Delonte A Celt Again

2010-09-01T16:02:00.004-04:00

Danny Ainge announced that the Celtics have signed their 2004 first round pick, Delonte West. West was recently traded by the Cavs to Minnesota, who released him.

Shaq Attack Hits Hub

2010-08-06T11:59:00.004-04:00

Who'd have thunk it? The ultimate "big" man of round-ball, Shaquille O'Neill, is now a Boston Celtic. His role on the '10-'11 squad will be intriguing, but we will take 20-25 minutes, double-digit scoring and rejection defense.

Free throws? Uh, let's not talk free throws right now.

Welcome, big guy!

Redemption Road

2010-05-29T10:59:00.003-04:00

The 17-time champion Celtics are headed back to the NBA Finals for the 21st time in team history. Holding off a sluggish Magic squad in Game 6, the Celtics reasserted their defensive prowess and got an MVP-type performance from Captain Paul Pierce (31 points). Nate Robinson came off the bench for an injured Rondo to light up the night with 12 points at key junctures of the game.

On to a likely match-up with their perennial nemesis—the LA Lakers—the Cs look like the (reasonably) healthy and confident squad that captured banner seventeen in 2008.

Celts Great Jo-Jo White Speaks At Meeting Today

2010-02-24T14:46:00.001-05:00

Rasheed Indeed!

2009-11-04T13:08:00.003-05:00

New Celtic Rasheed Wallace was pretty much the whole show, hitting 6 of 8 three-pointers to tally 20 points in a 105-74 blowout of his hometown Sixers.

Once again the undefeated Celtics (5-0) got double-digit performances from 5 players: the aforementioned Wallace; Paul Pierce (21); Eddie House (12); Sheldon Williams (11) and Rajon Rondo (11).

This is starting to look like a legitimate mid- to high-sixty win team. Mercy!

Rondo Confirms Contract

2009-11-02T16:25:00.002-05:00

After Monday's practice, Rajon Rondo confirmed his new contract extension with the Boston Celtics.

Chicago (No) Hope

2009-10-31T10:44:00.004-04:00

OK, this is getting fun. After the Celtics thrid straight dismantling of an NBA foe (118-90 over the hapless Bulls), maybe we can schedule more challenging games against Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv or Regal FC Barcelona. Yikes. This time, five C's hit double figures in points—Pierce (22), House (22), Allen (20), Garnett (16) and Shelden Williams (10).

Oh, and did we mention Rajon Rondo's line? How about 16 assists in just 30 minutes. Can we start the playoffs now?

De-Clawed Bobcat

2009-10-29T12:15:00.002-04:00

It wasn't really fair. The ease with which the Celtics dispatched the Charlotte Bobcats last night (92-59) at the Garden was a tad embarrassing.

This time the C's had five, not four, players in double figures—Pierce, Rondo, Garnett, Allen, and Shelden Williams (Big Baby's short-range replacement).

This was so lopsided that Pierce, Garnett and Perkins needed to play only about 25 minutes. Talk about shortening up the game!

Let's hope that we have roughly 60 more or so laughers like this in 2009-2010—and four of them in the Finals.

Class Beats Crass

2009-10-28T16:57:00.002-04:00

The predominant theme emerging from last night's opening night victory was that the C's are all about "team" and the Cavs are all about, well, a "dream"—the dream of pairing two mega-stars on the way to their first championship.

If the 95-89 Boston victory is any indication, this Cleveland squad is a long way from that dream.

For Boston's part, they got double-digit scoring from Pierce (23), Allen (16), Garnett (13) and Rasheed (12). Ten assists from the (hopefully) soon-to-be-resigned Rajon Rondo rounded out the truly team victory.

So, Shaq and LeBron can make the cover of Sports Illustrated. We'll take banner number 18.

Even We're Against This!

2009-01-26T08:52:00.003-05:00

Somehow, Adidas has decided that Laker fans will fork over any amount of money to wear this t-shirt. It's meant for St. Patty's Day, but pulllll-eeeze.

Clark Kent On A Bad Knee

2009-01-13T08:53:00.004-05:00

Paul Pierce's 39-point performance last night brings to mind Abraham Lincoln's retort to those who thought Ulysses S. Grant was "damaged goods" due to his excessive drinking. Lincoln stated, "If I knew what brand of whiskey he drinks, I would send a barrel or so to some other generals."

Similarly, Doc Rivers could say, "Find out what knee condition The Truth has, and get Tonya Harding on the horn".

With back-to-back dispatchings of the Toronto Raptors (including last night's win at the Garden) , the World Champs seem to be back on track for Banner 18.

Walker Arrested

2009-01-05T15:08:00.004-05:00

Former Celtic great Antoine Walker was arrested in Florida on drunk driving charges. We will always remember him as a key element in the Celtics slow and steady rise back to Championship form. The only thing we didn't like was the "wiggle". Here's hoping he can play again in the NBA.

The 2008-2009 Challenge

2008-11-19T16:11:00.003-05:00

The way the Celtics are playing, it appears that they will be a serious threat to--at a minimum--go back to the Eastern Conference Finals. The big challenge for Doc Rivers will be how to balance enough playing time for "The Big Three Redux" to keep them sharp and enough rest to keep them fresh for the post-season.

So far, so good. What makes this strategy easier is the fact that the "kids" are playing with all the more confidence this year as defending World Champions (oooh, that rolls off the virtual tongue nicely).

Let's hope the kiddie corp continues to impress and the veterans continue to excel so that Banner 18 becomes a legitimate possibility.

Alan Who?

2008-11-10T09:19:00.007-05:00

There sure has been a lot of hype about the Pistons becoming the Beast of the East with the acquisition of Alan "It's Practice" Iverson. So, when the Celtics carried their 5-1 mark into Baghdad on the Great Lakes, it was touted by some as the first blow in the battle to de-thrown the World Champs.

Not bloody likely.

With a 2nd Quarter that rivaled the dominance of the Bird Era, the Cs out-tallied the Motor City Five 30-10. The re-invigorated Tony Allen had 23 points off the bench, out-scoring all the starters. Pierce had only 7, Garnett only 8 and Ray Allen 17 in the relatively cushy win (88-76) for the Green.

So, they are 6-1 and look like the odds-on favorite to be back in the Finals. Is that too bold? Not bloody likely.

'Nuff Ced

2008-06-24T11:03:00.001-04:00

6th Boston Rolling Rally This Decade!

2008-06-19T11:30:00.002-04:00

Legacy Passed On

2008-06-18T14:20:00.002-04:00

#17—This One's For Red

2008-06-18T00:13:00.004-04:00

The Game

Comeback? We ARE Back!

2008-06-13T14:32:00.005-04:00

Is there anything sweeter than seeing front-runner celebrity scum scooting out of the Staples Center after the Celtics embarrassed their Purple And Gold frauds, 97-91 in the GREATEST COMEBACK IN NBA PLAYOFF HISTORY?

They haven't won anything yet, but the Green look quite well-poised to snap up Title Number Seventeen before too long—up 3 games to 1.

It's hard to say what was more amazing: the "return from the dead" recovery from a 24-point deficit (18 at half-time, 20 in the third period); the 48-minute stint by the indomitable Ray Allen; or the Captain volunteering to cover Kobe "I think I'll go get drunk just to further my status as a role model" Bryant.

Thanks to the money-grubbing policies of David Stern, no one under the age of 13 even saw this epic for the ages—starting as it did well after 9 PM Eastern. In fact, years from now, roughly 8 billion humans will claim to have stayed up for the whole she-bang—similar to the 7 billion who were in the stands at Fenway when Clemens struck out 20 Mariners in 1986. If this thing runs to form, the Celtics will win it in 5 or 6 games; and Paul Pierce will win the MVP (even though Allen could legitimately claim it as well).

Somewhere, Johnny Most is squinting through a haze of cigarette smoke and smiling on his beloved Cs as they once again smite the posers from La-La Land. Sweet.

Two To Seventeen

2008-06-09T09:12:00.004-04:00

They threw a legitimate scare into us—these Lakers—but the bottom line is, they can't play defense with the Celtics. That's why we are 2-0 headed to Hedonism Central for games 3,4 & 5.

After squandering a lead bigger than Big Papi's cast, the C's held on for a 106-102 squeaker of a win over Kobe and Those Other Guys. The Lakers may have the Home Celebrity Advantage (we could only muster a bunch of Pats, Red Sox and Donnie Wahlberg?), but we have the talent edge. Our bench, particularly the "where did he come from?" Game 2 performance of Leon Powe is far out-pacing the LA pine production.

We are deeper. We are more talented. We play defense. Celtics in 6.

Let The Games Begin!

2008-06-04T11:47:00.001-04:00

Title 17 In Sight!

2008-05-31T00:48:00.003-04:00

James Posey stole the ball! James Posey stole the ball!

For the first time in 21 years, the most storied franchise in sports is back at the big dance. Thanks to the seamless merging of old and young, Doc Rivers has put together a Championship team from the remnants of what was the worst team in the East last year.

The Cs eliminated the over-rated and aging Pistons in 6 games—winning two on the road in toughest place to win away. With their tough-fought 89-81 win in Game 6, the Celtic set up the Mother Of All Rematches with the purple and gold in La-La Land.

Beat LA.

Celts Regain Home Court In Motor City

2008-05-24T23:47:00.003-04:00

It was the challenge of the year. It was a chance to get the 800-pound gorilla off their backs. Finally. A road win. A defensive gem at that, 94-80 over the Pistons.

Six different Cs hit double figures on offense—led by Kevin Garnett with 22. Captain Paul had 11 points, after scoring only 2 in the first half.

While the Pistons made a late run, the obviously injured Chauncy Billups was a non-factor.

So, it's a chance to go up 3-1 on Tuesday night in Auburn Hills.

Back-Benchers Set The Tone In GAME 2

2008-05-09T16:48:00.006-04:00

Much of the success enjoyed by the Celtics in their second match-up with the Cavs was due to the guys off the bench. Not only didn't they represent a drop-off from the starting five, they actually revved up the intensity level in a game that may define the ultimate fate of the Championship Seventeen Quest (which we will now call the CSQ).

While The New Big Three (TNBT) combined for their typically self-less 48 points, it was Powe, Posey and Cassell who kept the pedal to the metal and never let LeBron feel comfortable.

Celts "Coast" Into Round Two

2008-05-05T13:41:00.004-04:00

Well, it wasn't the cake-walk we all thought it would be, but the C's made a convincing case for their worthiness by eviscerating the lowly Hawks 99-65 at the Garden on Sunday.

The scale of the rout was so epic that it doesn't even merit a player-by-player accounting. This was a team-on-team blow-out, with most of the New Big Three cooling their heels during the garbage-time second half.

Will this little scare spur them on to put the pedal to the metal on the road in Cleveland? I think it just might.

Cs Cruise To 2-0 In "Scrimmage" Round

2008-04-25T15:05:00.009-04:00

As thrilled as we are that the Celtics are the best team in the NBA, these initial "playoff" rounds with the likes of the Atlanta Hawks are a bit much to take. The first two games of the series played more like the Globetrotters/Generals than genuine NBA fare. Not that we're complaining too much. A win is a win is a win.

But, come on. Does Ted Turner even know there's a team in Atlanta anymore? At least the Celtics kept up the intensity level in the games—keeping the likes of Garnett and Allen in at the end hitting shots and grabbing rebounds. It was a good message to send: "You guys ain't getting up for air until you're home watching the second round".

Streak Busters!

2008-03-19T11:27:00.003-04:00

There are no more hills to climb between now and the play-offs. Your Boston Celtics have pretty much done it all. As WEEI's Michael Holley has said, they are now the prohibitive favorites to win the team's 17th NBA Championship.

They have faced the steel of the league and come through fine. And now, they have ended the second-longest winning streak in NBA history on the road.

By thrashing the Houston Rockets 94-74, the Green have now answered all the questions. They can beat anyone. Are you stacked with All-Stars? We can beat you. Are you super hot? We can beat you.

Kevin Garnett scored 22 points and Captain Paul Pierce added 20, as the C's pulled away big time in the second half. In fact, they held the Rockets to only 34 points in Quarters 3 and 4.

Is this fun, or what?

Comeback? We ARE Back!

2008-03-18T10:24:00.008-04:00

If you had any doubt that this edition of your Boston Celtics was for real, it's now official in the wake of their 93-91 come from way behind win against the San Antonio Spurs. People, the Celtics are 40 games over .500 now. In the recent past, 40 total wins would have been a successful season. Holy Jungle Jim Luscutoff!

Newcomer Sam Cassell was the highlight reel champion with a clutch 3-pointer to put the C's up in the 4th Quarter, but this was a purely Red-like team effort. Paul Pierce got 22 points, Rajon Rondo (increasingly the point guard of the present) got 20, and the aforementioned Cassell had 17. Oh, and that Garnett guy, he netted 21 with 8 boards.

This is the part of the C's schedule that critics said would test their mettle—facing the iron of the NBA as they approach the Playoff Holy Land. "Playoffs?" You betcha!

C's Clich Playoff Spot With Win #47!

2008-03-06T09:44:00.008-05:00

It's sweet enough to be the first NBA team to nail down a post-season berth, but to do it against their chief roadblock to the Finals (a 90-78 win over Detroit) is even sweeter.

While Kevin Garnett's season-high 31 points grabbed the limelight, the win was also attributable to 20 rebounds by Kendrick Perkins and 16 stunning points by point guard Rajon Rondo.

The Cs and Pistons fought through a physical fourth quarter that is likely to foreshadow the playoff tilt to come.

Cut It Out, Leon!

2008-02-09T11:21:00.000-05:00

Leon Powe hit a lay-up at the buzzer to propel the KG-less C's to an 88-86 victory over the host Timberwolves. The win capped an emotional night, in which Kevin Garnett returned to the scene of his years as the only real star on the Minnesota roster.

Ray Allen (reveler "2" in the Boston Three party), stole the ball on a kick-out with seconds remaining, which led to the "Powe"-tential winning bucket.

The Celtics are now 4-2 in the No-KG Era. Not the pace we saw earlier, but keeping them well ahead of the competition. Moreover, some of the "kids" are getting meaningful and successful minutes.

Willis Reed II Thrills Garden Crowd

2008-01-26T10:18:00.000-05:00

All you had to know about last night Celtics-Former Celtics (Timberwolves) game happened in the last 16 seconds. The C's had just taken the lead on a sweet put-back by Kendrick Perkins of a Ray Allen floater and needed to stop Minnesota on one last play.

After frustrating the T-Wolves with two pass-ins (a time-out and a garbage foul), the Celtics locked down on former teammate Al Jefferson and the play was forced out to another former C, Sebastian Telfair.

At that point, in a moment reminiscent of the 1970 walk-on of Willis Reed, Garnett (returned from a stomach strain) dove at Telfair, stole the ball, and the game was over. Oh, and when Garnett initially came back in the game, the Celtics were down by 5 with 1:51 left.

Garnett then strutted across the parquet, thumbs in his shirt, displaying his pride in the Celtic uniform he now wears. As if to say, "Thank God I'm out of that other uni.".

By the way, the C's won 87-86. How's the trade working out for us? What do you think?

Captain Second Half

2007-12-30T12:45:00.000-05:00

Paul Pierce was virtually shut out in the first half of the Celtics 104-98 win over the "most mis-named franchise in NBA history" in Utah. He came alive in the second half, finishing with 24 points and 6 boards (one a key grab at the end) to solidify the victory.

It was just the Big Two in the first half, with Tony Allen and Rajon Rondo contributing big once again.

But it was the un-sung defensive intensity of this squad (particularly Garnett and Perkins) that ultimately stopped the Jazz comeback wave. Red would be very proud to know that this resurgent Celtics team is built as much on solid defense as lights out offense. Onto to La-La Land and the perennially overrated Lakers.

Game, Set, Match Last Year's Wins

2007-12-28T16:24:00.001-05:00

We've got 24 wins. We got 24 last year sometime in March. The 2007-8 Celtics matched their 2006-7 win total with a clutch 104-96 win over the SuperSonics in Seattle. Ray Allen's return to the land of coffee and rain was overshadowed by a massive 37-point performance by Paul Pierce.

Even Kevin Garnett had to fade into the background on this one, as Piece lit up the second half with 26 of his game-high point total.

Are this year's Cs that good, or was last year's edition that bad? Time will tell.

4 X 20 Revenge Match

2007-12-25T12:49:00.000-05:00

After the Orlando Magic handed the C's their first loss of 2007-2008, you knew there would be a "come-uppance". Witness the wrath of these new Celtics in their 103-91 dispatching of the DisneyBoys.

Four Celtics--count'em--four scored over 20 points. The last time that happened, Hillary was First Lady. In addition to TBT coming through,it was Rajon Rondo who filled out the ledger on this night, netting a career-high 23 points to go along with his first makes from the 3-point arc.

Dwight Howard was immense, but even he could not overcome Pierce's 24, Garnett's 21 and Allen's 22. At 22-3, this Green Team is still on pace for 72 wins--an improvement of only 48 games over last year. No wonder Doc is smiling a lot more.

Celts Trail Pats By One (At Home)

2007-12-15T12:07:00.000-05:00

This amazing band of Celtics is still undefeated at home—now 12-0 after beating the Bucks 104-82. This one was even won without one of the NBT (Ray Allen), but many others stepped up to fill the void—particularly the other Allen (Tony) and the always improving Rajon Rondao.

Just for good measure, Captain Paul Pierce plowed in a season-high 32, while Kevin Garnett cruised with 15 and 7 rebounds. The Cs are now undefeated on the year when leading after 3 quarters—and have also yet to be beat on a Friday. This is starting to feel real, folks. Hang on tight.

10 More Wins To Pass Last year

2007-12-06T16:57:00.000-05:00

That headline alone should be enough to make dormant Cs fans sit up and take notice. Your Boston Celtics are now 10 wins away from surpassing last year's win total of 24.

Amazing. Just 17 games into the young season, they are on pace to win 72 games—a net gain of 48 wins.

The Green got their 15th win by hanging on to defeat the despicable 76ers, 113-103. TNBT contributed mightily to the cause—Pierce with 19 and 12 assists; Garnett with 22 points and 7 boards; Ray Allen with 12 points. But it was two of the newly invigorated other new guys who made the big shots when it counted most—particularly James Posey with 17 points and Eddie House with 15. All in all, pretty impressive. The Magical History Tour Continues!

Celt .45s

2007-11-30T11:08:00.000-05:00

Wow. This is getting almost Patriot-like. The Celtics cruised (that's not even an accurate enough term) to a stunning 104-59 win over yet another hapless New York franchise, bettering Boston's record to 12-2 in the young NBA campaign. That's right fifty-nine Knick points—rescued from their worst loss ever by a buzzer-beating trey.

By the way, 12 wins is exactly 50% of the total garnered in all of the 2006-2007 season. Paul Pierce and Ray Allen each scored 21 points—despite both sitting out the entire 4th Quarter. Kevin Garnett played only 22 minutes, and still got 11 boards.

Of course, part of this story is that the Knickerbockers are about as lousy as a professional team can get—and are "coached" by the "fraud-de tutti-fraud" of all time, one Isiah Thomas.

Nevertheless, this Celtic Thing is really starting to catch on. These guys are still undefeated at home and seem destined to secure a spot in the Eastern Conference Finals unless injury befalls TNBT (The New Big Three). Enjoy this while it lasts—which could be all the way to June.

Victory Over Lakers Will Get Attention

2007-11-24T12:07:00.000-05:00

This blissful start to the 2007-2008 season is all well and good. But, fans of the Green for more than a few years were (understandably) a little skeptical. The 1986 Championship seems like two lifetimes ago to those of us who are old enough to remember Jungle Jim Loscutoff rambling down the lane. (By the way, Jim and his son run a great kids' camp in Andover, Mass. called Camp Evergreen).

Anyway, last night's 107-94 win over the hated Lakers may offer the first opportunity for the rest of the country to stand up and take notice. If the Celtics are solid enough to dispatch the lads from La-La Land, the national pundits might opine, something must be up in Boston. The Governator came all the way from Sacramento the see the game. Heck, there were even "BEAT L.A." signs in the Garden again!

And so it should be. The New Big Three (who will heretofore be known on this blog as "TNBT") showed up in force once again—Garnett (21 pts., 11 boards); Pierce (20 pts.); Allen (18 pts.). But two other C's were huge in the win over "Kobe and Four Other Guys" (heretofore referred to as "KAFOG")—Rajon Rondo with 10 assists and the resurgent Kendrick Perkins with 21 points and 9 boards.

All in all, a very satisfying victory for the suddenly 10-1 Division leaders. That sounds so right.

Almost Perfect

2007-11-19T08:58:00.000-05:00

It had to end some time. And, it did in the swamps of Central Florida, as the C's lost their first game of the year to the Magic, 104-102.

The Cs battled from 20 down, trailing after three quarters, to make it a game at the end. They fell just one Pierce 3-pointer short at the buzzer.

The Big Three were aided by some complementary parts last night—although Pierce led the way with 28 points, joined by Allen with 19 and Garnett with 14 (and another double-double). The exciting rookie Rajon Rondo added 18 points in the comeback—but the Celts were victimized by only 4 of 16 shooting from the three-point arc. So, it's over. But, the fact that the team battled back to make a game of it is yet another new wrinkle in your 2007-8 Celtics.

This Undefeated Stuff Could Get Contagious

2007-11-12T13:38:00.000-05:00

First, the Red Sox won seven straight post-season games on their way to World Series Championship number seven. Then, the Pats laid waste to the NFL, running up a 9-0 record on their way to the second perfect season in league history.

Now, your 2007-2008 Boston Celtics have just won game number five, against, oh yeah, zero losses. What the heck has been dropped in the Quabbin Reservoir? What ever it is, order up five more cases for the Bruins!

In an emotional win for Coach Doc Rivers (who lost his Dad days earlier), the Cs convincingly beat the Nets 112-101 at Exit 37 W.

The Big Three were the Big Three again—Pierce getting 28; Allen 27; Garnett 18.

Can we be witnessing the true revival of the Green? Well, the last time they went 5-0 to start a season, the Big Three were you-know-who in 87-88.

Great Start For "Big Three II"

2007-11-05T16:26:00.000-05:00

Well, it's just two games. But, the early returns on "Big Three II-The Next Generation" are pretty encouraging. First, the Green dispatched the Washington Wizards and Gilbert "The Mouth That Bored" Arenas. Then, on Sunday, they traveled up to America Lite and whipped the Raptors 98-95 in OT. The final nail in the coffin this time came via a corner three by Ray Allen.

But, again, Kevin Garnett soared with 23 points (10 in OT) to go along with 13 boards in what is shaping up to be one continuous Double-Double. Oh, and the screen off which the Allen winner was sunk was set by Mr. Garnett.

Our original All-Star (Paul Pierce) chipped in with 13 points and 6 assists, while the almost forgotten James Posey netted 11. This is balance, my friends. Unselfish balance. The watchword of Red.

This could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship, Boston.

Big Three Redux

2007-07-30T17:13:00.000-04:00

It's not quite the glory days of Larry, Kevin & Robert—but Paul, Kevin & Ray will be walking through that door in 2007-8.

The long-rumored "buddy-deal" between McHale and Ainge came to fruition as the C's sent Al Jefferson, Sebastian Telfair, Gerald Green and Theo Ratliff to Lake Woebegon for All-World Kevin Garnett.

It says here this was a must-do deal—one that will make the Celtics a legitimate force in the Eastern Conference right now. Not two years from now, not five years from now, NOW!

As the inimitable Cedric Maxwell said about this move, the C's are now "relevant" again. Indeed. Nice move, Danny.

Allen Wrench?

2007-06-29T15:10:00.000-04:00

The Celtics went bold last night by swapping the fifth
pick in the NBA draft along with Wally Szczerbiak and Delonte West for All-Star Ray Allen. What did they get for it?

At worst, they get credibility for 2 or 3 years in the pitiful Eastern
Conference—and a reasonable shot at a berth in the NBA Finals (though
probably as ignominious an exit as the CAVS got this year).

But think about, this is the Promised Land compared to what we've had around here for a while. Respectability is important for the winningest franchise in sports history.

So, it says here that Danny got it right. We need to feel like like we are relevant again—right now, not five years down the road.

Life's too short. Championships are too rare.

The Fifth Element

2007-05-24T16:40:00.000-04:00

Once again, the dark mystery of the ping-pong balls has ravaged Celtic Nation, leaving us with the 5th pick in the NBA draft—after slouching toward destiny with the second-worst record. And so, the long line of misery continues: the tragedies of Len Bias and Reggie Lewis, the near miss of the Tim Duncan Era, the trading away of Billups, hell, the stupid cheerleaders!

But take heart, ye who bleed Green, the fifth pick in 2007 is probably equivalent to the 2nd or 3rd pick in any normal draft year. So, we are likely to get a darn good player—not a franchise-altering player—but a good player to rotate into a young, talented core of kids who should be maturing even more in 2008. Wishful thinking? Probably. But what else do we have? Lucky the Leprechaun?

Luck Of The Draw

2007-03-26T12:38:00.000-04:00

As It becomes more and more apparent that the Celtics will wind up with the #1 or #2 pick in the NBA draft (don't ask about specifics, just trust us), the debate is already raging over who that pick should be. The consensus elite choices are Ohio State's dominant center Greg Oden (who only looks 35 years old) and the multi-dimensional 6'9" Texas forward Kevin Durant. Oden is more likely to have an immediate impact on the C's—providing an intimidating shot-blocking presence on the order of Bill Russell (not to put any pressure on the kid).

For some reason, though, I have a sick feeling that if the C's pass on Durant, they will regret it for years—as the team who does land him celebrates ring after ring. Durant may be one of those once in a blue moon type players—a legitimate star who can be a difference-maker for a decade or more. The numbers? Durant averaged just under 26 points and just over 11 boards in his one and only freshman year; while Oden averaged a little over 15 PPG and 9 1/2 boards. Oden added 3.3 blocks per game to Durant's 1.9.

So, which one? Assuming the C's don't get stiffed by the ping-pong balls again (Hello, Tim Duncan!), I think we should send Jungle Jim Loscutoff to the draft and have him select the kid that puts them over the top—Kevin Durant.

DJ Dead at 52

2007-02-22T18:03:00.000-05:00

On of the clutchest Celtics ever, Dennis "DJ" Johnson, died Thursday while coaching in the NBA Developmental league.

DJ came to the C's already a champion, as the 1979 Finals MVP with Seattle. He won 2 more with the Celtics (1984, 1986) as part of, arguably, the best starting five ever (along with Bird, McHale, Ainge, and Parish).

How can we ever forget his laying in Bird's stolen in-bounds pass from Isiah to improbably beat Detroit in the playoffs?

Rest in peace, DJ.

FINALLY!

2007-02-15T11:26:00.000-05:00

The Hoop Gods just didn't want the tag of "biggest loser ever" slapped on the franchise that is, in fact, the biggest winner ever. And so, the Celtics ended their 18-game losing skid by pummelling the short-handed Milwaukee Bucks 117-97.

Captain Paul Pierce (he who isn't completely convinced the C's need a lottery pick infusion) scored a fairly typical 32 points, while The Future (Gerald Green) popped in 21 points in only 20 minutes.

The win took a major burden off the young team and the harried coach as they head into the All-Star break. The ensuing West Coast trek would almost certainly have given our beloved Green the all-time consecutive loss record—not something you want hanging from the rafters right next to "Loscy".

So, we can sleep soundly now as the Oden/Durant sweepstakes plays itself out over the next months. Somewhere, ML is waving a towel, hoping to coax those ping-pong balls to drop the right way this time.

The Magnificent Seven

2007-01-06T10:44:00.000-05:00

If Paul Pierce remains out for the two weeks plus that is currently indicated, we may see a few more of these games—with 7 different C's in double figures on the way to a 128-119 drubbing of the Grizzlies.

In the roundball version of Tom Brady "spreading the ball to multiple receivers", the Celtics got quality point production from Wally Szczerbiak (26), Tony Allen (20), Ryan Gomes (16), Brian Scalabrine (16) Delonte West (16), Al Jefferson (12) and Kendrick Perkins (10).

For the casual Celtics fans who may be reading this, the photo above is of one Brian Scalabrine, an actual member of the squad who will not have his number raised to the rafters at the Garden--just so you know. Anyway, try to get through this Paul-Less Period with your Celtic pride intact.

Road Warriors

2006-12-20T14:20:00.000-05:00

Get out of town! That should be the watchword of the Boston Celtics, who won their fourth straight road game and fifth straight overall in Charlotte on Saturday night. A maddening pattern continued, however, as the Cs lost a 16-point third quarter lead, and managed to hold on by a 102-97 margin. Charlotte actually led by a healthy margin in the fourth quarter, but this newly mature squad came back and took control of the game. The Celtics are the only team in the NBA with a winning road record (6-5) and a losing home record (4-8).

Once again, the Franchise (Paul Pierce) led the way with 35 points (to go along with 38 on Friday night), while Al Jefferson continued his inspired play with 22 points. On the downside, Wally Szczerbiak was again lost to injury (ankle).

Division Triple Play

2006-12-15T08:45:00.000-05:00

Three straight wins against anyone is a major achievement for your 2006-2007 Boston Celtics. Doing it against three division rivals on the road is a spectacular accomplishment for this still flawed bunch of youngsters.

It's this kind of stretch that makes you shout—like a roundball Al Pacino—"I was out and they pulled me back in". This time the heroes were Ryan Gomes (rumored to the the bait in any Iverson deal) who netted 18 points, and Tony Allen, with 16 points, in the C's 101-81 win over the AI-less Sixers.

Al Jefferson added 13 rebounds in his most important stop on the "Don't Trade Me Tour". Wally Szczerbiak got 14 points in his first game back from injury, while Delonte West (still this blog's favorite Celtic) added 13—along with a dazzling feed to Rajon Rondo in the 4th Quarter.

Nicking The Knicerbockers

2006-12-15T08:35:00.000-05:00

After overcoming a 20-point deficit in their last win, the Celtics turned the tables and nearly blew a 30-point lead to the Knicks in a 97-90 win at Madison Square Garden.

Paul Pierce blithely knocked down 31, while Al Jefferson continued his "Please Don't Trade me For Iverson" Tour with 14 points and 12 rebounds in the win.

Outscored 23-15 in the fourth quarter was another indication that the inconsistencies on this team argue for a 35-win season and nothing more. It's a shame, since the core of kids—Jefferson, Green, West—are tantalizingly close to being legitimate NBA stars.

We need patience, as Doc and Danny tell us incessantly, but we need a consistent winner in this town to truly believe.

Comeback To The Future?

2006-12-10T10:10:00.000-05:00

The Celtics started this game (down 18-0) like they were resigned to be broken up in an eventual Alan Iverson trade. They ended it (winning on a last-second shot by Paul Pierce) making fans think that this group of Parquet Pups might just be jelling into something interesting.

The problem is the maddening inconsistency of this squad—play good in two straight, then lose five straight. Is Al Jefferson the legitimate force he was in this game (with 29 points and 14 rebounds), or is he the Houdini who disappears for games on end?

Can Paul Pierce be asked to baby-sit this team any longer, while, in the prime of his career, another potential "ring" year slips out of his hands? Too many questions, too few answers.

In any event, stealing a 92-90 win over the EXIT 37 Nets is always satisfying.

First Place Celtics?

2006-11-27T16:19:00.000-05:00

Check the standings fans--your 16-time World Champions are now atop their division. Sure, it's probably the worst division in professional sports, but, hey, take it where you can.

In what is becoming a pleasantly recurring theme, when Paul Pierce, Wally Szczerbiak and Ryan Gomes score in double figures, we win. Pierce threw down 34 (while guarding one of the toughest guys in the NBA in Michael Redd). Szczerbiak had 21 and Gomes added 15 in the 111-98 win, that might be enough to re-boost the confidence of this young group after some abysmal losses.

Streaking To Respectability

2006-11-19T19:22:00.000-05:00

Three straight. Holy cow, a few days ago, we thought they wouldn't win 25 games all year. Well, that might still happen, but it now seems more likely that this band of very young players may be finally getting it. It showed in this one as they held off a late charge to beat the Knickerbockers, 122-118.

Doc Rivers has been perilously close to the proverbial hot seat, but seems to have extricated himself with his inspired running game and tough defense that have exemplified the 3 game run.

Paul Pierce contributed another monster game (39 points) and Ryan Gomes gave us all more evidence that he may be for real (22 points and 14 rebounds). The balanced attacked was fleshed out by Szczerbiak (20 points) and Sebatian Telfair (19 points). Of course, anytime you knock off any over-rated New York team, it's even sweeter.

Are they worth getting excited over yet? Not bloody likely. But they are getting tantalizingly close.

Tel-FAIR? Tel-WICKED GOOD!

2006-11-18T20:26:00.000-05:00

Sebastian Telfair sent a vibrant message to his former team--"You made a mistake". The new C's point guard poured in 15 points and dished out 7 assists in Boston's 118-90 thumping of the Portland Trailblazers.

The Celtics have now won two straight after a hideous 1-6 start, and have registered back-to-back blow-outs.

Paul Pierce poured in 29 and Wally Szczerbiak added 19 as the new "run and gun" Celtics rested the entire starting squad in the 4th Quarter. And guess what? The kids outscored Portland anyway in the frame, 41-25. Hey, maybe 35 wins are within reach.

Green Double '06-'07 Win Total In One Night!

2006-11-16T10:40:00.000-05:00

OK, take every frustrating element of the Celtics season so far and reverse the polarity. Then, pack all that newly minted positive karma into one 48-minute package. Voila! A 26-point blow-out over the Indiana Pacers--with Larry Legend watching the proceedings from the cheap seats! Does it get any better than this?

Remember the old days when the C's would turn on the jets in the 3rd Quarter and lay waste to their opponents? Well, last night's 67-point second half had a similar resonance. Captain Paul's 32 point performance was as elegant and smooth as it's ever been. Sebastian Telfair turned in a very nice defensive stint. Wally Szczerbiak tossed in 20 points, while the constantly improving Ryan Gomes added 12 more along with 12 rebounds.

This might be the formula for success: run the floor with abandon on offense and make sure each player does his job on defense. Sounds simple, right? Yeah, go ask the coach!

It Feels Like The First Time

2006-11-10T13:06:00.000-05:00

If this were any other win during the long slog that is the NBA season, it would accurately be termed "ugly". Twenty-five turnovers should not result in a victory for any team on any night.

But, being the very first victory of the season for the Green, we can be excused for labeling this 110-108 win over the Bobcats a "beauty". And there were comely elements to it: like Paul Pierce and Wally Szczerbiak each scoring 35 points; like Ryan Gomes banking his first career triple double; like Delonte West nailing the game-winner as the OT clock expired on a sweet (and brilliantly savvy) pass by the Captain.

So, we'll ignore the warts and take the "W", and hope that those "W's" are closer to 40 than 30 when the season ends the day before Patriot's Day.

A Vision Passes

2006-10-28T23:43:00.000-04:00

Arnold "Red" Auerbach is dead at 89. And, although he has passed on, his vision lives. His vision of selfless team play, the extra pass, the sixth-man off the bench. Sometimes it's hard to recognize those ideals in the NBA of the 21st Century. But, Red turned them into the most stunning dominance in sports history. Eight straight world championships; nine in ten years. Kind of makes the Yankees look like the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, doesn't it?

As a kid growing up in Boston in the 1950s, there was really only one prideful sports team in Boston--the glorious Celtics. And, they were every bit Red as they were Russell, Cousy, Sharman, and the Joneses. He was the elemental force that moved them forward--as a collective whole far greater than the sum of its parts. We didn't fully appreciate what Red gave us, the old Garden was never even half filled to its capacity in those wonder years. So, kids like me could get in on game days for cheap money and watch up close as our heroes brought home yet another banner--year in and year out.

Thank you, Red.

MRSA Strikes Celtics

2006-10-28T23:37:00.000-04:00

The little known but virulent condition that strikes scores of hospital patients has visited the Celtics' clubhouse: MRSA (methicilin resistant staphylococcus aureus). According the website msraresources.com "MRSA used to be a bacteria that was only found in hospital settings (HA-MRSA), but in recent years, MRSA has attacked healthy people who have contracted it within their communities. MRSA grows very rapidly in warm, moist areas, and is often seen in athletes and gyms."

Both captain Paul Pierce and guard Delonte West missed exhibition games after the Celt's medical staff discovered the condition in the players. The team's practice facilities at The Sports Authority Training Center in Waltham and at the Garden are being disinfected to purge the infection.

Both Pierce and West plan to return to game action soon.

Hopeful End To Strange Season

2006-04-21T00:53:00.000-04:00

These were the 42-Minute Wonders. The team of young talent and one superstar that gave us the glimpse of what might be for precisely 42 minutes each game (or thereabouts). As Doc Rivers correctly pointed after his squad's season-ending 95-78 win over the Heat, the C's were great for all but the last 6 minutes of most games. But the youth and inexperience caught up with them in the end--literally.

This was the year we saw the future. And that future is extremely bright.

Gotham Guffaws

2006-03-31T10:11:00.000-05:00

Whenever a Boston team can humiliate a New York team, the Universe is in balance. Such was the case when the Celtics eviscerated the completely hapless New York Knicks, 123-98. Paul Pierce and Wally Szczerbiak each nailed 22 points, while this blog's favorite player, Delonte West netted 21.

Moreover, the win moved the Celtics' all-time record over the Knicks to 256-166--almost laughable in its inequity. Oh yeah, and 16 World Championships in 60 possible chances--versus..ahh...oh, who cares how many the Knicks have! (By the way, the C's have won 27% of ALL the NBA championships-compared to say, the Yankees, who have only won 25% of all MLB rings). Once again, Boston is better. But we all knew that, right?

It's Only Two Games........But

2006-03-10T12:15:00.000-05:00

The last two stirring wins by the Celtics make it tantalizing to speculate about how good this team could be. But, let's be cautious about this. We've had these urges creep up on us from time to time this year.

But the two victories (a stunning buzzer-beating, 116-115 triumph over the Wizards; a scrappy 104-101 win over the '76ers)offer up a pleasing consistency on the part of the team overall--and the stunning play of MVP candidate Paul Pierce and sudden phenom Ryan Gomes. This tandem, with the supporting cast of Wally and Raef, has been a revelation. Could it be that Danny "Yes I Played Third Base For the Blue Jays" Ainge actually did make all the right moves? Could it be that Doc "I Knew Dominique..You're No Dominique" Rivers is, in fact, the right coach to lead this amalgam of veteran and young talent? Stay tuned.

Sudden Road Warriors Clip Lakers In La-La Land

2006-02-26T22:46:00.000-05:00

It doesn't have the same impact as in years past, but a Celtic road win over the Lakers is still pretty sweet--particularly a 1-point win, with Paul Pierce (39 points) matching the output of Planet Kobe (40 points). The 112-111 victory was also another shining moment for rookies Delonte West and Ryan Gomes, who each netted 19 points. Recently-acquired Wally Szczerbiak scored 16 in the win that allowed the C's to cap a 3-1 road swing.

So, once again, we are left to wonder: is this team truly coming together, or will they self-destruct again in a few days? One thing we can say for certain: the new road duds are very cool--and (lately) so are the guys wearing them.

Back To Basics

2006-02-13T09:47:00.000-05:00

Just when I thought I had the victory formula figured out for these Celtics, (i.e., go with the kids and live or die with that), both Al Jefferson and Kendrick Perkins got hurt. So much for that strategy. Doc Rivers then came up with Plan B--go to the "old" guy, run two basic sets so that the new guy (Wally) doesn't get too confused and let Delonte West (the remaining healthy/proven kid) run the floor.

Guess what? "Plan Simple" is working. With two solid wins in their pockets, the back to basics C's look like they have some flow and consistency. Their 102-94 win over Orlando featured the now expected 30 plus points for Paul Pierce (31, actually) and 24 from Wally Szczerbiak. Even Ryan Gomes got 14 in his first career start on the kid-depleted Celtics.

So, what do we make of this? God knows. Anybody out there is welcome to try and figure out this very strange Green team.

Deep Sixing The Drought

2006-02-11T16:00:00.000-05:00

The Celtics ended their dismal six-game win drought with a convincing 115-83 drubbing of the Trail Blazers.

Captain Paul Pierce looked like the 5-time All-Star he is with 35 points (20 in the pivotal 3rd Quarter) and new acquisition Wally Szczerbiak added 21 in the win. Notable also was Raef LaFrentz who scored 18. The Celtics held the worst offensive unit in the NBA to only 19 points in the 3rd frame.

So, is this the quality of play we can expect from ther re-tooled C's, or was this just a happy clash with an even more abysmal team? I've given up trying to predict how this bunch of Celtics will respond on any given night. Maybe Ainge knows. Let's hope so.

Wally World Coming To The Garden

2006-01-27T09:27:00.000-05:00

Well, Danny Ainge is no lay-about. He pulled off yet another block-buster 4-for-3 trade that, on the surface at least, is a major upgrade for the Green. The centerpiece of the deal is the former All-Star and blazing shooter Wally Szczerbiak coming over from the Timberwolves. The Szcerb-Meister is averaging 20.1 points per game this year--with a nearly 50% shooting percentage and rock solid numbers from the line (think we need some of that action?).

Also in the deal are former #1 overall pick Michael Olowokandi, and a young center from St. Joe's named Dwayne Jones--who could be the sleeper in this thing down the road. The C's gave up Marcus Banks, Mark Blount, Ricky Davis, Justin Reed, and two conditional second round draft choices (with lottery protection).

Losing Ricky Davis is a bit of a downer--since he was the second most reliable scorer behind Pierce and had completely shed his "idiot" image under Doc Rivers. But, even with Davis' scoring, the C's were lacking a pure shooter who can take pressure of Pierce in late situations (we have lost a bunch of games by 4 points or less). Szczerbiak gives us that weapon.

Also, while we are taking on another big contract, we shed a couple as well (Davis and Blount). More importantly, the extra space on the bench gives the kids more opportunity to flow into the mainstream. This deal means more meaningful minutes for Perkins, Jeffferson and West. So, the addition of Wally World may pave the way for a more consistent, youthful, athletic Celtic team NOW. Good deal, Danny.

Back To The Past

2006-01-24T13:08:00.000-05:00

So, who says it's the kids that have to carry the total load? Last night, some of the Old Guard took charge--most particularly Ricky Davis--in the Celtic's 91-78 win over the hive-less Hornets.

Davis scored 32 points (17 in the 3rd Quarter) to pace the Celts--who also got big contributions from senior citizens Paul Pierce (16 points) and Raef LaFrentz (18 points).

The "Kiddie Corps" of Jefferson, Perkins and West all scored in the single digits. Maybe they just need a "Time Out". Sorry.

The Kids Are All Right!

2006-01-19T15:42:00.000-05:00

The Celtics' future was on display last night as the 16-time World Champions dispatched the Minnesota "Kevin McHale IS Walking Through That Door" Timberwolves at the Gaaden. The 103-96 C's victory was sparked by huge contributions by both Kendrick Perkins (17 points) and Al Jefferson (18 points) and the usual 25 points from Captain Paul Pierce. Add to this the fact that this blog's favorite Celtic, Delonte West, scored the first 8 Green points of the second half, and you have the makings of a youth movement. Young, fast, athletic Celtics! Will wonders never cease?

Finally, A Break!

2006-01-11T09:44:00.000-05:00

The Celtics finally caught a late-game break and foiled an opponent's winning streak by edging the Atlanta Hawks in the "deep" South 98-94. Ricky Davis hit a trey with less than 2 minutes to go to give the C's their first lead in a while, and Paul Pierce nailed another 27 points in preventing the Hawks from enjoying the 3-game streak. Brian Scalabrine was on the floor for 28 minutes and, while not exacly lighting up the scoring sheet, pitched in with key plays when needed. Lost amid all the potential Paul Pierce trade rumors was the fact that the captain logged his 13,000th point in the victory.

One Hundred Shots Heard Round The Garden

2006-01-05T20:45:00.000-05:00

The Charlotte Bobcats (a team named after a small snow removal device) nearly beat your Celtics at the Gaaden on Wednesday night by taking 100--that's right--100 shots. We're not even going to talk about how the North Carolinians dominated the Green on turnover points (35-5), or the fact that Boston blew numerous double-digit leads. Let's just say they were WICKED LUCKY to pull out a victory.

The 109-106 shaky win was the result of another MVP performance by Paul Pierce (31 points, 10 assists, 8 rebounds--and some want to trade this guy?), and another complementary effort by the suddenly 'Character Guy' Ricky Davis (23 points).

Future star Orien Greene layed in the game winner with under a minute to play, as the Celts stayed teasingly just good enough to keep us all from counting down the days to Spring Training (44).

The Western White Wash

2006-01-03T15:00:00.000-05:00

Maybe it was the old uniforms. The Celtics capped off their 1-4 Left Coast swing with a sour 120-110 loss to the reeling Denver Nuggets (who couldn't buy a home win in late 2005). The Celts abandoned the new-wave Black and Green unis with the bold "BOSTON" across the chest, for the old "CELTICS" Green and White. That must be it.

Or, maybe just incredibly inconsistent defense, an off night for Ricky Davis, and plain bad luck. Captain Paul Pierce netted his ho-hum 29 points, and Delonte West (READ: Star of the Future, Do Not Trade) got a career-high 20 points.

But it was just too much Kenyon Martin, Carmello Anthony, Andre Miller and the immortal Earl Boykins (gratuitous cheap shot, he's really not that bad).

Anyway, this team just can't seem to project an identity from night to night. When the offense shines, the defense folds--and vice-versa. Is this coaching? I hope not. I like everything about Doc Rivers--his attitude, the way he handles players, his smarts on and off the court. I hope he stays and this team finds a way to gel into a respectable NBA product.

Back-To-Back Attack

2005-12-22T15:32:00.000-05:00

Finally, the Celtics have won consecutive games this season--the last team in the NBA to do so. Just what the doctor ordered—-Doc Rivers, that is. The Coach has been pilloried in the press and rumored to be on the firing line--literally.

Captain Paul Pierce had 30 points, Ricky Davis 20, and Delonte West added 15 as the Celtics pummeled the Utah Jazz, 101-89.

Despite going 0-10 from the 3-point arc, the Celtics did other things right--like committing only 2 turnovers in the second half and scoring 29 points off Jazz turnovers.

Ron Artest Isn't Walking Through That Door

2005-12-15T13:37:00.000-05:00

Good thing, too. The last thing this team needs is a loose cannon to disrupt the emerging mix of veterans and youngsters under the brilliant tutelage of Coach Doc Rivers.

The results of this hard work were evident in last night's satisfying 85-71 win over the similarly Artest-less Pacers. Captain Paul Pierce threw down 25 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in the victory and Mark Blount (rumored by some as part of a trade for Artest) nailed a season-high 22.

But it was the defense, the hallmark of the great Celtic teams of the past, that shone brightly on this night at the Toronto Dominion BankNorth Garden (let's not forget that the place is named after Canadian bankers!). Maybe the Marcus Banks activation has lit a fire under the whole Celtics team. Good.

"Banks"North Garden?

2005-12-13T13:19:00.000-05:00

Today marks the return to practice of Celtics point guard Marcus Banks. Missing around 2 months with a shin injury, he may be the spark the 16-time World Champs need to get their groove back after a sluggish road trip through the D***B Belt (politically-corrected for no apparent reason).

While Delonte West has performed admirably in the role, it has been, at times, a spotty record. Banks may be the needed element to put this offense right. Banks will be an unrestricted free agent after this year, so he has every incentive to light it up for the C's for the balance of this campaign.

More than anything, this squad need consistency from everyone other than Paul Pierce and Ricky Davis (who thought this guy would ever be a pillar of strength?).

NOT Slip, Sliding Away

2005-12-05T13:31:00.000-05:00

Chances are Paul Simon was lurking somewhere in the stands. And Spike Lee and Billy Crystal. The Knicks still stink. So it was gratifying that, although the C's let a 14-point 3rd period lead slip away, they did not let the game slide into the "L" column.

Paul Pierce continues to let his manifold critics learn "The Truth", namely, that he is playing the best baketball of his career (29.9 pts, 11 boards in the last 4 games). The 102-99 victory helped the Celtics land in an effective 3-way tie for first in the division.

Ricky Davis had another strong game (27 pts.), hitting key free throws with under 10 seconds to go to help seal the win.

The Answer is "You Lose"!

2005-11-30T22:58:00.000-05:00

The Celtics pulled off one of their most inspiring victories of the season in a gutsy 110-103 victory over the 76ers. Alan Iverson's 40-point effort was neutralized in the 4th Quarter by the hard defensive work of Delonte West.

Paul Pierce tossed in 32 to aid the cause of the 16-time World Champions, while little-used Kendrick Perkins came up huge with 12 points--but more importantly 19 rebounds and 4 assists. Ricky Davis added 26, and Raef LaFrentz hit a key three-pointer to trigger a Celtic run.

This was a night in which the Green had BOTH the offense and defense working together seamlessly. This, and the mental toughness to stay focused in crunch time, was the reason for this sweet "W". So, you let Iverson score 40--a TEAM effort will beat that kind of performance every time.

The Truth "Pierces" Bobcats' Hide

2005-11-27T10:12:00.000-05:00

Ho-hum. Another taut, last-second victory for the 16-time World Champions, this time a 90-89 buzzer-beater over the Charlotte Bobcats. Inexplicably in their new "road" unis (which, by the way, actually combine tradition, style AND coolness), the Celts erased two straight defeats with a dearly-needed victory at the Gaaden.

Raef LaFrentz added 22 points and 10 boards along with 25 points from Ricky Davis, as the Green, who won without Delonte West (hurt) or Mark Blount (DNP), improved to 5-7 and next face the Magic at home on Monday.

Ve-LOSS-o-RAPTORS Just The Ticket

2005-11-21T13:32:00.000-05:00

What better opponent to waltz into our midst than the woeful Toronto Raptors? The Celtics took care of the winless cagers from AmericaLite with little trouble in a 100-93 win at the Gaaden. The emerging offensive duo of Paul Pierce and Ricky Davis scored 26 each--with The Truth adding 11 rebounds. Mark Blount and Delonte West also hit double-figures in scoring--with Blount nailing key buckets down the stretch.

It is still so hard to say whether this Celtic team will be as interesting to watch in the dog days of February and March, but as for right now, they sure beat the Bruins!

Facing The Iron Now

2005-11-15T19:21:00.000-05:00

After Sunday's electrifying win over the once mighty Rockets, the Celtics face an undefeated foe in the Pistons, and a true test of their 2005-2006 mettle. In the wake of Raef LaFrentz's astonishing 7-for-7 3-point show, the Celts will need to tighten up the defensive screws against Detroit. They were able to run wild on the slothful Rockets, but tonight will likely be a quite different story.

A Dish In Time..............

2005-11-10T10:01:00.000-05:00

Now that's more like it! This intriguing cadre of Celtics got it right this time, pulling out a come from behind, buzzer-beating win over Memphis 99-98. Paul Pierce had another All-Star caliber night with 29 points, 7 boards and 8 assists. But his best contribution was on assist #8, dishing off to Ricky Davis for a foul-line jumper that sealed the deal.

You start to get the sense that Doc Rivers may be molding something kind of special here. These guys (young and old, compliant and cantankerous) are listening and, as a result, playing pretty smart basketball. Solid contributions by Mark Blount (comeback player of the year so far) and Delonte West as well as great bench minutes from Ryan Gomes made this seem like a total team effort. Coming from 18 down to win this one may not presage a 17th World Championship, but it is just what the DOC-tor ordered.

Double-Digit Disaster

2005-11-06T14:14:00.000-05:00

Is it going to be like this all year? In another painful loss (this time in OT), the Celtics relinquished a double-digit 4th Quarter lead and fell to the lowly Bobcats 107-105. This one should have gone in the win column, as Paul Pierce knocked in 32 and young Delonte West again impressed with big plays that got the team back in the flow. Once again, the glass appears half-full, it's just that it would be nice to quench our collective thirst a couple of more times early in the year.

What's Up, Doc??!!??

2005-11-05T17:28:00.000-05:00

I promise I won't use the "snatching defeat from the jaws of victory" line, but, WOW! Doc Rivers' decision to back off the in-bounds pass with .8 seconds left in last night's game directly led to the excruciating 82-81 loss to the Pistons. Rarely has a Garden crowd been taken from the thrill of victory to the agony of defeat so dramatically in less than one second, as Richard Hamilton nailed the buzzer-beater.

Grady little-like gaffe aside, the fact remains that this young team almost knocked off a much more seasoned and talented squad. This was not your New York Knickerbockers, so take heart, Nation!

Go West, Young Team!

2005-11-03T11:30:00.000-05:00

The Celtic's "point-guard" controversy may have ended on opening night. Delonte West delivered a near triple-double (14-9-9) and dazzled the crowd in the Green's 114-100 overtime win over the Knicks. While "The Truth" put on his usual All-Star performance (30 points) and Ricky Davis was nearly as good (27 points), it was West who seemed to make most of the big, momentum-turning plays (from key steals to monster offensive rebounds). West, who skies well beyond his height, out-played New York's Stephon Marbury at every turn.

Other notable positives have to be Mark Blount's lethargy-free romp to a 19-point night and Raef LaFrentz's respectable 14-point effort. Five guys in double figures is a good way to win ball games in today's NBA. Hey, they may not repeat as Atlantic Division Champs, but the first act in this 2005-2006 show has us salivating for an encore.

Welcome To ParquetNation!

2005-10-06T12:19:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the inaugural season of ParquetNation, a fan-based rational assessment of the 2005-2006 Boston Celtics.

We will provide game summaries, editorials, photos, links to media sources, and commentary by you, the fans.