Literally Halfway there

[Snoopy the Celtics Beagle <snoopy@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

The Celtics, in my none-too-humble opinion, proved against the Kings that 
they are "halfway" where they want to be.  Mostly, the second half.  The 
pressure defense, the movement of the ball on offense, and movement in 
general.  If the C's had ignited even a minute or so sooner in the third 
quarter, they would have won this game.

They're slowly getting the idea of moving without the ball.  I'm not going 
to listen to any complaints of those accusing Pierce and/or Walker of 
ball-hogging.  Too often, the recipients of their passes ended up either 
taking a bad shot or turning the ball over.  Not to say that Pierce and 
Walker didn't make a few bad passes to begin with, but at least they've got 
the right idea.  The passes just need to be faster.

The defense in the last 5 minutes of the third quarter is what Obie has 
done all but get on his knees and beg for all season long.  The C's play 
like that, and they can play with anyone, and beat most.

I think that the Celtics are finally starting to heal, after the various 
aches, pains, and so on that have plagued them all season.  Last year, they 
were remarkably injury-free.  This year was frankly more typical of what an 
NBA team faces.  No, they won't equal last year's record; but this season 
isn't a record to compete for the lottery either.  They will make the 
playoffs this year, despite Obie's cagey comments before tonight's game.

How will they do?  Well, I suppose I could go into a detailed analysis of 
their realistic chances, but after tonight's game, even though it was a 
loss, I go with my feelings.  They say "Boston Celtics, NBA Champions for 
the 17th time".

So that's what I say, too.

Snoopy the Celtics Beagle
Please visit the <http://www.celticsbeagle.net/>Celtics Beagle Website