As a huge Celtics fan, I really hate that it has come to this. As was the case the year Tim Duncan was coming to the NBA and all of Boston was rooting ML Carr along to lose games to have the best chance in the Duncan sweepstakes, it looks like we are at that point once again. We all know now that strategy didn't quite work out as planned and San Antonio swooped on in and grabbed the #1 ping pong ball launching that team to new heights and sinking our team into this mud we still find ourselves in ten or so years later. But I do think it is time to start looking towards the Lottery again. Unfortunately there doesn't look like there is an instant franchise saver similar to a Duncan or LeBron in this years crop of college ballers.
Even still, if the season ended right now the Celts would find themselves with the 5th worst record in the league giving them a high probability to land the 5th pick in the draft. They are only a half game behind Toronto for the 4th pick and only two and a half behind both New York and Atlanta for the 3rd and 2nd picks. The #1 would be a bit tougher to catch Charlotte as they are five games ahead of the C's for the worst record. But with 33 games yet to play out this season, anything can happen I suppose. Which is also true if they start winning a little bit also as there are six teams right on their heels for picks 6-11. A three game win streak for the Celts in combination with some of those teams losing and the C's could find themselves back with the 11th pick or worse, making the playoffs and having that 1st round exit to the likes of either Detroit or Miami.
So at this point, why even bother? Even though there is no clear franchise saver out there in the collegiate ranks, it is time to actually start hoping the C's lose. Play the kids and get them as much playing time and experience as possible heading down these final 33 games. This leaves a bad taste in my mouth, but for the greater good of the team, they would just be better off now with the highest pick they could get.
The sad part is, I like alot of these players. Pierce is the man and it's really too bad his supporting cast can't put it together with him in his prime. Contrary to what some people may think of him, he is one of the top players in the NBA. At times, he's unstoppable. Szczerbiak should be a nice compliment to Pierce eventually but they haven't played much together and still need much practice time to gel. Perkins is looking to be a force for the now and near future. Jefferson still has great upside if he can stay healthy and their guards of Delonte, Orien and Allen all can play. I love Gomes and want to see him get more playing time and Gerald Green just needs more time and seasoning. So overall I like this team but right now they are just too young and can't put it together. Maybe another high draft pick could be another piece to the puzzle of this team. So let's try and get the highest pick we can get!!! As much as it pains me to go down this route now, it is for the best.
I agree. I've honestly seen a total of maybe two games, and that includes the one I went to. I haven't had the desire to turn a game on and watch it, it is just too painful. Are there any game breaking centers out there??
Posted by: Hyndsy | February 08, 2006 at 08:05 AM