Perkins' crutch, Posey's real value and anti-depressents for Jeff Green and Ed Malloy

Kendrick Perkins' crutch: Kendrick Perkins would not have made a difference in the outcome of this game. Jermaine O'Neal through five playoffs games has provided the Celtics with an equal if not better inside presence compared to Perkins. Through five playoff games JO has been better offensively and he has demonstrated an ability to block shots at a high level. In addition his defensive rotations have been exceptional. The only argument that you can make for Perkins is that he has rebounded the basketball slightly better then JO.

Jeff Green negativity: It's clear to everybody even myself that Jeff looks out of his comfort zone, but to say he has been completely unproductive is not true. Look at today's game. Jeff Green missed a few defensive rotations and failed to close out on James Jones on two occasions. He also got abused defensively by Lebron James on numerous possessions. However he did score nine points off the bench including two triples and a loud finish over Chris Bosh. Playing 18 minutes a night is a tough adjustment for a former starter who was used to playing 37 minutes a game. Nine points in 20 minutes is fairly productive especially today against Miami's stingy defense. Jeff Green nor the absence of Kendrick Perkins was the reason the Celtics lost today. 

The real James Posey: Since the Celtics acquired Jeff Green, a number of fans and a handful of analysts have compared him to former Celtic small forward James Posey. The conclusion between most people is that James Posey is significantly better on both ends of the floor. James Posey was clearly a better defensive player and better three point shooter, but offensively his numbers where not as good as one would think. During the 2008 NBA Playoffs with the Celtics, Posey averaged 6.7 points and 3.6 rebounds in 22 minutes of action. Let's look at the numbers further; against the Pistons and Cavaliers he averaged 5.4 points per game and 3 rebounds. He did have a stellar series against the Lakers averaging 8.7 points, but he averaged over 25 minutes in the series. 

Conclusion: James Posey was a far superior defensive player than what Jeff Green currently is. Statically through five playoff games with the Celtics Green's offensive numbers including rebounds are almost identical to Posey's. James Posey was a one dimensional spot up three point shooter. Jeff Green is more versatile offensively; he can score in a number of ways including post up moves, strong drives, mid-range jump shots, and the three pointer. Before you are quick to throw out the claim that Posey was way better, look at the numbers before you make the statement.

Referee Incompetence: Dwayne Wade ran full speed purposely in to Paul Pierce lowered his shoulder and was awarded a personal foul. Pierce muttered something, but walked away and was immediately tossed by referee Ed Malloy for what he ruled a "verbal taunt". In my opinion Wade's personal foul should have been a flagrant. On the other end Jermaine Oneal barely touched James Jones and he went flying. Jermaine was given a flagrant foul, which at the time was a big play because it resulted in a five point swing when the Celtics were making a run. There was another sequence in the second where Pierce was fouled hard by James Jones while shooting. James Jones flailed his arms down intentionally and struck Paul in the face, he had no intent of going for the ball. James Jones should have been given a flagrant on this play. The overall lack of consistency during the game is embarrassing. The Celtics were going to lose the game anyway, but the ejection and the flagrant foul on Jermaine O'Neal were inexcusable. Ed Malloy should not be allowed to work another game in this series.