I'm back! After being gone for the past few weeks, I am returning to Celtics Green for what I hope will be a good run. I missed being here and am thrilled to return. But, we need to focus on basketball today. Even if this is our last day on Earth, the Celtics are still important.
Tonight, the Celtics will be hosting a team they often struggle against, the Milwaukee Bucks. The C's are just 1-2 against Milwaukee this year, including an 0-1 home record. Boston has struggled recently, but did bounce back nicely Wednesday night with a 103-91 win over the Cavs. The Celtics are just 13-12 while the Bucks are 13-11. Tonight won't be easy, but it will be enjoyable. Here are tonight's five things that the Celtics must do to win tonight:
5. GET GREEN TO KEEP SHOOTING:
I'm often very judgmental of Jeff Green. This guy is easily one of the most talented guys on this team who rarely lives up to his expectations. Despite Wednesday's game being a win, Green had just 3 points on 1/4 shooting. If he gets the ball more, he will score more. So what Rondo needs to do is pass to him more. He'll eventually get hot.
4. REMEMBER BARBOSA:
I feel like this whole Boston organization is ignoring Leandro Barbosa. We all saw what he did last year in Toronto and Indiana, so why won't Doc let him play more? He can make a lot of shots if he got the chance. Wednesday night, Barbosa had 0 points on 0/1 shooting in just 3 minutes. Play him more, and when you do give him more shots.
3. KEEP RONDO HOT:
This is a simple one that doesn't take much explaining. Rondo is, in my opinion, the best point guard in the league. He's not showing any signs of slowing down, so keep it that way.
2. KEEP PIERCE HOT:
Similar to Rondo, Pierce is an important player who often plays well. He just lit up the Cavs for 40 points Wednesday night and doesn't seem to be getting worse as he gets older, but better. I expect more of this from him.
1. MORE OFFENSIVE REBOUNDS:
Against Cleveland, the C's were out rebounded on the offensive boards 13-2. This has become a recurring and annoying problem. They aren't giving themselves enough shot attempts and it has cost them this year. Something needs to be done.
Tonight's game tips off at 7:30 pm ET. It can be seen on Fox Sports Wisconsin and CSN New England. Coverage will be available here at Celtics Green.
