance-shooting) have been magnified. Can he recover his productive role, or more to the point, will the Celtics' health allow him to resume that reduced role? 6) Eddie House. Always a streaky shooter, he is now on a half-season cold spell. Will he bounce back with the return of Marquis Daniels and the ensuing relief from ball-handling and more timely passes when he frees himself up (or is freed up by collapsing defenses?) 7) Daniels. Never a box-score dandy, while healthy Marquis brought the exact qualities expected--solid defense at three positions; steady ball-handling and perceptive, timely passing; and good decision making with just enough offense to demand coverage and create opportunities for teammates. Bad thumbs are never a good idea for a ball handler. Will Marquis come back at/to full effectiveness? Will that allow the ripple of positive effects for which the C's originally hoped--rest and relief for Pierce and Rondo, freedom for House, and a quarterback and steadying influence for the second unit? 8) Rondo. I think we can put to rest the worries about Rajon's confidence being threatened by a quality backup. Would The Blur benefit from an occasional minute or two on the bench to contemplate the value of ball-possession and playing under control? Will Daniels' return provide the needed support?
I purposely left Rondo until last because this year this is HIS team. More than any other factor Rondo has been the most consistent spark igniting energetic, impassioned play. When Rajon has a poor game these Celtics have little chance of prevailing. One might notice that I have raised questions about 8 of the top 9 players. Only Perkins does not ravage Danny's thoughts when he contemplates possible moves. Now I do believe that Doc and Clifford Ray are losing hair over Perk's insistence on "improving" picks (and the ensuing offensive fouls) and petulance (and the ensuing technicals). I suspect they are both hoarse from repeating entreaties to quell both these proclivities, but I lack faith in the effectiveness of anything short of a shock-collar (and I guess the Players Association might get testy over that approach).
Back to Danny singing the blues. Psychologists tell us the most stressful thing is putting humans in intolerable situations over which they have no control. The unavailability of answers to most of the looming-over-Ainge's-head questions I have raised is the very definition of such stress. And yet such is his task. The trade deadline will come. The season will come to a climax. The postseason will see the Celtics in, out, short-lived, or through to the end--and Danny's moves, or non-moves, over the next two weeks will play a critical role. Probably doesn't seem so imposing to most of us arm-chair GM's, we can always slink back to selling shoes, jockeying computers, or manning that middle management desk--Danny, not so much.
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Labels: Boston Celtics, Danny Ainge, NBA, Trade deadline
Leave a comment

Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 2/3

Random Thoughts As We All Breathe a Sigh of Relief
by FLCeltsFan 8:39 AM
As Celtics Nation all breathes a sigh of relief that Paul Pierce isn't gone for the season (see my anatomy of the broken foot rumor below), there are other issues coming to the front. It seems that some comments from Rajon Rondo allude to some locker room unrest on the team. Doc has alluded to this several times after losses recently and now Rondo comes right out and says it. Here are some of his comments from Bulpett's article in the Herald this morning:
“We are getting bored with it some,” he said, “but I think it’s a little bit of different agendas maybe creeping in. It just all depends. You know, I think if we all had the right spirit as far as one goal, one thing in common, I think we’d be a lot better.”
“It’s a different team this year,” Rondo said then. “That’s our problem. A couple of years ago, we didn’t have the same team. We had the same main guys, but it’s still a team effort, from the first guy to the 15th guy.”
“I can’t really elaborate on it too much, but I think we’ve just got to be a team with no agendas,” Rondo said. “We’ve got to play unselfish, you know? That’s on defense and offense. You’ve got to want the best for the next man out there regardless if you’re in the game playing well or you’re out of the game not playing well.”
“In the locker room, you can feel it,” Rondo added. “You don’t feel like it’s the same continuity and camaraderie in the locker room as it was the first year. The first year, it was a crazy spirit in the locker room. But now it doesn’t feel the same. It’s not the same right now. We’ve got to find a way to get that back somehow, some way.” And one player I know doesn't play for stats and is the ultimate team player is Perk. He echoes what Rondo had to say:
“I think each person’s just got to take (himself) out of the equation,” he said. “You know, whatever you’ve got going on the personal side - whatever you’re trying to get done - just take it out and just think all about team.” Let's take a look at this a bit. This isn't the same team as the championship team. Who are the key additions? Sheed and Quisy. Since Quisy hasn't been playing that leaves one player that has several fingers pointed at him. It has been obvious to everyone since the beginning of the season that Sheed came into camp out of shape. He's still not in the greatest shape. It's possible that Sheed's constant 3 point bricks instead of finding the best shot may be grating on his teammates as much as it is on the fans watching the games. I think Sheed may still be a big help to this team but he HAS to limit the 3 point bricks. They are killing this team's offensive flow. Maybe it's time for one of those team meetings and get this all aired out. The good thing is that the frustration level has risen to the point that this is coming out now with half a season to go before the playoffs. There is plenty of time to right the ship and get back on the ubuntu track.
I never thought I'd say this but Tony Allen is the reason that we won the last game and that we were competitive in the Lakers game. He has come off the bench with an infusion of energy and for the most part has been playing very well. We have been seeing far more good Tony than bad Tony lately. Could it be that he finally gets it? If so, it couldn't come at a better time.
I think the biggest need on this team is a playmaker on the second unit. Our second unit plays very well when Doc leaves Rondo out there with them. But, Rondo can't play 48 minutes every game. They were also playing very well before Marquis Daniels went down. Even though Quisy isn't a point guard, he was more than adequate as a playmaker for this unit. The group off the bench seems to be aimless much of the time and they struggle to score. A true point on that unit would do wonders for this team.
Don't you just love this time of year? With the trade deadline sneaking up on us, we are hearing a lot of trade rumors, most of which are swirling around Ray Allen and his expiring contract. Ray has said that he wants to stay in Boston. He likes the town and the team. He wants to stay close to the Joslin Diabetes center for his son. He has said that he would sign for much less money and take a role off the bench. In other words, he would do just about anything to stay with this team. If Red was still running the team, Ray would be a Celtic for life. Red believed in loyalty to players who were loyal to the team. I'm kind of torn on this subject. On one hand, I feel loyalty to a player like Ray who is such a good guy to have on the team. And on the other hand, I just don't want to go through another 22 year stretch like we did between the last 2 championships. Even so, I feel that trading Ray may be a mistake from a Chemistry point of view.
But, Danny is definitely not averse to trading any player. Danny would probably trade his mother if he could get good value for her. It has been well documented over on Lex Nihil Novi that Danny had told Red to trade Larry, Kevin and Chief while they still had value. I wouldn't put anything past him. One thing I don't do is believe a single thing out of his mouth. Every time I sit down at the computer, I expect to see some kind of a move from Danny - either a signing to fill that last spot or a big trade to shake up the team.
KG seems to be working his way back to game shape. There was a lot of talk that the knee still wasn't right and that he wasn't the same and even that he might need more surgery on that knee. He looked a lot better in the Wizards' game. In my humble opinion, I think he just needs to get his timing and conditioning back and then is going to be fine. He sat out 10 games and it takes about that many games to get back to playing at full speed. I, for one, am not worried. He will get there.
I still expect this team to get healthy and to work out whatever locker room troubles they are having and make a run. By playoff time they will be running on all cylinders and are going to definitely be a formidable foe in the playoffs. Then, it will be a matter of heart and grit and I believe that this team has plenty of both when they set their minds to it.
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

Much Ado About the Captain
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
by FLCeltsFan 11:04 PM
Tuesday was quite an eventful day! Celtics Nation was collectively standing on the ledge ready to jump as reports surfaced that Paul Pierce MAY have a broken foot. First there was this headline from David Aldridge of NBA.com:Celtics' Pierce may have broken left foot He does say that they don't know for sure, but are running more tests. That started the speculation. Then there was this cryptic message from Shelden Williams on Twitter:
Man when it rains it pours!!! Yall will find out what I mean soon!!!! Well that opened the flood gates! Bloggers were posting breaking news that Pierce may have a broken foot and everyone was sitting by the computer just waiting for some real news. Here are some of the headlines that popped up:
Pierce Might Have Broken Left Foot, Pierce has Undefined Injury, Shelden Pulls The “Get Celtics Fans Worried Alarm”, Paul Pierce injury could be broken foot, Breaking News: "League Source" says Pierce's Foot is Likely Broken, Source: Pierce May Have Broken Left Foot, among others.
Then, Danny Ainge told Gary Tanguay: "We just don't know. We basically don't know the extent of the injury. The doctors don't have all the information to make the decision. We expect to make an announcement tomorrow." That fueled even more speculation because it sure sounds like a smoke screen from the master of smoke screens.
I just couldn't let myself believe that his foot was broken. In his post game press conference Pierce said that he knows his body pretty well and that he didn't think it was serious. If he had a broken foot, I don't think he would have been that optimistic in the press conference. Then I watched Sports Tonight and they mentioned that Pierce walked to the plane without crutches or a boot or anything and didn't have a limp. I had already decided that the news was going to be much better than all the dire reports were stating.
I'm glad that we didn't have to wait until tomorrow to get the report. Celtics.com has this press release posted:
The Boston Celtics announced today that forward Paul Pierce suffered a strained left mid-foot during the first quarter against the Washington Wizards on February 1. He is currently listed as day-to-day. And Chris Forsberg posted this on his ESPN Celtics Blog:
A team source believes that no further tests (MRI or X-rays) are scheduled for Wednesday and Pierce will simply be evaluated by team doctors to gauge when he might be able to return. The team has not ruled out that he could play against the Miami Heat, though they will proceed with caution.
Pierce's injury diagnosis is in line with what he told reporters following Monday's win.
“It rolled over when Caron landed on it," said Pierce. "I think I have a mild mid-foot sprain. I’ll check it out [Tuesday] and get an X-ray. I feel good, but I did have pain in the foot." So, step away from the ledge. The Captain isn't broken. Personally I would rather see him sit out the Miami game as we should be able to win without him and there is no use taking chances.
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 2/2
by FLCeltsFan 10:00 AM
Herald Time to C’s another day
Danny Ainge laughs off rumors
Reformation project
Signs point to improved Kevin Garnett
Kobe Bryant sets mark in LA loss
Gilbert Arenas Posts apology
Tough Feb. slate may keep Nets on track for infamy
Globe Why nothing's guaranteed in Washington
Reggie Miller suggests Allen pare down workouts
McHale believes Celtics will return to top form
Updates from Celtics-Wizards
Pierce will have x-rays on left foot
Change in Washington?
Ankle sprain sends Pierce to bench
Celtics win with fireworks in 4th
CelticsBlog Capital Gains
Pierce Will Have X-Rays On Foot
A Godfather Proposal
Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side - Wizards 2/1
Red's Army Thomsen: Blame the Big 3
Ray's days numbered?
Uninspired and Unimpressive
Your Morning Dump... Where the sky isn't falling, I think
Celtics Hub Relief: C’s 99, Wiz 88
Telegram NBA: All-Unnoticed Team has Camby as MVP
North Station Sports Your Chance to Win a NBA Store Gift Card
The Celtics Late Night Show Website is Now Live!
Celtics Push Past Wizards 99-88 2/1/10
Celtics Town Celtics stop skid, edge past Wizards with fourth-quarter run
Paul Pierce scheduled for x-rays Wednesday
Hardwood Houdini NBA Weekly Power Rankings – Cavaliers Reside At The Top
A Win Is A Win For The Boston Celtics
Rajon Rondo Leading The Charge
Brendan Haywood Cries Following Celtics Game
Lex Nihil Novi KC Jones Deserves Credit for Celtics Resurgence
Bucks Win Game 4, Avoid Sweep
There’s Still Time to Fix this Mess
Celtics End Bucks' Season, Win Eastern Conference
CelticsLife The thin line between winning and losing
C's Edge Wizards
Celtics/Wizards Post Game Videos
Celtics 99, Wizards 88 Highlights
Gino's Jungle Sheed Being Sheed
The Truth Rankings are back, and sometimes the truth hurts.
Celtics Stuff Live The Darkasm
CT News Boston Bans Wizards’ Offense: 99-89
Technorati Scoring, Assists Down For Boston Celtics During January Swoon
Leon Powe Fan Site Are the Celtics Missing Leon Powe?
Chicago Tribune 'Glue guy' Kirk Hinrich helps Chicago Bulls stick it to opponents
Green Street Ian Thomsen on D&C: C’s need to adjust game
Fast Break: Celtics vs. Wizards
Bangor Daily News Daniels’ return could provide spark for Celts
Bleacher Report Sources: Celtics Looking To Deal Allen
Hoopsvibe Paul Pierce’s Boston Celtics are freefalling. Who is to blame?
ProJo Pierce injures foot in Celtics' 99-88 win over Washington
Washington Post Wizards falter in fourth quarter, lose to Celtics, 99-88
Dimemag Taming of the Mamba
ESPN C's not worried about losing pattern
C's plummet to 10th in power rankings
Pierce injures left foot
First impressions: Celtics 99, Wizards 88
The Starting 5: Celtics vs. Wizards
Paul Pierce injures foot in Boston Celtics' win over Washington Wizards
NBA Basketball Power Rankings
Some new nicknames for the Celtics
NBA.com Celtics get defensive to stop Wizards, three-game skid
Celtics Insider C's End Three Game Skid
Washington Examiner Wizards run out of steam against Celtics, 99-88
Indy Posted Ray Allen to the Bulls for Hinrich, Salmons, and Thomas?
My South End Learning from the weekend
Patriot Ledger Celtics facing 5 important issues
Canton Rep Cavaliers notebook: Gibson awaits call for Long Distance Shootout
SI.com Gilbert Arenas writes op-ed piece for Washington Post
Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Celtics appear to be on last legs
NESN Live Blog: Celtics at Wizards
Rajon Rondo the Catalyst as Celtics Knock Off Pesky Wizards
Oak Hill Hoops From Warriors to NBA All-Stars
Hoopsworld NBA Power Rankings
Dimemag Celtics, Lakers, Spurs, Cavs: Never complain about the refs again
American Chronicle Celtics may have to deal off Allen
Red Claws win with a new look
Yahoo Celtics may want Raja Bell
Age, injuries muting K.G.'s fury
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

Comments from the Other Side - Wizards 2/1
by FLCeltsFan 9:26 AM
Lets make sure we make a halfhearted run in the standings now so that we can secure the 10th pick and avoid getting an impact player.
You can tank and still end up with the #5 pick. Or you can try to win games, boost vets' trade value, and keep trying to teach whatever players may stick around how to win in this system. Also, as someone who still half-watches the games, I'd rather see them win.
I want this one real bad.
Your Washington Wizards... The only team in the league that loses in the part of the season we're supposed to be winning, and win in the part of the season we're supposed to be losing.
My heart is still rooting for wins, even though the brain is saying tank.
The Monday game against the Celtics will likely be a real rude awakening.
Yeah we can often show our best against the best competition.
But right now I don't think our best is anywhere near good enough.
10 of Boston's 16 losses have been in back-to-back games; three times already they've lost both ends of a back-to-back. When the tail of a back-to-back is on the road, they are 3-3. I smell blood. Hope it's not a Jamison injury.
Everyone saw this coming, they mortgaged their future for a shot or two at the title. It worked, because they won (they were horrible) and now you see them really showing their age. They still (with some luck) have a shot at getting to the finals but I don't see it.
Trade Allen to a team looking for capspace. Heck, I proposed a Jamison/Stevenson for Allen/1st in the trade thread. We wouldn't even need to keep Ray and he could head back to Boston if he/they wanted. Sure, they wouldn't get noticeably younger but they'd certainly get better.
Miller. Sheed+Jamison+Scalabrine could be the most 3-pt chucking reserve frontline of all times. And Jamison doesn't help them matchup against the teams they are vulnerable against, either those with size (like Cleveland or LA if they make the Finals) or those with athletes (like Atlanta).
Allen+Scalabrine+picks for Iguodala and Dalembert? That's the kind of move that allows them to matchup with the other contenders in the East and also sets them up to matchup well with the Lakers should they reach the Finals.
If 76ers went for it, that would be much better for Boston. Boston's roster shows 14, so they could in theory sign Allen back without cutting anyone.
I hate Eddie House, he always comes off the bench and drops three's like isnt even trying. We need to keep him and Pierce in check otherwise it will be no contest
Up 4-0 We’re getting ready to blow these guys out…
That's one thing about the Cs when they foul you they do it hard you are hard pressed to even stay on your feet rather less get the ball off
I really don't like the Celtics. If anyone is at the game – please heckle the hell out of pierce about his wheelchair bullshit in the finals
This might be sacreligious, but I'm having more fun watching Rondo than the Wizards
miller fouled the crap out of tony allen it looked like
Yean, Doc was screaming at the ref
Ohhhhhhhhhh, Jamison broke the Truth.
get your wheelchair paul
That was pretty Wizards rotated well, but Boston kept passing to the open guy – Wiz rotated 5 times… but 6th pass found Wallace for a dunk.
Amazing... They’re making Boston look old and slow.
Fab can get under the skin of Wallace we can get him out of the game quick
Veal Scalabrine annoys me to no end.
Wizards look organized this game... And Boston looks vulnerable… I know they’re not playing well recently – but they just don’t look very good at all
Boston’s lost without Rondo in the game. He’s been on the bench this whole time. In the playoffs, if I’m Doc, I’m playing Rondo the full 48 whenever I can.
I hope jamison and butler play there ass off so we can trade them for good value
Wizards twice as mnay free throws
Wiz becnh outscoring Celtics bench 19-6
Perkins is a dirty player I see why DS hit him on that lay up last game
Boston's being really careless with the ball. Leading to fast-break opportunities. I don’t think there’s all that much the Wizards are doing, it’s a lot of Boston’s own doing.
Wow, the officiating is ATROCIOUS!!!!!!!! It's almost as if the refs have explicit instructions to hose the wiz. Nah, couldn't be. That NEVER happens.
All I want to know is who is this team and where did my lovable loser Wizards go?
You never see the Wiz going to a post-up game in the 4th quarter, like Boston is doing.
Who the hell are we going to post up against Sheed, Garnett and Perkins?
Forget Sheed, Garnett and Perkins, who the hell on this team qualifies as a post up player?
Boykins...he gets posted up all the time by the opposition.
The Refs are steping up in the 4th for the Cs
He had his arm in the area of garnett shooting, you have to move your arm to block the ball, not garnett’s arm It was a veteran move, and antawn got beat, it was a foul it wasn’t a lot of contact, but it was a “superstar call” and a veteran move
We were due for a dry spell and here it is, lets see if the Wiz give this game away as they usually do
This is a Celtics crowd... Huge roar here after Ray Allen's 3
Jamison is trying to operate against KG, and it ain’t working.
Hack-a-Rondo
Looks like this game is over, better team finished the game out better
This game leaves me with a really irritated feeling to say the least.
The Wiz took 10 more shots than Celtics but Boston shot 54.8% as opposed to 38.9%. Defense matters and that’s why Boston is going to the ECF against Cleveland.
[Discuss on CG Forums!]
|
Leave a comment

|
|
 Sports blogs

|