CELTICS GREEN ...a boston celtics blog.

Struggling Celtics Host Equally Struggling Raptors

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:43:00 +0000

vs
Toronto Raptors (4-10) at Boston Celtics (4-8)
Wednesday, January 18
7:30 PM ET
Regular Season Game #13, Home Game #8
TV: CSNNE, SNET, NBA-LP 756
Radio: CJCL, WEEI
TD Garden

Referees: Derrick Stafford, Karl Lane, Tommy Nunez, Jr

This is the first regular season meeting between these two Atlantic Division teams. They met twice in the pre-season with the Celtics winning both of those games.

With the Celtics 3rd in the division and the Raptors 4th, they are fighting for the privilege of not being the worst team in their division. Both teams have lost 5 games in a row. The Celtics have lost their last 4 at home after winning their first 3 home games. The Raptors are 2-6 on the road.

The Celtics have yet to beat a team with a record over .500 but the Raptors aren't anywhere near that discussion. Right now, the Celtics just need a win and the 4-10 Raptors could be just what they need.

This should be a win for the Celtics. If not, the calls to blow the team up may get a lot louder.

Probable Starters
PGSGSFPFC
PG: Rajon Rondo
SG: Ray Allen
SF: Paul Pierce
PF: Kevin Garnett
C: Jermaine O'Neal

Celtics Reserves
Avery Bradley
Brandon Bass
E'twaun Moore
Greg Stiemsma
JaJuan Johnson
Sasha Pavlovic
Marquis Daniels
Mickael Pietrus

Injured
Keyon Dooling (knee) day to day
Chris Wilcox (calf) day to day

Probable Starters
PGSG SF PFC
PG: Jose Calderon
SG: DeMar DeRozan
SF: Rasual Butler
PF: Ed Davis
C: Amir Johnson

Raptors Bench
Linas Kleiza
Jamaal Magloire
Leandro Barbosa
Gary Forbes
Anthony Carter
Solomon Alabi

Injuries
Andrea Bargnani (calf) day to day
Jerryd Bayless (ankle) day to day
James Johnson (ankle) day to day
Aaron Gray (heart) out

Key Matchups
vs
Ray Allen vs DeMar DeRozan
Ray had an off game against the Thunder but other than that game, he has been the Celtics most consistent player. With both Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett struggling with their offense and Jermaine O'Neal insisting that offense isn't his role, the Celtics need Ray to have a big game. Hopefully the fall he took on his shooting hand won't have any lasting effect on his shot.

vs
Rajon Rondo vs Jose Calderon
The Celtics need Rondo to be aggressive yet again in this game. He should have an advantage over Calderon and needs to use his quickness and his aggressiveness to lead the Celtics to a win.

Honorable Mention
Kevin Garnett vs Ed Davis
KG has vowed to do whatever it takes to right the Celtics' ship. It doesn't help that he's been dealing with a sore ankle but sore ankle or not, he should be able to win this matchup.

Keys to the Game
Rebound - The Celtics have got to crash the boards to prevent second chance points. They finally out rebounded an opponent in their last game and they have to keep that effort up and not let it be a one game thing. The effort they put out on the boards will usually spread to other areas of the game as well.

Take Care of the Ball - The Celtics have been turning the ball over way too much. They will make a run in a game to tie it or take the lead and then they will turn the ball over several times only to dig themselves into a hole. They have to make smarter passes and pay attention to the opponents so as not to allow them to get an easy steal. They also have to handle the ball better and not drive into a crowd only to lose possession of the ball. The Thunder scored 24 points off of 19 Celtics turnovers. This is unacceptable.

Defense - The Celtics must make defense a priority in each and every game. They seem to play defense in spurts and in between they allow easy baskets and wide open shots. They must play strong defense all game. With the Raptors, they must particularly guard the perimeter as they love to shoot from beyond the arc.

Make Shots and Take Advantage of Opportunities - There are times when it seems as though no one on the Celtics can hit the broad side of a barn. They miss jumpers, layups, 3 pointers, and shots in the paint. I thing they lead the league in missed layups as there are several missed layups every game. This inability to hit shots keeps them from taking advantage of opportunities. They scored just 2 points off of turnovers in their last game and missed several fast break opportunities when they blew the shot or a layup.

Derrick Stafford
Stafford is currently in his 21st season as an NBA referee. He has officiated 1,000+ regular season games and 60+ play-off games. He worked for the US Postal Service for 10 years, which may explain his quick trigger when it comes to technical fouls. Stafford was fined as a result of a complaint that Lawrence Frank made when he was coach of the Nets and there are several other articles detailing complaints about Stafford for his actions or comments, including an ongoing feud with Pat Riley. Mr Stafford has a reputation as a hot head who loves to give out quick technicals and lash out at players and coaches. The Celtics are 6-4 over the last 10 games with Stafford on the court. The Raptors are 1-9 over their last 10 with Stafford. His home W/L record this season is 7-4.

Karl Lane
This is Lane's first season as a referee. He spent 7 years as a college referee. He has also officiated in the D-League for several seasons and was one of the replacement refs during the recent referee strike. This is his second game this season for the Celtics. He was one of the refs in the Detroit game, which the Celtics won. This is his first game for the Raptors. His home team W/L record this season is 4-5.

Tommy Nunez, Jr
Nunez has officiated over 200+ regular season games. He is the son of former referee and current Group Supervisor for the league, Tommy Nunez, Sr. He started his officiating career calling games in a Hispanic league in his neighborhood for $3.50 an hour. He moved on to callin high school and junior college games. His big break came while officiating an exhibition game with the Phoenix Suns. Darrell Garretson saw him work and suggested he try out to become an NBA referee. In 1972, Nunez became the first Hispanic to referee in any major sport. In the offseason Nunez works with at risk kids in job training programs. The Celtics are 7-3 in their last 10 games with Nunez and the Raptors are 5-5 in their last 10. His home W/L record this season is 5-5.

X-Factors
Focus and Desire
The Celtics have lost focus in each of their losses. They dig themselves into a hole and then play great ball to catch up and then seem to lose focus and make errors on both ends to let the other team bury them again. They must keep their focus and play good basketball for 48 minutes. If they want this win badly enough, and don't self destruct, they should be able to get it. .

Celtics Brace for the Return of Perk

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:34:00 +0000

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Oklahoma City Thunder (11-2) at Boston Celtics (4-7)
Monday, January 16
8:00 PM ET
Game #12, Home Game #7
TV: TNT, NBAC
Radio: WEEI, WWLS
TD Garden
Referees: Ron Garretson, Pat Fraher, Derek Richardson

The Celtics welcome Kendrick Perkins back to the Garden for the first time since that tragic day when he was traded to the Thunder. The Celtics fortunes have gone down hill considerably since the trade that sent Perk and Nate Robinson to the Thunder for Nenad Krstic and Jeff Green. In the meantime, the Thunder are on the top of the Western Conference and just 1/2 game behind the Bulls for the best record in the league.

Perk slimmed down and is healthy and playing very well for the Thunder while Krstic is playing in Europe and Jeff Green is out for the season after heart surgery. Even though Perk was crushed when he learned that he was traded, he couldn't have gone to a better team. The Thunder is a young team with great chemistry.

That brings us to this game. The Celtics have lost 4 in a row while the Thunder have won their last 6 including a blowout win over the NY Knicks in their last game. The Celtics need a win desperately but to get one in this game they are going to have to bring their A game. No slow starts, no let ups and no long droughts where they can't score.

I really hope Celtics fans give Perk the standing ovation he deserves in his return to the Garden. He loved it in Boston and gave it his all in every game he played for the Celtics and as Doc and KG have said in the past day or so, Perk is a Celtic for life, no matter what jersey he is wearing. Probable Starters
Point Guard
vs
Rajon Rondo 14.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 10.1 APG
Russell Westbrook 18.9 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 5.5 APG

Shooting Guard
vs
Ray Allen 17.5 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 2.4 APG
Thabo Sefolosha 5.0 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 0.7 APG

Small Forward
vs
Paul Pierce 14.6 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.9 APG
Kevin Durant 25.8 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 3.9 APG

Power Forward
vs
Kevin Garnett 13.5 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 2.4 APG
Serge Ibaka 6.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 0.7 APG

Center
vs
Jermaine O'Neal 5.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.7 BPG,
Kendrick Perkins 5.7 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 1.2 BPG

Celtics Reserves
Brandon Bass
Marquis Daniels
Keyon Dooling
Greg Siemsma
E'Twaun Moore
JaJuan Johnson
Sasha Pavlovic
Avery Bradley
Mickael Pietrus

Injured
Chris Wilcox (groin) out
Keyon Dooling (knee) probable

Thunder Reserves
Reggie Jackson
Nick Collison
James Harden
Nazr Mohammed
Daequan Cook
Cole Aldrich
Royal Ivey
Lazar Hayward

Injured
Eric Maynor (ACL) out
Ryan Reid (Nasal Surgery) out

Key Matchups
vs
Rajon Rondo vs Russell Westbrook
Rondo once again faces one of the top young PG's in the league. These two PG's were vying for a spot on Team USA before Rondo withdrew and Westbrook went on to win a gold medal with the team. Rondo always has a little extra motivation playing against the rising PG's in the league.

vs
Paul Pierce vs Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant is making a case for being the best player in the NBA and Pierce will have his hands full trying to guard him. Durant is also a good defender so this may be a tough game for Pierce who continues to struggle with his game.

Honorable Mention
Jermaine O'Neal vs Kendrick Perkins
Perk will always be a Celtic. But he's also one of the more competitive players in the league. As much as he loves his former teammates, they will be the enemy while he is on the court and expect him to be his snarly best in this game.

Keys to the Game
Limit Turnovers - The Celtics have been doing better in recent games to take care of the ball but then need to continue to concentrate on that area because they tend to get lax at times and the turnovers make games that should be easy much more difficult.

Rebound the Ball The Celtics have to crash the boards in order to prevent second chance points and fast break opportunities for the Thunder. The Celtics have been out rebounded by a margin of 188-150 in their last 4 games, all losses. Rebounding takes effort and desire and the Celtics haven't show a lot of either. They have to put out more effort on the boards if they want to win.

Defense - Defense has got to be the Celtics #1 priority. They have been playing decent defense in spurts but other times, they allow teams to get to the hoop and to get their shots off way too easily. They must recommit to team defense if they want to get back on the winning track.

Bench Play - The Thunder are a deep team and the Celtics must match their depth if they expect to win this game.

Official Report
Ron Garretson
In his 23 NBA seasons, since 1987, Garretson officiated over 1,600 games. He also officiated the 1993 Europe Tour in London and the 1997 NBA All-Star Game. He is the son of former NBA referee Darell Garretson. Before joining the NBA as a referee, he spent two years officiating high school games in Arizona and two more in the Continental Basketball Association. The Celtics are 4-6 over their last 10 games with Garretson. The Thunder are 6-4 over their last 10 games with Garretson. This is the first game for both teams with Garretson this season. Garretson's home W/L record this season is 7-3.

Pat Fraher
Fraher's NBA career started 7 years ago and so far he has officiated over 300 regular season games. Before the NBA he officiated during 7 years in the CBA and four in the WNBA. Before that he worked 10 years as a high school official in Minnesota. The Celtics are 7-3 over their last 10 with Fraher. The Thunder are 6-4 over their last 10 games officiated by Fraher. His home W/L record this season is 7-1.

Derek Richardson
Richardson has 10 years experience in the NBA. He has 4 years collegiate officiating experience and he played basketball in college and high school. Richardson is known for being inconsistent with his calls, especially on charge/block calls. The Celtics are 7-3 over their last 10 games with Richardson. The Thunder are 4-6 over their last 10 games with Richardson as a ref. His home W/L record this season is 6-4.

X-Factor
Youth vs Age
The Thunder are a young team from top to bottom. The Celtics have youth on the bench, but their starters have been showing their age in recent games. The Celtics have to find the fountain of youth if they expect to stay with the young Thunder.

Celtics Looking for Answers as They Visit the Pacers

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 20:09:00 +0000

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Boston Celtics (4-6) at Indiana Pacers (8-2)
Saturday, January 14
7:00 PM ET
Regular Season Game #11, Road Game #5
TV: CSNNE, FSI, NBA-LP 755/756
Radio: WEEI, WJBC
Conseco Field House
Referees: Tom Washington, Derrick Collins, Mark Lindsay

This is the second meeting between these two teams this season. In their first meeting, the Celtics were embarrassed by the Pacers 87-74. The Celtics started out slowly and never seemed to get going in that game.

It was an ugly game from start to finish. Neither team played well on offense. The Celtics scored only 25 points in the first half and trailed by 8 points going into the 3rd quarter. The Celtics were out-rebounded 47-36 and were outscored in the paint 43-28.

Doc tried to shake it up a bit in the last game by starting KG at center and Brandon Bass at the 4 but that didn't seem to work out very well but Doc has also said that Bass will start about 70% of the time and is listed in the starting lineup for this game as well. Right now, nothing seems to be working, so why not try some changes. Maybe Doc should sit all the starters and see if the second unit can get off to a better start.

Both teams are playing in the second of back to back games. The Pacers are coming off a win in Toronto while the Celtics are coming off a loss to the Bulls. It was the Celtics 3rd straight loss. Hopefully the Celtics can get it together and pull off a win in this one. They very much need a win against a quality team to boost their confidence and with the Thunder coming to town on Monday, this is a very good time to get it.

Probable Starting Matchups
PointGuard
vs
Rajon Rondo vs Darren Collison

Shooting Guard
vs
Ray Allen vs Paul George

Small Forward
vs
Paul Pierce vs Danny Granger

Power Forward

vs
Brandon Bass vs David West

Center
vs
Kevin Garnett vs Roy Hibbert

Celtics Reserves
Jermaine O'Neal
Marquis Daniels
Chris Wilcox
E'Twaun Moore
JaJuan Johnson
Avery Bradley
Sasha Pavlovic
Greg Stiemsma
Mickael Pietrus

Injured
Keyon Dooling (knee) out

Kevin Garnett (ankle) will play

Pacers Reserves
Tyler Hansbrough
George Hill
Louis Amundson
Dahntay Jones
Jeff Foster
AJ Price
Jeff Pendergraph
Lance Stephenson

Injured
George Hill (back) day to day

Key Matchups
vs
Paul Pierce vs Danny Granger
Danny Granger is a tough player who can hit from outside as well as take the ball to the basket. He always seems to play extra hard against the Celtics. Paul Pierce has been struggling and is averaging 13.8 points on 38% shooting. He has to snap out of it for the Celtics to snap out of their skid. He said recently that he is still not 100% from the heel injury that sidelined him in training camp.   Hopefully he can get his shot back soon as the Celtics very much need the Captain to be 100%.

vs
Rajon Rondo vs Darren Collison
As Rondo goes, so go the Celtics. When Rondo is aggressive, he makes the Celtics go. Rondo should have a height and experience advantage over Collison and hopefully that will translate into a big game for him. He has virtually been carrying the team of late but he can't do it by himself. If the Celtics aren't careful, Rondo will burn himself out trying to carry the team while the rest of the team is still getting back into shape.

Honorable Mention
Bigs
There has been a lot of talk about how KG has lost a step and just can't cut it on defense any more. We have seen flashes of the old KG from time to time, but he hasn't been anywhere near consistent.   Jermaine O'Neal has been playing very poorly and Doc is trying to shake up the front line. Maybe Doc should try starting Wilcox and Stiemsma.   The Celtics bigs have been largely ineffective against the better teams and they have to find a way to fix that, whether it's to motivate KG and JO or to swap them out with players who will be motivated.

Keys to the Game
Defense - The Celtics defense has been up and down and they have clamped down in spurts. The Celtics need to work harder on team defense. When they won the title, defense was their identity. They need to get back to that.

Rebound - Winning the rebounding battle prevents second chance points and tip ins for the Pacers as well as limits fast break opportunities. When the Celtics put out the effort on the boards, it often translates to other areas of the game as well. Much of rebounding is desire and hard work and the Celtics just haven't had it. They were out- rebounded by double figures in their last two games and that has to change for them to start winning.

Offense - There have been times when the Celtics' ball movement is a joy to behold and others when they make sloppy passes and just can't seem to get anything going. They have to continue to move the ball and find the open man. They also have to hit their shots. Scoring 25 points in a half just won't win games.

Start Strong - The Celtics have been coming out flat and end up in a huge hole at the half. They always seem to make a run in the 3rd quarter but it seems to take a lot out of them and they run out of steam and fall just short at the end. They have to come out and play with energy from the beginning. Averaging 15 points in the first quarter is inexcusable.

Official Report
Tom Washington
Washington has officiated over 900+ regular season games and 60+ play-off games. The Celtics are 9-1 over their last 10 games with Washington calling the game. At least 2 of the games were poorly officiated. In one of those games against the Hornets, the officiating was very bad and Washington ignored the Hornets attempts to intentionally foul both Pierce and Allen at the end of the game even though he was staring right at the play. The Pacers are 5-5 in their last 10 with Washington as a ref. His home W/L record this season is 4-4.

Derrick Collins
Collins has been an official in the league for 10 years. He has experience in the CBA five years and in the WNBA three years. He has also officiated 7 years on the collegiate level and seven years on the high school level in California and Louisiana. The Celtics are 6-4 in their last 10 games with Collins. The Pacers are also 6-4 in their last 10 games with Collins. His home W/L record this season is 6-4.

Mark Lindsay
Mark Lindsay made his debut in the NBA in 2007 after spending time in the NBDL. Before the NBDL, Lindsay spent 9 years calling games at the college level. The Celtics are 5-5 in their last 10 games with Linday making the calls and the Pacers are also 5-5 in their last 10 with Lindsay. Lindsay appears to be a homer ref as his home W/L record this season is 7-1.

X-Factors
Revenge and Back to Back
The Celtics need to be looking to avenge their embarrassing loss earlier this season. Both teams are playing in back to back games but the Pacers are a younger team and it could affect them less than it does the Celtics. The Celtics looked tired playing after 4 days rest. Back to back games might make for some more ugly basketball. However, I suspect that the Celtics problems have more to do with timing and conditioning than they do with age.

Celtics Host Scal and the Bulls in a Friday the 13th Game

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:08:00 +0000

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Chicago Bulls (10-2) at Boston Celtics (4-5)
Friday, January 13
8:00 PM ET
Game #10, Home Game #6
TV: ESPN, CSN-C, CSNNE, NBAC
Radio: WEEI, WMVP
TD Garden
Referees: Jason Phillips, Brian Forte, Leon Wood
The Celtics will welcome a couple of familiar faces when the Bulls come to visit the Garden. Tom Thibodeau, who was credited with the defense that
led the Celtics to their 17th championship is now in his second season as the head coach of the Bulls. Brian Scalabrine, who was a fan favorite in Boston for 5 seasons, has returned for his second season in Chicago.

This is the first of 4 meetings between these two teams this season. Last season they split the series 2-2, with each team winning on their home court. The Celtics are 10-8 against the Bulls since the 2006-07 season. Ray Allen led the Celtics with 16.6 ppg against the Bulls last season while Derrick Rose led the Bulls with 26.0 points and 6.8 assists per game.

Both teams have been dealing with injuries but at 10-2, the Bulls are obviously dealing much better than the Celtics. Derrick Rose missed the Bulls' last game, a win against the Wizards but is expected to give it a try in this game. Jermaine O'Neal and Keyon Dooling missed the Celtics last practice and are questionable for this game.

The Celtics dropped below .500 with their loss to the Mavericks and have lost their last 2 games after winning 4 in a row. Their 4 wins were all against the bottom teams in the league and they have yet to beat a team at or above .500. A win in this game could go a long way toward quieting the doubts of the fans who are very close to panicking.

Probable Starters

PG: Rajon Rondo..................................................SG Ray Allen

C: Jermaine O'Neal

SF: Paul Pierce ................................. ............PF Kevin Garnett

Coach: Doc Rivers

Boston Reserves

Brandon Bass

Mickael Pietrus

Chris Wilcox

Keyon Dooling

JaJuan Johnson

Greg Siemsma

E'Twaun Moore

Avery Bradley

Marquis Daniels

Sasha Pavlovic

Injured

Marquis Daniels (illness) questionable

Keyon Dooling (knee) questionable

Jermaine O'Neal (knee) probable

Sasha Pavlovic (wrist) questionable

Probable Starters

PG: Derrick Rose............................................. SG: Ronnie Brewer

C: Joakim Noah

SF: Luol Deng .................................................. PF: Carlos Boozer

Coach: Tom Thibodeau

Bulls Bench

John Lucas III

Omer Asik

Kyle Korver

Taj Gibson

Jimmy Butler

Brian Scalabrine

Mike James

Injuries

Rip Hamilton (groin) day to day

Derrick Rose (toe) day to day

CJ Watson (elbow) day to day

Key Matchups

Rajon Rondo 15.8 PPG, 10.1 APG, 4.9 RPG 1.9 SPG

Derrick Rose 20.7 PPG, 8.6 APG, 3.4 RPG 0.8 SPG

This is one of the premier point guard matchups in the league. There is a lot of discussion about whether Rondo or Rose is the better PG and in a head to head matchup, expect both players to do their best to make their case as the best. Rose missed the Bulls' last game with a toe injury but is expected to play in this one if at all possible.

Jermaine O'Neal 5.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 1.6 BPG 47.7% FG%

Joakim Noah 7.1 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 1.0 BPG 39.7% FG%

Both of these centers have been struggling somewhat. In the last game vs the Mavs Jermaine had just 2 points and 3 rebounds in 22 minutes. In his last 5 games, Noah has been averaging just 4.2 points on 30.4% shooting. If one of these centers has a big game it could go a long ways toward helping his team get a win.

Honorable Mention

Paul Pierce vs Luol Deng

Paul Pierce has been struggling in recent games and the Celtics need him to get back on track. Deng has always defended Pierce well and if that continues in this game, Pierce could be in for another long night.

Keys to the Game

Rondo/Rose Matchup - This is not only a key matchup, but one of the keys to the game. Both point guards control the tempo of their team and both are key to their team's success. If Rose's toe injury keeps him out, expect John Lucas III to get his second straight start. This would make it easier on Rondo, but would still not be easy as Lucas scored 25 points against Detroit in his first career start.

Limit turnovers - The Celtics have been turning the ball over way too much. They have been making sloppy passes and not taking care of the ball when dribbling. They must take better cae of the ball.

Rebound - The Celtics have to rebound the ball. They were out-rebounded 47-36 by the Pacers and 43-35 by the Mavericks. The Mavs were 17-0 in second chance points and the Celtics pulled down just 2 offensive rebounds the entire game. The Celtics have to do a better job of boxing out and grabbing the rebounds. Much of rebounding is desire and the Celtics just haven't been showing that they want it more than their opponents.

Play 48 Minutes - The Celtics have been starting out very sluggish! They dig themselves a hole in every game and then have to come back from a deficit which takes a lot out of them. They must start strong and not let up until the final buzzer. Playing in spurts just isn't cutting it.

Official Report

Jason Phillips

Phillips has been in the league for 9 years. He has officiated 400+ regular season games. Before landing in the NBA he worked for the CBA 6 seasons, the WNBA 3 seasons, 2 years in the Dallas Pro-Am, and 5 seasons in high school level in Texas. The Celtics are 5-5 over their last 10 games with Phillips as a ref. It was Phillips and crew that got Tommy to swear on the air about the refs falling for all the blank blank flops. Chicago is 7-3 with Phillips over their last 10. His home W/L record this season is 7-1

Brian Forte

This is Forte's 4th year in the league. He spent several years as a college ref before coming to the NBA. Forte was the object of Tommy's wrath in the classic rant that follows (the T was later rescinded). The officiating in that game was bad both ways. The Celtics are 8-2 over their last 10 games with Forte as a ref. The Sixers are 6-4 over their last 10 games with Forte. His home W/L record this season is 4-4.

Leon Wood

Osie Leon Wood, III has officiated 600+ regular season games and 6 play-off games.

Prior to becoming an NBA referee, Wood was a shooting guard in the NBA. He was chosen 10th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1st round of the 1984 draft. During his career, he played for the 76ers, Bullets, Nets, Spurs, Hawks and Kings. He played in 274 games in his career and won a gold medal as a member of the 1984 US Olympic basketball team. When not officiating, Wood helps train younger officials. You would think that being a former player, Wood would try to be fair but he has been a mediocre ref at best. The Celtics are 9-1 over their last 10 games with Wood officiating. The Bulls are 5-5 over their last 10 games called by Wood. His home W/L record this season is 5-3.

Celtics Host Reigning Champs

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 20:10:00 +0000

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Dallas Mavericks (5-5) at Boston Celtics (4-4)
Wednesday, January 11
8:00 PM ET
Regular Season Game #9 – Home Game #5
TV: ESPN, CSN-NE, FSSW-DAL, NBAC
Radio: WEEI, KESN
TD Garden
Referees: Bill Spooner, Mark Ayotte, Josh Tiven
This is the first meeting between the Celtics and the reigning NBA Champs. The Mavs won the series last year 2-0, but both teams have undergone a considerable makeover since last season. The Celtics are 3-1 at home while the Mavs are 1-3 on the road.

The Mavericks are fresh off their visit to the White House and are playing in the second of back to back games, having beaten the Pistons in Detroit on Tuesday night. The Celtics are coming off a rare 4 day break after their embarrassing loss to the Pacers on Friday.

The Celtics should get a boost from the debut of Mickael Pietrus, who is finally ready to play after taking a couple of weeks to rehab from off season knee surgery. He is ready to play and Doc said that his practice on Tuesday was sensational. The Celtics can use his toughness and scoring off the bench. Marquis Daniels missed the last 2 practices and may miss this game so Pietrus' debut couldn't come at a better time.

The Celtics need a win in this game to erase the memory of the debacle against the Pacers. Both the Celtics and Mavs have struggled out of the gates this season. Hopefully the Celtics can get on track and get a win in this one.

Probable Starting Matchups
Point Guard
vs
Rajon Rondo vs Delonte West

Shooting Guard
vs
Ray Allen vs Vince Carter

Small Forward
vs
Paul Pierce vs Shawn Marion

Power Forward
vs
Kevin Garnett vs Dirk Nowitski

Center
vs
Jermaine O'Neal vs Brendan Haywood

Celtics Reserves
Brandon Bass
Mickael Pietrus
Chris Wilcox
Keyon Dooling
Sasha Pavlovic
Greg Stiemsma
Avery Bradley
E'Twaun Moore
JaJuan Johnson

Injured
Marquis Daniels (illness) questionable

Dallas Reserves
Rodrigue Beaubois
Brian Cardinal
Yi Jianlian
Dominique Jones
Ian Mahinmi
Lamar Odom
Jason Terry
Brandan Wright
Sean Williams

Injuries
Jason Kidd (back) out

Key Matchups
vs
Rajon Rondo vs Delonte West
These two have gone up against each other many times as teammates. Now, they face each other on opposite sides. I'm sure Delonte will be intent on proving to the Celtics that they made a mistake by not signing him this season so Rondo will have a fight on his hands.

vs
Kevin Garnett vs Dirk Nowitski
This should be a great matchup. Dirk has the capability of taking over a game and KG will need to concentrate on his defense to keep him from having a big game. Both have been playing well and so this should be fun to watch. Hopefully KG comes to play and is able to keep Dirk from having a big night

Honorable Mention
Ray Allen vs Vince Carter
Ray has been the most consistent Celtic so far this season and has been averaging a mind boggling 63.4% from beyond the arc. Vince Carter has never been known for his defense and even less for fighting through screens on defense. Hopefully Ray will continue his hot streak in this game as well.

Keys to the Game
Rebound - Rebounding is so crucial to getting a win. When the Celtics put out the effort to grab rebounds, more often than not, they are going to get the win. In their last game, the Celtics allowed the Pacers to out-rebound them 47-36. The Celtics have to give a better effort on the boards if they want to win this one.

Defense - Defense is always crucial to getting a win. Defense wins games is not just a cliche, it is the truth. The Celtics must play tough team defense in this and every game. Against the Mavs, defense is especially crucial because they can put points on the board very quickly.

Bench Play - The bench has been inconsistent so far this season and has struggled to score at times. They should get a boost from the debut of Mickael Pietrus. Doc described his performance in practice as sensational. After their performance against the Pacers, the Celtics could use some sensational.

Score the Ball - The Celtics scored just 25 points in the first half of their last game. They have to run the offense and hit their shots. They can't expect to win if they shoot 39% and score 25 points in a half.

Official Report
Bill Spooner
Spooner has officiated over 1,000+ regular season games and 50+ play-off games. Spooner served as president of the high school referee association in 1982. Spooner is the ref who failed to call Kobe's elbow to the throat of Ron Artest a couple years back, even though he was the ref in position to call it. Artest's complaints resulted in his ejection but nothing was called on Kobe in the game. The league later admitted their error and assessed Kobe a flagrant 1 for the elbow. But that didn't help Houston who had to play without Artest the rest of the game. The Celtics are 7-3 in their last 10 games with Spooner while the Mavs are 8-2 in their last 10. This is Spooner's second game this season with the Celtics. He also officiated the game in Washington vs the Wizards, which the Celtics won. Spooner's home W/L record this season is 4-2.

Mark Ayotte
This is Ayotte's 8th year as an NBA referee. He has 12 years of college officiating experience and 10 years of high school officiating experience before making it to the NBA. The Celtics are 5-5 over their last 10 games. In the 5 games officiated by Ayotte last season, the Celtics shot 89 free throws to 123 free throws for their opponents. The Mavs are 6-4 over their last 10 with Ayotte. Ayotte tends to be influenced by the home crowd and has a home W/L record this season is 6-2.

Josh Tiven
This is Tiven's second full season as an NBA Referee. He was part of a group of NBDL refs who officiated several games in the 2009-10 season as part of an initiative aimed at preparing top prospects to move up. He also spent time calling games in the WNBA and college before moving to the NBDL. The Celtics have only had 8 games officiated by Tiven and are 4-4 in those games. One loss was in Houston where Tiven and crew were so bad that they actually caused Tommy to swear on the air over their falling for flops. The Mavs are 2-1 in their games only games with Tiven. His home W/L record this season is 6-2.

X-Factor
Rest vs Rust
The Mavs are playing in the second of back to back games while the Celtics have had 4 days off. The 4 days of rest hopefully will result in a rested and sharp Celtics team that has worked out the kinks in the offense rather than a team that looks rusty because they haven't played in 4 days.

Today's Celtics Links 1/9

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:32:00 +0000

Herald   Celtics know Ticket to success
Defending champion Mavericks’ play hurt by packed NBA schedule
Magic saved by a ‘Big Baby’ in win over Kings
Magic’s Dwight Howard still seeks trade
NBA Capsules: Thunder beat Spurs 108-96 to win 3rd in 3 nights
Globe Celtics’ Garnett slow to embrace offensive aggression
What they were thinking: Welcome to the NBA

Celtics Life Jeff Green Surgery Scheduled for Today
CelticsBlog   Ray Allen's Hot Start: A Brief Look at a Living Legend
No More Excuses
CSN Bay Area A frank conversation with Nate Robinson
ESPN    3 up, 3 down (Week 2)
Back to school for C's
Green set for surgery at Cleveland Clinic
Boston Celtics see practice as chance to iron out issues
CLNS Radio    Trade Kevin Garnett: Celtics fans thinking the impossible
Celtics Stuck In Purgatory
Red's Army Ray Allen Highlights vs Pacers
Your Morning Dump... Bradley, Daniels have been awful
CSNNE   Wilcox hopes to overcome early struggles
Wilcox hopes to overcome early struggles
NESN Celtics Pulled Jeff Green's Qualifying Offer, Meaning He'll Be Unrestricted Free Agent Upon Return to NBA
Green Street    A closer look at the Celtics’ struggles off the bench
Celtics Title Town   Celtics Week in Review: Week 2 2011-12 season
Celtics Morning Joe: Besides Bass, bench needs to step up
Hangtime Blogs   NBA D-League Showcase Opens
SF Examiner   Newest Warrior Nate Robinson has made instant impact
Bleacher Report   Should the Boston Celtics Lock Up an Aging Ray Allen?
Rant Sports Boston Celtics Brandon Bass Is Earning The Closing Minutes
Boston Celtics Doc Rivers Calls Out Player Effort
MetroWest Daily News   Bench no boost for the Celtics
Enterprise News   CELTICS NOTEBOOK: Rookies will probably avoid NBDL
Celtics’ bench is a work in progress
News OK   Thunder: Same old Kendrick Perkins?
Hoopsworld    Celtics F Wilcox: ‘I gotta find a way to contribute’
Race Relations   Lakers Now Have Five White-American Players: Most Since the 1970s
Sporting News After busy early schedule, Celtics get needed rest
SB Nation NBA Power Rankings: Heat, Thunder Jockey At Top

Today's Celtics Links 1/8

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 19:57:00 +0000

Herald Bench pines for identity
Thunder tops Rockets behind Kevin Durant’s strong finish
Lawrence Frank faults decision-making as Pistons fall to Knicks
No defense leaves Bulls with no chance in loss to Hawks
Former Celtics, Heat guard Eddie House insists he is not finished
Globe Celtics guards needs a big defensive adjustment
Nelson, Mavericks try to put pieces together
Big adjustment is needed by guards

Celtics Life   The 5 Worst Days For Celtics Fans In The Past 25 Years
Today's Video: Ray Allen "Just A Dream" 3 Point King Mix
Celtics Week In Review January 2nd-8th
CelticsBlog   Celtics Stuff Live: Tonight at 9pm with Scott Souza
Offensive Offense - Turning Point or Trend?
ESPN Wilcox: 'I have to give more'
Allen gains perspective from missing game
Boston Celtics' Chris Wilcox -- "I'm just trying to find myself"
Doc not down on birthday boy Daniels
CLNS    QuickVid: Charles Barkley makes my Saturday Night (Live)
Red's Army   Enemy Chatter: Pacers fans long for Jermaine O'Neal?
Elbows to the face are the key to rebounding
Your Morning Dump... Dribble penetration killing the Celtics
Celtics-Pacers photo gallery
In case you missed it: Gang Green Episode 5.3
NESN   Report: Delonte West Banned From White House, Will Not Accompany Defending Champion Mavericks to Meet President
Celtics Hub Jeff Green….Now An Unrestricted Free Agent
Green Street A closer look at the Celtics’ struggles off the bench
Celtics Title Town C's Playbook game 8 of the season against the PACERS
Some thoughts about the Celtics record
Celtics Morning Joe: Celtics fable
Cleve Scene Guarded: How the Media Struggles to Cover Delonte West |
Concord Monitor NBA: What's there to know about C's?
Enterprise News CELTICS NOTEBOOK: Green surgery is Monday
Celtics haven’t made favorable impression so far this season
CBS Sports   Delonte West: 'I'm banned' from White House visit
Video: Dwight Howard defibrillates Glen Davis
NY Post Peter Vecsey on Elvin Hayes as coach-killer
Telegram Boston Celtics' Greg Stiemsma can block with best
Bleacher Report Delonte West: Twitter Rant Proves Dallas Mavericks Guard Really Needs Help
NBA Playoffs Bold Predictions: Seeding the Eastern Conference
Indy Cornrows   IC Cold Links: Pacers Depth Comes To Play In Win Over Celtics

Celtics Going for 5th Straight Win with Pacers in Town

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:57:00 +0000

at
Indiana Pacers (4-2) at Boston Celtics (4-3)
Friday, January 6
7:30 PM ET
Regular Season Game #8, Home Game #4
TV: CSNNE, FSI, NBA-LP 757/758
Radio: WEEI, WIBC
TD Garden

Referees: Eddie F. Rush, Bennie Adams, Tre Maddox

The Celtics put their 4 game win streak on the line as they host the Indiana Pacers tonight.   The Celtics win streak may have more to do with their opponents than their improved play. The 4 teams that they have beaten have a combined W/L record of 3 wins and 22 losses. The Pacers will be the Celtics first opponent with a winning record since their loss to the Heat in the second game of the season. The Pacers' competition hasn't been much stiffer though as the teams they beat weren't exactly powerhouses. Their wins have come against Detroit, Toronto, Cleveland and New Jersey.

Things may have gotten a bit harder for the Celtics when the Heat demolished the Pacers 118-83 on Wednesday. The Pacers should be hungry for a win and to prove that they can beat a team with a winning record.    Both teams very much need a win over a quality team.

Ray missed practice on Thursday and Doc has listed him as questionable for this game but since also said that Ray was feeling much better and the game notes list him in the starting lineup, I'm assuming he'll play. If he doesn't play, expect Dooling to get the start once again.

The Celtics can't afford to come out sluggish as they have in several games so far. If they dig a hole against the Pacers, it won't be as easy to come back as it was against the Pistons or the Wizards. Hopefully we will see an energized Celtics team that will defend their home court and finally boast a win over a team with a record over .500.

Probable Starting Matchups
PointGuard
vs
Rajon Rondo vs Darren Collison

Shooting Guard
vs
Ray Allen vs Paul George

Small Forward
vs
Paul Pierce vs Danny Granger

Power Forward
vs
Kevin Garnett vs David West

Center
vs
Jermaine O'Neal vs Roy Hibbert

Celtics Reserves
Brandon Bass
Marquis Daniels
Chris Wilcox
Keyon Dooling
E'Twaun Moore
JaJuan Johnson
Avery Bradley
Sasha Pavlovic
Greg Stiemsma

Injured
Mickael Pietrus (knee) out
Ray Allen (flu) probable

Pacers Reserves
Tyler Hansbrough
George Hill
Louis Amundson
Dahntay Jones
Jeff Foster
AJ Price
Jeff Pendergraph

Injured
Lance Stephenson (ankle) doubtful

Key Matchups
vs
Paul Pierce vs Danny Granger
Danny Granger is a tough player who can hit from outside as well as take the ball to the basket. He always seems to play extra hard against the Celtics. Paul Pierce is slowly getting his rhythm back after his heel injury and hopefully will take another step forward in this game.

vs
Rajon Rondo vs Darren Collison
As Rondo goes, so go the Celtics. When Rondo is aggressive, he makes the Celtics very tough to beat. Rondo should have a height and experience advantage over Collison and hopefully he will use both to his advantage.

Honorable Mention
Kevin Garnett vs David West
KG versus the one that got away. West came close to joining the Celtics but signed with the Pacers after the sign and trade with New Orleans fell apart. West is a tough player and I'm sure he will be looking to show the Celtics what they are missing. It will be up to KG and Brandon Bass to show Celtics fans that they are all that this team needs.

Keys to the Game
Defense - The Celtics defense has been up and down and they have clamped down in spurts. The Celtics have been playing poor shooting teams and now it's time to show that they can defend against a team that is above .500. They need to work harder on defense than they did against the Nets, especially in the first half, or this could get ugly.

Rebound - Winning the rebounding battle prevents second chance points and tip ins for the Pacers as well as limits fast break opportunities. When the Celtics put out the effort on the boards, it often translates to other areas of the game as well.

Move the Ball - There have been times when the Celtics' ball movement is a joy to behold. They have to continue to move the ball and find the open man. They can't lapse into playing one on one and playing hero ball and expect to win the game.

Hustle and Energy - The Celtics need to bring some hustle and effort to the game. They have to go after loose balls and chase down rebounds. Too many times we see Celtics standing around while the other team dives for loose balls and chases down rebounds. They must play hard for 48 minutes. They can't come out sluggish as they have in several games and then have to dig out from a hole and they can't let up before the final buzzer.

Official Report
Rush has officiated over 1,300+ regular season games, 140+ play-off games and 9 NBA Finals games. Prior to joining the NBA, Rush worked high school games before progressing to college and professional basketball leagues. Eddie F. Rush officiated the last game of the NBA Finals for five seasons in a row (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009). He was the least liked ref by Cavs fans when they still had LeBron because he was the only ref that called more losses for them than wins. He is also one of Tommy Heinsohn's least favorite refs and there are several rants on file of Tommy complaining about Rush's ineptness. The Celtics are 5-5 in their last 10 games with Rush on the court and the Pacers are 6-4 in their last 10. His home W/L record this season is 3-1.

Bennie Adams
This is Adams' 12th season in the NBA. Before he started in the NBA he had 3 years of college basketball officiating experience as well as 10 years of high school basketball experience in Louisiana. Adams tends to be inconsistent especially on charge/block calls. He is also another one of Tommy Heinsohn's least favorites. In one game, Tommy Heinsohn went ballistic yelling at the top of his lungs "GO BACK TO YOUR MOMMA BENNIE ADAMS!!!" The Celtics are 6-4 in the last 10 games called by Adams. The Pacers are 3-7 in their last 10 games with Adams. His Home W/L record this season is 4-2.

Tre Maddox
This is Maddox's first season as a ref in the NBA. For the past 5 seasons he has officiated at the College level. This is his first game for both the Celtics and the Pacers. His home W/L record this season is 4-0.

X-Factors
The Competition
For the first time since their win streak began, the Celtics are facing a team above .500. Can they lift their intensity to play a tough team that will be motivated to bounce back from a blowout loss at the hands of the Heat?

Today's Celtics Links 1/4

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:56:00 +0000

Herald Battle on at the point
NBA Capsules: Deng’s layup with 3.7 left leads Bulls past Hawks
Lakers look doubly tough, defeat Rockets
Globe   Nets thumbnails
Celtics' Bass earning minutes in crunch time
Energy shot

Celtics Life Ainge Makes Call to the Kings on Cousins
New Comment System
CelticsBlog   Stiemsma, Stats, and Stuff
Greg Stiemsma, Race, and the Making Of a Cult Hero
No Pass Bass Fitting In Great
ESPN Insider: C's slow start no detriment
CLNS Radio New Look Nets Travel To Boston For Division Clash With Celtics
CLNSRadio: Celtics vs. Nets Pregame Show w/ Tim Donaghy
Red's Army   It didn't take Ainge long to call on DeMarcus Cousins
Guess who's ranked 2nd in the league in blocks?
From the GreenLab: The Backstabber
Gang Green hits the Stiem Room tonight at 9!
Your Morning Dump... Doc likes Bass as a closer
CSNNE   Bass: 'I'm just trying to fit in'
Photo Gallery |Sherrod's NBA Six Pack 1/3
Rest might help KG
NESN   Report: Celtics Call Kings to Ask About Disgruntled Center DeMarcus Cousins
Rajon Rondo Playing Better Than Ever Thanks to Noticeable Improvement in Point Guard's Jumper
Celtics Town   ‘He’s the Steamroller. You bring it into the lane, and he’s going to steamroll you.’
Celtics 24/7 Stiemsma To The Rescue….Maybe Not
Fox Sports Allen proving doubters wrong with longevity
State of the Celtics Celtics contacted Sacramento about DeMarcus Cousins
SB Nation Celtics Vs. Nets: Paul Pierce, Streaking Celts Host Lowly New Jersey
Celtics Inquired About DeMarcus Cousins
DeMarcus Cousins And The Big Man Needs Of The Boston Celtics
Bleacher Report   NBA Rumors: Celtics Must Give Ray Allen Multi-Year Deal He Wants
Paul Pierce: 5 Ways He Impacts the Boston Celtics Offense
Nate Robinson: Former Dunk Champion Reportedly Set to Sign With Golden State
NBA Trade Rumors: DeMarcus Cousins and Boston Celtics Are Perfect Match
Green Street NBA Power Rankings, 1/3
They call him ‘No Pass Bass’ and the Celtics don’t mind
ESPN   C's Mailbag: Deep thoughts
What slow starts by Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks really mean
Bradley emerging behind defense
Mailbag: Greg Stiemsma, others give Celtics hope
Taunton Gazette Celtics' Brandon Bass has been comfortable in Boston since day one
NECN Rondo finds new locker mate, mentor in Dooling
Pierce still waiting for breakout game
CBS Sports   Man gets Barkley, Bavetta kiss tattoo for Shaq
NBA Preview - New Jersey Nets at Boston Celtics
Rant Sports Boston Celtics Ray Allen Is Aging Like A Fine Wine
Press Herald Maine Red Claws work to turn it around
The Spoof   Pressure Mounts on Celtics Rookie to Enter Hall of Fame
Mass Live Duke freshman Austin Rivers successful in transition from high school basketball to college
Magic Basketball Glen Davis and the post up
Sporting News Stiemsma carving out niche
Operation Sports   How A Frenzied Off-Season Has Changed NBA 2K12

Today's Celtics Links 1/3

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 18:48:00 +0000

Herald   Celtics Insider» Blog Archive » Final: Celtics 100, Washington 92
Greg Stiemsma steps up for Celtics
Celtics dodge more bullets
Celtics plays it safe, sit hamstrung Jermaine O’Neal
DeMarcus Cousins, Kings disagree about trade request
Globe Saunders is conditioned to praise Garnett
Stiemsma gave it his best shots
Weary Celtics get a lift from tireless Allen
Flip Saunders has praise for Kevin Garnett
Weary Celtics get a lift from tireless Allen
Celtics-Wizards final: 100-92

Celtics Life   Celtics Week In Review December 25th-January 1st
Celtics win 100-92 over Wizards & Improve to 3-3
Celtics - Wizards Postgame Videos
Celtics 100, Wizards 92 Highlights
Today's Video: Greg Stiemsma Pretty Fly for a White Guy Mix
Comments From the Other Side - Wizards 1/2
CelticsBlog   Stiemrolled - Celtics On 3 Game Win Streak
New Year, Same Golden Rules On CelticsBlog
Danny (As Expected) Called About Cousins
Jermaine O'Neal Sat Out As A Precaution
NECN    Bass: 'I'm just trying to fit in'
Like Rondo did, Wall needs veteran presence
Hoopsworld NBA Power Rankings – Week One
ESPN    Rapid Reaction: Celtics 100, Wizards 92
Marathon man Allen sprints to finish
Stiemsma gets confidence boost
Doc's a fan of home-and-homes
Legler: 'This team's going to be fine'
Flip on KG and adjustments with age
'No Pass' Bass eager to assist
3-on-3: Celtics vs. Wizards (Game 6 of 66)
Pregame: Wilcox in, O'Neal out -
The importance of KG in the post
Power rankings: C's in bottom half
CLNS Radio Ray Allen’s Sharp Shooting Carries Celtics to Third Straight Victory
CLNSRadio Postgame: Now Live– Celtics/Wizards- on demand
Red's Army    Recap: Old man Ray can still shoot it
Your Morning Dump... Where Greg Stiemsma doesn't just block shots
VIDEO: Cabernet Ray Uncorks Vintage Shooting Performance vs Wizards
Enemy Chatter: Paul Pierce lit up Chris Singleton
CSNNE    Pierce still waiting for breakout game
Photo Gallery | Talking Points: Celtics 100, Wizards 92
Pierce gaining confidence in return from bruised heel
Stiemsma shows his skills in spot start for Celtics
Allen fights off cold, heats up in win
Wizards' Booker following in steps of childhood idol Garnett
Allen comes up big in fourth, Celtics prevail, 100-92
NESN   Ray Allen Battles Through Cold to Lead Celtics Past Wizards
Ray Allen Battles Through Cold to Lead Celtics Past Wizards
Deron Williams' Struggles in New Jersey Are Cautionary Tale for NBA Players Looking to Force Trades
Celtics Live Blog: Paul Pierce's High, Arcing Dagger Buries Wizards 100-92 for C's Third Straight Win
Celtics Hub A Point Guard’s Tale: Celtics 94 Wizards 86
SEGA Re-Genesis: C’s 100, Wiz 92
Celtics Town The beauty of a setting sun
Celtics 100, Wizards 92: Stiemsma, Allen lead third straight Celtics win against another miserable team
Jermaine O’Neal: “It’s not an injury”
Boston Celtics called about DeMarcus Cousins
Green Street    Ray Allen continues his torrid shooting
The legend – and significance – of Greg Stiemsma just continues to grow
Fast Break: Celtics Stiemroll the Wizards
Live Blog: Celtics look to sweep home-and-home with Wizards
Celtics Title Town    Ray seals the deal for the Celtics
Celtics by the numbers: C's win three in a row
The Good,the Bad,and the Ugly: Game 6 of the season against the Wizards
JO should play Wednesday against the Nets
Rondology: The Aggressor
Celtics Morning Joe: Bass,and Rondo building chemistry
Sheridan Hoops   Sheridan Power Rankings: Week 2
State of the Celtics   Celtics improve to .500, beat Wizards for the second straight night
Washington Post   Ray Allen scores 11 of his 27 points in 4th quarter to lead Celtics over Wizards 100-92
Wizards vs. Celtics: Flip Saunders ejected as Washington stays winless
Early technicals set stage for Ray Allen barrage
John Wall shines, but Rajon Rondo is better as Celtics top Wizards
CBS Sports   NBA Recap - Washington Wizards at Boston Celtics
Milford Daily News   Celtics Notebook: Chris Wilcox makes debut at TD Garden
Sentinel   NBA D-LEAGUE: Davis looking to get back to NBA
Enterprise CELTICS NOTEBOOK: Third straight win wasn’t exactly pretty
Dimemag    Jermaine O’Neal Responds To The Haters
NY Post   Kevin Love and resurgent Timberwolves not talking contract extension
MetroWest Daily News Celtics 100, Wizards 92: Ray of sunshine
Post-deadline thoughts from Celtics' victory against Wizards: His name is Greg Stiemsma
Telegram   Ray Allen, Boston Celtics beat Wizards
Boston Celtics injuries starting to mount
Yahoo   Heel of Celtics’ Paul Pierce not fully healed
WEEI    celtics - He's Greg Stiemsma and he's a shot blocker
O'Neal out, Stiemsma starts for Celtics
WUSA9   Wiz Kid: Poor Fourth Quarter Sinks Wizards to 0-5
Slam Online   Post Up: Perfect No More
Attendance, TV Ratings Up in the NBA
Bleacher Report   Boston Celtics: Expectations for the C's Bench in 2012
What the Boston Celtics Can Do to Make Up for Key Offseason Losses
Ridiculous Upside    Boston Celtics' Greg Stiemsma Shines In First Start Of NBA Career
Fox News Allen Helps Celtics Keep Wizards Winless
SI.com    Wizards coach Flip Saunders ejected 1:46 into game vs. Celtics
Yahoo   Celtics Top Wizards Again, Get Back to .500: Fan Reaction
Boston Celtics Appear to Be Back on Track: A Fan’s Perspective
We Love DC   Boston’s Big Four Puts The Hurt On Wizards
Truth About It 3-on-3: Wizards-Celtics Part Deux, Wall, Cousins & Flip

Comments From the Other Side - Wizards 1/2

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 18:00:00 +0000

During the last game, there were a lot of good comments about Rondo. This game, they are loving on Ray. However, KG gets the same hate in both threads. There's also a lot of complaints about the refs in both threads. Some things never change. I love how fans always ask who left Ray Allen open. No one leaves Ray Allen open. They just get tired from chasing him and slow down long enough for Ray to get his shot off. I loved the comment about Ray "And we dare call him old " Enjoy Comments from the Wizards fans part deux....

Here's hoping Chris continues getting under Paul's skin.

We desperately need to win this game. The Celtics are so much older than us that we should definitely have an advantage since it's a back to back.

And Please Blatche just leave KG alone don't fall for his head games its getting quite old at this point.

Now we might actually win with Flip gone!!

My God that was a blatant non-call. Shard got absolutely clobbered

NBA refs hate us

Come on Allen shouldn't have more energy than our young backcourt.

I just wanna know if they were saving Cavs retread Pavolic so
His fresh legs would do us in tonight. Sasha the secret weapon.

I'll be watching the game tonight and hope for a win. DC is a fun team to watch, and hope they can string together a victory tonight.

If by "fun", you mean excruciating, then yes, we are a lot of "fun".

The refs are lettin' 'em play right now - on both ends of the court. A lot of contact, a lot of moving screens, etc.

Tommy Heinsohn just compared Steimsma to Bill Russell. Oh, Tommy.

This kid Steimsma is *not* the second coming of Russell, but he's a pretty good-looking kid - considering that he went undrafted.

These Boston commentators are crazy homer guys... Can't stand them.

Worst in the league. Heinsohn is the biggest homer announcer I have ever seen.

Boston looks a little tired.

The refs aren't going to let the Celtics lose tonight huh?

Boston's in trouble tonight, fellas...called it last night.

Boston looks old...their crowd even seems out of it...

They have a horrible fan base. Very fickle.

These refs are a joke with all the holding and pushing the Celtics do. Come on

Am I watching the right game? Cause in this one I think we're winning.

Leaving Ray Allen open to double Steisma? W T F

Awful defensive decision to leave Allen. For Vanilla Ice of all people...

The refs are letting them move on those screens

Secret to Celtics offense Is the moving pick. KG isn’t even hiding it

Allen is a tough cover...he runs a maze through screens

Anyone else satisfied with the fact that we aren’t down by 20 at the half?

KG was draped all over him Don’t know how it wasn’t a foul

it's KG He has a different set of rules in the manual

KG should've seriously fouled out by now

How can the NBA continue to enforce illegal screens, when they allow KG to blatantly break that rule

Celtis sat JO thinking they had this in the bag.

It's tough enough to guard Ray Allen as it is; when you allow his teammates to set moving screens, it's borderline impossible.

Celtics look old and slow - other than Rondo. It's mainly because... They are old and slow - other than Rondo.

I do sort of hope Garnett gets a career ending injury tonight, but other than that there’s not a lot to complain about the Wizards.

Steimsma is *not* playing like an undrafted rookie. Granted, it's always easier to look poised when playing with a team full of hardworking vets, but the Cs got a nice little steal on their hands with him.

Celtics look tired

Should be a theme this season until Garnett, and the rest of the elders retire.

Someone stop Greg Steimsma!!

Listing to the Boston announcers, you'd think Steimsma is the best player on the court, a hall of famer

Why does that giant white guy have 13 points? And I’m pretty sure their announcers only like him because they are looking for a token white guy Scalabrine replacement

Its Boston They gotta have a token white guy

Pierce is such an actor

Brandon Bass > Big Baby.

Not when it comes to eating contests

As unathletic as Bass is, the only thing you need to do is stay in his face. Giving him a mid-range is pretty much unforgivable, because that's the only way he can hurt you.

Avery Bradley CANNOT guard John Wall

Damn I like Brandon Bass' game

Why are people leaving Allen open I'm not leaving him for anyone else.

Why did NY leave Allen alone for the trey?

Cuz NY ain't that great on D

Flip needs to put a tape of the Celtics on and make the wizards stare at it…clockwork orange style….
I don’t think they realize it gets easier with passes…

Bass just doesn't miss

Boston is patiently running their offense. We're throwing up on ourseleves.

Boy does that crowd noise sound fake

Haha Noooooo. Not in Bahston.

Boston with the cheesy canned crowd noise...LMAO.

How is this piping of crowd noise legal?

I dislike Ray

I love ray Allen I dislike how we aren’t defending him.

Dislike Ray when he is playing against us A lot of respect for him.

RAY ALLEN IS AUTOMATIC

Him and Bass have killed us tonight

I hate ray Allen! And bass!

Nick just isn’t in this game mentally.

He is tired....been run ragged by Allen

I think Boston toys with the Wiz

Somebody teach Garnett how to drink a damn cup of water the right way.

Did anyone just see that woman ask her friend if KG really just threw water in his face…hahaha

LOL at Blatche drawing the foul Looks like there’s more blatche fans among the refs than among wizards fans.

For lack of better terms Ray Allen is muhfuggin good, man. Like he is fuggin GOOD!

And we dare call him old.

I can't wait until the big 3 retire And the Celtics return to the cellar

If it makes you feel better, They don’t really have a chance this year at anything significant

Who the hell left Pierce wide open?

i hate PP

Never leave Pierce alone at that spot.

Why are they playing eye of the tiger they’re the Celts and we’re the friggin wizards

This is embarrassing I see nothing to feel good about the Celtics are beatable. They play with low energy we are just so inefficient with everything we do.

Ray Allen is a great shooter and even he surpassed what he's supposed to do on a basketball court today. The Pierce shot in the end was a very high degree of difficulty. Brandon Bass simply doesn't miss, and he was guarded well in my opinion.

Today's Celtics Links 1/2

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 14:54:00 +0000

Herald   KG comes alive in D.C.
Pierce shows no ill effects
Kings send disgruntled DeMarcus Cousins home, defeat Hornets
Rondo’s triple-double leads Celtics over Wizards
Globe GM Bryan Colangelo on a mission to rebuild Toronto Raptors
Celtics keep ball rolling
O’Neal taking an active role
Final: Celtics 94, Wizards 86
Welcome to Verizon Center

Celtics Life Rondo's triple double lead Celtics past Wizards
Celtics 94, Wizards 86 Highlights
Today's Poll: Should the Celtics Pursue DeMarcus Cousins?
Comments From the Other Side - Wizards 1/1
CelticsBlog   Home Away From Home, Celtics Beat Wizards
Getting Better By The Day
Night And Pierce - What A Difference
CLNS Radio Kings Demarcus Cousins Demands Trade-Not On Road Trip, Could Boston Pursue?
CLNSRadio Postgame: Celtics vs Wizards– on demand
Rondo Shows Wizards Magic of His Own- Celtics Down Washington
Wizards Celtics Monday
Dave & Audley: The Most Memorable Moments of 2011
Red's Army   Your Morning Dump... Where KG shows signs of life
Celtics.com   Ford Keys to the Game: Celtics 94, Wizards 85 | Celtics.com
CSNNE   Photo Gallery | Talking Points: Celtics 94, Wizards 86
Rondo's triple-double another sign of growth
Garnett shows he still has it in win over Wizards
NESN   Celtics Live Blog: Rajon Rondo Notches Triple-Double for C's in 94-86 Win Over Wizards
Celtics Live Blog: Wizards Visit TD Garden As C's Look for Third Straight Blowout Win
Celtics Hub The Month Ahead: January 2012
Game 5/66: Celtics (1-3) vs Wizards (0-3) Open Thread
It’s So Rondo! Celtics 94 Wizards 86
Green Street    Fast Break: Rajon Rondo’s triple double mystifies Wizards
WEEI   The Three-Pointer: Rajon Rondo revitalized
Celtics roll behind Rondo's triple double
Celtics Title Town Rondo,and Garnett come alive,and the Celtics beat the Wizards
Celtics by the numbers: Celtics win the battle of the boards over the Wizards
Jermaine's Hamstring tightens up in third quarter
The Good,the Bad,and the Ugly: Game 5 of the season against theWizards
Celtics Morning Joe: Calling on Brandon Bass
CBS Sports   NBA Preview - Washington Wizards at Boston Celtics
The Big Lead DeMarcus Cousins Demands That the Sacramento Kings Trade Him
Chicago Now Chicago Bulls Destroy Memphis Grizzlies 104-64; Brian Scalabrine Plays!
NECN   Garnett shows he still has it in win over Wizards
Boston rings in 2012 with style
Huffington Post Rajon Rondo's Triple-Double Leads Celtics Over Wizards (VIDEO)
SB Nation Celtics Overtime: Kevin Garnett, Rajon Rondo Carry Boston In Big Way
Celtics Vs. Wizards Final Score: KG, Boston Coast To 94-86 Victory
Mass Live Top 10 Boston Celtics headlines of 2011
Examiner Maine has a long couple of weeks coming
ESPN   Observations: KG's best night of new year
Rapid Reaction: Celtics 94, Wizards 86
Washington Post Rajon Rondo’s triple-double, Kevin Garnett’s 24 leads Celtics to 94-86 win over Wizards
Wizards vs. Celtics: Slow start dooms Washington to 0-4 start to season
Nashua Telegraph   Rondo impressing new Celtics teammate
Bleacher Report   NBA: New Year's Resolutions for Every Eastern Conference Team
Hardwood Paroxysm   NBA Greatest Scorers and When they Peak
Pro Basketball Talk Michael Finley wants another shot in the NBA

Comments From the Other Side - Wizards 1/1

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 14:33:00 +0000

These are much more fun when we win. Another team looking forward to the lottery but still hoping for a win over the Celtics. Lots of love for Rondo here along with a lot of complaints about the refs and some hate for KG and Blatche. My favorite comments were that Blatche has been tired his whole career and KG would be pumped for jury duty. Good stuff. I hope you enjoy it. And stay tuned for part 2 tomorrow....

We should just recycle game threads from last year since the games will probably end the same.

They'll be slightly different since we don't have Yi to yell at anymore.

I call this game 4 in the fire Flip and Ernie tour.

Weird, I have this irrational feeling that we are going to win, totally nuts.

My first thought was that the Wizards would play better, but lose a close one. However, I just remembered it was New Years Eve last night. My guess is the old Celtics were snug in their beds last night before midnight while the young knuckleheads on the Wizards were partying it up past 2:00 a.m. I see another blow out.

At least Rondo won't torch Wall from the outside.

This game I feel like we will actually resemble a real basketball team. We usually play the C’s tough for some odd reason.

Let's see what I've got here.....

Click the image to open in full size.

Click the image to open in full size.Click the image to open in full size.

Yep, I'm ready for the game.

I'm predicting Multiple technical fouls

Ratio of Celtics to wizards fans? Hope it doesn't get above 50% Celtics…that would be sad

4 Celtics Starters were All Stars in 2002

Be nice to see the Wiz get the home-team calls that ATL and MILW got... But I’m not holding my breath.

How does McGee get outrebounded by Rondo

Lewis is owning Pierce I think he’s just happy he doesn’t have to go against KG anymore

The refs suck Anti-homecourt advantage

Rondo with a disgustingly easy layup

I can understand how Wall would be frustrated He funneled Rondo to the baseline, McGee was waiting, and for some reason just stepped aside.

Wall is getting outplayed tonight by Rondo...

Folks were lying when they said Wall's jumper has gotten better. It hasn't.

Early to say but I am not surprised if the wizards are trying ro give their best game for teams like the Celtics.

No call for Nick. Biased refs!!! I thought we were in DC!!! Wtf is this???

The fact that Pierce gets that call and Nick doesn't is a travesty

Palming by Rondo before the foul, but,of course, no call.

The refs are a joke

It's like they gave us the number one pick to wash away the Gilbert Arenas fiasco from our minds and then go right back on to dumping on us. We get no love, no respect

I hate Paul pierce so much And KG with his post-play blocks

The Celtics are the gayest

Rondo is the second best PG in NBA

Amnesty Dray. No one wants to trade for the bum, and he’s an utter waste of space on the court.

Rondo owns McGee's soul

Heading into the half, the only areas in which Boston is outplaying us are

Offense, defense, rebounding, assists and blocked shots. Other than that, we got those snobs right where we want them!

Well we listed all of the players we wanted to play tonight We’ll call that a draw with the Celts in preparation.

Even the cats are close to getting doubled up by the cheatles. 2012 sucks.

The big difference is, Rondo is penetrating in control of the situation, always aware of how his teammates are moving

While wall is penetrating to get a layup or jumper and he is not maing his jumper at a good enough clip to take as many as he does.

Blatche why don't u just give rondo a contested jumper Instead of going full retard and falling for a pump fake

That was a AND1 for Nick

Not playing against the Celtics it's not... But heaven forbid that Rondo get knocked down... They would call a flagrant foul

I'm tired of NBA games being decided like this. What's the point of having refs if they are going to decide the games?

Encouraging stuff. Our youth, speed and athleticism on display here against the old C's

Wall is more or less playing Rondo even in my estimation. The difference, which is huge, is Rondo's team.

Who stole McGee's body and inserted it with a high BBIQ, hard rebounding mind? He's playing about as good as I've seen him, even with the misses.

Rondo is killing everyone not only wall.

Bass is a beast.

If we had a player on our roster who is half as smart as rondo....

Everyone on this team does bone head plays cuz flip holds nobody accountable nor instills discipline

Why does singleton think he's Ray Allen You arent good enough to come in cold off the bench and hit a 3 like that. Not yet

Bass is such a blackhole

Looks like Booker can't really handle Bass after all

Blatche still sucks major a$$. NO help against garnet. Free layup.

He was tired. Flip kept him in too long.

He's been tired his entire career.

Rondo is so f'ing good Love watching him play..

And kickin ass on my fantasy team.

He is a real draft night steal

I gotta admit that last assist by Rondo was nice

Bad news If Minnesota win tonight, we will be the only no win team! (or unless we steal this one)

Amazing ball movement by the Cs

Garnett is so pumped guys

You'd think he just 360 windmilled on somebody

I'm pretty sure Garnett gets pumped for jury duty

I hate him so much Would pay a lot of money to punch him in the face

He'd be pretty pumped about that too. "I'm about to get punched in the f*ing face...ANYTHING IS POSSIBLLLEEEEEEE"

After you punched him he'd just keep punching himself in the face “IS THAT ALL YOU GOT? LET”S GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Man these refs are really making us work for calls

Wow ok why are all the ticky-tack calls going C's way

Rondo might be the smoothest player in the NBA

Boy rondo is good

Lets go Celtics *clap clap clap clap clap* Oh how I love bam wagoners

Away red jerseys to drown out the sea of green?

Blatche is trash. I'd deal him for a half eaten bag of doritos. What a bum.

A 16 year vet with bad knees in Kevin Garnett moves much, much better than 25 year old Andray Blatche. That tells us all we need to know.

We have talent. We're just really dumb. I don't know if it's our players or the coaching but we just don't execute the basics. Watching the Celtics and then watching our team was like watching men among boys.

Wall was decent defensively as well. Comparing him to Rondo right now is just never going to look good. Rondo is one of the best players in the league, not just one of the best PGs

Well, the Celts really aren’t that good any more outside of two geriatric hall of famers and a very good point guard. Their bench blows. We could beat them if we had a decent 4 man.

Gna be a lot harder in Boston Where there are true Celtics fans instead of these wannabees that live in the DMV

Today's Celtics Links 1/1

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 18:07:00 +0000

Herald   Celts couldn’t fill in blank
Brandon Bass not taking baby steps
Pistons end two droughts: crisp play snaps 3-game skid, halts Frank’s 20-game slide
Scott Brooks says James Harden has earned a starting opportunity with Thunder
2011 Key Moments for Celtics
Wilcox, Pietrus not with team
Globe   Ray Allen ready as usual for Celtics
There is almost a sense of entitlement

Celtics Life Celtics Looking for First Road Win as They Take on the Winless Wizards
Lawrence Frank: Right Place, Wrong Time
Karl on the Kayak Episode 1- Happy New Year Celtics fans!
Today's Video: Rondo "Champion" Mix
What the Hell Happened to...Bob Houbregs?
CelticsBlog Ticket Contest: Guess Celtics Top Scorer, Win Two Tickets
CLNS Radio   For Jermaine O'Neal, it's not about the points
Celebrate New Year’s Day With Us & John Legend’s Brother!
Celtics Look To Make It A Winning Streak In Washington
CLNSRadio Postgame Show: Celtics vs Wizards
ESPN   Making the most of available time
3-on-3: Celtics vs. Wizards (Game 5 of 66)
Allen's conditioned to staying in shape
Red's Army   LeBron on game winner: "We stole it.."
Rondo turned his ankle last night
Taking Stock: C's-Pistons
Your Morning Dump... Brandon Bass is kicking ass
NESN   Vote: Which Former Boston Athlete Now Playing Elsewhere Provided the Most Unforgettable Moment?
Celtics Live Blog: Veteran C's Visit Young Wizards Squad in Nation's Capital
Is Jermaine O'Neal Good Enough at Center for Celtics to Contend for an NBA Title?
Celtics Title Town Celtics Week in Review: Week 1 2011-12 season -
Celtics Morning Joe: Have a good New Year
Mass Live Celtics stock watch: Ray Allen up, Kevin Garnett down following first week of play
Examiner   Maine makes some personnel moves
Wizards begin 'New Year' with Celtics back-to-back
Ray Allen's work ethic continues to inspire
Norwich Bulletin   Ray Allen proves age is but a number
CBS Sports   NBA Preview - Boston Celtics at Washington Wizards
Celtics Ups and Downs: Hello JO
Bleacher Report NBA Rumors: Disgruntled Rajon Rondo and Russell Westbrook Should Team Swap
Ty Lawson and 5 Players Poised to Have a Breakout 2012 Season
SB Nation Celtics Vs. Wizards: Boston Meets Washington On New Year's Day
CSNNE Pietrus: Always intended to come to Boston
C's Allen getting used to season on the road
Taunton Gazette Doc never worried about Ray Allen being ready
News Sentinel Fort Wayne adds new piece to puzzle
Sporting News   Celtics' ship righted? Too soon to tell, but win, Pierce's return help
Green Street Using advanced stats to explain Paul Pierce’s performance
Rant Sports Rumor: Orlando Magic Dwight Howard To Boston?

Celtics On the Road Again to Face Winless Wizards

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 17:41:00 +0000

at
Boston Celtics (1-3) at Wizards (0-3)
Sunday, January 1
6:00 PM ET
Regular Season Game #5, Road Game #4
TV: CSN-NE, Comcast Sportsnet, NBA-TV, NBAC
Radio: WEEI, WJFK
Verizon Center

Referees: Bill Spooner, Eric Dalen, James Williams

The Celtics are back on the road after winning their home opener and hopefully they can keep their winning ways going against the Wizards who are still looking for their first win.

This is the first of 4 meetings in this shortened season between these two teams. This is the first of a home and home set and the Wizards will play the Celtics in Boston on Monday night. Last season these two teams split the series 2-2.

The Celtics haven't been the best defensive team this season so far, but like Pistons, the Wizards may be just what they need to get their defense on track. The Wizards have shot just 38.6% from the field in their 3 losses this season. They have also been allowing 97.7% shooting from their opponents.

Probable Starters
PG SG SF PF C
Rajon Rondo...Ray Allen...Paul Pierce...Kevin Garnett... Jermaine O'Neal

Boston Bench Mob
Brandon Bass
Sasha Pavlovic
JaJuan Johnson
E'Twaun Moore
Marquis Daniels
Keyon Dooling
Avery Bradley
Greg Steimsma

Injured
Chris Wilcox (shoulder) day to day
Mickael Pietrus (knee) out

Probable Starters
PG SG SF PF C
John Wall...Nick Young....Rashard Lewis...Andary Blatche...JaVale McGee

Wizards Bench
Tevor Booker
Jordan Crawford
Shelvin Mack
Roger Mason
Hamedy Ndiaye
Kevin Seraphin
Chris Singleton
Ronny Turiaf

Injured
Jan Vesely (hip) day to day
Maurice Evans (knee) day to day

Key Matchups
vs
Rajon Rondo vs John Wall
As Rondo goes so go the Celtics. Wall is a young and exciting point guard, but Rondo has to set the pace and be aggressive against him.

vs
Jermaine O'Neal vs Javale McGee
Jermaine O'Neal finally came alive in the Celtics' home opener. After 3 very bad games, he broke out against the Pistons. Hopefully he will continue playing well and step up and be a force on both ends of the court in this game.

Honorable Mention
Kevin Garnett vs Andray Blatche
Kevin Garnett may have lost a step over the years, but he still has enough to get the better of Andray Blatche. The Celtics will need aggressive play from KG on the offensive end as well as on defense.

Keys to the Game
Rebound The Celtics must crash the boards and keep the Wizards from getting second chance points, fast break opportunities and extra possessions. As I have said before, when the Celtics put out the effort necessary to win the battle of the boards, that effort seems to pick up every area of their game as well.

Defense Defense always wins games. The Celtics have to make defense their priority and shut down the paint as well as staying on their outside shooters. In their first 4 games, the Celtics have played defense in spurts but they have allowed way too many easy baskets. When the Celtics clamp down on defense the rest of their game picks up.

Be Aggressive The Celtics need to play aggressively. They need to take the ball to the hoop and try to get to the line early and often. Make the officials call the fouls. They also have to go for every loose ball and battle for all the rebounds. If they play passively, they could be facing another loss to a team that is hungry for their first win.

Limit Turnovers - The Celtics have turned the ball over too much in games so far. The tend to make lazy passes and lose focus from time to time and give their opponents easy scoring opportunities because of it.

Official Report

Bill Spooner
Spooner has officiated over 1,000+ regular season games and 50+ play-off games. Spooner served as president of the high school referee association in 1982. Spooner is the ref who failed to call Kobe's elbow to the throat of Ron Artest a couple years back, even though he was the ref in position to call it. Artest's complaints resulted in his ejection but nothing was called on Kobe in the game. The league later admitted their error and assessed Kobe a flagrant 1 for the elbow. But that didn't help Houston who had to play without Artest the rest of the game. The Celtics are 6-4 in their last 10 games with Spooner while the Wizards are 5-5 in their last 10. Spooner's home W/L record this season is 1-1.

Eric Dalen
Dalen has been a referee in the NBA since 2008. He spent 4 years officiating college games and 5 years in the D-League before being called up to the NBA. I couldn't find much on the guy other than an article where Andrew Bynum was complaining about Dalen calling all 6 fouls on him in a game in 2008. He has only officiated 8 games for the Celtics since the 2008 season and the Celtics are 6-2 in those games. The Wizards are 3-7 in their last 10 games with Dalen. His home W/L record this season is 1-1.

James Williams
This is just Williams second season in the NBA. He was called up from the D-League last season. He has only officiated 3 Celtics games since joining the NBA and the Celtics are 2-1 in those games. He has only officiated one Wizards game previously and that was a win over Milwaukee last season. His home W/L record is 1-1.

X-Factors
Focus and Officiating
The Celtics will be on the road again and hopefully they won't let that change their focus. They need to keep the same intensity and focus that they brought in front of their home crowd. The officiating has been seriously bad in the Celtics first 4 games. The Celtics can't let the bad calls and no calls get to them. They have to just play through it.

Today's Celtics Links 12/31

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:16:00 +0000

Herald   Paul Pierce provides boost
Truth always best
Doc talk turns Frank
Pietrus arrives with plenty of smiles
O’Neal answers critics
Final: Celtics 96, Pistons 85
Jermaine O’Neal on his resurgent performance: “I’m a fighter”
Globe   Video: Postgame interviews
Room to maneuver
Jermaine O’Neal can make big impact on Celtics
Jermaine O'Neal shines in Celtics win
Video: Washburn on Celtics-Pistons
Being at home, having Pierce help Celtics get in win column
Five takeaways from Celtics-Pistons
Celtics president Danny Ainge won’t panic
Celtics top Pistons, 96-85, for first win

Celtics Life Mickael Pietrus Speaks.
Celtics dominate Pistons in Pierce's return BOS 96 DET 85
Celtics/Pistons Post Game Videos
Celtics 96, Pistons 85 Highlights
Comments From the Other Side - Pistons 12/30
CelticsBlog   Pierce good to go, but how good remains to be seen
Celtics Find Home To Their Liking
Pro Basketball Talk 100 early season observations
Colangelo says 2012 Olympic squad “fair comparison” with Dream Team
ESPN   Captain rights ship in season debut
C's get defensive for a change
O'Neal rebounds with best effort in green
MacMullan: Truth doesn't hurt
3 up, 3 down (Week 1)
Bobby V pops up at Celtics' home opener
Chat transcript: Forsberg on C's -
ESPN Boston Radio: Forsberg on C's
Pregame: Pierce returns vs. Pistons
Must-win game? Not to Doc
Pietrus targets debut in two weeks
Rapid reaction: Celtics 96, Pistons 85
Boston Celtics captain Paul Pierce debuts after tweeting that he's "very very close"
3-on-3: Celtics vs. Pistons (Game 4 of 66)
CLNS Radio CLNSRadio Postgame now LIVE, checking in w/ #Celtics locker room - CLNS Radio
Celtics get first victory of the season over the Pistons
Red's Army Recap: Jermaine O'Neal leads Cs over Pistons (I'm not kidding)
Your Morning Dump... Where Jermaine's no dummy
Celtics.com Ford Keys to the Game: Pistons 85, Celtics 96
CSNNE    Photo Gallery Talking Points: Celtics 96, Pistons 85
Pietrus: Always intended to come to Boston
O'Neal delivers finest Celtics performance
Pierce provides spark in return
Celtics finally notch first victory
Wilcox out, hopes to play Sunday
Pierce ready for debut
Celtics finally come home
The Year in Review - 10 Boston Sports Predictions for 2012
Celtics Hub Game 4/66: Celtics (0-3) vs Pistons (0-2) Open Thread
On The Board: Celtics 96, Pistons 85
Celtics Town Celtics 96, Pistons 85: The Captain returns, Boston finds elusive first win
Celtics Title Town The Good,the Bad,and the Ugly: Game 4 of the season against the Pistons
Celtics Morning Joe: Ray team MVP
Rondology: To The Mountain. And Back.
Banner 18 Amare Fonzarelli
Sheridan Hoops Highlights and news from Friday night's NBA games
State of the Celtics Celtics earn first win of the season in convincing fashion
NESN   Celtics Live Blog: Jermaine O'Neal Scores 19 in Paul Pierce's Return As C's Beat Pistons 96-85
Jermaine O'Neal Showcases His Offensive Potential With Big Showing in Celtics' First Win
Paul Pierce Not Just a Boston Legend, But One of Remaining 'Good Guys' in NBA
Milford Daily News Celtics Notebook: Awaiting reinforcements
SB Nation Celtics Vs. Pistons Final Score: Boston Cruises To First Win, 96-85
Boston Sports Year In Review: The Highs And Lows Of 2011 In Beantown
WEEI    Celtics speak familar language of success -
Jermaine O'Neal with Grande & Max live postgame interview
Detroit breakout: C's win 1st, Pierce returns
Danny Ainge on the depth of the 2011-2012 Celtics
Green Street    Jermaine O’Neal’s breakthrough performance
Paul Pierce: ‘I was expecting to be me’
Danny Ainge on Big Show: Paul Pierce close to returning, Celtics ‘horrendous’ defensively, Heat beatable
Fast Break: Paul Pierce and so does winning for the Celtics
MetroWest Daily News Post-deadline thoughts from Celtics' home-opening victory: Jermaine O'Neal not dead yet, feeling much better
Telegram Paul Pierce returns, Boston Celtics win first
Ghris Wilcox close to playing, Mickael Pietrus not
Enterprise News Pietrus not ready to play
Patriot Ledger CELTICS NOTEBOOK: Pietrus will be ready within two weeks
NECN   Businesses see pick up with Celtics back
SI.com   Jeff Green Happy To Be Alive, Looks Forward To Returning To NBA
NY times Even in Short Season, Rough Start Doesn't Mean Doom
Yahoo   Shaq promises a cool grand to anyone who gets a tattoo of a famous kiss - Ball Don't Lie
Hickory High Running On Rondo
Bleacher Report   Magic's New Devious Dwight Strategy

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 15:26:00 +0000

It sure was good to get a win in this one and just as good to see the Captain back on the court. There's no use criticizing the Pistons, their fans seem to do enough of that. I feel bad for them because I've been there as a Celtics fan. Most remember their championship teams and now are hitting bottom. Some fun comments. Of course there are the recurring Boston is old and Pierce wheelchair comments. I hope you enjoy this first winning edition of Comments from the Other Side......

Pistons 1st win. Boston is too old

If Pierce is out I think Boston wins in a close game. If Pierce plays I think Boston wins big. KG is going to look 10 years younger tonight.

This is Bostons last shot this year, I felt like they were too old LAST year

The ghost of Brian Scalabrine will lead the Celtics to a victory. Seriously though Boston will beat us whether Pierce plays or not.

We're going to get destroyed

Pistons seem to always play very good against the Celtics

Pierce is playing. Might be awhile before the Pistons get a win.

A struggling Boston team gets us to take their frustrations out on. I would be surprised if this one is close.

I'm gonna go out on a limb and say we win this one. Boston looks bad this year.

I preddict Bass dropping a 30/20 on us and Jermaine O'Neal will look like a good Center...

Brandon Bass lit us up last year, I'd expect more of the same. We have an uncanny ability to let backup bigs drub us for career highs.

The exciting thing about this game is if we win Boston is going to be psychologically damaged, given our reputation and their 0-3 start.

Can the Pistons stay within 30?

For the first 5 minutes maybe.

Rivers said Pierce will be in the starting lineup.

I hear they'll be wheeling him out.

Boston are 0-3 and look very old. Could the young upstart Pistons extend it to 4? Here's hoping!

it's because Boston is 0-3 that I believe the Pistons will be paying a visit to Uncle Beatdown tomorrow night Is it possible for Garbage Time to start in the 1st quarter of a NBA game???

Is Charlie back for this one?

No 4 game suspension

Charlie is our enforcer. I'm worried that with all the trash talking and shoving that KG does, we are really going to miss our enforcer.

Don't think for a second that the League didn't plan this to guarantee a Celtic win

I wish CV was playing tonight so he could scuffle with Garnett some more and get suspended for more games.

NBA Suspensions: The Cure for Cancer.

They are the worst announcers in the league by far. Tommy heinsohn is an absolute joke. They unbearable to listen to.

Wow, we're actually playing good.

Offense looks crisp. Frank clearly knows how to attack this D and coached them up.

I'm learning all kinds of things about the pistons from the Boston announcers. Did you know Monroe is a "shot blocker"?

Easily the best quarter they have played this year.

Looks like Frank has been putting some work in

Yeah we've definitely improved each game. We still suck though.

We are a horrible defensive team. Maybe top 5 worst.

We're arguably a worse offensive team.

Austin daye is SOOOOOO weak. Pushed all they way to the 3 point line.

By a guard named sasha, at that.

Is BG in the doghouse or something???

He is not good at the game of Basketball.

Moose is ABUSING this white BOY

I know it's only Steisma(sp?), but it's fantastic to see Greg look confident in the post.

These refs blow

Lol @ JO landing on Tayshaun and not bothering to get off of him...

Flagrant 2 if that was Pierce.

Too ba the Boston PA guy wasn’t amnesty’d this offseason. Dude is turrible.

Marquis Daniels must buy very large headbands.

Brandon bass makes me hate the Celtics less…big baby was so much easier to hate

Heinsohn Rambling On…about Dumars signing BG and CV to $90M in contracts. Rambling on so much, he forgot to whine about Rondo’s offfensive foul.

It’s about time the refs called Jermaine O’Neal for the pushing he’s been doing all game long.

Our timeouts have led to Celtics runs More than stopping the bleeding

We have collective hemophilia

Listening to the Celtics broadcasters is like listening to nails on a chalkboard.

No one should ever have to put up with that torture.

Pistons.... The team that makes players like Jermaine f’ng Oneal look like an all star again

Why is stuckey on the team? Oh yea dumars resigned him as an 8 million dollar man

Stuckey is 1-10?

Yes. But it was a really awesome one. Well worth a hundred thousand dollars a game over the next three years

This is pathetic. Being abused by Bass and Jermaine O'Neal, can it get any worse?

We are a defensive, and general, embarrassment to basketball

Hope stern doesn't screw us in the lottery

I don't mind losing so we can get a good pick but I hate getting lit up by scrubs like Oneal and Bass.

Its a pity we let Wilcox go, he would be our 2nd best big by far, he played well with Monroe. Signed for the minimum with the Celtics and is not even in the rotation.

Yup, We are the worst team in the league. There's no doubt. 3 blowout losses to 3 average-below average teams.

Ray Allen is the definition of a flopper. He has flopped like 3-4 times in this game.

So Doc River puts Celtics starters back in the game so he can stick it to Frank right? I mean Boston is struggling defensively this season. He wants to drop 100 on Frank so he can tell his players - "See Lawrence wasn't what made this defense good". Sure feels like a statement to me.

Kind of an F-U to Frank

What's Really Scary Is that the Celts really look like they suck.

That should have been a foul. Goofy white dude flies into him, they don’t call the foul because he’s Boston’s Little Guy.

I wish Boston still had big baby..bass is killing us

TRADE RAY ALLEN NOW!

Seriously, for Ben Gordon.

I actually don't think Daye played too badly today.

Yeah he did amazing, got abused by PP big time on defense and got abused by the might Sasha Pavlovic on offense.

that's 2 travels the refs don't call on Bynum They too just want this to be over

Jermaine O'neal>Us

I hate Boston's commentators, they just come across as snotty

This team is teeeeeeeeeeerrrible I wanna see knight Gordon jerebko macklin monroe starting next game, the official "tank season lineup"

How could you have a tank season lineup without god like stuckey!

If you don't count the third quarter ... We win!

Today's Celtics Links 12/30

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:49:00 +0000

Herald   No defending Celtics play
Paul Pierce ‘very close’ to return
Derrick Rose fulfills vow with aggressive play as Bulls defeat Kings
Lakers out in force for this one against the Knicks
Kevin Durant’s buzzer-beating three leaves Mavericks winless as Thunder triumphs
Kevin Garnett to get limited stake in Roma soccer club
Globe Game 4: Pistons at Celtics
‘NBA Forever’ montage a perfect blend of past, present
Austin Rivers, son of Celtics coach Doc Rivers, is already a star at Duke
NBA roars back with sellouts and record TV ratings
Celtics have a lot to work on after 0-3 start

Celtics Life Today's Video: Mickael Pietrus "Motivation" Mix
Kendrick Perkins Tells Chris Webber to STFU
Today's Video: Stiemsma Shows You What He Can Do
Kevin Garnett To Become Italian Soccer Team Part Owner
CelticsBlog   No Panic Yet, But Reality Check Time
Iamagm Referee Dick Bavetta has not missed a game or had a sick day in 37 years
WEEI   The Bruins and Celtics are heading in opposite directions.
The Celtics are starting to show their age
Sean Grande on the Celtics very rough start to the season
Orlando Sentinel Orlando Magic: Magic to explore renting out Dwight Howard
Yahoo Celtics Face Early Season Must Win in Home Opener: Fan's Take
Greg Stiemsma Gives Celtics Fans One More Reason to Hope: Fan Take
Hoopsworld   NBA AM: NBA Rookie Of The Year Race
ESPN    Injured Boston Celtics captain Paul Pierce tweets that he's "very very close"
Boston Celtics' Kevin Garnett to buy limited share of Roma
Captain is close?
Davis still has sense of humor
Don't sweat bad start ... yet
Podcast: Scalabrine and Friedell
Don't worry about Boston Celtics' bad start
Hollinger: C's problems start with D
CLNS Radio   Is It Time To Move On From Kevin Garnett?
Celtics Fans Don't Panic Just Yet
CLNSRadio Postgame Show: Celtics vs Pistons
Red's Army NBA rescinds two technical fouls from two-point loss to Knicks
Enemy Chatter: Jarrett Jack schooled Rajon Rondo
Taking Stock: C's-Hornets
Your Morning Dump... The ugly truth behind the Celts D
CSNNE    Celtics aren't panicking after 0-3 start
Davis starts NBA comeback with D-League's Red Claws
On three straight Celtics losses
Rivers has no choice but to play rookies now
On three straight Celtics losses
NESN   Are You Concerned About the Celtics' 0-3 Start?
Celtics Live Blog: Kevin Garnett, C's Fired Up for Home Opener Against Pistons
Paul Pierce Says That He Is 'Very Very Close' to Returning From Injury
Celtics Town Paul Pierce “close very very close” to return
On Boston’s struggling starting lineup, and why it’s actually good news
Green Street   Starting five: Thoughts on the Celtics’ struggles through season’s first five days
Celtics Title Town Waiting for KG,and I'm not sure he'll show
Celtics Morning Joe: Defense is needed
Rondology: Ballroom Dancing
State of the Celtics   Celtics searching for answers
South Coast Today   Inside the Celtics: Boston in need of a rebound on parquet
Examiner   Maine drops its second straight to Canton
NY Post D’Antoni still doesn’t get it: He’s the guy in charge of the Knicks
MetroWest Daily News Celtics stumble out of gate
Telegram Boston Celtics seek first win vs. Detroit Pistons
Herald News CELTICS NOTEBOOK: Pierce remains day to day with heel injury
SI.com Paul Pierce “Very Very Close” To Making Season Debut For Celtics
Milford Daily News Winless Celtics show some troubling signs
Canton Rep Humbled Ricky Davis back on court with Maine Red Claws
CBS Sports NBA Preview - Detroit Pistons at Boston Celtics
Felger & Mazz: Trouble Ahead For The Boston Celtics
NECN   Celtics' zone defense a product of bad man-to-man
NBA.com   StatsCube: Early season questions for NBA's elite
Pro Basketball Talk Jeff Green hanging with Celtics, happy he’ll get to play again
Rant Sports Boston Celtics Doc Rivers Has Serious Problem To Solve For New Year
Hangtime Blogs Celtics lead NBA’s Winless Nine

Comments From the Other Side - Hornets 12/28

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 15:34:00 +0000

Hornets fans aren't quite as obnoxious as Heat or Knick fans but they hate on the Celtics just like everyone else. The theme seems to be that the Celtics are old and nothing the Celtics have done seems to disprove that. I think it's more of a chemistry problem right now because of lack of training camp and because of injuries. Hopefully the Celtics win Friday or these comments are going to go from being fun to downright depressing!

Celtics is another old team and we got young legs now. I think we have a great chance of winning and extending our streak to 2 games. Its gonna be a rough one though with rondo but jack might be able to slow him a bit

It'll be tougher if Paul Pierce plays, if they have to start Sasha Pavlovic again I'm thinking were gonna be all right

Ray Allen is my favoite player I hope he put up 50 with a L

KG will be in that number. The NBA decided not to punish him for putting his hands on Walkers neck. I wonder who he will try punking at our game, or will he be more on the up and up since the NBA knows he is a repeat offender?

What a surprise, hat dude gets away with murder but is still portrayed as a lovable competitor...disgusting

I hope we can curb stomp the Celtics.

I got a feeling that we are going to win this game. Without Pierce , I think we are equally if not more talented than the Celtics. Hornets win by 8

One of the few > matchups Ariza will have this year.. Heh

I still have a sour taste in my mouth from the last time the Celtics were in town; when the calls went against New Orleans for the whole game and they blew that big lead. That was all compounded by there being a HUGE amount of Celtics fans there.

+- 70 pts?

Under IMO...we don't have another guy we can give us 20+ tonight . EG was the only who couldn't afford to get hurt .

I’m living in Boston now, so I have to watch the Boston broadcast team who are giving the Hornets no chance. I would be absolutely ecstatic if I could go to work tomorrow with the Hornets 2-0 and the Celtics 0-3.

This is going to be a really ugly game.

The Celtics look fresher & more athletic than us which shouldn't be the case. Marco needs to hit the bench. Give Trey Johnson some mins

Okafor abused by the rookie? Ouch!

Pavlovic is the perfect place to hide someone And Belinelli needs to be hidden.

Rondo's shooting has improved a lot this season.

These Celtics announcers are UNBEARABLE. Thinking about watching it on mute

Ugh forgot that playing Boston Means listening to the nba’s worst commentator

Steinsma owning us, ha

Haha My dad’s a Celtics fan and has no idea who these people are…

Haha At least dooling and bass are nice upgrades for them

We're playing scrappy. They're playing old.

If we stop Allen from hitting 3s, we're gonna be okay. Celtics team looks very slow, so far Hornets plain outperform them.

These announcers are god awful.

Celtics commentators:
Commentator 1: Where's the foul??!!!
Commentator 2: Right there.
Commentator 3: Where?

Tommy heinson is the worst announcer of all time...such a homer

E just look so young. I haven't seen this sort of athletic advantage on our team before.

Run these clowns out of the hive

Jermaine O'Neal... You could have been wearing white…

I know they're old And it’s the second night of a back-to-back, and they don’t have Pierce…but beating the Celtics would be an excellent victory.

It's nice to see team basketball for a change. CP3 was a great player for us, but watching him dribble down the ball to the end of the shot clock was nauseating. There's so much ball movement going on.

K.G is a chump

Nba refs still sucks

This stiemsa can play

This Stiemesa kid is a Blocking Machine

Lets get a good look before half... (one that's NOT blocked by steves ma... ER whatever)

The Celtics looked tired......too many fouls!

Boston can die from a rancid amputation.

Rajon Rondo complains ALOT even when they do call the fouls

Rondo's shooting over 50%?? Did hell freeze over?!?!

Jermaine O'Neil is horrible

The one thing that scares me is ray Allen getting hot

These Celtics announcers are complaining about everything!

They always do...it's what they do

They're from Boston so if they're not winning they are obviously getting screwed

Uh oh steimsa time!
It's a Block Party

Gil is an idiot does he not realize how much Rondo has improved his jumper this year

I think hes only improved from last year meaning now he can make 3 jumpers a game... Still isn't even an average shooter

The Celtics will be tired come the 4th quarter, have to run them,

They've looked tired since early 2nd

Stiemsa blocks everything

This dude Siemsa is ridiculous with these blocks

Man, Steimsma is killing us Only Celtic who gives a damn.

Rondo is so predictable. All he does in drive to his left.

Celtics are just so average W/o Pierce

Man the Celtics look terrible they desperately need pierce and with this being back to back for them the Hornets caught them at a good time.

I'd love to stuff a sock in Tommy Heinsohn's mouth, or just give him more food to eat. He was quiet for a few minutes there.

Is Boston really about to go 0-3?
Hahahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

While I realize Boston is old, they are on their 3rd game in 4 days, and they are jerks, we still curb stomped them.

Celtics Hope to Avoid 0-3 Start With Win in New Orleans

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 18:30:00 +0000

at
Boston Celtics (0-2) at New Orleans Hornets (1-0)
Wednesday, December 28
8:00 PM ET
Regular Season Game #3, Road Game #3
TV: NBA-TV, CSN-NE, CST, NBAC
Radio: WEEI, WMTI
Referees: Scott Foster, Tony Brown, Josh Tiven
New Orleans Arena
Celtics are closing out their first road trip in New Orleans. They are also playing in their first back to back of the season. In spite of this being the second of back to back games and the third game on the road after 2 very tough games, this is a very winnable game.

The Hornets are still reeling from the trade of Chris Paul and the defection of David West and are trying to find their identity with all the new players. But, they did pull off a win in their first game in Phoenix, so the Celtics will still have to play well in order to get a win in this game. They can't take them for granted.

The Celtics don't want to go 0-3 to start the season and need to come out strong and not let up. Since this is the second of back to back games, Doc needs to play the younger guys more or the starters won't have anything left at the end of the game. After playing 44 minutes last night, Rondo will be running on fumes if Doc doesn't give him a rest in this game.

PG: Rajon Rondo
SG: Ray Allen
SF: Sasha Pavlovic
PF: Kevin Garnett
C: Jermaine O'Neal

Celtics Reserves
Avery Bradley
Marquis Daniels
Chris Wilcox
Brandon Bass
Keyon Dooling
E'twaun Moore
Greg Stiemsma
JaJuan Johnson

Injuries
Paul Pierce (heel) day to day
Mickael Pietrus (knee) out
Chris Wilcox (shoulder) questionable

PG: Jarrett Jack
SG: Eric Gorden
SF: Trevor Ariza
PF: Carl Landry
C: Emeka Okafor

Hornets Reserves
Greivis Vasquez
Al-Farouq Aminu
Gustavo Ayon
Marco Belinelli
Carldell Johnson
Trey Johnson
Chris Kaman
Jason Smith
Lance Thomas

Injuries
DaJuan Summers (knee) out

Key Matchups
vs
Ray Allen vs Eric Gordon

vs
Kevin Garnett vs Carl Landry

Keys to the Game
Play 48 minutes - The Celtics have gotten off to slow starts two games in a row and have had to fight back from a deep hole in both games only to fall short at the end. They need to start quickly and not let themselves get behind as it takes too much effort to try to dig out of the holes they find themselves in.

Defense - The Celtics have allowed over 60 points in the first half of both games so far and have allowed over 100 points in both losses. They need to clamp down on defense from the beginning.

Be the aggressor - The Celtics have been reacting to their opposition rather than being the aggressor and getting out to a lead and keeping it. They need to run the break, be aggressive on defense and dive for loose balls.

Rebound the ball - The Celtics have to be more aggressive on the boards. One rebound for their starting center just won't cut it. When your point guard is the team's leading rebounder, you know that the bigs on the team have to be more aggressive on the boards.

Limit turnovers - The Celtics turned the ball over way too much against the heat and those turnovers led to fast break points. They have to take better care of the ball and be more careful with their passes.

X Factor
Fatigue
The Celtics are playing in the second of back to back games and have been playing short handed. They are also playing in their 3rd road game to start the season. They also had 2 tough matchups in NY and Miami where the starters had to play right up until the end of the game.

Today's Celtics Links 12/28

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 15:47:00 +0000

Herald   Same story for Celtics
Doc Rivers defends Kevin Garnett; Paul Pierce doubtful for tonight’s game
Wilcox out with bruised left shoulder
Turnovers leave a bad taste
NBA roundup: Marvin Williams has 14 as Hawks ruin Nets final NJ opener
Poor starts doing in Celtics
Heat play it cool when sizing up East rival
Globe Column: Heat draining suspense out of young season
Celtics’ comeback against Heat falls shy
Final: Heat 115, Celtics 107
Green plans to return stronger

Celtics Life Lebron and Wade score 50 to prevent the Celtics their first win
Celtics/Heat Post Game Videos
Heat 115, Celtics 107 Highlights
Comments From the Other Side - Heat 12/27
CelticsBlog Once Again, Big Comeback Just Falls Short
Don't Count Out The Old Celtics Just Yet
ESPN Zoned in: C's use wrinkle to rally
Bouncing back-to-back
C's concerned about slow starts
Boston Celtics' Jeff Green stays positive about heart surgery
Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat - Recap
Winless Boston Celtics need to slow starts to stop
Celtics didn't value the ball
Wilcox out with bruised left shoulder
Rapid Reaction: Heat 115, Celtics 107 -
Boston Celtics Jeff Green 'relieved' after heart ailment found
Pierce expected to sit out rest of trip -
For C's, goal is post early, post often
W2W4: Celtics at Heat, 8 p.m. ET
Pierce improving, doubtful vs. Miami
Doc on KG-Walker: Much ado about nothing
Pietrus needs time to strengthen knee
CLNS Radio   Pierce out until at least the home opener
Boston Celtics Philosophy for Honoring Former Players
Celtics get Cole in their stocking in loss to Heat
Former Boston Celtic Ricky Davis to join Maine Red Claws
Red's Army Miami's goofy new intro video -
Celtics-Heat open thread (and live halftime show!)
Recap: C's comeback falls short, Heat win 115-107
Your Morning Dump... Doc finds a zone defense in his bag of tricks
Huffington Post Rajon Rondo Air Balls Layup In Heat-Celtics Game (VIDEO)
Celtics.com Ford Keys to the Game: Celtics 107, Heat 115
CSNNE   Rivers: Pierce out vs. Hornets, possible return Friday
Photo Gallery |Talking Points: Heat 115, Celtics 107
Wilcox suffers left shoulder injury, unlikely vs. Hornets
No fine for Garnett not surprising to Rivers
NESN   Celtics Live Blog: Rookie Guard Norris Cole Delivers Daggers Down Stretch in 115-107 Boston Loss
Is New Orleans the Worst NBA Franchise to Play For?
Celtics Live Blog: Rajon Rondo, C's Travel to New Orleans Shooting for First Win of Season
Doc Rivers May Have Provided Blueprint to Slow Down Heat by Using Zone Defense in Celtics' Loss
Celtics Hub Game 2/66: Celtics (0-1) @ Heat (1-0) Open Thread
OH NO! and Two: Celtics 107, Heat 115
Cole Snap: C’s 107, Heat 115
Wilcox Has Injured Shoulder
Celtics Town Cole World: Celtics get burned by smoking Cole, Heat, 115-107
Green Street   Fast Break: Heat burn Celtics
Celtics Title Town Celtics Have Heart
Celtics by the numbers
Celtics Morning Joe: Their is no need to panic Boston
The Good,the Bad,and the Ugly: Game 2 of the season against the Heat
Rondology: Step Up Fans
Hangtime Blogs Heat are looking Ice Cole
Can New Celtics Still Handle LeBron?
Yahoo Still Without Pierce, Celtics' Comeback Falls Short Against Heat: Fan Reaction
WEEI The Three-Pointer: Time to make choices, not panic
Is it time to panic for the Celtics?
Comeback falls short as C's lose to Heat
Doc Rivers with Sean Grande previewing Celtics - Heat
Wojnarowski: Rondo must dominate
SB Nation   Celtics Vs. Heat: Norris Cole Huge Late In 115-107 Win Over Boston
Sports Chat Place New Orleans Hornets Vs. Boston Celtics 12/28/11
CBS Sports   Celtics on decline? No evidence to believe such foolishness ... not yet
Press Herald No charge from the start, so Red Claws lose by 16
Ridiculous Upside Ricky Davis Will Begin NBA Comeback With D-League's Maine Red Claws
Welcome to Loud City Great Passing: the Kendrick Perkins Edition?
The Spoof Alas, Poor Nate Robinson: We Knew Him Too Well, Horatio!
Fox News Heat Welcome Celtics To Town
Palm Beach Post True test? Celtics likely without Paul Pierce tonight
The Republic   Reynolds: Aging Celtics hope for one more magic run
Bleacher Report   10 Burning Questions for the Boston Celtics in 2011-12

Comments From the Other Side - Heat 12/27

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:41:00 +0000

As always, the comments are not quite as much fun when we lose, but there are some fun ones. It's interesting when the Heat fans are mentioning how many bad calls are going against the Celtics. That's when you know the officiating is REALLY bad. Enjoy today's comments in spite of the loss...

Time to beat these Boston crumb-bums into the retirement home. We need to remind them that their legs only got older during the lockoutand that we're now the high-water mark in the conference. Our Big3 will smite their Big4. The season of redemption is only starting. Glad we're us and not them.

I'd really like to see us run these ****ers off the court.

I hope Paul Pierce plays I wanna really face the Boston Celtics .. Even though seeing LeBron **** on Sasha will make me laugh lol

After my team lost its first 2 games I've decided to become a Heat fan (from a Laker fan)

I'm very excited to see how Cole plays on Rondo.

In before rondo triple double

Raptors fan/ Bosh fan here. I will be joining the game chat with you heat fans. Good luckI hate the Celtics

I'm not afraid of Boston actually I am thinking another blowout. Boston cant keep up with us especially with our new offense.

I hope our guys don't have to play too much let's go to our bench early after the first 20pt lead.

Rondo's jumper looked really good yesterday. When that team is fully healthy and if rondo can hit that jumper consistently they will be good. Tho KG looks about on his last legs.

Run run run on these old farts and then run some more

Oh look taking a shot at our crowd for arriving late. Just love national broadcast games.

Easy on the analists guys. Everybody hates the Heat so for them to be cool with almost every other fans they just have to say some stupid things about the Heat. It's just that simple.

Damn KG is nasty

Two fouls on Piece of **** Jermaine

2 fouls on Piece of **** pavlovic..... I wish he would stay in the game.

Really wish Bosh would stop doing that thing with his tongue its really sick.

LOL....2 on Daniels now....whos gunna come in now??

Not that I mind the fouls...but I kinda want to see these guys play

LOL I can hear it now"Heat have Le-refs".

Rondo is turning into a damn diva

Rondo is the only person active in transition for the Celtics

Sorry Doc if Miami wasn't making mistakes we'd be up bigger

Norris Cole... The Rondo stopper.

Rondo was afraid of Wade LOL

That Rondo airball was hilarious awesome decision by dwade to just stand his ground like that scared him ****

Not to be Debby downer but rondo is getting by Cole.

Wade is abusing the Boston oldies.. Straight out criminal abuse

Wade clearley fouled Allen.. But no call..

Daniels foul? Refs are helping us too much.

Wow Ray is still a beast.

Honestly Ray Allen is so freaking good.... Its awesome to watch....

I like how lebron is playing more like Larry bird in the half court instead of being point guard.

Allen is so retardedly good at threes

It sucks because Ray Allen always has these types of games against us. It doesn't matter how well we defend him he just gets insanely hot.

Ray Allen is never off against us. I hate it. He has 17 points. 4/5 from 3ugh

Ray Allen and Jamal Crawford would be on my radar if I was the bulls There just heat killers

Can someone explain to me why you would go for a pump fake on Rajon Freaking Rondo...

Whats going on with rondo getting the Jordan treatment from the refs?

Mario is such a bonehead. He has bonesin his head.

2 bone head plays1 good play1 bone head play. Mario = Antoine Walker?

Guess the heat didn't bother practicing for the zone.

With Spo who knows.

Dooling has been money from 3 all game yet they keep leaving him alone

I'd rather have JJ playing out of position at power forward than Juwan Howard's corpse.

I'm just speechless over how Lebron plays so bad some times.

Good thing Celtics can't play zone defense for long

Punk ass Garnett you better back away

Yeah he realized it was Dwyane Wade and not a small European player.

Lol wtf Bosh never misses two free throws.. Weird

Ball don't lie LOL Tends to happen when you don't deserve em

Damn I swear I cringe every time Allen shoots.

Ray Allen gives me nightmares.

Even that scrub Dooling is like 3 for 3

Damn refs have **** up some calls against the Celtics tonight (real talk)

There been very bad calls going for Miami.

Hate to say it but without the refs right now we'd be in trouble. We can't hold an f'ing lead!

F*** Dooling and his scrub ways!

What's sad is Pierce isn't even in this.

Doc > Spo any day of the week twice on Sunday

I don't feel good about this game anymore.

Without Cole we lose this game

**** the big 3build around Cole

Norris Cole >>>> LBJ

Cole World! Kid is a gem. He has erased rondo.

"If Norris Cole is not considered a MVP candidate I don't know what he has to do"

2nd career game and he's getting MVP chants.

Norris Cole after the game

Breaking news heat and (blank) have reached an agreement
Heat trade Mario Chalmers
(blank) trade future 2nd round picks

Well we learned that Boston is still tough as ****

Credit the Celtics though they are a hell of a team to play defense that well although I don't think they could have played better at all with or without Pierce we are just better.

Too many 3's given upI know it's Ray Allen but CMON. Dooling?

I don't want to be a party pooper but this wasn't a great win. They were giving away a lead it was a Finals flashback and what's sad is LBJ and Wade couldn't do anything in the 4th. I wouldn't be surprised if the 4th quarter jokes come up again about LeBron. Sigh.
And Pierce wasn't even in this game.

Celtics Continue Road Trip in Miami

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 19:53:00 +0000

at
Boston Celtics (0‐1) at Miami Heat (1‐0)
Regular Season Game #2 – Road Game #2
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
8:00 pm ET
TV: TNT
Radio: WEEI (850AM)
American Airlines Arena
Officials: Dan Crawford, Dick Bavetta, Olandis Poole

After their meeting with the Knicks on Sunday, things don't get any easier for the Celtics. They are still on the road and facing the Heat in their home opener. The Heat are coming off a blow out win over the defending champion Mavericks. With the news that Pierce hasn't run full court yet, I don't expect him to play and it could be brutal watching Sasha trying to keep up with LeBron. In the game versus the Knicks, he was matched up with Carmelo Anthony who scored 37 points while Sasha didn't take a single shot. Pietrus could help, but he isn't expected to join the team until Friday. Even at full strength, the Celtics would have their hands full with the Heat, but short handed, it could be a very long night.

Add to the personnel problems the fact that this is the Heat's home opener. The Celtics should have the added motivation to avenge their loss in last season's playoffs but the Heat will be looking to send a message to the league, and especially the Celtics, that they are the team of destiny this season. The Celtics should have an advantage at the point and at center if JO can hold up and play aggressively and possibly at power forward if KG can continue to intimidate Bosh. But, Wade and James will more than likely have their way in this game.
Probable Starting Matchups
Point Guard
vs
Rajon Rondo vs Mario Chalmers

Shooting Guard
vs
Ray Allen vs Dwyane Wade

Small Forward
vs
Sasha Pavlovic vs LeBron James

Power Forward
vs
Kevin Garnett vs Chris Bosh

Center
vs
Jermaine O'Neal vs Joel Anthony

Reserves
Avery Bradley
Marquis Daniels
Chris Wilcox
Brandon Bass
Keyon Dooling
E'twaun Moore
Greg Stiemsma
JaJuan Johnson

Injuries
Paul Pierce (heel) day to day
Mickael Pietrus (knee) day to day

Reserves
Norris Cole
Udonis Haslem
Juwan Howard
Shane Battier
James Jones
Terrel Harris
Dexter Pittman
Mickell Gladness

Injuries
Eddy Curry (hip) out
Mike Miller (hernia) out
Shane Battier (quad) day to day

Key Matchups
vs
Rajon Rondo vs Mario Chalmers
Rondo started the season aggressively. In the opener against the Knicks he scored 31 points, pulled down 5 rebounds and dished out 13 assists. Chambers had 3 points 1 rebound and 4 assists in Miami's opener against Dallas. If Rondo continues to be aggressive, he should have another big game as Chalmers struggles to contain him.

vs
Kevin Garnett vs Chris Bosh
Assuming that KG won't be suspended to going after Bill Walker after the Celtics' loss to the Knicks on Sunday, this could be another key matchup for the Celtics. Bosh has always been slightly intimidated by KG in the past and we can only hope that this continues because the Celtics will need every advantage they can get in this game.

Honorable Mention
Jermaine O'Neal vs Joel Anthony
Jermaine has been playing well and should have an advantage over Anthony on both ends of the court. The Celtics need JO to be aggressive and to dominate Anthony inside.

Brandon Bass vs Udonis Haslem
The battle of the power forwards off the bench may be a very good one. In the Celtics opener, Bass had 20 points and 11 rebounds in a very solid effort off the bench. Haslem had 9 points and 14 rebounds off Miami's bench on Sunday. This could be a fun battle to watch.

Keys to the Game
Start strong - The Celtics must get off to a better start than they did against the Knicks. It takes too much out of them to play catch up most of the game.

Play 48 Minutes - If they play well throughout the game, they have to be careful not to let up too soon. They must play hard right up until the final buzzer because it is certain that the Heat will.

Rebound and Defend - These are keys to every single game. The team that works harder on the boards and gets stops will be the team that gives themselves a good chance to win.

Today's Celtics Links 12/22

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:32:00 +0000

Herald Doc Rivers C’s through fog
JaJuan Johnson a student of Kevin Garnett’s game
C’s go without Paul Pierce
Celtics get long, winding win
Deal with Reggie Evans would provide backup bulk for Clippers
Lakers’ status already looks very questionable
Derrick Rose’s mega-contract a winner for everyone
After a shaky start, Magic, and Dwight Howard, show signs of progress
Globe   Globe 10.0 Are Celtics still title contenders?
Five ways the Celtics can win the title
Billy Hunter, NBA union head, stuck to convictions when dealing with owners
Final: Celtics 81, Raptors 73
Celtics say roster likely to change
Celtics end preseason with victory; Pierce’s status is still in the air
CelticsLife   Celtics 81, Raptors 73 Highlights
The Kids Show Their Defense In Celtics' Preseason Finale
Celtics/Raptors Post Game Videos
Comments From the Other Side - Raptors 12/21
Celt6icsBlog   Celtics Steamroll Over Raptors For Undefeated Preseason!
Celtics Will Look To Add One More
Donny Marshall: Celtics Still Talking Rondo Trades

CLNS Radio   Tim Donaghy has a radio show, I’m his co-host– no apologies here!
Tim Donaghy Show: Talking Kobe, Rose Contract, Clippers– Now On-Demand
Strong showing for Celtics in win over Raptors
NBA4Life: NBABasketball Sports Talk Radio
ESPN   'Steamer' makes a case to stay
Ready or not, it's (real) game time
Boston Celtics counting on Jermaine O'Neal to man the middle
Leftovers: J.O.'s massage, Rondo's aplomb
C's likely to carry 14 out of camp
Is Rajon Rondo a top-5 point guard?
Pregame: Pavlovic starts vs. Raptors
Bill Simmons' Celtics prediction
XMas countdown: Spotlight on Rondo
Hollinger: C's third in East
Red's Army   JaJuan Johnson has earned KG's trust Celtics Fans
Wyc: "This core has a chance"
Report: Celtics still looking to move Rajon Rondo
Pierce #8 on list of least liked NBA players
Preseason Game 2 Recap: Rondo leads way over Raps
Celtics.com Ford Keys to the Game: Raptors 73, Celtics 81 (Preseason)
The Star   Now they can get started for real, thankfully
Offensively challenged Raptors fall to Celtics in pre-season finale
CSNNE    Pavlovic gets starting nod in place of Pierce
Sweetney not giving up on NBA return
Talking Points: Celtics 81, Raptors 73
Stiemsma hopes solid play will lead to roster spot
Rivers: Garnett needs to score more this year
Rondo shows improvement in shooting, agressiveness in win
Offensive boards problematic for Celts
Magic's Davis: 'embracing the moment'
Pavlovic may start if Pierce (heel) can't
NESN    Charles Barkley Says NBA Players Should 'Keep Wives and Girlfriends Away From Each Other'
Celtics Live Blog: Rajon Rondo Ready for Real Games As C's Close Preseason With 81-73 Win Over Raptors
Ray Allen 'Shocked' David West Chose Indiana Over Boston, Thinks West's 'Ego Kicked Back In'
Celtics 'Probably Would' Do Kendrick Perkins Trade Again, Still See Boston as Attractive Market for Free Agents
Celtics Hub Boy, That Preseason Was Quick: Raptors-Celtics Open Thread
Steimsma’d…Again! Celtics 81, Raptors 73
Doc Talks Roster, Potential Free Agent Additions “We Likely Won’t [Keep 15 Players]”
Green Street   Doc Rivers on Rajon Rondo: ‘We want him to just shoot it, don’t care how many times’
Celtics owners Steve Pagliuca, Wyc Grousbeck on D&C: ‘We’re going for it’
Celtics Title Town   Celtics beat the Raptors 81-73: HIghlights and Box score,and thoughts
Celtics Morning Joe: dreaming of a healthy Jermaine all season
Hardwood Houdini Celtics Roster Moves Looming
Wicked Local Keyon Dooling knows his role — and he's ready for it
WEEI   Five key questions for the Celtics
Doc Rivers says he is leaning towards Pierce being OUT for the Christmas opener
Boston's Top Three Most Disappointing Athletes
Herald Sun A little father son time for Austin Doc Rivers
Telegram   Celtics' Chris Wilcox dreams of playoffs
I Sports Web Los Angeles Lakers might struggle mightily under Mike Brown
SB Nation   Celtics Overtime: Rajon Rondo's Improving Shot And The Stiemroller
Celtics Training Camp 2011: Doc Rivers, C's To Trim Roster To 14
NECN   Celtics over Raptors from start to finish, 81-73
NY Daily News NY Knicks beat NJ Nets 88-82 in final tuneup before Christmas Day showdown vs. Boston Celtics
Sporting News Celtics won't be benched by lack of depth
Orlando Pin Striped Post Orlando Magic 104, Miami Heat 100
Slam Online Paul Pierce Doubtful for Season Opener?
Christmas Kicks Preview
Bleacher Report Boston Celtics Rumors: Danny Ainge Must Pull Trigger on Rajon Rondo Trade
Larry Brown Sports How David Stern's 'Basketball Reasons' Changed the Future of Lakers and Clippers
Mass Live   10 Boston Celtics games you simply can't miss
Grantland Everyone in the NBA Needs to Fear 'The Rondo'
Malaya.com READY FOR ANOTHER RUN
Crossover Chronicles Raptors To Play In NBA's First Camo Jerseys & Other Unique Jerseys

Comments From the Other Side - Raptors 12/21

noreply@blogger.com (FLCeltsFan) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:17:00 +0000

Raptors fans are always good for a lot of comments. It seems most of them are set on having a terrible season and getting a top pick in the draft. But, they have plenty to do during games other than cheering for their team. They spend a lot of time whining about the refs and about Mike and Tommy. I think my favorite comment was this one: "Yeah, it seems to me that they just got a couple of random guys off the street. They sound like they work at the steel plant, and lack any real knowledge of basketball." I think someone lacks knowledge of basketball and it's not Tommy, who has 10 rings to prove just the opposite. I hope you enjoy today's comments from the other side!

I will be very happy if Bargnani elbows Garnett in the face and gets suspended for a couple of games to start the season. Would set the tone real nice.

Chalk up another loss.

If it's anything like the first game, I could care less if it's on TV. This is going to be a painful season, followed by a painful summer when we land nobody.

Dwayne Casey is really starting to worry me. I have a bad feeling a competent coach is really going to bring the tank job down.

Man, I am not looking forward to listening to Tommy Heinsohn. The most bias announcer in the history of sports broadcasting. Makes Leo look like broadcaster of the year.

Ugh, the Celtics announcers make my ears bleed. I guess I'm gonna have to watch this on mute!

Ugh I really don't want to listen to Boston's commentors..

Holy crap these announcers look like they belong in a senior home.

Refreshing to hear Doc Rivers with a clear voice. Not the same than after 6 months of yelling at his players

Wow, raps looks terrible. Awesome for tanking.

Wow JO still got it. Underated Defender.

Wow Jermaine O'Neal is killing it.

JO is a monster on the defensive end.

KG is so intense

The Raps need to save this epic tanking for the regular season.

This is gonna be an awesome season. Can't wait till the draft.

Rondo is arguably the best ball pressure PG this league has seen in 20 years.

An we trade for Jermaine O'neil?

Jose just cant defend rondo at all lol

JO's face looks so bloated

An we start a thread with the stupid things Tommy and Trolling Gorman say.

What happened to calderon? He used to love passing the ball.. Now he just shoots it every time.

Bosh left

The only thing Jose's good at is passing Gaterade bottles.

The Celtics commentators seem to only like DeMar and Ed and hate everyone else on our team.

Don't we all?

These refs are so biased.

Garnett is 36 and has knee problems but hes diving on the floor for a preseason game. Respect.

LOL KG didn't even have his hand on the ball. He's doing MMA out there

You forgot to mention, he is still better than anyone on our roster.

Bargs get outrebounded by Allen, burn him with fire!

Yo this Steisma guy is the new Raptors killer. BC gonna trade for him

The curse of Matt Bonner. Ever since Bonner left, every white big man has manhandled the Raps.

We are GARBAGE

Can we get this Steimsman guy?

I have no problem with our play as long as it results in 60+ losses. We need the first pick.

Anyone still watching at this point? If so ask yourself why?

To watch the Greg Stiemsma show!

0-66 looks very possible.

Things could be worse. We could be the Bucks.

We actually not playing that bad, Boston just good, and tom is hilarious

Might have to bust out the rum and eggnog for this one...

Raptors: Where bench players play like superstars against us happens.

Boston commentators are stupid. I hate when I have to watch games through them. I'm surprised they havent been fired yet. If I was a Celtics fan, I would be ****ing annoyed at the stupid **** they say over and over again.

Yeah, it seems to me that they just got a couple of random guys off the street. They sound like they work at the steel plant, and lack any real knowledge of basketball.

I like how they avoid calling the TD Garden the Toronto-Dominion Garden.

Ray Allen grabbged 2 offensive rebounds over Bargnani and scored on him. How the hell does that happen?

Anyone else think Wilcox looks like Sheed?

Yep, I thought the same

LOL tommy is driving me nuts. He is such a homer

I wanna punch this announcer in his throat, hes such a homer to the point he sounds like a old cranky hater

If I saw tom heinsohn walking down the street I'd struggle not to clock him

I hope Marquis fouls out just to see what Heisohn will say

That no-name Etawn Moore rookie looks like he'd be the best shooter on our entire team.

Refs are killing us

Either these refs are paid or they're rookies. COME ON, let them play!

Its amusing when the game means nothing. But I could not imagine listening to a Raps-Celtics playoff game with this guy as the announcer.

Doesn't look like you need to worry bout that this year

Tommy will most likely have passed on by the time we make the playoffs.

I try and take Tommy with a grain of salt but...it's hard to believe he's not retarded.

I must admit these Boston commentators have made this game at least decent... In a funny way... Its amazing what doorknobs they are.. Unbelievable

He must believe that Boston has never committed a foul in the history of the NBA

Bostons bench is out playing our starters and forcing them into difficult shots as well

Why is this Steisma guy not on our team?

It's hilarious, whenever Bargs makes a nice play the announcers go silent and just list off how many points he has. He could break down Rondo and posterize KG and O'Neal and they wouldn't acknowledge it.

If he posterized them, Heinsohn would have called it an offensive flagrant.

Offensive Flagrant and a technical for showing emotions after the dunk

You just know that when the Celtics have to rebuild, fans around the league are going to especially gleeful. Tommie will probably acknowledge the end by dying.

Heinsohn almost had a heart attack seeing one of his beloved Celtics players getting punked. Probably breast feeds them all after games.

And the Raptors lose to a bunch of scrubs

OMG ITS MICHAEL SWEETNEY

"Sweetney rolling to the basket" is an understatement.

We're getting punked by obese ppl...time to go home.

Quit ragging on Tommy. The fact is we suck. We're worse than the Celtic B unit. We suck. We suck, we suck, we suck.

Why are the fans so exsited for sweetney?

Boston fans see a reflection of themselves

Hate the Celtics so much.