C's at the All-Star Break

[Cecil Wright <nocw1@nsh.library.ns.ca>]

Amid the constant backdrop of trade discussions and unhappiness at player 
performances, and at the risk of being redundant, I want to say how much 
enjoyment I have gotten from watching our team play thus far.  Sure I too 
get frustrated when, for example, Chauncey makes a bad pass, but these 
are the elements which rookies must learn before ascending to another 
level.  I heard Antonio Daniels commenting today on how tough the 
adjustment has been for him to the pro game.  This coming from a man who 
has previously played the same position in college.  He said that he has 
relied on the advice of more mature players on his team, especially Lee 
Mayberry who he competed against for playing time.  Though I do not feel 
that Billups and Mercer have the luxury of learning from teammates who 
are that much more mature they themselves, I think they've done well thus 
far.

While there are definite improvements which need to be made in order to 
compete on an elite level, I feel this team has some ingredients to make 
us more than just competitive in the near future.  No, I'm not talking 
about next week, but rather for the next few years.  There aren't many teams 
in the NBA that can boast the raw, young hardworking talent which we 
have.  For sure, there are notable weaknesses, but wasn't one of Bird's 
weaknesses considered to be his footspeed?  And wasn't Russell just  
terrible at hitting his free throws?  And Don Chaney couldn't shoot.  And 
the Cooz was too small.  And Maxwell too skinny ...

My point is, of course, that it has all been mentioned before.  The NBA 
is a cyclical experience and we will rise again.  In my opinion, we are 
rising now.  In all probability, we could win 7 of the next 10 games.  
If we beat: Denver, Clips, Kings (Twice), Warriors (Twice), and the Griz.
If we lose: Jazz, Sonics and Blazers.

We would be 29-28 and certainly would be feeling good about ourselves 
after such a left coast trip regardless of who the competition was.  
Playing 3 games in 4 nights, with that third game being in Seattle, is 
no picnic for any team.

Hang in there everyone!  Better days lie ahead!  Let's all cheer for Ron, 
Chauncy and Antoine and hope for them to represent the Celtics this weekend
with dignity and grace, regardless of the outcome.  ENJOY!

Cecil