Tough Loss to Orlando

[D Parker <danp@town.ipswich.ma.us>]

Darn, this is a game the C's deserved to win.  Well, almost.  They had a
few boneheaded plays themselves, but with everything going against them -
no Kenny Anderson, playing a tough Orlando team on the road, and the
referees making the game 8 on 5, the Celtics put forth a very good effort
and almost got out with a win.

I'm not sure why Kenny didn't play, but "disciplinary action" was tossed
around in the pre-game show.  Hmm.  Strangely enough, without starting a
point guard, the C's had some of their best ball movement of the season.
Maybe they should just let Antoine bring the ball up and we'll *really*
see if those Magic Johnson comparisions are legit.  ;)

Let me tip my hat to Walker, who graciously gave up the spotlight to
Mercer and Pierce, who both were scoring well (although I was surprised
to see Mercer was 13-25 - it seemed far worse to me).  Antoine played
within himself, helped bring the ball up the floor, and forced very
little.  I hope no one bashes him for not doing enough - a damned if he
does, damned if he doesn't situation.

Paul Pierce had his 'A' game, not only ringing up nice numbers, but
looking like the poised NBA player he did in the first month of the
season.  He was very active on the defensive end (4 steals) and just had
that all-around court savvy that most veterans don't posess.

The referees were, in a word, awful.  Particuarly Nolan Fine, who appeared
to have such a grudge against the Celtics you'd think they ran over his
dog before the game.  The free throw difference tells most of the story -
the C's shot *eight* free throws, despite great ball movement, guys
cutting to the basket, and players taking it inside.  Orlando shot 34 free
throws and there was no way the C's were going to make up that kind of
difference.

Potapenko looked great out there - he's got some great moves in the low
post.  He's surprisingly smooth for someone his size.

If only they'd put forth this effort against New Jersey...

Dan