Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big storyline. Because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
The Celtics struggled out of the gate last year, opening 0-4 and 4-10. The beginning stretch this year won’t be any easier. The first seven games of the season are against teams that made the playoffs, including a visit from NBA MVP Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder on Nov. 12.
The eighth game of the season will be a first look at LeBron James and — once the NBA makes his widely reported trade from Minnesota official — Kevin Love, as Cleveland comes to the Garden on Fri., Nov. 14. James and company won’t be back at the Garden until the third-to-last game of the season on Apr. 12.
Twelve of the Celtics’ first 14 opponents had a record of .500 or better last season, with eight of those teams at least 16 games above even. The hectic first full month of the season closes with a matinee visit by the champs, San Antonio, on Nov. 30.
The holidays were once a time to nuzzle up and enjoy Celtics basketball. Not so much anymore: The Celtics won’t play on Christmas for the second straight year. They will play a matinee on Nov. 28, the Friday after Thanksgiving, against Derrick Rose, Pau Gasol and the Chicago Bulls.
Nothing sizzles quite like schedule analysis, am I right?
I don’t really think the Celtics will start the season 1-13. Brooklyn, Toronto, Indy, Philadelphia and Phoenix are “winnable” games in that first month and I’m sure there will be a few surprises. How about 4-9 to start?
The Celtics started flat last year (0-4), but were near .500 (12-14) in mid-December. I have a vague memory about 1st place in the Atlantic division.
What’s the goal for next season? Develop the youngsters.
I’m not going to obsess about tanking and lottery position this year. Let’s watch the boys and have some fun.
Related links: Celtics.com – Full Schedule | ESPN Boston – Rapid Reaction: 2014-15 schedule |
On Page 2, Kris Humphries respects Brad Stevens.
#wizards F Kris Humphries said he talks to #Celtics coach Brad Stevens often and told him “you got me better” for giving him important role
— gary washburn (@GwashburnGlobe) August 13, 2014
Brad Stevens is a helluva coach. I knew from the very beginning he was the right man to lead this franchise.
And finally…
A rare glimpse of the Rondo family.
Looks like the little one has giant hands like Dad.
The rest of the links:
CSNNE – Boston’s Toughest Celtic: Red Auerbach | ESPN Boston – Fan Forecast: Bogans begone? | Globe – Stevens takes ice bucket challenge |
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