Disassembling the Magic in the first half

[bird <birdwl@earthlink.net>]

The Celts are operating on all cylinders in the first 24 minutes.  Here 
are a few impressions:

Defense.  What's most important is that the D is starting the offense via 
the break.  That, and the only really good looks the Magic are getting are 
threes.

Kenny freakin' Anderson.  If KA didn't play the second half, he'd still 
have one helluva game.  19 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals.  
Amazing.  Making passes, his jumper is falling, and he's penetrating with 
a purpose.  I realize the Magic just aren't picking him up, but Kenny is 
making the exact right decision on every play.  Very impressive, indeed.

The Magic.  Looking out-classed at this point, especially defensively.  
Any Celtic can get to virtually any spot on the court.  Did you see EWill 
just blow past McGrady?  Not to mention Pierce's spin move on Miller (now 
there's a brilliant match-up).  Plus, you don't see a player so 
ridiculously unaware as T-Mac was when that pass hit him on the noggin.

T & V.  After a couple of mis-handled passes, Battie settled down, and V 
came in and gave the team an offensive *and* defensive boost.  Man, I will 
take Potapenko with the stomach flu over Blount at 100% any day.

The Duo.  Spreading the ball around, getting others involved, and still 
doing their jobs very well.

The team as a whole.  Let's face it, this team is not mediocre any longer.

I don't see the need for doom-and-gloom or major roster changes.  The 
reason Milt isn't playing is because Kenny and Strick are playing so much 
better.  Give him a break.  Blount would be a great candidate for a trade,
  but who would want him?  Plus, you'd have to acquire another big man in 
case of injury.  Marc Jackson is probably not going to happen.  Why we'd 
want Mourning is beyond me.

What I want to see in the fourth quarter are all the guys who don't get a 
lot of PT, because that'll mean the C's put away Orlando in the third.

Bird