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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 6:35:09 GMT -5
www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/celtics/view.bg?articleid=1164502&format=textCeltics win a bench mark Eddie House, reserves key to 5th straight victory By Steve Bulpett | Thursday, April 9, 2009 | www.bostonherald.com | Boston Celtics Photo by AP One might think with all their injuries, the Celtics [team stats] would be as deep as a puddle on Storrow Drive. Three rotation players are out, meaning everyone moves up a chair, and bench production surely would suffer, right? But last night’s 106-104 victory against the Nets was brought to you largely by the Celts’ pine people. New Jersey won the first and third quarters - mainly the starters’ province - by a combined 58-44. So while Rajon Rondo [stats] was generally incredible with 31 points, one off his career high, it was the lift from Eddie House (15 points), Stephon Marbury (four points, five assists in 15 minutes), Mikki Moore (nine points on 4-for-4, nine rebounds) and Tony Allen (six rebounds, tough defense) that got the Celtics their fifth straight triumph. The bench crew brought the Celts back in the second quarter from a double-digit deficit to the lead. And when the Nets had come back from nine down to tie the game, the subs were the main ingredients in a 9-0 run that gave the C’s the lead for good. “They pretty much won the game,” captain Paul Pierce [stats] said after a 10-point, four-turnover effort. “Shoot, (coach) Doc (Rivers) could have probably left them in the whole game and it probably wouldn’t have been as close. They have great energy. Stephon is doing a great job getting into the defense and finding guys. Eddie House is shooting lights out right now. Mikki Moore is being active. We’re extremely happy with the way the bench is coming in and picking up the starters when we’re down.” It did get tight at the end when the starters came back and Vince Carter finished off a 33-point night, but the bench had provided enough of a cushion. Kendrick Perkins [stats] and Rondo had big hoops late, and the Nets missed two shots at the end. It was the kind of collapse that had Rivers shaking his head. “Well, we put it in the left,” Rivers said of the win column, which stands at 59. “That’s about it today. I thought our bench was sensational. I thought they were the difference in the game, first half and second half. I guess if you’re looking for the silver lining . . . we won the game and the bench won the game for us. Rondo was terrific down the stretch, but I thought our bench energy is what won the game for us.” With third-place Orlando coming back to beat Memphis, the Celts needed the win to remain one game up in second with four to play. The C’s also cashed in a chance to officially eliminate the Nets from the playoff race and send them on a drive down Route 3 and across the New Jersey Turnpike to Secaucus for the draft lottery. House had 11 points in the second quarter to bring the C’s back, but a seven-point halftime lead was squandered. Rondo kept the Celts from falling behind with 12 points in the third, but the unquestioned highlight of the quarter was provided by a guy who hasn’t been around much lately. Late in the period, the C’s went on a break and Ray Allen found namesake Tony Allen with an alley-oop pass. Tony Allen, who’d played one game after missing 22 straight because of left thumb surgery, was a bit past where Ray Allen expected him to be, but that didn’t matter. Tony Allen caught the ball and jammed it on the reverse. The Celts were ahead, 81-78, after three quarters, but Chris Douglas-Roberts began the fourth with a three-point play to even it up. That meant the Celtics bench had to work its magic once again. “They’ve been playing great,” said Rondo, who also had nine rebounds. “I think it started in practice. They’ve been giving the starters a lot of problems these past couple of days. They’re beating us in every drill, and it’s definitely paying off. “I knew E. House was going to shoot like he did tonight because in practice he’s been lighting it up. They play well together, they make multiple passes. I think we’ve got the best bench in the league.” That might be debatable, but it is undeniable the Celtics would have had a bad loss last night without their backups.
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 6:38:25 GMT -5
www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/celtics/view.bg?articleid=1164515&format=textCeltics trio makes solid points By Dan Duggan | Thursday, April 9, 2009 | www.bostonherald.com | Boston Celtics Photo by AP Fans of good point guard play were treated last night at the Garden. The Celtics [team stats] trio of Rajon Rondo [stats], Stephon Marbury and Eddie House put on an offensive clinic. The Celts were going against New Jersey’s All-Star floor general, Devin Harris, but it was the point men in green and white who stole the show, each putting his own distinct twist on a 106-104 win. Rondo had his complete game working from the opening tip, finishing with 31 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Marbury came on in relief in the second quarter and kept things moving at a high speed, doing his best work while driving and dishing (five assists in 15 minutes). House, who has been playing off the ball more since Marbury’s acquisition six weeks ago, was the main beneficiary of Marbury’s kick-outs, netting 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting. “He’s a guy who understands my game, as far as the way I’m able to penetrate, and he knows that I’m going to kick the ball to him,” Marbury said of his connection with House. “When you get to the open area and you know someone is looking for you and they’re going to find you, it makes it easier to go out there and get to those open spots.” The Celtics got off to a slow start, but Rondo kept them in the game with 10 points on 5-of-8 shooting in the first quarter. The increased aggression at the offensive end has become a trend for Rondo, who has averaged 24 points in his past three games. “The guy had (31) points and I think he shot all layups,” Marbury said. “He reminds me of Pearl Washington from what they said from back in the days - a guy who didn’t really shoot the jump shot but just continued to get to the basket and dominate.” The two-headed monster of Rondo and Marbury running the show with House spotting up behind the 3-point line is exactly what president of basketball operations Danny Ainge envisioned when he pulled the trigger on the Marbury signing. “That’s what Steph does, he makes plays,” center Kendrick Perkins [stats] said. “He gets in the paint, he can make plays, he finds guys and, me personally, I love playing with him just like I love playing with Rondo.” Paul Pierce [stats] has appreciated Rondo’s increased scoring, as it’s taken some heat off the C’s captain. “He’s been great,” Pierce said. “The last few games he’s just been scoring the ball pretty well. And Rajon, if he’s able to score the ball like that, we’re going to be a tough team to beat because he takes so much pressure off of me and Ray (Allen), especially with Kevin (Garnett) out.”
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 6:41:52 GMT -5
www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/celtics/view.bg?articleid=1164516&format=textDanny Ainge bracing for Thibodeau departure By Steve Bulpett / Celtics Notebook | Thursday, April 9, 2009 | www.bostonherald.com | Boston Celtics Photo by AP Danny Ainge will have quite a bit of work to do over the summer keeping current personnel and signing others. Included on his to-do list is a perennial free agent who doesn’t even wear sneakers on game night. As was the case when he came to the Celtics [team stats] prior to the 2007-08 season, assistant coach Tom Thibodeau is again working on a one-year contract. “He didn’t really ask for more than a one year, so I think he’s hopeful of getting a head coaching job,” said Ainge. “If he doesn’t, I’m sure he’ll be able to find any job he wants. “I don’t think the years make that much difference. If we had a two-year deal or a three-year deal or a four-year deal, if he gets a (head coaching) job, he can go anyway.” Which might make it a bit odd that he seeks just one-year deals here. It is possible, Ainge allowed, that Thibodeau is leaving the door open for a lateral move. “If you feel confident that you can get a job and you have a lot of options every year, I think that’s smart just in case you want to make a change,” Ainge said. “It keeps his flexibility. “He might want to (make a change). You never know. He’s like a free agent coach every year.”cw0 Obviously this is not a pressing concern at this time. The Celtics would like to maintain continuity on their staff, but there are bigger issues in play as they head into the last week of the regular season and hit the playoffs. “We’re just trying to win a championship right now,” Ainge said. “We’ll see what happens this summer. Whether he’s got five years on his contract or one year, it doesn’t matter. His dreams and aspirations are to become a head coach. And if he doesn’t become a head coach, then I’m sure he’d probably like to stay with what he’s doing here. But that’ll be up to him.” Home bodies Doc Rivers would like to get his regulars some rest down the stretch, but the C’s coach won’t do so at the risk of losing the second seed to Orlando. “If you can get homecourt, you’ve got to get it,” Rivers said. “That’s a no-brainer.” Said captain Paul Pierce [stats]: “That’s fine with me. I thought last year when we sat a lot (that) we weren’t as sharp going into the playoffs. So maybe it will keep us sharp that we’re continuing to play.” On hold The Celts are still waiting on Kevin Garnett (right knee), Leon Powe (right knee) and Brian Scalabrine (post-concussion syndrome). “Everyone’s going to travel with us to Cleveland,” said Rivers of the trip for Sunday’s game. “None of them will play in that game. If we do have a practice on Monday, which is 50-50, we hope to practice them all and see how that goes for the Tuesday game (in Philadelphia). “Honestly, I don’t know if any of them would play on that Tuesday. Kevin may. Leon may. Scal will not, I can tell you that.” Powe feels just about ready. “I think I could play if I had to,” he said. “I’ve done a lot of the game movements and stuff on it and it felt fine. I guess we’re just being cautious. Everything’s been going well. I’ve been running well, cutting well, moving well. I haven’t had any bad response from the knee. But they don’t want any setbacks.”
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 6:44:15 GMT -5
www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2009/04/09/celtics_survive_surge?mode=PFCeltics survive surge Carter (33), Nets denied at the end By Frank Dell'Apa, Globe Staff | April 9, 2009 So much for coasting into the playoffs. The Celtics' starters began slowly, then wrapped things up with a sloppy finish last night; but thanks to some energetic bench play, the Green held off the New Jersey Nets, 106-104, at TD Banknorth Garden. Midseason acquisitions Stephon Marbury and Mikki Moore had strong impacts, Marbury helping keep the Celtics in contention in the first half and Moore playing a key role in the final quarter. And though this was a night for the reserves to establish an identity, in the end the Celtics (59-19) turned to Ray Allen, Kendrick Perkins, Paul Pierce, and Rajon Rondo (31 points). "I thought they hadn't played well enough to sit," coach Doc Rivers said of the starters. "I thought they needed to play. Usually, when you play extremely well and you get a lead, you sit them. And when you don't, you look at it two ways - well, they've got to give you something or you just sit them. So, I tend to lean toward Paul and Ray, no matter if they're playing well or not - they're pretty good." But the Celtics nearly fumbled away a 7-point lead in the final 71 seconds. The Celtics, who will take a five-game winning streak into tomorrow's game against Miami, appeared to have clinched the result as Rondo's drive led to a Perkins follow, then Rondo's steal and layup made the score 106-99 with 1:22 to play. But that would be it for Boston's offense. Vince Carter (33 points) hit a 3-pointer out of a timeout, then scored off a steal to cut the deficit to 2 points with 50.5 seconds left. Pierce then missed before the Nets called time out with 20.3 seconds left. Carter and Devin Harris then missed before Perkins contested the final rebound, with the ball ending up in Ray Allen's hands as the clock expired. "They pretty much won the game," Pierce said of the bench. "Shoot, Doc could have probably left them in the whole game and it probably wouldn't have been as close of a game." Eddie House and Marbury sparked the Celtics during a 37-20 second quarter. Rondo led the way as the Celtics concluded the half with a 7-point lead, converting four foul shots and assisting on a Pierce fast-break dunk in a 23-second span. Pierce capped a 14-4 run with a drive for a 58-49 lead 18 seconds remaining in the half. But the Nets rallied to tie the score late in the third quarter. Tony Allen hit a layup off a Rondo backdoor feed to give the Celtics a 2-point edge with 2:33 to go, then broke away in transition for a reverse dunk off a Ray Allen lob for a 4-point lead with 1:58 remaining in the third. Moore (9 points, nine rebounds) started the final quarter by committing two fouls in the opening 19 seconds, costing the Celtics a possession and contributing to a tying 3-point play by Chris Douglas-Roberts. But Moore then sent a no-look, over-the-head pass to Perkins, and scored twice off follows during a 9-0 run. Moore's 3-point play made it 97-90 with 6:22 remaining. The Celtics were outscored, 10-4, during crunch time. The fact the Celtics held on, defending well on the Nets' final possession, indicates they can be resourceful but also is a reminder how much they miss Kevin Garnett (right knee). The Celtics, who have a five-game home winning streak, hold a one-game lead over Orlando for the No. 2 Eastern Conference seed. "I like what we've done the last four or five games," Pierce said. "We were a little rusty [last] night but I thought our defense was really coming together." Rondo was a point away from equaling his career high. "The last few games, he's just been scoring the ball pretty well," Pierce said of Rondo. "And Rajon, if he's able to score the ball like that, we're going to be a tough team to beat, because he takes so much pressure off of me and Ray, especially with Kevin out. You look at me - 10 [points] and Ray 12, and we get the win."
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 6:45:59 GMT -5
www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2009/04/09/chances_rockier_on_road?mode=PFChances rockier on road Securing No. 2 now No. 1 goal By Marc J. Spears | April 9, 2009 Robert Frost once wrote, "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by. And that has made all the difference." Along with good health, the road less traveled in the postseason can also make a big difference for the Celtics in their hopes of repeating as NBA champions. Therefore, Boston must focus on securing the Eastern Conference's No. 2 seed over Orlando, with a reward of having home-court advantage during at least the first two rounds of the playoffs. "It would mean a lot," said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. "I definitely would take the games at home if it got to that." The Celtics got a little closer to that No. 2 seed with a 106-104 victory over the Nets last night at TD Banknorth Garden. Boston (59-19) has four games remaining, against Miami tomorrow, at Cleveland Sunday, at Philadelphia Tuesday, and against Washington Wednesday. While it will be far from easy, three wins will likely lock up the No. 2 seed. Orlando (58-20) is a game behind Boston in the East standings. The Magic have an easier road the rest of the regular season, against four teams with losing records - New York tomorrow, at New Jersey Saturday, at Milwaukee Monday, and Charlotte Wednesday. The potential tiebreaker between the Celtics and Magic would be conference record, with Boston at 38-10, and Orlando at 36-12. While Orlando has time to work some magic, the Celtics believe they have the focus to finish with a better record. "Our schedule isn't easy the rest of the way out," said Rajon Rondo. "We have some tough games to face. I believe we can win each game." Said Ray Allen, "Over the last month we've shifted from how well Cleveland is playing to making sure we have the best [record] out of us and Orlando. A lot of it was really us getting on track and trying to do what we need to do." It's impressive that the Celtics have thus far held off the Magic, considering their injury woes. Kevin Garnett last night missed his 18th game of the last 22 with a strained right knee. Leon Powe has been out with a strained right knee since March 17. Brian Scalabrine has been out since Feb. 23 with concussion issues. Rondo and Glen Davis also have missed games with ankle injuries. The Celtics would likely still be challenging Cleveland for the East's top seed if Garnett hadn't been sidelined. Rivers would rather use his key players, like Allen and Paul Pierce, to lock up the No. 2 seed than to give them added rest before the postseason. "If you can get home court, you've got to get it. It's a no-brainer," Rivers said. Said Pierce, "That's fine with me. I thought even last year when we sat a lot we weren't as sharp going into the playoffs. So maybe it will keep us sharp, especially going into the first round, if we continue to play." Possibly the biggest incentive for the Celtics to land the No. 2 seed would be to make it more difficult on the unproven Magic in a second-round series. The Celtics have a 33-6 home record that is bettered only by Cleveland in the East. While Orlando is a great road team (27-12), winning on the road in the postseason is a challenge it has yet to master. The Magic lost in the second round to Detroit in five games last season, and were swept by Detroit in the first round two years ago. Moreover, why give the Magic a chance to play with more confidence at home, where they are 31-8? "Any time you can have the home-court advantage as much as possible, it's key," said Celtics center Kendrick Perkins. "You can't really look ahead because you have to get through the first round first. But at the same time, I think it will help us a lot." The Celtics learned the importance of home-court advantage last season, when they lost only one home game in the playoffs en route to the title. Boston won two Game 7s at home, in the first round against Atlanta and the second round against Cleveland. The Celtics clinched the title at home in Game 6 against the Lakers. "We relied on home court a lot last year," Allen said. Said Rivers, "We'd definitely take a Game 7 at home, if we get to that. We hope we don't get to too many Game 7s. But I don't think as a group we focus on that. We focus on getting right. If we're right, we'll lace them up and play." The Celtics are confident they will overcome their injuries, and that they can win on the road if necessary. But why make it harder than it already is? Why put yourself in a tough situation where you have to overcome not having home-court advantage after the first round in hopes of repeating? Why not play as many games as possible at the Garden before possibly going to the toughest place in the NBA to win, Cleveland? A place where Boston hasn't won since the new Big Three was formed. The Celtics should focus in an attempt to earn the road less traveled, or get ready for a really bumpy road. "It's important," said Pierce of the No. 2 seed. "But the more important thing is just building on something going into the playoffs. We're trying to get some momentum. We've won five in a row. But the thing is, we want to be playing well regardless of whether we win or not. We want to be playing well going into the playoffs. "That's going to be key for us. If we get the No. 2 seed, great. If not, that means we're probably not playing well. We're probably going to have to [win] two or three games out of this four [remaining]. I guess it is important to get the No. 2 seed."
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 6:49:40 GMT -5
www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2009/04/09/they_had_plenty_in_reserve?mode=PFThey had plenty in reserve By Frank Dell'Apa, Globe Staff | April 9, 2009 The Celtics' bench made a strong statement in last night's win over the Nets. The reserves included two players (Stephon Marbury and Mikki Moore) who were not with the team at the start of the season, plus one (Bill Walker) who has played more minutes for the Utah Flash than the Celtics, and another (Brian Scalabrine) who is recovering from an injury and would not have entered the contest "even if everybody fouled out," coach Doc Rivers said. Of the three bench holdovers from last season, only Eddie House has performed consistently. Tony Allen has missed 34 games with injuries, and Gabe Pruitt is barely in consideration, notching his fifth DNP in six games. House (15 points) and Marbury led the way during a 37-20 second quarter against the Nets. And Allen displayed flashes of form, his spectacular reverse dunk off an alley-oop a highlight of the third quarter. "It was good to see him get up there for the alley-oop, showing some good athleticism, especially after the knee injury, hand injury, and whatever kind of injury he's had throughout the last couple years," captain Paul Pierce said of Allen. "I was definitely surprised. I haven't seen him jump in a while, so that looks like the T.A. of old." Dressing the part Scalabrine was in uniform for the first time since Feb. 23. He has missed 28 games in two stints with a concussion and cervical strain, and has been cleared for workouts but not for contact. "I've missed it a lot," Scalabrine said. "That's why I'm going out there. I'm going to do some rebounding for the fellas during layup lines." Rivers joked, "I'm sick of his outfits, they're distracting, on the sidelines. So we told him, 'Put a uniform on because we have an extra spot.' " Rondo on point Rondo (31 points, nine rebounds) outperformed counterpart Devin Harris. Rondo scored 1 fewer point than his career high set Feb. 22 in Phoenix, when he outdueled Steve Nash. "Any time you match up two good point guards in our league they get up for the matchup," said Celtics center Kendrick Perkins. "I could just tell Rondo's focus before the game, he was up for him. He takes these matchups pretty personal. With [Harris] making the All-Star Game, Rondo had a legitimate shot at making the All-Star Game and Devin was picked over him, there's always a chip on his shoulder." Said Rondo, "I'm pretty comfortable, as comfortable as I've ever been, probably these last five or six games. Paul [Pierce] and [Glen Davis] and Perk were giving me great picks in transition. I tried to attack the rim, get the ball up to the basket whether I missed or made it, give our bigs a chance to rebound." Powe feeling better Leon Powe (right knee) likely will not return before the playoffs. "I'm 100 percent confident I will be back out there, based on the progress I've been making," Powe said. "And today, I really showed some things. I ran on the court, I did treadmill, I'm cutting, doing cones, running zigzags. Just testing my leg out, stuff like that. I really don't have any problems moving and cutting full speed. The knee responded really well." . . . Powe, Scalabrine, and Kevin Garnett (right knee) will miss tomorrow's game against Miami, but will join the Celtics on a road trip to Cleveland (Sunday) and Philadelphia (Tuesday). All three could participate in a Monday practice.
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 7:02:58 GMT -5
www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/Marbury getting comfortable Link|Comments (0) Posted by Gary Dzen, Boston.com Staff April 8, 2009 11:36 PM First Kevin Garnett. Then Paul Pierce. "Hey Steph," each of them called from the trainer's room. "Let me see your shoes." Stephon Marbury smirked. He may be a Celtic now, but he's kept his New York sense of style since moving to Boston. Tonight's runway debut? A pair of reddish-brown boots that Garnett and Pierce found hilarious. "You only started dressing up after the rule," Marbury shouted back at Pierce, referring to the NBA-mandated dress code. The ribbing was good-natured, but it highlighted one fact: It's been an adjustment for Marbury in Boston on, and off, the court. "He’s really coming along," said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. "You can see the difference in Steph, when he first got here and now. He’s just aggressive right now. And that’s what we need him to do." Marbury had five assists to just one turnover tonight against the Nets, leading a bench unit which outscored New Jersey by double-figures in a two-point game. The former Knick had just four points, but scoring isn't the goal for Marbury at the moment. "I'm trying to run the team," said Marbury. "As a point guard, coming in here so late, it’s an adjustment. It’s something that’s on the fly, but at the same time you work on everything and eventually you get it.” Marbury got into the lane all night against the Nets, finding Eddie House for three-pointers in the corner on several occasions. He said he's starting to learn how the Celtics run their offense. "The last two practices I’ve just been getting it, getting into a rhythm of what they do offensively," said Marbury. "Defensively it’s kind of simple because all you have to do is play hard and the setup and the concepts are pretty much the same. But offensively you've got to learn what you want to get out of the offense, knowing when to be aggressive...I’m learning that, I’m adjusting.” With career averages of 19.3 points and 7.7 assists, Marbury should be given some credit for taking a back seat in Boston (though he did admit tonight that coming off the bench is by far the hardest adjustment he has had to make). He's been nothing but a good soldier in Boston so far. When asked if he thinks he can help the Celtics in the playoffs, Marbury said, "Oh yeah. I’ll be able to do that." Rivers was pleased with the contributions from his entire bench tonight. Besides Marbury, Mikki Moore (9 points, 9 rebounds), Eddie House (15 points in 15 minutes), and Tony Allen (5 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists) played well against New Jersey. “They pretty much won the game," said Pierce. "Doc could of probably left them in the whole game and it probably wouldn’t have been as close of a game. They gave great energy. Stephon is doing a great job defensively, getting into the defense, finding guys, Eddie House is shooting lights out right now, Mikki Moore is being active. We’re extremely happy with the way the bench is coming in and picking up the starters when we’re down.” Said Rajon Rondo, "We have the best bench in the league."
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 7:04:35 GMT -5
www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2009/04/rondo_goes_on_t.htmlRondo goes on the offensive Link|Comments (0) Posted by Gary Dzen, Boston.com Staff April 8, 2009 10:44 PM It's pretty simple. Rajon Rondo is faster than almost everyone he plays against. The Celtics point guard has other skills, but the bulk of his success in the early part of his NBA career has been predicated on head-turning speed. Tonight was no different. Rondo had 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists against the Nets, outplaying All-Star point guard Devin Harris in a 106-104 win over New Jersey at TD Banknorth Garden. "The guy had [31] points and I think he shot all lay-ups," said Stephon Marbury. "He reminds me of Pearl Washington, from what they said back in the days. A guy that didn't really shoot the jump shot but continued to get to the basket and dominated." Rondo has been on a tear of late, scoring more than 20 points in his last three games. He's been putting the ball in the basket in addition to handing out almost seven assists per game in his last three as well. "I'm pretty comfortable," said Rondo. "As comfortable as I've ever been, probably these last five or six games. Just knowing when to take a shot and when to pass it...I'm a pass-first point guard, but these last couple games they've been giving me the lanes to score." Rondo credited his teammates for the bulk of his baskets tonight. "Paul and Baby and Perk were giving me great picks in the transition today," said Rondo. "I tried to attack the rim, get the ball up to the basket whether I missed or made it, give our bigs a chance to get an offensive rebound." On his matchup with Harris, Rondo gave the same line he's given when asked about Chris Paul, Deron Williams, and other standout point guards in the league. "Devin's an All-Star," said Rondo. "He's a great player. I love playing against him. We're kind of similar. We both use our speed to our advantage. But I try to treat every point guard the same."
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 7:05:46 GMT -5
www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2009/04/celtics_vs_nets.htmlFINAL: Celtics 106, Nets 104 Link|Comments (3) Posted by Gary Dzen, Boston.com Staff April 8, 2009 09:54 PM Theeee Celtics win (FINAL: Celtics 106, Nets 104 Vince Carter and Devin Harris missed shots in the final seconds and the Celtics escaped with a 106-104 win over the New Jersey Nets tonight at TD Banknorth Garden. Rajon Rondo led the Celtics with 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. Plenty of updates from the locker room coming your way. Stay tuned. Vinsanity (20.3 seconds fourth quarter, Celtics 106-104) A three-pointer and a layup by Vince Carter (33 points), and it's a one-possession game. Nets ball. Rondo steals the deal (1:21 fourth quarter, Celtics 106-99) Rajon Rondo just stole the ball and raced down to the other end for a layup to give the Celtics a seven-point lead. Rondo has 31 points. Timeout, New Jersey. Down to the wire (2:31 fourth quarter, Celtics 102-96) No Gino tonight. The Celtics are involved in a tight one here. Rajon Rondo has been all over the court for the C's for 29 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. But the Nets have been led by 28 points from Vince Carter. Paul Pierce will guard Carter down the stretch. It'll be interesting to see if Pierce takes his defense to another level. Bench mob (6:22 fourth quarter, Celtics 97-90) Stephon Marbury has 5 assists in 16 minutes off the bench, while Mikki Moore has 9 points and 8 rebounds in 17 minutes. This is what the Celtics hoped they would get out of these players. No Bill (10:21 fourth quarter, Celtics 85-81) Someone asked me in a chat last week if Tony Allen's return would lead to fewer minutes for Bill Walker. Allen has 5 points and 5 rebounds in 14 minutes so far tonight. Walker hasn't played. THIRD QUARTER Help me Rondo (END third quarter, Celtics 81-78) Rajon Rondo is relishing his matchup with Devin Harris. Harris made the Eastern Conference All-Star team ahead of Rondo this season, but Rondo (26 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists) has had his number tonight. Rondo is the leading scorer in the game. Holy Tony (1:57 third quarter, Celtics 79-75) Tony Allen just caught a reverse lob from Ray Allen and threw it down with both hands. Nice to see Tony do what he does best. All together now (4:02 third quarter, Celtics 73-71 Rajon Rondo got an offensive rebound and a putback to put the C's up two. The entire Celtics bench is standing and cheering on the their team. The Celtics are the only team that consistently shows that kind of enthusiasm. It's kind of refreshing. Still a game (5:37 third quarter, Tied at 69) New Jersey isn't going away. Vince Carter has 24 points on 7-of-9 shooting to lead the Nets. The crowd is rowdy tonight, but they haven't had much to cheer about. Foul mood (8:22 third quarter, Celtics 65-61) Paul Pierce and Vince Carter both have three fouls. SECOND QUARTER Point taken (END second quarter, Celtics 58-51) Point guards Rajon Rondo (14 points) and Eddie House (11 points) are carrying the Celtics in the first half. House's effort is particularly impressive because it came in just nine minutes of play. The Nets made three of their first five shots from beyond the arc, but they haven't made one since. A run-out dunk by Paul Pierce over Vince Carter near the end of the half brought the crowd to its feet and gave the Celtics the momentum heading into halftime. In other words, it's looking more like what you'd expect from a Celtics-Nets game in Boston. More to come. House money (4:32 second quarter, Celtics 39-38) It never gets old. Eddie House has two threes and another long jumper, the last bomb giving the Celtics their first lead since it was 2-0. Coney Island's finest (7:30 second quarter, Nets 34-30) Stephon Marbury seems to be getting more comfortable. It only shows up as one assist on the stat sheet, but Marbury just drove the lane and drew three defenders before kicking it out to Eddie House for an open three. It's the kind of solid play the Celtics need from Marbury in that role. Also notable is the use of Marbury, House, and Tony Allen at the same time. Doc Rivers said before the game he'd like to try that lineup to get Ray Allen and Paul Pierce some rest, but that he was afraid of making the team too small. So far so good, though. Baby Shaq (9:55 second quarter, Nets 31-25) Glen Davis dove into the stands to retrieve a loose ball, scaring the heck out of the fans in the first three rows of courtside seats. Davis got to the ball -- but threw it to the Nets. FIRST QUARTER Net problem (END first quarter, Nets 31-21) The Nets aren't making this easy for the Celtics. New Jersey is shooting almost 60 percent from the field. Rajon Rondo is the lone bright spot for the Celtics. He's got 10 points, and almost had two more on an end-to-end drive at the end of the quarter, but his layup spun around the rim and out. Flashback (2:57 first quarter, Nets 26-17) Remember when Vince Carter was great? Like slam dunk champion and all that? Well VC can still bring it when he puts in a little focus. He's got 9 points so far and hasn't missed a shot. Shooting also a problem (4:33 first quarter, Nets 20-10) The Celtics are stuck at 36-percent shooting, not a bad number for a Big East foe facing Pittsburgh, but pretty terrible for an NBA team. Three's a problem (7:28 first quarter, Nets 13-8) The Nets are 3-of-5 shooting the deep ball early and have the quick lead.
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 7:26:42 GMT -5
www.metrowestdailynews.com/sports/pros_and_colleges/x430403190/Celtics-106-Nets-104-Cs-survive-scareCeltics 106, Nets 104: C's survive scare -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By Jimmy Golen/Associated Press Associated Press Posted Apr 08, 2009 @ 11:35 PM Last update Apr 08, 2009 @ 11:37 PM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BOSTON — If the Boston Celtics' stars are going to get any rest for what could be a long playoff run, they're going to have to earn it. "I thought they hadn't played well enough to sit," Celtics coach Doc Rivers said pointedly about bringing his starters back into the game to hold off the New Jersey Nets down the stretch of a 106-104 victory last night. "So that's really why I played them, because I just didn't think they played well enough to sit. I thought they needed to play." Rajon Rondo had 31 points, nine rebounds and five assists, coming back into the game for the final five minutes after New Jersey cut what seemed like a secure nine-point lead to five. Unlike last year, when the Celtics clinched home-court advantage through the playoffs with six games left and rested the Big Three in the final weeks, they have already conceded the best record in the Eastern Conference to Cleveland. Boston's victory kept Cleveland from clinching - for now - and it also helped the Celtics maintain a one-game lead over Orlando in the race for the No. 2 seed in the East. "The more important thing is just building on something going into the playoffs," Pierce said. "We've won five in a row, but we want to be playing well." Vince Carter had 33 points and 12 rebounds for the Nets, who were eliminated from the playoff race when Detroit beat New York earlier last night. "To fall short is just disappointing," Carter said. "I think people were picking us to be last in the league - in the East, period. We showed otherwise." Boston led 106-99 with 1:11 left, seemingly coasting to the victory, before New Jersey scored the next five points - the last five of the game, it turned out. Carter hit a 3-pointer, then picked off a pass from Rondo and went the rest of the way before hanging in the air for a one-handed layup with 50 seconds left that made it 106-104. Pierce missed a 3-point attempt - he was 0-for-3 from beyond the arc - and the Nets brought it down with a chance to tie or win. But Carter missed a step-back 3-pointer with eight seconds left, and after the Nets tipped out the rebound Devin Harris tried a long 3. Ray Allen corralled the rebound and dribbled out the last few seconds. "We trust our best players to make plays," Nets coach Lawrence Frank said. "We just continued to fight our tails off and that is what this group has done for really the majority of the year. We didn't quit; we're very, very resilient; we never hung our heads. I'm disappointed because we came up short." Boston played its first game after four days off and its fifth straight game - and 18th of 22 - without forward Kevin Garnett, who is recovering from a strained right knee. Rivers said Garnett would travel with the team to Cleveland for Sunday's game but would not play. "I thought we were a little rusty," said Pierce, who scored just 10 points to go with 12 from Allen. "If (Rondo's) able to score like that, we're going to be a tough team to beat. That takes so much pressure off me and Ray, especially with Kevin out." New Jersey led 20-10 with five minutes left in the first quarter and 31-21 at the start of the second when the Boston scored 11 of the next 14 points. The Nets held a 45-44 lead late in the second quarter before Boston scored seven straight, including Ray Allen's 3-pointer, and went on to take a 56-47 lead. New Jersey tied it in the third quarter and again in the fourth but never led. Notes: Rivers is eyeing a possible Monday return at practice for Garnett. ... Boston F Brian Scalabrine was activated for the game, but did not play. ... Boston is 12-1 when Rondo scored at least 20 points
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 7:28:22 GMT -5
www.nba.com/celtics/news/sidebar/sidebar040809-rondo-rival.htmlRondo Gets Upper Hand on All-Star Rival in Win over Nets Couper Moorhead April 8, 2009 Celtics.com Rajon Rondo is not going to tell you he brings a little extra to his matchups with New Jersey's Devin Harris. Not when Harris was selected over him for the Eastern Conference All-Star team. Not even after he dropped 31 points (one off his career high), nine rebounds and five assists on the Nets in the Celtics' 106-104 victory Wednesday night. He won't tell you, because he's not that kind of player. "He's a great player," Rondo said of Harris. "I love playing against him. I try to face every point guard as the same." Just leave the telling to Kendrick Perkins. "I could just tell when Rondo focused before the game that he was up for him. He takes these matchups pretty personally," Perkins said. "With Devin making the All-Star Game, Rondo had a legitimate shot...but Devin was picked over him. There's always a chip on your shoulder. Either way, Rondo was attacking the basket and powering the Celtics attack on an off night for Paul Pierce (10 points, 4/10 FGs) and Ray Allen (12 points, 4/9 FGs). "When he's like that," Perkins said, "it's tough for us to be beat." At times in an apparent foot race with Harris for the fastest coast-to-coast layup, Rondo scored at least 20 points for the third straight game -- all Celtics victories. But more importantly than scoring points, he's giving the veterans on a still-depleted Celtics roster a much-needed offensive break. "Rajon, if he's able to score the ball like that," Paul Pierce said, "we're going to be a tough team to beat because he takes so much pressure off of me and Ray [Allen], especially with Kevin [Garnett] out." If Rondo can stay aggressive when Garnett does come back, he'll give the Celtics a look they didn't have entering the playoffs last season. And with possible first-round opponents Chicago and Philadelphia featuring point guards such as Andre Miller and Derrick Rose, there's nothing wrong with bringing a little extra aggressiveness against top talent, is there? "Well he should," Doc Rivers said about getting up for playing against Harris. "I would assume 'yes'.� You know, they're so similar in a lot of ways and Devin made the All-Star team, and it's another guard, but it's human nature. As long as you do it inside the team frame, that's fine by me."
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 7:29:54 GMT -5
www.nba.com/celtics/game_recap/recap040809-nets.htmlRondo, Celtics, Overcome Nets’ Late Rally Marc D'Amico April 8, 2009 Celtics.com The Celtics may not be blowing their opponents out, but they're certainly playing some of their best team basketball of the season. It seems like each and every night, everyone is contributing and one player steps up to lead the team to victory. Tonight, that player was Rajon Rondo, who undoubtedly won the showdown against All-Star point guard Devin Harris. His final stat line of 31 points, nine rebounds, five assists and three steals blew away Harris' 16 points, zero rebounds, five assists and one steal. In addition to winning the point guard battle, Boston also excelled with their bench play. Eddie House and Mikki Moore dropped in 12 and nine points each, respectively, with House draining three 3-pointers and Moore finishing 4-of-4 from the floor. Stephon Marbury also pitched in four points and dished out five assists. Paul Pierce even acknowledged that the bench performed much better than the starters. "They gave great energy," he said. "Stephon is doing a great job defensively, getting into the defense, finding guys. Eddie House is shooting lights out right now, and Mikki Moore is being active, so we're extremely happy with the way the bench is coming in and picking up the starters when we're down." Doc Rivers noted after the game that he is particularly pleased with the growth of Marbury's play. "He's really coming along," Rivers said. "I thought his penetration and his being aggressive... I think it's visible. You can see the difference in Steph [between] when he first got here and now. He's just aggressive right now, and that's what we need him to do." New Jersey came out of the gates firing and finished the first quarter shooting 57.1% from the field. It looked as if the Nets were going to have a stellar offensive performance, but the Celtics had different ideas. Boston took the court with a vengeance in the second quarter and it wound up showing on the scoreboard. The Nets were limited to only 20 points in the frame while Boston poured in 37 on 52.0% shooting from the floor. That run gave the Celtics a seven-point advantage heading into the locker room, with the score at 58-51. That's where the lead hovered for most of the third and fourth quarters until Vince Carter led a Nets comeback down the stretch. He scored nine points in the frame on 4-of-7 shooting. Five of those points came in a 21-second span that cut the lead to 106-104 with 50 seconds remaining in the game. After Pierce missed a three-pointer, New Jersey had a chance to tie or take the lead on the final possession. Lawrence Frank called timeout and drew up a play for his star perimeter player. It worked, and Carter got solid look from in front of the Celtics bench. The shot was challenged just enough to make it come up short, but Carter hustled after the board and secured one more shot for New Jersey. He dished off to Harris and he clanked a three-pointer that sent the Celtics to their fifth straight win. "[Vince Carter] got a good shot off and off the rebound, he drew to, and kicked it to me," Harris said of the final possession. "I thought I had a good look off the one dribble, you know, but it just didn't follow through." Carter finished the night with a game-high 33 points, 12 rebounds and five assists. With the key win, Boston maintained their one-game lead over the Orlando Magic for the No. 2 seed in the East. Both teams have four games remaining on the schedule, with two road games sandwiched between their final home games.
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 10:29:11 GMT -5
www.enterprisenews.com/sports/x430403262/Aggressive-Rondo-keeps-Celtics-winning-with-31-point-performanceAggressive Rondo keeps Celtics winning with 31-point performance Celtics’ point guard helps cut down Nets with 31 points -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Loading multimedia... Photos -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AP Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo goes between New Jersey Nets Vince Carter (15) and Devin Harris during the first half of Boston's 106-104 win Wednesday night. Loading content... Related Links CELTICS NOTE BOOK: Injured players will make final road trip next week (04/09/09) By Jim Fenton The Enterprise Posted Apr 09, 2009 @ 01:26 AM Last update Apr 09, 2009 @ 01:34 AM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BOSTON — There was a question mark next to his name when the NBA playoffs began a year ago this month. Rajon Rondo was making his postseason debut in his second year with the Boston Celtics, so it was unknown how the young point guard would react to the playoff grind. Despite some bumps in road games though, Rondo was clearly one of the reasons why the Celtics were able to end a 22-year championship drought. When the postseason gets under way a week from Saturday or Sunday, there will be no question mark associated with Rondo, not with the strides he continues to make in the Celtics’ backcourt. Rondo is putting the finishing touches on a strong regular season in which he is averaging 12.2 points, 8.4 assists and 5.2 rebounds while shooting 51 percent from the field. In the Celtics’ three games this month, Rondo is averaging 24 points on 63 percent shooting to go with 6.7 assists and 4.7 rebounds. He has scored at least 20 points in three consecutive games for the first time in his career. The latest superb showing by Rondo came in a 106-104 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Wednesday night at the TD Banknorth Garden, keeping the Celtics (59-19) a game ahead of the Orlando Magic in the race for second place in the Eastern Conference. Rondo had 31 points — one shy of his career high — on 10 of 15 shooting, grabbed nine rebounds and had five assists and three steals. Time after time, Rondo was getting to the basket against the Nets’ defense and he wound up attempting 13 foul shots. “When he’s like that, it’s tough for us to be beat,’’ said center Kendrick Perkins, who had 12 points and nine rebounds as the Celtics won their fifth straight game. “You could just tell he was focused before the game. “He was taking guys off the dribble. He’s doing a great job of late of being more aggressive. I know he likes to think pass first, but when he is aggressive like that, I don’t think we can be beat.’’ Rondo hit a pair of 17-footers in the first quarter, and his other eight field goals were layups. He was 10-for-15 and has made 26 of 41 shots in the three April games. With Ray Allen and Paul Pierce combining for 22 points and 19 field-goal attempts, Rondo took over with his aggressiveness. “The guy had 30-something points, and I think he shot all layups,’’ said backup point guard Stephon Marbury. “He reminds me of Pearl Washington from what they said back in the day. He’s a guy who really didn’t shoot the jump shot, but just continually got to the basket and just dominated.’’ Rondo can do that when his speed allows him to blow past defenders and make things happen inside, which he did against Devin Harris and the Nets along with the Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Bobcats last month. “I’m attacking the rim, making free throws,’’ said Rondo. “I’m just taking what the defense gives me. I’m a pass-first point guard, but these last couple of games, they’ve been giving me lanes to score. “I’m pretty comfortable, as comfortable as I’ve ever been these last few games, just knowing when to take the shot and when to pass it.’’ Rondo said he doesn’t get any more motivated to play against someone like Harris, who made the Eastern Conference All-Star team just ahead of him in February. Perkins sensed Rondo was even more ready to go than normal against Harris, who had 16 points on 6-for-16 shooting. “I could just tell Rondo was focused before the game,’’ said Perkins. “He takes these matchups pretty personal with Devin making the all-star game and Rondo had a legitimate shot at making the all-star game. When Devin was picked over him, there’s always a chip on his shoulder.’’ Rondo’s confidence and aggressiveness paid dividends against the Nets, proving again the Celtics won’t have a question mark at the point when the playoffs get going soon. Staff writer Jim Fenton can be reached at Jfenton@enterprisenews.com.
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Post by FLCeltsFan on Apr 9, 2009 10:46:45 GMT -5
Herald www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/celtics/view.bg?articleid=1164502&format=textCeltics win a bench mark www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/celtics/view.bg?articleid=1164515&format=textCeltics trio makes solid points www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/celtics/view.bg?articleid=1164516&format=textDanny Ainge bracing for Thibodeau departure www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/other_nba/view/2009_04_09_Cavaliers_go_to_38-1_at_home/Cavs go 38-1 at home Globe www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2009/04/09/celtics_survive_surge?mode=PFCeltics survive surge www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2009/04/09/chances_rockier_on_road?mode=PFChances rockier on road www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2009/04/scal_in_uniform.htmlScal in uniform for kicks www.boston.com/sports/video/globe10/?bctid=18948292001Globe 10.0 - potential first round foes www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2009/04/09/they_had_plenty_in_reserve?mode=PFThey had plenty in reserve www.boston.com/sports/basketball/articles/2009/04/09/pistons_continue_to_motor/Pistons continue to motor www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/Marbury getting comfortable www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2009/04/rondo_goes_on_t.htmlRondo goes on the offensive www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2009/04/celtics_vs_nets.htmlFINAL: Celtics 106, Nets 104 MetroWest Daily www.metrowestdailynews.com/sports/pros_and_colleges/x430403190/Celtics-106-Nets-104-Cs-survive-scareCeltics 106, Nets 104: C's survive scare Celtics.com www.nba.com/celtics/news/sidebar/sidebar040809-rondo-rival.htmlRondo gets upper hand on All Star rival in win over Nets www.nba.com/celtics/game_recap/recap040809-nets.htmlRondo, Celtics overcome Nets' late rally CelticsBlog www.celticsblog.com/2009/4/9/828158/doc-rivers-a-really-good-coachDoc Rivers: A really good coach www.celticsblog.com/2009/4/9/828145/bench-praiseBench praise www.celticsblog.com/2009/4/8/827822/2nd-effort2nd effort LOY's Place celticsgreen.blogspot.com/2009/04/comments-from-other-side-nets.htmlComments from the other side - Nets celticsgreen.blogspot.com/2009/04/race-to-playoffs_09.htmlRace to the playoffs celticsgreen.blogspot.com/2009/04/giddens-solid-in-flash-win.htmlGiddens solid in Flash win Red's Army redsarmy.wordpress.com/2009/04/09/light-load/Light load redsarmy.wordpress.com/2009/04/08/second-unit-surge/Second unit surge Perkisabeast perkisabeast.com/blog/?p=1993Celtics squeeze out win, knock Nets out of playoffs SLAM slamonline.com/online/nba/2009/04/tom-thibodeau-and-his-defensive-schemes-could-leave-boston/Tom Thibodeau and his defensive schemes could leave Boston StateNets mvn.com/statenets/2009/04/nets-get-eliminated-fall-to-celtics-106-104-32-46.htmlNets get eliminated, fall to Celtics Celtic Pride celticspride.pixnet.net/blog/post/24729388Mr Clutch: Sam Jones celticspride.pixnet.net/blog/post/24729610Voice of the Celtics: Johnny Most DallasNews mavsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/04/getting-chris-paul-could-be-plan-a-for-m.htmlGetting Chris Paul could be plan A for Mavs' summer Celtics Hub celticshub.com/2009/04/09/roundup-2nd-seed-matters-thibodeau-gone-after-this-year/2nd seed matters? Thibodeau gone after this year? celticshub.com/2009/04/09/figuring-out-the-playoff-picture/Figuring out the playoff picture Berkshire Eagle www.berkshireeagle.com/ci_12106344Q&A with Boston Celtics great KC Jones NESN www2.nesn.com/boston-celtics/2009/04/09/stephons-star-is-rising/Stephon's star is rising WEEI Green Street greenstreet.weei.com/sports/boston/basketball/celtics/doc-has-the-right-rx/Doc has the right Rx greenstreet.weei.com/sports/boston/basketball/celtics/rondo-the-new-pearl-washington/Rondo... The new Pearl Washington Nets Insider thenetsinsider.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/04/post_2.htmlWith loss to Celtics, Nets eliminated from playoffs Metro www.metro.us/us/article/2009/04/09/08/4541-82/index.xmlWatching, waiting Enterprise www.enterprisenews.com/sports/x430403262/Aggressive-Rondo-keeps-Celtics-winning-with-31-point-performanceAggressive Rondo keeps Celtics winning with 31-point performance www.enterprisenews.com/sports/x430403256/CELTICS-NOTE-BOOK-Injured-players-will-make-final-road-trip-next-weekInjured players will make final road trip next week www.enterprisenews.com/sports/x148338216/CELTICS-NOTEBOOK-Rivers-confident-Garnett-will-be-ready-to-go-when-playoffs-openRivers confident KG will be ready to go when playoffs open NJ.com www.nj.com/nets/index.ssf/2009/04/new_jersey_nets_came_up_just_s.htmlNets eliminated from playoff contention in loss to Celtics www.nj.com/nets/index.ssf/2009/04/new_jersey_nets_bobby_simmons_1.htmlBobby Simmons wants defined role next season www.nj.com/nets/index.ssf/2009/04/new_jersey_nets_came_up_just_s.htmlNets came up short too many times during lost season Examiner www.examiner.com/x-4248-New-York-Knicks-Examiner~y2009m4d8-Bulls-got-what-Knicks-need--big-time-point-guard-and-shot-blockerBulls got what Knicks need - big time PG and shot blocker Sporting News www.sportingnews.com/blog/the_sporting_blog/entry/view/22907/class_differences,_money_management_in_nba Class differences, money management in the NBA Pippen Ain't Easy pippenainteasy.com/2009/04/08/bulls-celtics/Here's hoping it's the Celts Sports Central www.sports-central.org/sports/2009/04/08/welcome_to_the_basketball_hall_of_lame.phpWelcome to the Basketball Hall of Lame CollegeHoops.net collegehoopsnet.com/ugroup/rebound-basketball-busing-larry-bird-a-book-review-166789Rebound! Basketball, busing, Larry Bird and the rebirth of Boston Fan Fanatic Sports fanfanaticsports.blogspot.com/2009/04/we-dont-need-garnett-not-right-now.htmlC's don't need Garnett... Not right now Celtics Circuit www.celticscircuit.com/2009/04/cs-getting-healthy-at-just-right-time.htmlC's getting healthy at just the right time ProJo www.projo.com/celtics/content/projo_20090408_celtics_garnett_04-09-09_DFE02_v2.35ce450.htmlInjured Celtics in a fight against the clock www.projo.com/celtics/content/projo_20090408_celtics_journal_04-09-09_DFE02_v2.35cdecf.htmlTony Allen's practice battles with Pierce toughen him for the games www.projo.com/celtics/content/projo_20090408_celtics_nets.b79b6ec8.htmlCeltics hold off Nets, retain 2nd spot in Eastern Conference Bleacher Report bleacherreport.com/articles/153127-the-nba-spectator-the-boston-celtics-are-still-the-defending-championsThink again, Celtics are still the defending champions Huffington Post www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/08/marvin-webster-exnba-star_n_184901.htmlMarvin Webster, ex-NBA star, found dead in hotel Comcast SportsNet newengland.comcastsportsnet.com/wickedgoodsports/celtics/nets-get-rolled-by-the-celtics-rolling-observations/Nets get rolled by Celtics, rolling observations
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