Problems Solved
by Wilbert on Dec 20, 2011 10:33 AM EST
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PrintLast season we've talked a lot on how Boston had difficulty creating offense, struggled in rebounding and had an uneven bench. At the start of this season, with no cap space and no assets to dangle, not much was expected to get solved and I honestly thought things might just get worse. But again we've underestimated DA. After the roster finally took shape, it looks like these problems can and will get solved:
1. Offense - I believe much of the problem with our offensive difficulties falls squarely on our thin bench. Doc was forced to play PP and RA (sometimes KG) with the second unit to have a go to guy when the offense can't get anything going. Instead of getting their needed rest they have to play an extended period of time. And when the second unit just falls apart, Doc has no choice but to bring back earlier than expected, most if not all of the starting five, to restore order. By the 4th quarter, naturally, they are winded and with an offense that mostly revolves around the players from the first five the opposing team doesn't even have to make a lot of adjustments, making it easier for them to figure out our offensive sets and stifle the offense.
Now with a bench consisting of Dooling, Daniels, Bass and Wilcox we have guys who can finish or create their own shots. Perhaps Doc will still play PP or RA with the second unit but hopefully, not so much as before with these additional offensive arsenals. Even the rookie Moore has shown a lot of potential with his shooting range and lack of hesitation in getting things done offensively.
2. Rebounding - I read before that partly the rebounding problem can be blamed to the C's commitment to defense. After they get their shots off they would scamper immediately on the other end to avoid any fastbreaks or easy shots, giving no or a very slim chance to get an offensive rebound. The other part I guess would be the frontcourt: JO was mostly limping, KG and Nenad are both jump shooters so they mostly hang around the outside.
Now with Bass and Wilcox we have 2 younger guys who are athletic and have the frames to battle for rebounds plus they play effectively around and above the rim. JO seem healthier this season as well and if KG,as reported, would really play the 5 occassionally this season, can lure the opposing C outside with his jump shooting threat, giving Bass or Wilcox or JO or even PP more chances to collar the offensive rebound.
3. Bench - We've given raves to how DA managed to assemble a better bench than expected so I wouldn't go on further about the merits and advantages of having Dooling, Daniels, Bass and Wilcox on the bench. The real story after these 4 players is who will step up among the younger guys in Johnson, Moore and Bradley (possibly even Brown). Doc has given Moore raves in the training camp and Moore showed us where these praises were coming from after his strong showing at the televised scrimmage and the pre season game against the Raptors. Even if he was initially overshadowed by the drafting of fellow Purdue teammate Johnson, he seemed determined to show that he is worth the roster spot with his strong plays, mental toughness and fearlessness. Now I am hoping that with the attention that Moore is getting, Johnson would take this as an additional motivation to elevate his game before he gets left out in the regular rotation that the team will work with when the season opens.
Admittedly, we are still going to have some difficulty matching the talent of teams like the Heat, Bulls or the 2 LA's but an upgraded roster means additional chances to compete better. The bench will provide added depth but as with all experts and fans, the fate of the season rests heavily still on the Big 3 and Rondo. For games to be won, despite all the talk of getting old and windows closing, the C's will be looking for them to win games for us.
Be respectful and keep it clean. Thanks.
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There's two more open spots?
I believe there’s 2 open spots to be filled. Center position and Small Forward?
I disagree with you that the second units offense has been fixed
We do not have a go to scorer or playmaker on the bench.
Wilcox is a great finisher, he can give us much of what Shaq gave us early in the year last season. But his offense will depend almost entire on offensive boards, Rajon Rondo, and the Big 3.
Brando Bass is a very similar player to Glen Davis. Both finished at the rim at around the same percentage last year and both take a lot fo 18 foot jump shots that are created by defensive rotations. Bass is an big upgrade in that he’s a better shooter than Davis, but he doesn’t create his own shot or opportunities for others.
Dooling is a streaky three point shooter who is unreliable at running an offense. I like him as a defensive PG but I’m not sold on him being a playmaker off the bench.
Daniel is probably our best bet for a playmaker off the bench, when he’s playing well he does a good job at handling the ball. But his injury woes are a giant red flag for me and I worry about him having far too much responsibility as our primary back up wing who also has to handle the ball.
Hard to argue that.
Daniels would be that guy, as you mentioned, but it comes with a big “IF he can stay healthy” tag.
Although I do think Bass can create more offensive for himself then Davis. He is much quicker with the ball, and if teams switch him and he gets a mis match, he can shoot over smaller defenders from 15 ft with ease. Bass can definitely get his own offense, the question is, how consistently will it happen? But then again, that’s the question with all bench players.
They all got talent, they wouldn’t be in the NBA if they didn’t, but can we see it for more than just the once on a blue moon “Shrek and Donkey” game? And yes, that was a not so subtle jab at Nate and Big Baby, who infuriated me to no end over the past couple years.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
Greg Stiemsma (copy and paste jobber, but this guy was pretty good the other night)
What Greg Stiemsma lacks in NBA experience he makes up for in frequent flyer miles.
Don't fake the funk on a nasty dunk
this is what i meant to copy -
http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/celtics/post/_/id/4687093/stiemsma-looks-to-avoid-traveling-call
Don't fake the funk on a nasty dunk
Based on the 2 minutes and one tip in he had?
Look, not saying I don’t disagree with you, I thought his defensive presence was solid, and he was going up against starters… albeit Toronto’s starters, which doesn’t say a whole lot.
But still, he was on the floor all of 3 minutes in that game. I’m not going to get too excited just because he managed that final tip in.
He’s got potential, he’s a great defender and could potentially be the best shot blocker on the team right now (no disrespect to JO) but it’s going to take more than that to be a viable rotation player.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
I agree with most of
what you’re saying about being patient and seeing, but I would say the same to you about him being “a great defender”. Just remember that defending in college and the D-League is way different from defending in the NBA
"Chemistry is something that you don't just throw in a frying pan and mix it up with another something and throw something on top of that and then fry it up and put in a tortilla and put it in microwave, heat it up, give it to you and expect it to taste good. You know? If y'all don't know what I'm talking about then you can't cook and this doesn't concern you."
by KGHurtYourFeelings on Dec 20, 2011 1:55 PM EST up reply actions
Er, not saying I don't agree, I meant.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
he played 4:02
- and i thought he looked pretty good, like i said – that’s all
Don't fake the funk on a nasty dunk
Fair enough.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
Chris Mannix on WEEI: Celtics no better than 6th seed...WTF?
Chris Mannix on WEEI: Celtics no better than 6th seed
He says that Miami, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia and Indiana are better than the Celtics, picks the Thunder to win the NBA championship, says Boston should sign Joel Pryzbilla and raves about Perkins.
He also talks about how the Celtics aren’t attractive to veteran free agents like they once were.
“In the past Boston had been able to sign those guys at the veteran minimum because they were the Celtics and they were a championship contender,” he said. “Now guys like that are going to Miami, Chicago, Oklahoma City and LA. They’re not going to the Celtics anymore because they think the window has closed.”
I get everybody is entitle to his or her opinion, but the criticism the Celtics have been taken from the media lately is unbelievable. The season has not started yet and some in the national media and New England media are ready to throw dirt on their grave.
I get the Celtics are not what they use to be, but to say that the Knicks, Sixers and Pacers are better without a single game being played is beyond me. So we assume the Knicks are better because they added Chandler? What moves have the Sixers mad to be considered better? The Pacers signed David West, but who else for Mannix to consider them better?
Doubt, cynicism and criticism should be a motivational for the Celtics to come out the gate running hard. Can some of us and the media at least what until some games are played instead of making pre-mature predictions.
I think he may be right re: all but Philly, and if they look that weak relatively, Danny may blow it up. He's also right about FAs.
I agree re: Joe P., but don’t think OKC wins it all.
Agree. It's premature to add Philly, Indiana, NY
To the ‘list’ of who is better than the Celtics. These teams are largely unproven and only look good on paper. I can only see Miami and Chicago ahead of us.
It’s guaranteed that most of the free agent signings will not pan out. So I’m not too worried about them going to other teams. I already have a friendly bet of the first three free agents to go down, ie. – blow out their knees, wrist, elbow, etc
We were hearing the exact same noise in the media...
… two years ago. And we got to within 6 minutes of winning it all.
These pundits/ writers aren't very insightful or on target
They (the pundits, analysts….) virtually always just follow the prior season finish for the teams they pick for the top. They look at the Celtics with whatever colored glasses the media line has labeled them with and for the Celtics it is aging/declining, with a sense that they have been in decline over the last two years because they didn’t win two years ago and didn’t make the finals last year. That’s their take for what it isn’t worth, despite any look that goes just beneath that surface reveals stats and events don’t support that.
But they don’t remember details, just bottom lines. Even though the Celts win with Perk in game seven two seasons ago and with a healthy Rondo they may have very well extended the Heat series to the a hard to predict seventh game. They have not gotten the breaks they needed and almost every champion needs to avoid bad breaks at the wrong time. KG, Allen and Pierce have had amazing staying power in their productivity and could have won either of the last two seasons if the cast around them had not been snake bitten. Same probably holds for this year with the caveat that this whole season is more unpredictable with the short training camps, dense schedule, late player movement and heightened early season injury risk that may facing all teams.
This year’s team has the pieces to fit together to go far. They do not need any big upside surprises, even with the loss of Jeff Green, but with his loss they have less margin for bad surprises. Any nice surprises will help with that margin, but they probably can’t get past a long term injury to a key player (big 4 or even JO or Bass), without a couple of big surprise on the plus side, and they can’t have one of those badly timed injuries that did them in the last two seasons.
by SteveZ from Edgemont on Dec 20, 2011 4:28 PM EST up reply actions
Much to be excited about
Jermaine ONeal was a legitimate All Star center and he isn’t that old and he’s never played alongside a talent like KG. And, he’s a better scorer than Perk. Pierce also is an underrated defender. If JO is healthy we are a better team, aside from what is on the bench.
From the bench, a designated go-to scorer is mostly a fiction. There was Vinny Johnson who was that but most other great consistent scorers aren’t on the bench. Ben Gordon was a handful at times. More than anything from the bench we need high energy, speed and muscle and Danny has assembled that. Dooling instead of D West was Danny’s call and I trust he knows better. Bass and Wilcox and Daniels and Pavlovic (do not forget him) are NBA talents and Moore, Johnson, Bradley, Stiemsma all look like they have something to offer. If one or two get on court that’s as good as you can expect.
Agree
that we must not forget about Pavlovic as he may (especially with Green out now) play a bigger role this season then was expected and does have the talent to help the C’s with his scoring capabilities, tough defense and muscle (that the C’s could use more of ) that he has to offer coming off the bench.
Mostly true, but can't agree on Pavlovic.
I think if we’re sitting here expecting him to fill in for Green, we’re going to be in for a sore surprise.
Pavlovic was a fringe bench player even at his best, and he’s spent the last 4 years being statistically one of the most inefficient players in the ENTIRE NBA. So… ya, don’t hold your breathe there, and play Daniels stays healthy so we don’t have to see much of him.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
I think...
considering the C’s bench was disseminated with injury’s last year this years bench does have more to contribute on both the defensive and offensive ends of the court.
I agree fully with your viewpoints on the C’s rebounding and also think it could improve this year with the additions of Bass, Wilcox, Greg, JJ and depending on what other center Ainge possibly adds to the roster.
So hopefully a deeper and healthy bench this year will help remedy some of the deficiencies that occurred last year due to the C’s injury riddled bench.
+1
The only regular on the Celtics bench last season was Big Baby, all others were either traded or out with injuries for a good part of the season (or in Bradleys case sent to the D-League). A more consistent bench (healthier, more mature) will help a lot. If it even is a bit more talented, that’s just gravy to me :)
by European NBA fan on Dec 20, 2011 12:46 PM EST up reply actions
Rankings are BS.
The basis of these low rankings that Boston is getting from experts seem to revolve around the age of the Big 3 and the window closing talk. But if you look around the league there are a handful of old players like Billups, Nash and Battier who are still coveted by teams but when people talk about them their age are rarely or not at all mentioned.
In the case of Boston when people talk about the Big 3 their “oldness” will always be attach to them and their talents seem like an afterthought. And I think the reason for that is because they are on the same team and we rely heavily on them so it is easier for them to highlight their age and the possible decline in their abilities as a result of the added years.
But if Billups and Nash are still regarded as top PG’s in the league and Battier is still tasked to chase after the offensive weapon of the other team without people making a big deal of their age, I don’t see why experts and even fellow Celtics fans can’t look beyond the age of Pierce, Allen and KG.
I don't necessarily
think that the celtics are too old yet. BUt you have to understand that those 3 players are essentially are core, and all 3 of them are old. You can’t compare them to individual players. BIllups and Battier are role players on young teams. Nobody thinks Nash is going to win a championship.
Again, I think they may have 1 last run left in them, but questions about their age are completely valid.
"Chemistry is something that you don't just throw in a frying pan and mix it up with another something and throw something on top of that and then fry it up and put in a tortilla and put it in microwave, heat it up, give it to you and expect it to taste good. You know? If y'all don't know what I'm talking about then you can't cook and this doesn't concern you."
by KGHurtYourFeelings on Dec 20, 2011 12:50 PM EST up reply actions
Thank You
No one is looking at Billups or Battier as star players anymore. They are role players at best. Battier will spend more time on the bench than playing. Nash is no longer the best PG in the league either.
People just have to face it. The age of the players has a negative impact on performance. We all knew this was coming.
Well said.
I wont sit here and say there aren’t some serious concerns, and very valid ones. But the ones who take it too far I have an issue with (Read: Chris Mannix) if this team can stay healthy, they have every bit as good a chance as anyone else.
If come playoff time they don’t have their whole team healthy, then obviously it’s going to be hard to win, but that’s the case for any team in the NBA. If healthy, they still have the ability, and I don’t want to hear anyone tell me that’s not true.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
Their older, but not old. I think the term ‘old’ is used casually too much with no accurate explanation. I think there is a double standard when it comes to Celtics core 3. Look at veteran teams like the Suns, Spurs and Mavs all their star players are pass prime too.
Battier was never a star, but a known and respected role player that played defense. As far as Billups he blossomed late in his career and was known as one of the better point guards in the NBA. But now that we in live a media driven culture by the likes of ESPN we have to hear about the Heat or Clippers 24/7.
I think Billups and Battier are giving a pass because they play of those teams.
healthy Celtics come playoffs = contender
If the Celtics are healthy come May then Miami and Chicago will be dreading having
to play Boston in the second round. I am liking what Ainge has done. Bass and Rondo
look like they will be a deadly combination. Dooling is a good perimeter defender,
which will be needed against the Heat. If a swingman and backup center can be signed,
then the bench will be strong enough. I would like to see DeShawn Stevenson signed.
Maybe Pryzibilla will play one more year and sign with Boston?
i don’t know about thiis years’ team. the experts are discounting the big 3 as too old and rondo as a bum shooter. they might have a lot left if doc paces them and rondo always surprises. jo has to stay healthy and that’s a big if. the bench is better and will have to play minutes and play d. i always hope for more and this year is no different. will the 2 rooks perform? i hope doc gives jj some chances, but we all know how doc hesitates with rooks.
I saw Thornton play many times
down here in Fla for the Noles and this kid can score & rebound : 6’8’’ -235lb
lets agree were old.
But can we agree that though old, they old 4 can play well for 20-24 minutes instead of 36?
if so whats wrong with this:
Jo 24, KG 28, PP 32, Ray 32
rajon 36 Wilcox 18 Bass 28 Marquis 26 dooliing/rookies/avery 16
thats all available minutes. There are always “ifs” but I think the old guys will be about as good as last year net, rondo will be better, and Bass, wilcox and Marquis upgrade the bench
memo to Mannix
See you in the Eastern Conference Championship dumbo.
Chris Mannix Comments = Fickle overblown media hype
I remember a lot of the same commentators fawning over the Cleveland Cavaliers two years ago and pronouncing the Celtics officially dead before they went through the Cavs and Magic to 7 games in the finals.
It amazes me how pundits/analysts can follow the NBA for years and still have no sense of perspective. No one picked the Dallas Mavericks to sweep the Lakers and win the title last year either. It’s just part of their business at some level to hop on whatever bandwagon is popular this week.
Unquestionably the Celtics are facing tougher competition in the East and losing Jeff Green is a huge blow. They’re hardly a lock for the Eastern Conference title but are they in the conversation? You’d be foolish to dismiss them before the season has even begun.
Teams like Chicago and the Knicks are unproven as title contenders in my mind. Based on last year’s postseason it seems like if someone can slow down Derrick Rose (e.g. Rondo) than the Bulls are at a huge disadvantage offensively. A lot of their players are younger with little to no playoff experience so it’s tough to predict how they’ll respond to the pressure of big moments.
The Knicks got Tyson Chandler but they’re still playing in D’Antoni’s offense-first system with Carmelo and A’mare who don’t play much defense between them. Will Chandler make up for this completely? Will they be able to figure out how to play together effectively in the shortened season? If the answer is yes to both of these then the Knicks will be as good as people are saying they are this week.
I think facing the Knicks or Chicago this postseason the Celtics have a good chance of winning either series. Beating the douche nozzle Miami Heat would be more unlikely but I think the chances of the C’s upsetting them are considerable – especially if they’re being pegged as the underdogs, which always seems to bring out their best play.
There are too many unknowns at this point to say with certainty who are favorites in the East. What is certain however is that to say these factors:
1) the Celtics aging core is one year older
2) Philly has gotten a bit better
3) Indiana will be improved,
4) the Knicks had a nice pick up
means : Celtics are out of the hunt in the eastern conference
That is just idiotic.
age
People act like because the big 3 are older, that theyre not the big 3. They are still Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce. They perform at an elite level about 60% of the time instead of 100% of the time, but they are still the big 3.
+1
I would say 85%. They’re older, but they can still play at a high level because they’re in shape. These are the facts that some in the media will ignore purposely or unintentionally. Teams like the Heat and Clippers are the flavor of the month. Teams like the Lakers, Celtics, Spurs and Mavs are no longer the flavor because their star players are getting older.
That is how the game is played throughout the media. If you’re new you’re hot, if you’re old your not. When you’re hot you’re on top and when you’re not hot you’re at the bottom. Guys like Chris Mannix opinion comes and goes and carries no weight.
Changing of the guard...
It happens all the time in sports, but mostly basketball or baseball because veterans usually play up to 15 or 16 yrs depending on the age the started. Last season the Celtics and Lakers were the team to beat coming off that epic 7 game finals series.
The Celtics were the second best team record wise until Daniels and Shaq were hurt and when Perkins was traded. Once those events took place the media suddenly piled on the Celtics and Ainge for shipping Perkins. I guess the media felt it was a bad move being that the Celts were the second best team and that’s debatable argument.
After all that drama during the regular season the Celts finished 3rd in the east. Some believed finishing 3rd had a lot do with Perkins missing and not anchoring the defense. Being that Miami and Chi finished 1st and 2nd the media believes the C’s are now older. not what they once were and 3rd or 4th at best.
This is standard talk from the media before the NBA season starts. I think some in the media tend to over analyze, sensationalize certain teams while underestimating others. The fact is Garnett, Allen and Pierce are older which means they’re no longer in their prime, but they’re still 3 of the better players in the league.
I'm with you
See my comment up above where Mannix’s projections are discussed. And remember of course that the Celtics could not keep their supporting cast and bench healthy last year. Delonte,JO, Shaq, Perkins (recovering), Erden, Daniels, Baby and even Rondo (foot back, etc.) , That along with Perk’s contract forced the midseason moves and the big 3 to be a bit overused and the new bench to be very unassimilated, and still they were a Rondo playoff injury by a odd and maybe questionable Duane Wade maneuver, from a long and probably unpredictable series with the Heat.
by SteveZ from Edgemont on Dec 20, 2011 4:46 PM EST up reply actions
I don't have a big problem with the media rankings
since they don’t mean anything in the end. At worst they can serve as motivation for some players. Otherwise, they mean squat.
I just get annoyed when folks claim the Celtics have done nothing to get better than last year.
I have to ask, “Which Celtics? The team that was crushing everybody in the Fall of 2010? Or the team that was injury-riddled and limping at the finish line – yet still blew away the Knicks and played close with eventual Finals-runner-up Miami?”
Without a player like Shaq, it would be very hard for this team to be better than they were last Fall. While the big guy was still healthy, that starting 5 was one of the most dominant 5-man units that you’ll ever see.
But this team is fundamentally better than it was last spring. Just by virtue of being pretty much healthy, they are upgraded all over. But in particular up front. We ended the season with a just-back-from rehab JO and KG and not much else. Krstic was injured and ineffective. Big Baby was overweight, had a sore knee and was not only ineffective, but arguably a detriment when on the court. And Murphy just never got untracked and was for all intents and purposes, useless. Basically, outside of KG and a gimpy JO, WE HAD NO USEFUL BIG MEN!
This year, we have KG, a much, much healthier looking JO, Wilcox, Bass & Johnson. Those last three names are, imho, major, major upgrades over what we got out of Krstic, BBD & Murphy.
Yes, we lost Jeff Greene. And that stings. But we also got a surprise gift in the return of Marquis Daniels. Daniels may not have all the size & skills of Greene, so he won’t be asked to play the PF spot any time soon. But at the SF, if he’s back to where he was before his injury, he’s an excellent, excellent replacement. And so far, he has looked as good as he was.
I see Bass taking Green’s place most of the time when Doc wants to run his ‘Posey’ configuration with KG at the 5. That arguably is a better configuration than with Green because Bass, despite being a bit shorter, is a more natural PF.
Finally, another key area we have upgraded is behind Rondo. Last year, one of the biggest season-killers (among many season-killers) was the injury to Delonte’ that kept him out for so long. This meant we had no reliable backup PG and we ran Rondo into the ground and he was just plain beat up by the end of the season. Nate was good for a stretch, but he was inconsistent and also kept gettting injured. So this year, we have Dooling. Dooling is not a super-star. But he is a solid, veteran PG who the veterans on this team know pretty well. And he’s got a fairly healthy track record. He is going to be able to spell Rondo without giving Doc heart palpitations. That will keep Rondo fresh.
So in a nutshell:
a) Our bench bigs have been seriously upgraded.
b) The loss of Green as bench SF has been mitigated (mostly) by the return of Daniels.
c) Our bench PG has been upgraded.
These are significant improvements. On top of these things, we also have an assortment of young guys who we are not dependent on, but who could jell and make a big impact at some point during the season. If in no other way but than to help keep other guys fresh.
One possible negative is that with MD most likely to put in more minutes at SF, we are weaker in the bench behind Ray. Pavs is always a dependable defensive sub, but not a reliable scorer. However, Moore and Bradley may emerge to give us something here.
Overall, I think there is no question Danny has improved the team. Will we contend for a title? Who knows. We still have to stay healthy – injuries can derail any team. But if we do stay healthy I think our chances are as good as any other team’s.
NBA Officiating - Corrupt? Incompetent? Which is worse? Does it matter? It sucks.
by mmmmm on Dec 20, 2011 2:26 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
I don't have a big problem with the media rankings, but...
to suggest that the Knicks, Sixers and Pacers are some how better is absurd. These teams have not been contenders for years and now because they did some tweaks to rosters they’re some how better than a team such as the Celtics that’s been proven for 5 years. Don’t buy it.
Any team can look good on paper, but u got to prove it when u hit the court and overall record. So far these teams have not done either. There’s no argument or debate on this issue. When the Celtics Big 3 got together in 2007-2008 they had to prove how good they were on court.
Rondo
Rondo was playing with a foot condition last year right?
Look for Rondo to have a really good year. Bass is much
more athletic than Davis and can run the floor and with Rondo
feeding him – he is that much better. I have changed my mind
on the Celtics chances this year -especially with the prospect
of Ainge picking up a couple of players now that Green is gone.
Plantar Faciatis.
Painful foot condition that you really can’t do anything about other than rest.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
Plantar fascitis:
1.Eccentric calf raises…10x a day
2. lay towel out on floor in front of you while your seated. put your toes on edge of towel and curl toes to drag towel and bunch it under your feet
3.Wear the strassbug sock every night without fail
4. Wear toe spreaders for 2-3 hours a day, or use “happy feet” socks
5. Buy kuru shoes to wear during the day
6. after exercise, ice massage the bottopm of your foot
7. Massage your calves every day for 20-30 minutes
Its possible to get rid of PF fast its just a lot of effort
Ugh. My wife had plantar a year and a half ago. Extremely painful.
She tried all that. Nothing helped until we finally rearranged our lives for a bit so she could just get off her feet as much as possible for most of a couple weeks. And ice. Lots of ice.
Still bothers her at times. I don’t think it will ever completely go away.
NBA Officiating - Corrupt? Incompetent? Which is worse? Does it matter? It sucks.
talk about being optimistic....
some people need to face the truth, we’re just an average team.
worse than last year’s to say the least
What's wrong with being optimistic?
Is there something wrong with still believing in your team when u and others don’t? I’m not saying that the Celtics are still the dominant team they were from 2008-2011, but to write them off the way u and others are doing is simply premature.To suggest another team might be better because that team looks good on paper compare to an aging core is ridiculous.
The Knicks, Pacers, and Sixers have to prove themselves on the court to be considered better or the best.
How is that truth?
Just because your opinion is more pessimistic than optimistic, doesn’t make what you say anymore “true.”
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
?
Pessimistic would be mean more doubtful. Now I would admit that there is a changing of the guards with not only the Celtics, but teams like the Lakers and Spurs. That is common in sports, you don’t remain on top for ever if you’re the Lakers, Celtics or Spurs.
These are veteran ball clubs with superstars that are getting older and past their prime. No one on here is guaranteeing an instant finals, but it’s possible they can end up in the finals. It’s a short season and u never know what can happen with teams and players around the league.
Untill proven otherwise..
thwe same ole sorry a##ed clippers!
Talk is cheap!
Let your game do the talking and not your mouth. That would be my advise for Mannix and other reporters that never played a ounce of basketball.
Celtics might not be the elite team they once were, but...
“ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!!!”
Kevin Garnett 2008
"Never Underestimate the heart of a champion!" - Rudy Tomjanovich
I wonder if Doc could come up with a better quote..
I kind of like everyone underestimating the C's
Everyone has moved on and thinks that they’re done. The media only cares about where all the hot young talent is moving. Meanwhile the old men fly under the radar and bide their time until the playoffs with our new bench soaking up a lot of the minutes in a compressed schedule. No one expected the run to the finals two years ago, and I could easily see one more similar push IF they somehow manage to stay healthy.
PS – When I say “everyone” I’m excluding C’s fans, of course.
by Aluminum Penguin on Dec 20, 2011 3:09 PM EST reply actions
Feels like 2010.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
except that......
Miami is much better than the 2010 Cavs.
Debateable.
But let’s not debate it.
Point is still the same, we don’t know anything yet, and only time will tell.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
It is possible that are problems have been solved
but we are going to need solid game data over the next 30 days (18 games) to evaluate where we stand. We have a relatively easy schedule that must be taken advantage of to realize our potential to compete for an NBA championship this year.
The other teams in this league have similar challenges of roster turnover, lack of practice, and the threat of injuries all the way up to Miami and Dallas.
My guess is Oklahoma is a slight favorite to win it all in 2012 due to roster stability. Dallas, the two LA teams, Phoenix, San Antonio, and even Portland need consideration from the West.
Out of the East, Miami is the dead nut favorite, while it is us, NYK, Bulls, Magic, Indiana, the Hawks, and Philly as alternative competitors.
Danny would be wise to be patient and let the first two months play out and see what opportunities exist to improve the team at the trading deadline. Unfortunately he whiffed at last year’s trading deadline and an opportunity was lost.
Boston Celtics - 2008 World Champions
Boston Bruins - 2011 Stanley Cup Champions
New England Patriots - Super Bowl xxxvi, xxxviii, and xxxix champions
Boston Red Sox - 2004, 2007 World Series Champions
If somehow, somehow we can get DeShawn Stevenson and Dalembert.....
We will win the Championship this year!!
If somehow, somehow we can get DeShawn Stevenson and Dalembert…..
We will win the Championship this year!!
That’s not guaranteed just because two players are added doesn’t transform into instant title. It’s going to require team chemistry and hard work. Even though the Celtics are a veteran team they will have to play at a high level in order to reach that title goal.
No reason not to expect a Finals appearance
Injuries take a toll on every team. If we’ve already had ours (Greene) we have time to work out rotations. I’m excited for this year because Doc will have to use the bench more and will have to go deep into the youngs. He must watch the health of the Big 4 (in this case JO as #4). Therefore he has to spread the minutes.
Let’s see what Doc’s got. Belichek has an 11-3 team with a pretty weak defense. Good coaches earn their money when they are expected to lose but win.
I’m always an optimist but I like the two rookies. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the box score have 12 players most nights.
Yesh, Sort of
Last season, the C’s were short on length and athleticism. Wilcox, Bass & co has addressed that, to an extent. Scoring? Well, giving up a 10-pt lead vs Toronto (Toronto?) was not exactly encouraging. That said, Bass is clearly an upgrade even the Pundits agree). As is Wilcox, Quis is Quis. he wont carry you, wont let you down, JJ and Stem-cells? one can only hope. And who doesnt lie what EM has shown? Moore(s), please.
"Celtics bring order and structure to a chaotic world"
"giving up a 10-pt lead"
To be fair – that was pretty much an all-newbie squad on the floor against Toronto’s starters that gave up that lead in the fourth period.
No matter how talented, you can’t throw a unit of guys who’ve barely practiced together a handful of times and who consist mainly of rookies and second year vets and expect them to perform at a high level against NBA starters.
If Doc had left his top rotation guys on the floor, I have no doubt that they would have ended up crushing Toronto by 15-20 pts.
NBA Officiating - Corrupt? Incompetent? Which is worse? Does it matter? It sucks.
My only concern is adding more size to the bench. I think if the Celtics are serious at more one last title run, then another big man and wing defender would be helpful. But Danny Ainge and Doc rivers can be stubborn at times so I’m concerned that neither will address that problem.
I don't think it is being stubborn. They aren't going to add a less talented big man just because he's big.
They only have limited means by which they can acquire someone and so the pickings are very slim. If none of the guys who they can actually afford looks like an actual positive contributor to the team then why should they blow money on any of them?
Most every C that’s left is either too expensive or crap and not worth the trouble.
We don’t need another Mickey Moore.
Otherwise, right now we have much better size off the bench than we had most of last year. Last year we seemed to never have more than two C’s healthy at a time. And our bench PF depth behind KG were the height-challenged BBD & the should-really-only-be-playing-SF Green.
This year we have a 5 guys on the roster who are 6-10 or taller. We have 3 guys of legitimate size who can play C in JO, Wilcox & Stiemsma(four if you count KG). And with Wilcox, Bass & Johnson, we have much more length and size backing up KG at the PF spot.
NBA Officiating - Corrupt? Incompetent? Which is worse? Does it matter? It sucks.
As for Them Pundits..
There’s notoriety to be had in contrarian nay-saying (Cs 3rd? Bo-ring). Since no one has to say their sorry, its all good crack. It could happen, worst case, injuries, but in all liklihood:
MIA will continue to steam-roll regular season oppts and find the off-season another story.
Chi? still not over the scoring hurdle.
NY? Chandler does not fit D’As system. Guard rotation is poor. Amare an injury risk.
Indy? has some players but no threat to Chi
Orlo? The have downgraded. Dwi wont carry them. Baby is not the answer.
Atl. No change.
Phila? Phila? Serioulsy?
C’s. Win Atl. Playoffs? Could be 09 again. Or, not.
"Celtics bring order and structure to a chaotic world"
O-rebounding
Re. the OP’s second point. Wilcox and Bass both had ORRs the same as Shaq’s last year, which was twice anyone else on the Celtics. So there is some room for optimism for an improvement in offensive rebound. But still, their rates are a little low compared to most big men. You could argue that playing with Howard decreased Bass’s chances for ORs, as did playing with Wallace for Wilcox. Still, I doubt our league-low ORR will improve much this year.
Which is fine, as long the transition D is tight.
How are the problems solved?
Here is the main thing I don’t get. The Celts lost a guy who many here expected big things from and who was expected to be the 6th man who could score in bunches. Yet, all the problems are solved and they are going to contend for the championship. I just don’t get it. I like Bass and Wilcox, but Bass is maybe a 10-15 percent upgrade over Baby and Wilcox is nowhere near as good as Shaq was when he was healthy last year. Then there is Dooling who is an upgrade over Delonte because he will likely play more games. Overall I would say the bench is better than what they ended the season with, but it is not nearly as good as the bench that the C’s started with last year.
And, the injuries have already started with Pierce now looking like he will miss the season opener. This won’t be the last injury of the year.
Bass, Wilcox, Dooling, Daniels are a significant upgrade over last years supporting cast.
So, the thought is, last years team was in contention, if it wasn’t for the injuries (JO, Shaq, Rondo) and, with the improve bench, they’re in a better position than they were a year ago.
That’s the idea, at least.
And you are right on your last statement, last year they started the year with Shaq, West (although serving a suspension at the time), Davis, Robinson, and Daniels coming off the bench.
I’m not sure that’s “better” but it’s pretty equal. Injuries derailed it quickly, JO went down, Shaq soon after, West comes back, them breaks his wrist, Daniels gets hurt, and Robinson, well, he just sucked.
All in all, I think the bench this year is as good as any we’ve seen in the big 3 era (I’d ventue as far as to say this bench gives the 2008 Posey/Powe/Brown bench a run) and if everyone stays healthy, should have as good as support for the starting five as we’ve seen yet.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
That still doesn't answer the question of how Jeff Green all of a sudden became a non-factor
What I am assuming is that if the C’s had Green, then many here would make them the odds on favorite to win the championship.
lol
you always said Green was a bum. Now you’re saying we are screwed because he’s gone?
If you didn’t think he was going to be a big factor in the first place, why are you now asking others to explain why he won’t be a big factor?
A player you never thought was a big deal is out, and now you want others to explain how we are going to possibly compensate for his loss?
"Chemistry is something that you don't just throw in a frying pan and mix it up with another something and throw something on top of that and then fry it up and put in a tortilla and put it in microwave, heat it up, give it to you and expect it to taste good. You know? If y'all don't know what I'm talking about then you can't cook and this doesn't concern you."
by KGHurtYourFeelings on Dec 21, 2011 10:47 AM EST up reply actions
Point out to me where I said he was a good player in my post
I am referring to others here who have sung his praises all along and talked about how important he was to the team. Now he is gone and yet it seems as if his loss means nothing to the team,.
To be clear - I am not saying "we are screwed" because he is gone
I didn’t think the Celts were going to win the championship with or without Green, but I was hoping he would show a little more this year than last.
I'm not sure anyone truly "thinks they're going to win a championship"
Well, some might. But most I’d say aren’t going to outright believe “yes, they’re going to win.”
What I do think, is they have a chance, as good (or bad, depending on your opinion) as they did last year. It’s not crazy, it’s not insane, it’s not blind homerism, it’s a belief that this team has the talent that if things fall together right, it’s entirely possible.
The Mavericks proved last year, that a veteran team, with the right pieces that has a few things go their way can absolutely pull it off. That’s where the Celtics are right now. I’m not saying they’re the favorites, I’m not even saying I’d put money on them at even odds, I’m just saying if they have a little bit a good luck (read: health) then they have just as good of a shot as anyone else out there.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
The loss of Green was a surprise blow.
But the return of Marquis was a surprise gain.
That doesn’t completely mitigate the loss of JG, but it helps a lot.
The irony of course is that it was the loss of MD (along with the lack of any healthy Centers) that prompted the trade to get Jeff Green & Krstic.
NBA Officiating - Corrupt? Incompetent? Which is worse? Does it matter? It sucks.
So if Marquis Daniels is almost as good as Jeff Green....
it amazes me that that they were willing to pay Jeff Green $9 million, while Marquis is probably making a little more than $1 million.
Green is 5 years younger and has (if healthy) more upside.
Also, like with many things, you pay a lot more to get that extra 10%. It is definitely not linear.
Ultimately, the price is dictated by things beyond your control. Marquis’ market leverage was almost zero. Coming off his injury he was not going to get more than vet minimum from any team. Fortunately, the C’s were a familiar, natural fit to go back to. He’s more valuable to us, even if we can’t pay him any more (because of the CBA) than anybody else would.
If Marquis has a solid year, posting ~20 minutes per game and getting through the season healthy, then he will probably be able to garner a much, much bigger pay check for next season.
NBA Officiating - Corrupt? Incompetent? Which is worse? Does it matter? It sucks.
Just for sense of market perspective
Marquis, between the ages of 25-28 made between $5.4M – $6.9M each year. So if you add in a bit for NBA salary inflation and another bit for Green being considered a better player, then the $9M we were going to pay Green at a similar age today doesn’t seem that different.
NBA Officiating - Corrupt? Incompetent? Which is worse? Does it matter? It sucks.
I'd say this, for this team, right now, Quis might be just as good as Green.
But what Green has, that Quis doesn’t, is ridiculous upside.
Quis is a health risk, obviously, and is considerably older. So it’s easy to see why he wouldn’t garner the same kind of pay day. It doesn’t mean he can’t be just as productive, maybe more so, than Green, for this year.
But Green’s upside, with his age and raw ability is what you’re paying for there.
"Phil is obviously a good coach. You don't win that many games without being a damn good coach, ... Remember one thing: He's been very fortunate. He picks his spots. That's all I can say." - Red Auerbach
Good post - I agree, all false hope aside
Comparing benches from this season to last, I think a lot of issues that troubled the Celtics have been remedied. From Big Baby to Brandon Bass is a HUGE improvement. Having Keyon Dooling able to play point behind Rondo is also a big upgrade over trying to force Nate Robinson or Avery Bradley into a PG role to replace an oft-injured Delonte. I think this will also mean that we won’t see Rondo wear down 3/4 of the way through the season as he did last year and begin playing at a sub-par level given his abilities.
Both Wilcox and Bass can fill some of the vast rebounding void that has been with the Celtics the last 3-4 years. The ability of both to run the floor and play above the rim also provides more options for Rondo offensively. More fast break points plus I think of the many alley-oop passes to KG that he could finish on with more reliability 3 years ago – now more of them going to Bass and Wilcox for whom it’s their bread and butter.
I think Avery Bradley has the potential to be a nice plus for them too if Doc can figure out a way to utilize his defensive skills effectively. It sounds like they want him to fill more of a Tony Allen-like role this year and he’s definitely better suited for this at his present level of development as a player. He’ll be able to fill some of the need for an elite perimeter defender with a bit more experience under his belt. I’m really looking forward to seeing what Jajuan and E’twuan can bring to the table too. I think both will be able to make meaningful contributions when they’re called on.
Outside of the big 4 the health of JO and Marquis Daniels is key for the Celtics. That sounds bad given the recent injury history of both of them BUT I think that if we can assume :
1.) that JO can play in at least 2/3 of the regular season and is healthy for the playoffs
2.) Marquis’s surgery and recovery are anywhere near as miraculous as they seem now
then the Celtics will have a nice, solid supporting cast this year, definitely an improvement over last year. We’ll see how well it all works out.
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