Rajon Rondo missed 13 games this season. The Celtics posted an 8-5 record during those 13 games.
Here's a look at how the team fared during those stretches:
January 20 – Feb 1
Reason: Out 8 games due to a sprained wrist.
Record: Celtics went 6-2.
Summary: Avery Bradley replaced Rondo in the line-up and averaged 6.7 ppg. While still a defensive hellion, AB was not playing with the offensive confidence he has now. Paul Pierce picked up his game noticeably. He averaged 21 ppg, 7.5 apg, 6.5 rpg. Jermaine O'Neal was a semi-regular fixture in the rotation.
February 20 – 22
Reason: Out 2 games due to a suspension
Record: 0-2
Summary: The Celtics played tough games in Dallas and OKC. Brandon Bass mised both games, KG missed one game, Chris Wilcox missed one game. Avery Bradley started in Rondo's absence and averaged 12 ppg.
April 18 – 24
Reason: Out 3 games due to sore back
Record: 2-1
Summary: Avery Bradley averaged nearly 20 ppg during this 3 game stretch. Ray Allen missed all three games. KG missed 2 games and Pierce missed one game. Doc Rivers was more concerned about rest than winning games.
What does any of this mean? It's difficult to draw any conclusions because the Celtics rotation has had many different looks this season. What do I know for sure? This Celtics team can win games without multiple key players. They've done it all season.
Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images
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