Ball movement

[JBMetzEA@aol.com]

The reason that Pierce played poorly against Cleveland is that in the
first half on a drive to the hoop Ilgauskas grabbed Pierce's shoulders and
slammed him down. 
Bruce Allen 
        ***********
    IMHO, the reason Pierce played badly was that he was trying to do it all 
himself. Cedrick Maxwell, on the radio, was saying that there was no passing. 
Pierce and Walker were not involving the other players and Max was maxing out 
on his frustration over same.
    When you make a player Captain too early in his career this often 
happens. A more experienced player will work at getting his teammates 
involved, an immature one will think that leadership means taking over. 
    Pierce and Walker need to learn this before it's too late.
    I also believe this is part of what makes Anderson so moody at times. He 
was used to being the floor leader. He and Walker have clashed several times 
on this. 
    Pitino and Walker won at Kentucky without a true point guard and the 
offense is set up sometimes to run from any spot on the floor. (I believe 
that one of the reasons Antoine won't run the wing is that he wants the ball 
outside, to show his moves.) This often leads to chaotic, late in the clock, 
offense. 
    Sadly, now Pierce is forcing way too many shots, in the same manner. The 
defense collapses on him and he gets a bad shot or a turnover. 
JB