This preseason has been all about Kevin Garnett getting back in shape, Rasheed Wallace and Marquis Daniels fitting in, and Kendrick Perkins showing signs of taking another step in his progression.
Today, it became about Paul Pierce reminding everyone he he's still the man.
Pierce went off for 25 points in 29 minutes. He was 8 of 12 from the field, 2 of 5 from three point range and 7 of 8 from the line. Pierce also led the team in minutes, with 29 today. Beyond the numbers, Pierce played some pretty good D. There was one possession where he swatted a guy, took off, and got a feed from Rondo for a fast-break 3 pointer.
Kevin Garnett came out hot and ended up shooting 6 of 8 for a 12 point, 7 rebound day.
Marquis Daniels had his best game of the preseason. The 9 points, 3 rebounds and 1 assist don't look entirely impressive at first glance… but he not only looked to distribute, he looked for his own shot a little more. He also played some pretty good defense. Aside from his blocked shot… he challenged a few others and was very disruptive.
Eddie House was doing what he does: 13 points on 4 of 9 shooting (3-6 from 3). He had a few of those catch-and-shoots that is off in a millisecond.
The Celtics were cruising along to an easy win when the 3rd unit went out there against the Nets first unit. Lester Hudson, JR Giddens, Michael Sweetney, Eddie House and Shelden Williams were on the floor when the Nets cut a big lead down to 3. But the Nets starters couldn't close the deal… and the Celtics won it 100-93.
At the end of the game, Tommy turned to Mike Gorman and asked "what do you think?" Mike said he was concerned that he hadn't seen the Rajon Rondo he expected. Tommy said he wasn't worried. Are you?
Photo courtesy Getty Images
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