Celtics Life

Where do Paul Pierce & Kevin Garnett rank on the list of all-time Celtics?

noreply@blogger.com (Mark Vandeusen) — Mon, 20 May 2013 07:10:00 +0000

Their contributions go well beyond the 2008 title.

If KG and "The Truth" have played their final games in green, where would they each fit among the greatest Celtics ever?

We'll start with Garnett. He's spent only 6 years in Boston, but he also changed the entire culture of the franchise. He turned the Celtics into a defensive oriented team all by himself, and was the primary reason for the C's return to elite status among NBA franchises. The impact he's had on teammates also can not be measured; his presence on the floor has gone way beyond just his playing skills. Being the driving force behind a single championship ranks him higher on the list than many other complimentary players who won multiple titles.

All this likely puts Garnett somewhere in the #12-18 range. For example, Frank Ramsey won 7 championships in his 9 year career, but was also never better than the 4th or 5th best player at any given time. The same can be said for Danny Ainge (3) and Dennis Johnson (2), and their multiple rings in Boston. If KG is ahead of those three players, it would put him in the #15 spot of all-time Celtics. I don't think I can rank Garnett above Bill Sharman (Bob Cousy's backcourt-mate; a four-time champion and one of the greatest shooters to ever live) or K.C. Jones (Bill Russell's college and pro teammate who won 8 titles as a player and two as the C's head coach). Cedric Maxwell is debatable; "Cornbread" was a two time champion and managed to win the 1981 Finals MVP on a team that included Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parrish. Kevin Garnett checks in as either the 14th or 15th greatest Celtic ever.

Paul Pierce easily cracks the top 11, but with him the argument becomes the value of his longevity. Yes, Pierce has just the one ring, and was the best player on a number of bad teams throughout his 10 All-Star appearances. But his career totals are somewhat staggering. For example, he's the 6th leading rebounder in Celtics history, not to mention 4th all-time in assists and blocks (although they didn't keep track of blocks in Russell's day). Pierce has more steals and 3 point field goals (new stats too) than any Celtic ever, and is also the all-time team leader in free throws made and attempted. He's 3rd on the list for games and minutes played, as well as made field goals. But the big statistic for the Captain (and his best selling point) is his status as the second leading scorer in C's history, behind John Havlicek.

So where does all this rank Pierce among the 11 best Celtics in franchise history? I'd say it's good enough to put him ahead of the #10 all-time leader scorer and two-time champion Jo-Jo White, but I don't think it's better than Tommy Heinsohn's 6 All-Star appearances, 8 titles as a player, and 2 as the head coach. Comparing Pierce to Parrish and McHale gets difficult, as they're the 4th and 5th leading scorers respectively (just after Bird) in franchise history to go along with their 3 championships apiece. From there the list gets even tougher with Sam Jones (10 titles, 5 All-Star Games, 7th all-time leading scorer) and Dave Cowens (led the team to 2 titles, won an NBA MVP, 7 time All-Star, 9th leading scorer), and after that it's not even worth debating Pierce against Bob Cousy, Havlicek, Russell, or Bird.

This makes Pierce the 10th greatest Celtic ever, but I wouldn't argue with him being as high as 8th if you put him ahead of McHale and Parrish. So there you have it. Feel free to tell me why I'm wrong in the comments section.

Follow Mark on twitter @LucidSportsFan

Happy Birthday Big Ticket!

noreply@blogger.com (E K) — Sun, 19 May 2013 18:29:00 +0000

Happy 37th Big Guy!

Which teams does Kevin Garnett put over the top? Breaking down potential KG trades

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Dyer) — Sun, 19 May 2013 17:21:00 +0000

Today is Kevin Garnett's birthday.

I have known KG's birthday for as long as I can remember, because I share the same one. When I was a kid I can remember looking up which famous people shared the same birthday as me, and seeing KG's name. I was probably 10 or 11 at the time, and I can remember wishing that Garnett would someday join the Celtics, because it would be pretty cool to have the same birthday as one of the C's best players.

About a decade later, it happened, and I was right, it is pretty cool. Not so much for the whole birthday factor, but because KG is the absolute perfect player to root for. An efficient offensive force that doubles as one of the best defenders the game has ever seen, and has not taken a play off in his 18 year career. Garnett was gifted with amazing skill, but it's his competitive spirit and passion for the game that have turned him into one of the greatest players of all time.

Another remarkable part of KG's make-up is his incredible loyalty. First in Minnesota, and now, in Boston. Long after pundits are yelling for Garnett to go, he believes it's time to stay, and help out his organization. To say it's admirable would be an understatement.

However, it is also complicating the Celtics off-season. If Boston is really ready to go all-in on a rebuild, keeping Garnett does not make sense. After all, he is 37 (today) and while he's still a very good player at the moment, he has too many miles on his tires to stick around for an entire rebuilding process. For the first time since acquiring him six years ago, parting ways with KG is a realistic possibility, a possibility clouded by his no-trade clause, and unbelievable loyalty.

At the moment, all signs point to KG only accepting a deal to a Los Angeles based team (where he lives in the off-season), and only if Paul Pierce is no longer in green. But let's suspend reality for a bit and think about what teams could really use KG, should he be willing to waive his no trade. After all, 37 years old or not, KG's defensive prowess and leadership abilities could help push several teams over the top.

Here are the top five teams that Garnett would have the most profound effect on, and the possible trades that the teams could make (ranked by how realistic it is the teams could work something out, and KG would agree).

5. Oklahoma City Thunder

Martin averaged 14 PPG for the Thunder this season

Semi-Realistic trade - To be honest, there isn't much, which is why KG to OKC is only 5th. One possibility is a sign and trade for Kevin Martin (Celtics paying him $8 million a year) and Perry Jones (1 year, $1.1 million remaining with two additional option years), a player that Danny Ainge scouted last year out of Baylor for Garnett (2 years, $23.5 million).

Why Boston does it - The C's do this trade if they think Martin is a 15+ point per game player, and think he's worth allocating a significant chunk of salary to. If Pierce leaves, the team is going to need to fill that scoring void, something Martin can certainly do. Personally I'm not crazy about Martin, but none of OKC's other pieces work. Ibaka is too good and too young to be dealt for 1-2 seasons of Garnett, and Perkins is signed for 2 more seasons at $17.6 million, about 10 times what he's worth. Also, Perkins amnesty rights would be forfeited if he's dealt, so the C's couldn't just trade for him and then dump him for the cap space.

Why OKC does it - Oklahoma City does this if they do in fact decide to amnesty Perkins, and think that adding a defensive anchor/low post threat in KG is more valuable than Martin. A starting five of Westbrook/Sefolosha/Durant/Ibaka/Garnett is as good as any starting unit in basketball, and the Thunder could use their mid-level exception to bring in a 6th man. As a bonus, OKC would immediately transform into every person in Boston's 2nd favorite team (if they're not already).

How realistic is it? (Scale of 1-10) - 1, The Thunder just don't have any pieces that Boston would be interested in (besides the untouchables of course) and Garnett is extremely unlikely to head out to the heartland. Last I checked, OKC is a long ways from Malibu.

4. Brooklyn Nets

Trading KG for this guy just doesn't seem right

Semi-Realistic trade - Kris Humphries (1 year, $12 million remaining), Marshon Brooks (1 year, $2.3 million plus a team option for 2014-15), Mirza Teletovic (2 years, $6.6 million) and a 1st round pick for Garnett (2 years, $23.5 million) and Courtney Lee (3 years, $16.4 million)

Why Boston does it - The Celtics payroll would stay steady in 2013-14, but they would save $11 million in 2014-15 and $5.7 million in 2015-16 thanks to Brooklyn taking on Lee's money. The C's would also pick up a first round pick and an intriguing European lottery ticket in Teletovic. While Boston would be a worse team next year, they'd enter next summer with a roster of Rondo/Bradley/Green/Sullinger/Bass/Terry/Teletovic, plus 3 first round picks (two of their own plus one Brooklyn) and around $15-20 million in cap space. Not a terrible position to be in.

Why Brooklyn does it - Simple, Brooklyn has gone all in. They've pushed their chips to the center of the table with Deron Williams, Joe Johnson, Gerald Wallace and Brook Lopez, and KG is the perfect power forward for this team. He wouldn't be counted on to score much, but instead anchor the defense and provide leadership to a team without any. Would Brooklyn become the favorites in the East with KG? Of course not. But I'd pencil them in at #2 behind Miami, and give them an outside shot at competing with LeBron and company if KG would green light the move. The problem is, he wouldn't.

How realistic is it? - 2, this trade would actually help both teams, but Garnett really doesn't seem like he'll waive the no trade to go to Brooklyn and play for a team who would be extreme underdogs to make the Finals.

3. Golden State Warriors

Bogut will be a free agent after the 2014 season

Semi-Realistic trade - Andrew Bogut (1 year, $14.2 million) and Festus Ezeli (1 year, $1.1 million plus two option years) for Garnett (2 years, $23.5 million)

Why Boston does it - The C's would bump their salary cap number by $4 million next year, but open up $10.5 million worth of space in 2014-15. They would also get a one year look at Bogut, the former #1 overall pick who can't seem to stay healthy, and be able to determine if he's worth a deal following the season. Just like the above situation, Boston would enter next off-season with a ton of cap space, and a good young core. They's also get a re-do on their ill-fated selection of Fab Melo over Ezeli in last year's draft, adding a young big man with rebounding chops.

Why Golden State does it - Defensive identity. Bogut provided some when he was actually able to stay on the floor, but serious elbow and ankle injuries have made him a far bigger injury risk than KG, despite the fact that he's nine years younger. Garnett gives them a defensive backbone, and a solid complement to the offensively gifted David Lee down low. Golden State nearly advanced to the Conference Finals this season with Lee missing the majority of the playoffs. In this scenario G-State is able to upgrade on Bogut without giving up any other assets, and build on their breakout season.

How realistic is it? - 4, Oakland is a hell of a lot closer to LA than either Oklahoma City or Brooklyn, but is it close enough? One thing's for sure, Golden State has the right combination of expiring contracts (Bogut or Biedrins) and young talent to appease Boston.

2. Denver Nuggets

The day the NBA adds a 2nd hoop, McGee will rise

Semi-Realistic trade - JaVale McGee (3 years, $32 million) for Garnett (2 years, $23.5 million) OR Kosta Koufos (1 year, $3 million plus an option year), Anthony Randolph (2 years, $3.5 million) and Corey Brewer (sign and trade, $5 million per season) for KG

Why Boston does it - Two different deals here, the first, McGee for Garnett works on the surface as the C's get a 25 year old big man with immense talent. However McGee is more known for his time on Shaq'tin a Fool than his play on the court (which is actually pretty good), and a KG-McGee deal would be a huge loss in terms of basketball IQ. Which is why I included the 2nd deal, in which Boston gets Koufos (8 PPG, 6.9 RPG in 2012-13), the rights to Brewer (who would back-up Jeff Green and provide much needed defense on the wing) and Randolph (salary throw in). Both Koufos and Brewer are young assets to add to the core, and together would cost about $8 million per year, or about $4 million less than KG.

Why Denver does it - Koufos is a good young center, and a high price to pay for a 37 year old, but if any team can afford to give up a young big man, it's Denver. They have McGee and Kenneth Faried on the roster as well, and the one thing their dynamic roster is missing is a big man who can stretch the defense and serve as a defensive lynchpin. Garnett does both. Of course Garnett doesn't fit in as well with Denver's run-and-gun style, but come playoff time, the game slows down. Something the Nuggets and their sluggish half court offense know all to well by this point. KG transforms the Nuggets into championship contenders.

How realistic is it? - 5, Ok now we're getting further from Malibu again, but the Nuggets are a perfect trade partner for the C's with their excess of young bigs. Throw in the fact that Denver's roster is one player away, and this may be the one team KG breaks his "LA only" clause for.

1. Los Angeles Clippers

Months later, the Clippers are still the best fit for KG

Semi-Realistic trade - DeAndre Jordan (2 years, $22.4 million) and Eric Bledsoe (1 year, $2.6 million) for Garnett (2 years, $23.5 million)

Why Boston does it - We meet again, old friend. In this scenario Boston brings in an electric young guard that can either be used in as Rondo's replacement if the C's look into trading him, traded to a 3rd team to acquire more assets, or plugged in at shooting guard (with Bradley shifting to the 1st guard off the bench role). Bledsoe improved greatly in his 3rd season in the NBA this year, and his elite defensive abilities and improving offensive skill would be a fantastic get for an aging KG. Jordan is a true center that runs the floor well (Rondo to Jordan alley oops would be quite fun) and is an adequate defender and rebounder. Two good players under the age of 26 for one 37 year old? Can't say no to that, can you?

Why Los Angeles does it - Well for one, they already tried to. Garnett is not only a great defensive player and leader, but he's on Chris Paul's "to get" list. Paul pushed hard for KG at the deadline this year, and with the Clippers pulling out all the stops to retain CP3, expect them to do whatever it is he wants this summer. If that means making another run at Garnett, than that's what will happen.

How realistic is it? - 7, If Pierce does in fact leave this summer, the door really opens for this deal to get done. KG would no longer have his good friend tying him to Boston, and he could go to LA and finish out his career for a championship contender. The Clippers have been the leaders in the clubhouse to acquire Garnett's services all throughout the season, so it's no surprise to see them at the top of this list.

Of course Garnett's loyalty could win out again. But back in 2007, the Celtics acquisition of Ray Allen was the tipping point in KG waiving his no trade and heading to Boston, and maybe this time Pierce's departure would do the same thing.

One thing's for sure, if we've truly seen the last of Garnett in Boston — none of us will ever forget how hard he played, and how much pride he took in wearing the uniform.

Happy birthday KG, whatever ends up happening, you're the best. There's no athlete I'd rather share a birthday with.

Follow Mike on twitter - Mike_Dyer13

The Return: Rondo's Masterful Game 4

noreply@blogger.com (Jacob Zweiback) — Sun, 19 May 2013 03:00:00 +0000

A unique talent, Rajon Rondo is truly unlike any player we have seen before. With tremendous quickness, fierce will, and unparalleled creativity, #9 has dazzled basketball fans ever since coming to Boston in 2006. After being selected as an All-Star starter for the first time in his career, Rondo's season ended all too soon when he tore his ACL in January. Though the devastating blow destroyed the team's playoff hopes, Rondo should return next year with a chance to revitalize the franchise.

As the summer unfolds, we will revisit Rondo's greatest games in a new series titled "The Return." Hopefully these aren't just nods to the past, but promises of the future in which #9 retakes the court.

On May 9th, 2010, the Cleveland Cavaliers came into Boston looking to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Unfortunately for LeBron on company, Rajon Rondo would have none of it. Rondo put up 29 points, 18 assists, and 13 rebounds on a series of phenomenal plays to lead the Celtics to victory. The team would close out Cleveland in 6 en route to an epic Finals run. So, without further ado, enjoy Rondo's Game 4.

Follow Jacob on Twitter @TheReelJZ

The Forgotten Man: Chris Wilcox

noreply@blogger.com (Terry P =)) — Sun, 19 May 2013 02:34:00 +0000

Remember how stoked we were to resign Chris Wilcox for a bargain and how we thought he would perform well?

I know he just got off of major heart surgery and he was already on the decline. But in the 2012 season, we saw him running the floor, catching lobs from Rondo, and doing something most Celtics don't do, rebound. He was getting praised by Doc Rovers, and seemed to be a great addition to our bench. He was a surprise in our locker room and seemed to be a great back-up to Kevin Garnett.

This season I had high hopes on his return, but instead he was at the bottom of the bench. He got injured constantly and never had enough confidence to stay on the floor. He only played 6 total minutes in 2 games in the playoffs and was not even in the rotation at the end of the year. He did not come with the same energy he had in the previous season and without Rondo to the the floor with him, he was basically useless. His PER-36 Minutes dipped in most categories making us play guys like Randolph and signing White.

I just don't see why we did not play him as much but yet we started Jason Collins, I just don't see the logic here. Maybe all the injuries he had made him a much different player or maybe I expected too much from him.

What do you guys think about Chris Wilcox? Should we bring him back? Comment below.

Follow Terry P here

Stephen A. Smith can't accept that he was wrong on Doc Rivers-Danny Ainge

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Sat, 18 May 2013 20:32:00 +0000

ESPN TV personality Stephen A. Smith's wild claims the past couple of weeks have had a lot of scrutiny going his way. First he said the Boston Celtics were talking with the Los Angeles Clippers about a Eric Bledsoe, Caron Butler, Blake Griffin for Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and coach Doc Rivers trade. Ok.

Then, when facing the criticism over that one, he then started saying that Celtics GM Danny Ainge and Rivers were "sick of eachother's faces" and that Rivers wanted out.

Danny Ainge called those rumors "silly", and recently confirmed to the Boston Glove that Rivers would be returning.

Is that good enough to silence Stephen A. Smith? Hell No!

ESPN:

“According to my sources, Doc Rivers has intimated to people he’s close to that (leaving the Celtics) was something that he thought about, in terms of moving forward. As far as I’m concerned, he’s still thinking about it,” Smith said. “But he is under contract with Boston. Boston would have to let him out of his contract and give him permission to talk to somebody else, and I’m not sure he’s that willing. It would have to be a great, great opportunity.”

Ainge on Thursday scoffed at the suggestion that Rivers would not be coaching the Celtics next season, telling reporters the two are already talking about building next season’s team.

Stephen A. didn’t lend much credence to Danny’s denial:

“Danny Ainge’s words, in this matter, mean nothing to me. Absolutely nothing.”

Smith keeps losing more and more credibility. So, when Ainge says that Rivers is coming back and that they are discussing plans for next season, that means nothing?

It seems to me like Smith is taking to his tactics on the ESPN First Take show and not backing down from his stance, even with all of the evidence piled against him. He's never going to shut up about this and it's about time we start ignoring him.

The Thunder are reportedly keeping Kendrick Perkins

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Blaisdell) — Sat, 18 May 2013 20:05:00 +0000

Well this is certainly a head scratcher.

It looks like the Oklahoma City Thunder are going to hold onto Kendrick Perkins. According to Thunder beat writer Darnell Mayberry, Thunder GM Sam Presti recently praised Perkins for about 20 minutes and also said they have no plans to amnesty him.

Sam Presti on the amnesty clause: "We just haven't considered using the provision...We think Perk has a lot of value to our team."
— Darnell Mayberry (@DarnellMayberry) May 18, 2013

For those who don't know, the amnesty clause was put in under the latest collective bargaining agreement. It's a provision where teams can essentially get out of bad contracts by waiving players and having their contract come off the salary cap. Here's a link that describes the process pretty well.

Perkins has been the prime candidate for the amnesty clause for a while now, even before his historically bad offseason this year. He can't move like he used to after the knee injury and is still owed around $18.63 million over the next two seasons. But if the Thunder want to keep him, more power to them.

Some have said, if the Thunder did waive Perkins, he could come back to Boston. He would be a nice bench piece, but shouldn't be given a whole lot of responsibility given his deficiencies.

Perk was a fan favorite when he was in Boston, but he's simply not the player he once was. Let Oklahoma City keep him.

Follow Eric
@ericblaisdell13

Ainge says Kevin Garnett doesn't need surgery on his ankle

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Blaisdell) — Sat, 18 May 2013 19:33:00 +0000

If Kevin Garnett plays next season, it looks like he will be doing it bone spurs and all.

According to the Boston Herald, Danny Ainge says Garnett will simply "rest" his left foot and ankle and will not undergo surgery.

I think there was some question whether he was going to have surgery on his foot,” said Ainge. “but the last I heard, which was a few days ago, is that he won’t need surgery.”

Full disclosure: I'm not a doctor. With that being said, this seems kinda crazy. ESPN's Jackie MacMullan reported multiple times last season that Garnett was battling bone spurs. There was even talk that they were floating bone spurs.

Now either MacMullan was dead wrong, or the Celtics' medical staff is making a big mistake. I've never heard of players resting bone spurs. Ray Allen battled bone spurs in his right ankle his last season in Boston. He had surgery to remove them in the offseason.

Bone spurs don't simply go away. There were many times this last season where Garnett was limping around the court because of his ankle. He even missed a big chunk of the end of the regular season with the injury.

If it is indeed bone spurs and Garnett does come back, the Celtics are taking a big gamble because it only makes sense that the issue could crop up again and sideline the Big Ticket for who knows how long. Or maybe Garnett plans on retiring and doesn't want to deal with the surgery and rehab.

Something's not right here. There is definitely more to this story. Stay tuned.

Follow Eric
@ericblaisdell13

Projected top pick Nerlens Noel interviews with Celtics

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Sat, 18 May 2013 07:21:00 +0000

Bring back the NBA Territorial Draft!

If you thought the Celtics interviewing Cody Zeller was interesting, considering he should be off the draft board by the time the Celtics pick at #16, how about the report that projected #1 pick and Boston native Nerlens Noel has interviewed with the Celtics?

The former Kentucky freshman did measure 6-10 in socks and 6-11 1/2 in shoes with a 9-2 wingspan, all of which are bigger than Davis.

Noel told Andy Katz he interviewed Thursday with six teams — Boston, Orlando, Charlotte, Phoenix, New Orleans and Cleveland.

So is there a chance that Nerlens Noel could be donning Celtics green next season? File under very unlikely. Let's say he drops to the #2 pick based on teams being scared of his thin frame. To trade up to #2, the likely only piece the Celtics have that could get a trade conversation going is Rajon Rondo. A healthy Rajon Rondo that is. Trading a guy recovering from a serious knee injury for good value is almost unheard of.

For the sake of discussion, let's say that trade went down it would signal a rebuilding year for the Celtics with the idea that a poor season next year could help us land the next NBA superstar Andrew Wiggins in 2014, ~~just like we landed Duncan in 1997 and Durant in 2007~~. Honestly as far fetched as this sounds if you are a Celtics fan that only considers a season successful if the Celtics win the championship, this would give you the best chance at building a championship contender sooner rather than later.

Could the Celtics trade up to a top 2 pick without surrendering Rondo? VERY unlikely, but maybe possible if Ainge does what Rockets GM Daryl Morey attempted last June, which is to accumulate extra 1st rounders and then package them to move up. Houston did move up, but Morey's ultimate target was Andre Drummond, so he was not 100% successful. Hypothetically let's say Ainge trades Pierce for a 1st rounder the week of the draft. Then he trades that pick and #16 to get up to let's say #9. Now you're at least within striking distance of a top 2 pick. Could #9 and Bradley and/or Sully be enough to get a top 2 pick? Probably not, since most teams don't value those two players as much as the Celtics and especially Celtics fans do, but it's possible.

Personally I've very high on Noel. I don't care that he's skinny as a teenager. He'll fill out. He blocks shots like a mad man. He has a great motor and his wingspan is ridiculous. Plus the kid already bleeds green.

Projected No. 1 pick Nerlens Noel, born in Everett, calls Kevin Garnett his favorite basketball player and the Boston Celtics his most beloved team. Once asked who he's most looking forward to meeting in the NBA, Noel answered Garnett.

More likely than trying to trade up the Celtics are trying to think several years ahead. Interviewing a prospect before the draft is essentially your first recruiting pitch for when a player's rookie contract ends and he can be a free agent. Most elite free agents won't leave their teams to come to Boston unfortunately. Noel could be the exception years down the road. Interviewing him now is doing your due diligence. Smart move on Ainge's part.

Brandon Bass Looking to Step Up His Game

noreply@blogger.com (Jacob Zweiback) — Sat, 18 May 2013 04:10:00 +0000

It was a strange season for Brandon Bass. Most of us expected the power forward to build on last season's success, but he actually took a big step back to start the year. While Jared Sullinger thrived as a rookie, Bass didn't seem to have a clear-cut role and was too often a non-factor. However, #30 came on strong for the stretch run to remind us why Ainge dished out a 3 year, $19 million contract in the first place.

In April, Bass averaged 14 points on 57% from the field and hauled in 6 boards a game, well above his season averages of 9 and 5 (49% fg). Most importantly, he played excellent defense on Carmelo Anthony in the first round. His 6 for 7 shooting for 15 points Game 5 was the highlight of Bass' season.

So the question is, who will we see more of next season: Badass Bass, or the Brandon who spent 5 months in hibernation? He clearly has the skills to be a solid rotation player, but with Jared Sullinger returning from back surgery, Bass will have to earn his minutes.

The good news is that Bass has acknowledged his mistakes and plans to keep working on his game over the offseason. That being said, most players say the right things before summer, but they don't all put in the hours of hard work.

What do you think about Bass? Do you expect him to have a strong year? Do you see him as a trade piece or should Ainge keep him around? How do you see his role with Sully coming back? Sound off in the comments below.

Follow Jacob on Twitter @TheReelJZ

Karl on the Kayak Episode 7- Featuring Dan the Camera Man

noreply@blogger.com (Karl Dillinger) — Sat, 18 May 2013 03:01:00 +0000

Dan the Camera Man has his most air time yet! We discuss if I'd give up Law and Order SVU for a date with Molly McGrath, Lebron to the Celtics, how much I hate heavy metal, whether I'd rather be lost at sea or in space, a battle royale with Dan and the Captain Kirk's from Star Trek, and more, with our friends the Potomac River and the planes from Reagan National airport

Got Questions?Comment below

Want to be a guest star (must live in DC area). Email me at Karl.Dillinger@gmail.com

Follow me on Twitter @Karl_Dillinger

Breaking down Danny Ainge's five biggest mistakes of the "Big Three" era

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Dyer) — Fri, 17 May 2013 22:23:00 +0000

As crazy as it may seem, Danny Ainge just completed his 10th season running the Celtics. He took over the team as they were getting swept in the 2003 playoffs by the Nets, and immediately made his mark that summer, trading all-star Antoine Walker for banged up big man Raef LaFrentz. Not exactly starting off with a bang.

The next four years were bizarre. Slowly but surely Ainge changed the roster, through both trades (CSNNE's Rich Levine has a great break down of Ainge's early deals) and shrewd drafting (Ainge crushed the draft from '03-'06 picking up Perk, Al Jefferson, Tony Allen, Delonte West, Rondo and Leon Powe). The roster makeover left the Celtics as a terrible team finishing up the 2006-07 season, but Ainge had acquired a ton of assets. Once the ping-pong balls once again refused to go the Celtics way in the '07 draft lottery, Ainge cashed in on the assets he acquired.

Jefferson, West, Gerald Green, Sebastian Telfair, Ryan Gomes, the #5 pick in the '07 draft (Jeff Green), a future 1st round pick and Theo Ratliff's expiring contract were out.

Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Glen Davis were in.

And just like that, a new era of Celtics basketball was born.

Over the past six seasons, Ainge has stewarded the C's to six consecutive playoff appearances, five trips to the second round, three Conference finals appearances, two Finals berths and the 2008 championship. A fantastic run of success that is just now winding down (maybe..to be continued on that).

Ainge has made a ton of good decisions over the past six years to help fortify the roster; from signing James Posey in 2007, to bringing in P.J. Brown off the street later that same season, to drafting Avery Bradley (2010), and Jared Sullinger (2012), and re-signing Paul Pierce to an extremely team friendly 4 year, $60 million deal in 2010, Ainge has hit more than he has missed.

But still, he has missed. From 2003-07 Ainge's mistakes were plentiful (drafting Gerald Green in 2005, the aforementioned Lafrentz deal, the Sebastian Telfair experience, ect), but at the end of the day Ainge acquired enough assets to make his next move. Wrong decisions or not, he ended up cashing in his chips and helped give birth to the next great era of Celtics basketball.

However you can't say the same thing about Ainge's mistakes since 2007. Every misfire from the C's boss since the assembling of the big three has stung as the C's have fallen short in three Game 7's since 2009, including two extremely close series losses to eventual champs (2010 Lakers, 2012 Heat). What mistakes am I talking about? Let's take a look back at Ainge's biggest mistakes since 2007, keeping in mind that hindsight is always 20/20.

5. Overpaying role players during the Summer of 2012

$17 million for Lee (pictured), Bass and Terry is a massive overpay

Facts: Ainge signed 27 year old Brandon Bass (12.5 PPG, 6.2 RPG in 2011-12) to a 3 year, $19.5 million deal, 35 year old Jason Terry (15.1 PPG in 2011-12) to a 3 year, $15.7 million deal and traded for and then signed 27 year old Courtney Lee (11.4 PPG in 2011-12) to a 4 year, $21.25 million deal.

At the time, everyone applauded Ainge for his 2012 off-season, and seemingly for good reason. He had just taken an Eastern Conference finals squad and completely upgraded a terrible bench (led by Mickael Pietrus and Keyon Dooling), bringing in Terry and Lee, plus re-signing Bass who had been solid as a starter for Boston. If Boston was going to reload around Pierce and KG, the team would need role players to surround them and complement their skill-sets.

However it didn't work out. Bass regressed to Orlando form while Terry looked every bit of his 35 years old and Lee lost his rotation spot come playoff time. The C's spent $17 million on the trio and got basically replacement level value this season, and even worse, they will clog an additional $17 million worth of payroll in 2013-14, and $18 million more in 2014-15. The mistake didn't just hurt Boston this season, but seems likely to haunt them the next few years as other teams aren't exactly lining up to pay average players real coin money. As Boston looks to either rebuild or reload, there is little doubt last summer will haunt Ainge for a few years.

4. Letting James Posey go/not adequately replacing him in 2008

Greatest Celtics bench player of this generation

Facts: The Celtics offered Posey a 3 year, ~$17.5 million deal following the 2008 title run, but would not add a 4th year. Posey ended up signing a 4 year, $25 million deal with the New Orleans Hornets.

James Posey, the greatest bench player in (recent) Celtics history. Man did this guy fit the C's like a glove. The numbers say Posey averaged 7.4 points and 4.4 rebounds a game for the Celts in 2007-08, but in this case the numbers don't tell the story. Posey was an elite wing defender that knocked down 38% of his threes, playing the role of 6th man as the Celtics won their first title since 1986.

Flash forward to the summer, and Boston refused to add a 4th year to Posey's deal, maxing out with a 3 year deal for the full mid-level exception. New Orleans, coming off a surprise trip to the Western Conference semi-finals, swooped in and gave Posey that highly valued 4th year, and just like that, he was gone.

In retrospect, this move hurt both teams. Posey was good for all of one season in New Orleans, was dumped after year two, and out of the league after year three. If New Orleans could do it all over again, they would never have called Posey's agent.

However it also killed Boston. The C's never came close to replacing Posey and his 'D and 3' mentality, and the end result was Paul Pierce spending many a crunch time guarding players like LeBron James and sapping him of his offensive energy. It's entirely possible that Posey would have faded early in Boston as well, but for the 2009 and 2010 seasons there is little doubt that his absence killed Boston's title chances.

3. Rasheed Wallace, Jermaine O'Neal and the big man carousel

How I felt watching Sheed during his one year in green

Facts: Boston signed Wallace to a 3 year, $18 million deal in the summer of 2009, and following Wallace's retirement after the 2010 season, signed O'Neal to a 2 year, $12 million pact.

Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. For some reason Ainge has been completely ineffective at bringing in big men since luring P.J. Brown out of retirement for the '08 stretch run. Some of the deals have been for small money (Shaq at $2 million per year), and are easy to sweep under the rug. Others, namely Sheed and Jermaine O'Neal, have been disappointments on the court while sucking up a big chunk of the salary cap.

Many Celtics fans seem to look back at Wallace's Celtics tenure and remember only his gutty Game 7 performance in the 2010 Finals (11 points and 6 rebounds). However it's important to note that Sheed was given over $6 million per season, showed up woefully out of shape, and was extremely inconsistent throughout the Celts playoff run (6.1 PPG, 3 RPG in 17 MPG). Following the heartbreaking loss, the Green were thrown a bone; Sheed was retiring, and most of his $6 million cap hit was going with him. Now what to spend the money on? How about..

O'Neal. Ugh. Unlike Wallace, no Celtics fan has a single fond memory of 'The Jermaine era', a two year run of missed games (119 including playoffs), lethargic play (5.2 PPG and 4.6 RPG) and wasted money. Obviously we're working with three years worth of hindsight, but Boston would have been better suited going for a slew of big men available for less money (Kris Humphries, Al Harrington, Ian Mahinmi) or allocating the resources elsewhere (Matt Barnes, Kyle Korver both available at reasonable prices). Or they could have taken a chunk of the money offered to O'Neal, and offered it to this guy.

2. Letting Tony Allen go after the 2010 season

Tony Allen's defense has been badly missed

Facts: Following the 2010 Finals, Tony Allen was offered a 2 year deal worth approximately $6 million by Boston, but instead signed a 3 year, $9.5 million deal with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Tony Allen, we hardly knew ye. For a brief span in the ill-fated 2006-07 season, Tony Allen was playing like All-Star. During a 14 game span in December and January, Allen averaged 18.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 2.6 steals while shooting 54% from the field and 80% from the line. And then this happened. A blown out knee on a post whistle dunk, and T.A.'s time in the sun was over before it really even started.

That summer the C's traded for Ray Allen and signed Posey, and T.A. was basically forgotten about as he rehabbed his injury. Over the next three years Allen's playing time was inconsistent, but he played fantastic against LeBron James in the 2010 Eastern Conference semi's. Allen averaged 8 points per game in 20 minutes, but far more importantly helped hold LBJ to just 44.7% shooting and forced him into 4.5 turnovers per game as the C's upset the Cavs.

That summer when it came down to free agency, Allen wanted a 3 year deal, but Ainge balked and instead offered a two year pact. Once Memphis offered a 3rd year, Allen bolted without even coming back to Boston for a counter, and the rest is history. Allen has made three All-Defensive teams in three years with the Grizzlies, and has held a starting role on a team that has made three straight playoff appearances, punctuated by a run to the Western Conference finals this year. His $3 million annual salary is undoubtedly one of the best values in basketball, and his defensive presence has been badly missed in Boston.

In each of the past three seasons Boston has been eliminated by teams with an elite wing scorer (LeBron in 2011/2012, Melo in 2013), and you have to wonder how much of a difference Allen would have made.

1. Drafting J.R. Giddens over Nikola Pekovic, Mario Chalmers and DeAndre Jordan in 2008

Hey TB, what the hell happened to J.R. Giddens?

Facts: With the 30th pick in the 2008 Draft, Ainge selected New Mexico guard J.R. Giddens, who would play 35 NBA games in his career. Pekovic, Chalmers, Jordan, Omer Asik and Luc Mbah a Moute would all be drafted in the next seven picks.

It's rare that a draft produces so many early second round values, but the 2008 draft did just that. Three legitimate starting centers in Pekovic, Jordan and Asik, a sweet shooting combo guard in Chalmers and a fantastic wing defender in Mbah a Moute all went between picks 31-37.

Considering the C's held the 30th pick, and were looking for players to add to their championship core, Chalmers and Jordan made the most sense. However Ainge decided to roll the dice with Giddens, and it ended up hurting big time. One of the marks of great franchises is their ability to find talent in the late first and second rounds of the draft, a spot where the San Antonio Spurs have found countless quality players, including two future Hall of Famers in Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili.

In '08, Ainge had a plethora of talent at his disposal, but couldn't get the job done. The failings in this draft ended up leading to other mistakes on this list as well, as Jordan could have blocked the signings of Wallace and O'Neal and freed up that money elsewhere, and Chalmers could have helped slow the carousel of backup point guards to roll through Boston over the past five seasons.

Instead the C's got nothing from the draft, just like they got nothing from the 2009 draft (no 1st round pick) and the 2011 draft (JuJuan Johnson over Jimmy Butler, ouch). In Ainge's defense, his overall draft record is fantastic. Without the use of a single top 10 pick, he has scooped up Perkins, Jefferson, West, Allen, Rondo, Powe, Glen Davis, Bradley and Sullinger, certainly a resume that any GM could be proud of.

However his swing in miss in 2008 really hurt a championship team that needed immediate help, and instead got Giddens and his 8 career points with the Celtics.

So there are my 'Five moves to forget', be sure to leave yours in the comments.

Follow Mike on twitter - Mike_Dyer13

Doc definitely coming back

noreply@blogger.com (Mark Vandeusen) — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:02:00 +0000

Yesterday the Boston Globe's Gary Washburn sent out a somewhat ambiguous tweet claiming that Doc Rivers would return to the Celtics next year. CSNNE's A. Sherrod Blakely reports this to be true, stating:

A league source confirmed an earlier report by the Boston Globe that Rivers would in fact return to the sidelines for the Celtics next season.

WEEI also sites "multiple reports" of Rivers' intentions to coach the C's next year.

Follow Mark on twitter @LucidSportsFan

Maloofs sell Kings to Sacramento group in record deal

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Fri, 17 May 2013 05:50:00 +0000

ESPN:

Just a day after NBA owners officially rejected a bid to relocate the Sacramento Kings to Seattle, the team's owners have agreed to sell the Kings to a Sacramento-based group, sources told ESPN.com.

Software billionaire Vivek Ranadive came to an agreement to purchase 65 percent of the Kings from the Maloof family for approximately $348 million, sources said. The Kings' total valuation in the sale is $535 million, an NBA record.

An official announcement is expected Friday.

The Maloofs, who have owned the team since 1998, had hoped to sell the stake to a group of Seattle businessmen that was offering $406 million for their shares.

That's a pretty hefty price tag. I wonder if it comes with the #1 pick in the 2014 NBA lottery (aka. Andrew Wiggins), similar to the Hornets pending owners landing the #1 pick last year. I assume this year's #1 pick is still headed to Orlando. Just kidding. Everyone knows the NBA doesn't do stuff like that.

I'm happy the Kings are staying in Sacramento. Kings fans have been very loyal to their franchise through the ups and downs (many more downs). Not every franchise can say that. Yes, it would be nice if Seattle would have a team, but you don't want to rob one good NBA city to provide for another. My prediction is that Seattle will get an expansion team in the coming years (In addition to another city getting one and TB going absolutely bonkers over over expansion and the death of quality centers. Maybe the other city will be Virginia Beach).

One question: If the other guy offers $406 million and the NBA says we won't let you sell to that group. You have to sell to the local group even if it's less. Why in the world do you then not only offer more, but $129 million more? Oh yeah, Andrew Wiggins.

NBA source says Paul Pierce's family is preparing for relocation from Boston

noreply@blogger.com (DH) — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:34:00 +0000

Over the past 24-48 hours, there has been much talk of Paul Pierce having played his last game in a Celtics uniform after an article that was published by Yahoo's Kelly Dwyer, which reported what I consider to be a lot of speculation by CSNNE's Greg Dickerson on Pierce's situation. I tried not to think much of it because it was many people discussing what they thought would happen as opposed to citing concrete sources. Plus I didn't want to believe that we would be without the Truth next year.

However, today the Boston Globe released a piece that mostly reported on Doc Rivers returning to the Celtics, but one paragraph caught my eye about Pierce's family already making preparations to relocate from Boston:

The Celtics have to decide by June 30 whether to buy out Pierce’s contract at $5 million. Ainge said the sides have not had discussions, but an NBA source said Pierce’s family is already beginning to prepare for relocation from Boston, assuming that the Celtics will execute the buyout or trade his expiring contract in the offseason.

The article doesn't cite what specific NBA source gave this report on Pierce's situation. For all we know it could just be more speculation. But often in these situations, where there is smoke, there is fire.

I personally want to see Pierce retire a Celtic after all of his dedication and loyalty to the team, especially when the Celtics were at their worst. But I am getting the impression that Pierce will not be with the team next season. At least Pierce claims that if he's traded, he will come back to Boston before he hangs it up on a one day contract so he can retire a Celtic. And he deserves to.

Celtics Assistant GM turns down Philly GM position

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:01:00 +0000

1 of these guys is still the Celtics assistant GM

Last Summer we mentioned that the Philadelphia 76ers were after Celtics Assistant GM Mike Zarren and apparently they were again recently. Zarren surprisingly turned them down.

Celtic assistant general manager and team counsel Mike Zarren turned down an offer to become the GM of the 76ers, two league sources told the Herald today. The job eventually went to Sam Hinkie.

"I don’t know all the details, but I know there was strong interest in Mike from Philly," said Ainge. "I don’t know why (he turned it down). You'll have to ask him."

The Boston Herald did ask Zarren, yet he declined to comment. We sometimes see veteran coaches or GM's turn down positions that they deem poor fits, but usually young assistant GM's jump at the chance to run their own team, so this is a bit puzzling. The Celtics just last week lost one assistant GM, Ryan McDonough, to the Suns. McDonough was credited with the Rajon Rondo and Avery Bradley draft picks, which doesn't leave too many decent picks of late for Zarron to get credit for (or Danny for that matter).

Hard really to evaluate Zarren, but if an NBA team was willing to offer him the reins to their franchise than he must be doing something right. Actually I might have just figured out one reason why he didn't accept the job. Maybe the 76ers have a meddling president or owner and Zarren didn't feel he'd have full decision making autonomy. Anyone else have any theories (and no I won't buy a "He's waiting for Danny to leave" theory)?

Related: Celtics lose Assistant GM Ryan McDonough to the Suns

Indiana's Zeller has reportedly interviewed with the Celtics

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Blaisdell) — Fri, 17 May 2013 01:07:00 +0000

Looks like the Celtics are looking for bigs.

According to Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix, Indiana's Cody Zeller has interviewed with the Celtics.

Most mock drafts have Zeller projected as a top-10 pick, so the odds of the Celtics snagging up the seven-footer are slim unless they trade up or he really bombs in workouts.

While Boston may not be able to draft Zeller, it is telling that the first player, as far as I can tell, to be mentioned with the Celtics in the 2013 NBA draft is a big man. Of course, if it comes out tomorrow that they also talked to guard Michael Carter-Williams, then this theory is shot, but it looks like the Celtics are looking to add size.

It makes sense for the Celtics to be looking at seven-footers, with the uncertainty of Kevin Garnett's future with the team and a squad that already lacked rebounding and toughness in the paint.

If the Celtics do somehow draft Zeller, they will be getting a big man who can run the floor, is a good defender, can step on the court and contribute immediately and has a nice post presence. He isn't without his weaknesses (can be overpowered by other bigs, not going to be the best athlete on the floor, etc.), but Zeller would be a great asset for Boston in what many have deemed a weak draft.

Here's the tweet from Mannix:

Cody Zeller says he interviewed with Toronto, Portland, Houston and Boston. Denies wingspan is 6-8. Says closer to 6-11.
— Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) May 16, 2013

Follow Eric
@ericblaisdell13

One Day FREE Fantasy Contest – $300 in cash prizes

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Fri, 17 May 2013 01:00:00 +0000

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Kendrick Perkins Delivers the Worst Playoff PER in NBA History

noreply@blogger.com (Jacob Zweiback) — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:32:00 +0000

Say what you want about John Hollinger's player efficiency rating. While it might not be the holy grail of advanced statistics, it's generally a good indicator of production. And when a player manages to have a negative rating over an entire postseason, you can be absolutely certain that he was horrible.

Kendrick Perkins had a PER of -0.7 in 11 playoff games for the Thunder, the worst ever for a player with over 200 minutes.

Perk finished with 24 turnovers, 24 points, 39 fouls, and only five blocks in the Thunder's disappointing run, shooting a mind-boggling 17% from the field in 5 games against the Memphis Grizzlies. Head coach Scott Brooks somehow decided to play his broken-down center 23 minutes per game, and Perkins repaid his boss with an atrocious plus/minus of -40.

Kendrick has never been able to create his own shot, but he was at least serviceable on offense for the C's. Unfortunately, he now struggles to even get off the ground, causing him to miss a barrage of point blank looks in the postseason. Despite Perkins' new role as the worst starter in the NBA, his apologists like to say "he still gives you great interior D." That argument is now laughable as he was absolutely abused by the Memphis big men: Zach Randolph averaged 18 points and 11 rebounds and Marc Gasol averaged 19 and 8.

Perkins has never been the same since tearing his ACL in the 2010 finals, and though he's only 28 years old, the 270 pounder has already logged a decade's worth of wear-and-tear as a pro. He's essentially a minimum-worthy role player at this point, yet he's set to make around $20 million for the next two years.

Though it seemed like a decent move at the time, Sam Presti's 2011 trade of Jeff Green for Kendrick Perkins has doomed the small-market Thunder. Not only could OKC desperately have used Green this postseason, but they would have had the cap space to re-sign James Harden if not for Perkins' albatross of a contract.

After Jeff Green's excellent second half return from heart surgery, I think most Celtics fans are happy with their end of the bargain.

Follow Jacob on Twitter @TheReelJZ

Report: Doc Rivers returning to the Celtics next season

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Dyer) — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:51:00 +0000

From Gary Washburn's twitter,

Danny Ainge confirms that Doc Rivers is returning next season as #celtics coach. "We've got a coach everybody would love to have."
— gary washburn (@GwashNBAGlobe) May 16, 2013

I'll be perfectly honest, nothing in Ainge's quote that Washburn selected screams, "Doc is coming back", but the rest of his tweet, and the basketball twitterverse, seem to portray that Ainge did in fact declare Rivers would return.

This will be Rivers 10th year as Celtics coach, and I think most Celtics fans would agree that Doc has done a damn good job.

Rivers has fantastic relationships with Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo, which is always helpful in an NBA where the inmates run the asylum. It will be interesting to see if Rivers has the energy and wherewithal to deal with another rebuilding process though, as he has already done that twice in his career (Orlando and early on in Boston), and may not want to go through that again.

Either way, that's something to be figured out in the future. For now Celtics fans should be pretty much unanimously happy that one of the better coaches in basketball will be back next season. Now it's time to figure out if Pierce and KG will be joining him.

Follow Mike on twitter - Mike_Dyer13

Caption 3

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:01:00 +0000

Haven't done one of these in a while (We always say that). Kind of a NSFW edition. As always feel free to add your captions in the comments section.

1. Bird bangs in a pair of freebies

2. Like a Bosh

3. Doc finds out KG has been traded to Boston

Some previous Caption 3's

Add your captions below.

JR Smith's ineptitude since elbowing Jason Terry has spawned it's own twitter account

noreply@blogger.com (Mark Vandeusen) — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:26:00 +0000

Jason Kidd hasn't scored a point in 8 games (since Game 2 vs Boston), but another Knick may being going through an even bigger slump. After JR Smith's flagrant foul got him suspended for Game 4 of the Celtics series (a game Smith claimed New York would have won if he'd played), he has yet to shoot even 40% from the field in a single game. Smith is a combined 26-91 (28.6%) over the last 6 contests. His shooting has become so bad that a twitter account was created to track his misses in the Knicks-Pacers Game 4. Take a look at the timeline for @DidJRSmithMiss during Smith's 7-22 performance on Tuesday night.

Recap: yes, yes, yes, yes, no, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, no, yes, yes, no, yes, yes, no, no, yes, no, yes, no.
— Did JR Smith Miss? (@DidJRSmithMiss) May 15, 2013

Follow Mark on twitter @LucidSportsFan

Video: Tony Allen gets a technical for accidentally tossing his warm-up shirt

noreply@blogger.com (DH) — Thu, 16 May 2013 04:18:00 +0000

During the third quarter of tonight's game 5 match-up between the Grizzlies and the Thunder, former Celtic Tony Allen accidentally flung a blue warm-up jersey from the sidelines while OKC's Derek Fisher launched a corner shot. (The commentators in the video above refer to it as a towel, but if you watch closely, it appears he had a blue shirt wrapped up in the towel and it's the shirt that fell onto the court). The basket didn't go in, but the officials counted it and penalized Allen with a technical foul.

The chain of events was part of a 15-4 Thunder run. However, as I am typing this post, there are about 3 minutes left to the game and the Grizzlies have a 12 point lead, so luckily for TA, his mishap will probably not affect the outcome of the game and Memphis will move on to the Western Conference Finals (unless OKC makes a miracle happen in the next few minutes).

Tony Allen will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. I personally would love to see him back in Boston, but if the Grizzlies continue their post-season success, he might want to stay in Memphis where he has a starting role, especially if he helps the team reach the Western Conference Finals for the first time in the franchise's history.

Follow DH on Twitter

h/t: Ball Don't Lie blog

Jared Sullinger's recovery motivated by Simba from 'The Lion King'

noreply@blogger.com (Mark Vandeusen) — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:26:00 +0000

CSNNE's Jessica Camerato wrote a piece yesterday about Jared Sullinger's recovery from back surgery. Sullinger's progress is on schedule, and he is expected to be ready for training camp next season. He's actively rehabbing now, but it sounds like the past few months were pretty difficult for the rookie, who's 21st birthday came shortly after being operated on:

"I had to wait nine weeks after surgery to begin working out. I couldn't even tell you what I did. I was pretty much on bed rest. I could walk around at times, but I pretty much didn't do anything. I had way too much free time, it was just crazy. I've watched 'The Lion King' four times (since surgery). Rafiki the monkey makes me laugh. It was a family movie when I was growing up. I like it because it teaches you you can always overcome. I'm like Simba."

Camerato also shares Sullinger's thoughts on the help he's gotten from Kevin Garnett, and the bond he and Rajon Rondo have formed while sidelined together:

On Garnett - "He still helps me out, we're constantly talking. Defensively, offensively, he keeps me in tune what the team has, what we need to do, what we don't need to do."

On Rondo - "This is my first surgery and he went through his first surgery. We both say, 'Let's get back. Let's get back as healthy as we can.' It helps me a lot. At the same time, it's kind of sad. It's something you don't want to have in common, especially with someone like Rondo with the way his season was going."

Best of luck to you Jared in the rest of your recovery this offseason, and can't wait to see you back on the floor next fall.

Follow Mark on twitter @LucidSportsFan

Danny Ainge's history of drafting defensive studs, and who the Celtics may draft this year

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Dyer) — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:34:00 +0000

In recent years, the Celtics have had their finger prints all over the All-Defensive team. Of course a lot of that has been courtesy of Kevin Garnett, who has been either first or second team defense in four of his six seasons with Boston.

But a lot of the selections have come from guards drafted during Danny Ainge's tenure. Rajon Rondo (a 2006 Ainge draft selection) has been All-Defense four times in seven pro seasons, Tony Allen (2004 draft) just earned his third consecutive selection, and Avery Bradley (2010 draft) picked up his first All-Defensive team nod this season.

All three came out of college as somewhat raw talents, but Ainge and the Celtics saw the same thing in all of them — the ability to be great defenders.

The Boston Herald caught up with Ainge on his way to this year's draft combine, and he talked about the C's success in drafting defensive aces.

“Tony and Avery were both basically made that way,” Ainge said. “We fell in love with both of them because of their defensive abilities — they’re both just great defensive players. I don’t think anyone can just become a great defensive player; it takes mental and physical qualities. Playing hard and being in good shape, being quick with your feet, these are all things you need.”

Rajon Rondo, obviously a better-rounded player than either Allen or Bradley, has made the NBA’s all-defensive lists four times, with two appearances each on the first and second teams. But unlike either Bradley or Allen, Rondo has had more than defensive excellence to worry about. It’s difficult to be a great two-way point guard.

“Rajon has the physical skills that great defensive players have, but he’s never used his ability to be the consistent defender that Avery and Tony are,” Ainge said. “He can turn it on when he has to. He reminds me a lot of Dennis Johnson in that way. DJ had that ability.” . . .

Unfortunately for the Celtics, Allen's success has come mostly with Memphis after being blocked by several future Hall of Famers in Boston, but the point stands. No one has drafted stud defenders better than Ainge since his tenure in Boston began (Kendrick Perkins never made an All-Defensive team, but was a really good defender pre-knee injury).

Carter-Williams (#1 - left) gives opponents fits

Of course that begs the question, who is Ainge scouting this week that fits the 'defensive stud' bill? One name to keep in mind is Michael Carter-Williams from Syracuse, who ESPN's Chad Ford currently projects to the Celtics in his mock draft.

Carter-Williams is a freakishly long point guard (6'5"), and was a dominant defender for Syracuse as they made their run to the Final Four. Of course, the 'Cuse play a zone while the Celtics play man-to-man, but MCW's instincts and physical abilities seem like they'll translate just fine.

Ford currently has Carter-Williams as the #9 overall prospect (#2 PG), but has him slipping to the Celtics in the #16 position. While Boston is currently flush with guards (Rondo/Bradley/Jason Terry/Courtney Lee/Jordan Crawford/Terrence Williams are all under contract), it would be hard for Ainge to pass on that type of value in the middle of Round 1.

A few other guys projected as mid-1st rounders that are known for their defense:

Gorgui Dieng, C (Louisville) - Dieng was fantastic for Lousiville before a disappointing championship game against Michigan, but his shot blocking ability and massive wingspan (7'4") will certainly catch Ainge's eye. Currently projected by Ford to go #12 to OKC.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, SG (Georgia) - To be honest I don't expect Caldwell-Pope to be sitting there at #16, simply because he's the type of freak athlete that climbs fast on draft boards. However, if for some reason he is (and this Hoops World mock has him going pretty close to where the C's pick), don't be surprised if Ainge makes a move. Caldwell-Pope is a lanky guard (6'5", 195 lbs), who also was among the SEC's leaders in three pointers made last season (he shot seven threes a game at 37% — not too shabby). The 'D and 3' role was supposed to be filled by Courtney Lee, but KCP may be a better fit.

Rudy Gobert, C (France) - Ah, Europeans. The wild card in every draft, as even the most diehard hoops aficionados have seen only youtube mixes of these guys, usually accompanied by a terrible music choice in the background as they dunk over guys who look like they should be in my rec league. With that said, Gobert is an absolute freak of nature. He stands 7'1", is legitimately quick (watching this youtube clip, his basketball IQ appears to already be more advanced than Fab Melo's), and his wingspan is a ridiculous 7'9". A center who doesn't walk into doors, and has a longer wingspan than Yao? Consider me intrigued. Again, Euros are complete guesses in many cases, but Gobert at least looks like he's worth a look.

It's possible the C's lean towards a more offensive player of course, and three of the four Hoops World guys having them take Gonzaga C Kelly Olynyk, a sweet shooting big man who projects to be an average defender at best supports that theory. But with Ainge's history, don't be surprised if the Celtics look to pick up another defensive diamond in the rough.

Follow Mike on twitter - Mike_Dyer13

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