The only thing I can think of to compare the amazing turnaround of the Celtics was the contrast between BB (Before Bird) and AB (After Bird). Sadly, this peak will be much shorter than that since the core of the Celtics are not young guys like Bird and McHale.
The Celtics clinched a playoff berth last night. This despite still not having their 2 new free agent signings. While all the world seems ablaze, and ablither, about the trades that took place, the Celtics continue to win in convincing fashion. They had a small blip when KG returned to the line-up, but have gotten back on track. They clinched by defeating the supposedly superior Detroit Pistons in convincing fashion (a little shout out to Screamin’ A. Smith). That’s a 2-1 season advantage for the guys in Green. The loss a last second loss on a great play by Billups.
The Celtics are the team guys want to play for. They got 2 solid veterans to join them on their quest to bring basketball glory back to Boston after an all too lengthy absence. P.J. Brown is a solid, smart player. He provides some great protection for the playoffs. We don’t have to rely on Perkins, Powe and BBD. The playoffs are different, and KG will need to get some rest in those games. Brown provides some great stability and on-court leadership. This signing becomes even more important with the news that Scot Pollard is done for the year. Not that he’s done much due to that injury, but he is an experienced playoff performer.
Sam I Am, aka The Alien, shores up the biggest weakness on the Celtics: back up PG. I like Rondo, but I fear a late minute playoff meltdown for the sophomore player. Sam can play those vital minutes in close games to pull out the victory. I don’t expect a big shot out of him, but calm playmaking ability of a seasoned former-champion.
The Celtics re-stocked for the playoffs with some experienced guys, without giving up any of the talent that got them to this point. Danny Ainge was patient, and his patience paid off. Now this team has time to integrate the new guys and prepare for that playoff push necessary to bring a title back to Beantown. Aaaaw, yeeeah!
