Bruce Bowen Bashed: Steve Bulpett Grades The Celtics

[wayray@ix.netcom.com (Way Of The Ray)]

Steve Bulpett in today's Herald graded the Celtics,
but it's non-Web posted, so here's a brief look at
the marks:

Bruce Bowen 
D-plus

According to Bulpett, Bowen's been bad-mouthing the
C's to opposing players, and it'll be a "major upset
if he were back".  The team's also mad at him for not
developing an outside shot, after being told it "No. 1
improvement priority in the summer."

Popeye Jones 
Incomplete

Bulpett says playing time will be an issue for Jones next season,
"unless - and this is quite possible - Ron Mercer is dealt for
a power forward and Walker moves to the 3 spot."

Eric Riley
C-Minus

The C's figure he'll improve with strength conditioning, but
wonder "how much he really wants to be good."  Bulpett thinks 
he may flee as a free agent.

Kenny Anderson
C-minus

Bulpett says Pitino and Anderson will be fine next season if
Anderson gives in on the passing offense issue, by acquiescing
to the coach's wishes and "giving up the ball at the beginning
of the possessions." 

Dana Barros
A-minus

Pitino has to wonder if "he can replace Barros' positives."


Damon Jones
B-plus

Jones showed an ability to "get off his shot and hit with range"
as well as the usual hustle expected out of a CBAer. "A number
of package trades are possible that could cement his position..."


Greg Minor
C-plus

Minor finally caught on and contributed, but "it boggles the mind
that it took so long."  Questions are raised by the hip injury,
but they should answered by summer's end.


Paul Pierce
B-plus

Several NBA coaches will be shocked if he's "not a perennial All-Star
within four years..."  Became easier to defend when he stopped driving
all the way to the hoop and using his strength.


Toni Battie
B-minus

Showed that he could rebound, block shots and score with decent range.
Will only have himself to blame if he doesn't "make a strong run for
NBA Most Improved Player next season."  However, because of contractual
issues, that may occur with another team.


Vitaly Potapenko
B-minus

Bulpett would rather have him than wait for the seventh or eighth pick
to develop.  Why?  Because he's a large inside presence with upside
and a shooting touch.  He says to expect a better Potapenko
next season.


Pitino
B-minus

He had to spend too much time convincing his point guards and others 
about his system.  Bulpett appreciates him for putting his tail on
the line via his playoff prognostication.

Ray