I'm not sure who is wearing #34 for the Celtics the past few months, but it sure as hell hasn't been Paul Pierce. (John took a few whacks at Perk earlier, now its my time to feast on Paul).
Yes, he's shooting a highly efficient 45% from the field and 44% from three (the latter being a career best).
But like I stated on last night's The 2 Man Game, something isn't right with the Truth. He's moving around with heavy feet and it's hampering his drives to the lane. Want more proof? He's taking only 5.9 FTA per game this season – the second lowest average of his career.
On to rebounding. We've been pointing the finger all season long at KG, Perk and Sheed for the team's woes on the boards. Well, Pierce is to blame as well. His 4.3 rpg average is the lowest of his career.
What about defense, you ask? I'm not seeing much intensity from Paul on this side of the ball either. There may have been 1 or 2 games where I noticed Pierce making some key defensive plays.
Are injuries to blame? Partly. Pierce has struggled with knee, foot and thumb injuries. It seems like once he gets over one injury, another one pops up.
I really hope Pierce steps up his play… and soon. I'm in full support of Doc Rivers shaking up the rotation and in my eyes, Pierce is the one who needs to sit.
Editor's note: CSNNE's Sherrod Blakely stole my idea also has a solid article today on Pierce's struggles.
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