Matchups

["DJB" <dajubo@earthlink.net>]

I believe the reason that the Celtics beat NJ 3 of 4 this year is that we
have a huge advantage in matchups. First of all, Antoine salivates at the
site of Keith Van Horn guarding him--he just can't. Watch for Walker to
drive to the hoop early and often on him.

The other matchup problem is created by Kerry Kittles' inability to guard
Pierce. What NJ did in the last game was to have Kenyon Martin guard Paul
Pierce. As a result, Kittles ended up guarding Eric Williams. Martin could
not handle Pierce and in addition, Eric was able to post Kittles and draw
the easy foul. If Scott decides to let Kittles guard Pierce, look for Pierce
to abuse him. NJ's defense against Pierce will probably be to have Martin
cheap shot him.

Of course, when Rogers comes in, there will be no way for McCulloch to guard
him. If NJ goes with Aaron Williams against Rogers, that might be more
effective for them.

Matchups in Boston's favor will make for a short series. Celts in 5.

-David