Re: Hard fought victory. Youth is served.

[CeltsSteve@AOL.com]

<<I suspect these three rookies will get better each game. With them in the 
rotation; Palacio, McCarty and even Eric Williams should be pushed farther 
down the bench, which gives us players on the court, at all times, who can 
score, pass, rebound and play defense. 
  There is great hope in my heart tonight. - JB>> 



When I heard all the naysayers react to Forte not ever being able to play the 
PG position after only watching him get all of 4 minutes against Charlotte I 
couldn't believe what I was hearing and reading. Tonight he showed that he is 
more than capable of being a backup at that position and Herren's days are 
probably (and should be) numbered given the fact of so many other guaranteed 
contracts at that position already on the squad. That 15th roster spot should 
go to another big man at the "4" or "5" position. I don't know that Forte is 
ready to grab Palacio's minutes just yet but as it relates to Walter and 
Williams, I agree that JJ and Kedrick should get their (WM and EW) minutes, 
no question about it.

I think Forte should instead get a chunk of KA's minutes and use Kenny simply 
to start the game for a 5 - 6 minute span and then only as needed for the 
remainder of the half as dictated by matchups and the foul status on Palacio 
and Forte. I'd say give Kenny 12 -15 minutes a night max; Palacio about the 
same, and Forte the remainder and slowly let him get more and more 
comfortable as he learns the position. Forte is clearly the best rebounder of 
that group and could contribute to the team's success in that critical area 
as well. 

JJ had a very effortless 13 point night and displayed a post up game as well 
as a deep perimeter game.He rebounds well (much better than EW) and his ball 
handling is smooth as velvet. 

Kedrick looked like he has gotten over his first game jitters and even when 
Obie played all three rooks simultaneously they were able give a good 
accounting for themselves. I'm with you, JB. Play the kids! 

CeltsSteve 

Comedian Argus Hamilton says Jordan made his decision to return out of 
patriotism. "President Bush asked Americans to start traveling again, and 
Michael never takes less than three steps with the ball."