Boston Celtics (0-0) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (0-1)
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
7:30pm
Broadcast: CSN/WEEI
Boy, it's good to be back.
The 2010-2011 Boston Celtics, at long last, will take the floor for the first time tonight in Manchester, New Hampshire, against the Philadelphia 76ers.
We all know how well the offseason went. We all know how well training camp went. Let's play some basketball.
Projected Starters
Celtics: Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Shaquille O'Neal
76ers: Jrue Holiday, Andre Iguodala, Thaddeus Young, Elton Brand, Spencer Hawes
Injuries
Celtics: Kendrick Perkins (knee) and Jermaine O'Neal (hamstring) will not play in tonight's game.
76ers: Thaddeus Young (eye) is listed as day-to-day, but he did play last night in Philly's loss to the New Jersey Nets.
What We Know
Considering it's the first preseason game, the stats, observations from previous games, and formulated opinions aren't readily available just yet. But here's what we do know:
- The starters should play between eight and 14 minutes tonight.
- Semih Erden and Luke Harangody should see extended time along the frontline.
Predictions and Observations
- I would personally expect to see a decent amount of Von Wafer and Mario West. Their respective playing times could fluctuate as the preseason progresses, as Doc Rivers continues to get a feel for who is the best fit for the 15th and final roster spot.
- The Celtics practiced earlier this afternoon, so it is possible that some players will be fatigued for tonight's game.
- All eyes will be on Kevin Garnett for as long as he's out there. The reports out of training camp maintain that he's looking much better than last season. Let's see how he does in a real game setting.
- I predict Rondo's first assist will go to either Shaq or KG.
- Let's hope the Celtics don't go the route of the Miami Heat and lose a star player to injury mere minutes into the game. (Dwyane Wade suffered a strained right hamstring against the Pistons last night, in case you didn't hear).
So, for the first time this season: Let's go Celtics.
FYI: Our own Jimmy Toscano will be at the game, tweeting updates.