This Really Isn't Surprising

The shortcomings we have seen the last 2 years in our Celtics are rearing their heads in spades all ready this season. Why is that? First the shortcomings that continue to BE evIdent this season:

1) the Celtics are not particularly quick or athletic (offensive rebounding by the Celtics and controlling offensive rebounding by opponents have been a concern for some time. Evidence the Bulls and Magic from last year's playoffs. Offseason transactions have not made us any moreso, especially considering Big Baby has not played. Playing Wallace as a stationary 3 point shooter from 22 - 25 feet has done nothing to improve our offensive rebounding or free throw numbers).

2) the Celtics are not consistently controlling tempo (when playing offensively aggressive offensive teams like the Suns, Hawks, and Pacers they tend to wilt in the 2nd half. 3-point shooting, poor offensive rebounding, turnovers all contribute to lack of tempo control. Too many jumpshots and not enough free throws also aid running teams).

3) Not enough player or ball movement (this is what bothers Sam and I the most. Both are great early in games, but as the games move on, the player and ball movement of the Celts ALWAYS become less and less. ALWAYS. This season it is even more evident. Even against the Hawks I marveled at early movement. Shots came easy and shooting percentages were high. Then, sure enough, the ball and player movement became more squeezed and more squeezed; turnovers and tough shots predictably followed).

4) Poor free throw shooting has really killed runs and momentum. (At least 4 times in the last 2 games the Celtics missed both ends of free throws. Not only aren't they shooting many, they aren't making an acceptable %! Rondo's free throw shooting just isn't acceptable. I am sure it affects his agression at this point).

This year's Celtic team seems more interested in beginning play in the post season, than playing a regular season to qualify for it. They are not playing Celtic basketball for 48 minutes. Have they physically aged that much, or are they just not willing to do what needs being done? I honestly don't know. I am not aware of injuries that nay be present.

They have got to start controlling tempo, get out on 3-point shooters, box out, make the extra pass, and MOVE.

Sorry guys, the playoffs are a long way off. Go Celtics!

SD,

You pretty much nailed it here.

It's best that the team gets served this notice now in the early season as well, while there's a chance to do something about it.

Rebounding and taking shots from downtown are certainly big issues. We've got some decent bigs, but two of them (who are among the best 4's active), KG and Wallace, aren't exactly known to spend tons of time in the key or even around the low post for that matter. Williams seems to be our most efficient rebounder right now, especially on the offensive end. He may be one part of the solution. Getting KG and Wallace a little more familiar with the paint (or even the post!) wouldn't hurt.

Athleticism also continues to be a downfall as you mention at the top. Teams like the Hawks know the secret is to run on us, and that's only going to get worse.

Given our talent level and the experience of the coaching staff I'm sure this is all being addressed. As a fan however, I'm eager to see the results.

You are quite correct; time to get to work on these problems now!

Regards