Could The Celtics Start Off 1 - 7?

[wayray@xxxxxxxxxxxxx]

Hmmmmm, it's possible.

Game 1: Miami should be a win, as the Heat playing on the road have to 
adjust to a new coach, new rookies, and the injury to Caron Butler. Wild Card player
is Lamar Odom. A huge, 30-point, 15-rebound performance by him could
turn the tide.

Game 2: Memphis is a toss-up. The Grizzlies have improved with the addition
of Posey, the maturity of Williams, the presence of "Celtics Killer" Outlaw,
a better Gasol, a team defense concept, and it's a road game for the C's.

Game 3: New Orleans: The Hornets, at home, are likely to be favored in this matchup,
as the weary Celtics play their third game in four nights. Don't like the
Hornets coach, but enough talent and a healthy Davis (could light up the Celtics
point guards) to claim the victory.

Game 4: Detroit seems like a lock to win at home, as the Pistons superior front-court
depth and Chauncey Billups wear the Celtics down.

Game 5: New Jersey is out for blood after the last two pre-season meetings. Unless 
there are injuries of some sort, Kidd and Martin will be around to wreck havoc.
One of the early season's classic contests. This one is a toughie.

Game 6: Sacramento rolls into the Fleet Center. Plus for the Celtics is the absence
of Webber. Minus is the presence of Celtics Killer: Brad Miller,
who with Divac could do a number on Battie, Blount, Baker, and LaFrenz.
The Celtics front-courters will have to bring their "A" game to win this 
quasi-lopsided slugfest, as Bibby and Jackson are likely to have their way at point.
And beware of Gerald Wallace.
 
Game 7: Indiana on the road presents difficulties. There's revenge afoot
over last year's playoffs and for Kenny Anderson. Bird is sure to be
in attendance, salivating to razz Ainge over a Celtics loss. And no Isiah
around to reduce the Pacers to the LCD.

Gamer 8:  The Bulls have been a demon for the C's over the last few years,
but with Walker departed, perhaps that will change. Chicago will need
a healthy Chandler and a dominating Curry, but benefits greatly from
the presence of Rose and Pippen, who can cover Pierce. Crawford,
whether he shoots too much or not, could have a strong performance 
against the smaller Celtics points. Rookie Hinrich, recovering from a virus,
likely to be a non-factor.    
 
 After the first eight games, the schedule winds down, becoming
progressively easier, with four contests in the next seven games against
the hapless Knicks and Milwaukee.
Ray