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Celtics Top Performers
- Vitor Faverani: 15 points, 7 rebounds, 6 blocks
- Brandon Bass: 16 points, 9 rebounds, 6-10 FG
- Gerald Wallace: 14 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists
Nets Top Performers
- Andray Blatch: 14 points, 5 rebounds
- Reggie Evans: 11 points, 8 rebounds
- Tyshawn Taylor: 15 points, 3 assists, 1 steal
Key Game Stats
- Cetics outscore Nets in the paint 44-30
- Celtics out-rebound Nets 44-34
- Celtics assist on 20 of their 34 field goals
Takeaways
Vitor Faverani Makes His Case for Opening Night Starter
Despite facing what was mostly Brooklyn's second and third units, Vitor Faverani had easily the best showing of his young career.
The Brazilian big man cruised through his first NBA start, ending the night with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 (yes, SIX) blocks in 24 minutes of play.
Given the fact that Faverani is the only "true" center that this Celtics team possesses, this might not be the last time we see him in head coach Brad Stevens' starting lineup.
Boston will play their regular season opener next Wednesday in Toronto but will have another five practices beforehand. If Faverani can prove that he can remain consistent, Stevens may trot him out to start the 2013-14 campaign against the Raptors.
Brandon Bass Reminds Us He's Still an Option
In addition to a healthy Jared Sullinger, the acquisitions of both Kris Humphries and Kelly Olynyk led a lot of people to believe that Brandon Bass would be taking a back seat this season. However, Bass is doing his best to keep himself relevant within the Celtics organization, averaging 10 points and 7 rebounds over his last five preseason appearances.
The eight year vet had his best outing of the preseason this evening against the Nets, tallying 16 points on 6-10 shooting to go along with a game-high 9 rebounds.
It's hard to deny Bass' skills as well as his ability to play much bigger than he actually is. If nothing else, Bass could net the Celtics another asset from a playoff contender looking for a consistent, high-energy forward to bolster their rotation. In the meantime, though, Bass will surely help the Cs win some games along the way.
Jeff Green Should Be Fine
I'll be the first to admit, I held my breath as soon as I saw Jeff Green doubled over in pain midway through the fourth quarter. But according to CSNNE's Celtics sideline reporter, Abby Chin, Green had only sustained a significant blow to his "funny bone."
The 6'9 forward was sidelined for the remainder of the night but, prior to wrapping ice around the elbow, Green was seen doing push-ups in front of the Celtics bench. I think it's fair to assume that Green will be just fine after seeing him bang out a few reps but you know what they say about assuming.
Nevertheless, I'd caution you not to over-think the injury. Unless we hear otherwise, Green will surely be good to go on opening night.