Paul Pierce is a scorer. One of the best ever to wear a Celtics uniform. Today he only finished with 9 points. So you might be tempted to say that he didn't play well. Not so fast.
Celtics Vs. Bulls: Paul Pierce Makes Different Impact In Sunday's Win - SB Nation Boston
But that doesn't mean he didn't have an impact. Pierce played solid defense and was tied for a game-high with four steals, and he also made a few clutch baskets down the stretch, as he continued to display that he can contribute in other ways in the Celtics' 95-91 win over the Bulls at TD Garden. Pierce's biggest impact came on the defensive end, where he virtually shut down Luol Deng (10 points, five rebounds in 42:43), who is making his first All-Star appearance this year. In the last meeting with the Celtics, Deng dominated Pierce and company, putting up 21 points while grabbing 16 rebounds in a Bulls win at TD Garden. "You've really got to focus in on him," Pierce said. "He's an All-Star this year, and you know with Derrick Rose being out, I really just wanted to make a conscious effort of just slowing him down, doing what I can to keep a body on him, keeping him off the offensive rebounds. Just for the most part, you have to slow him down with the lineup they have out there, you give yourself a great chance of winning tonight."
Sounds like a guy leading by example. Would you expect any less?
(Don't worry, I'll write about Rondo soon)