Playoff Teams Preview, cont.

Boston Celtics

60-20

defending champions

KEYS: Pierce- 20.3 ppg

Rondo- 8.4 apg, 1.9 spg

Garnett- a 100% go or not?

The defending champs, despite starting the year at a ridiculous pace, are limping into the playoffs. Before a Christmas day loss to the Lakers halted a 27-2 start, the Celtics looked even better than last year. Injuries, Doc easing off the gas pedal, and new acquisitions have slowed the Green Machine considerably (they ONLY have 60 wins this year).

Most believe the key to getting back to the big stage will be whether or not KG can come back fresh and fully charged. I differ: two role players will make or break their postseason. Rajon Rondo is a future All-Star and routinely plays like one of the best points in the game at the Garden. On the road, not so much. That killed them in the first two rounds last year and they have less room for error this year. Also, Leon Powe is the energy and toughness of that bench. Without him, they are entirely less powerful, aggressive, and intimidating. His force has been tempered because of a knee injury. If he can return to 100% at some point in the next month, this will be a completely different team.

After their recent 31 point humiliation in Cleveland, Doc and Pierce were adamant they still have the swagger to win anywhere. Rondo said he didn't think anyone could beat them four times. Once again, Boston will have to prove themselves in the postseason. I don't see a team as hungry as last year's edition. The newcomers (Moore, Starbury) shouldn't make too big of a difference. I want to see Boston-LA again, but I doubt this team gets past Cleveland.