Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big story line. Because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
No matter how frustrating things get for Celtics, there’s always picks 1, 10, 14, 21, 33, 42, 55 to fall back on. pic.twitter.com/5WMwoeZXtg
— Chris Forsberg (@ESPNForsberg) November 5, 2015
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For those curious, Ben Simmons, a 6-10 small forward at LSU, is regarded as the top player in next year’s draft. Skal Labissiere, a 6-11 center at Kentucky, is considered a top 3 pick.
I’m kidding… it’s way too early to start focusing on draft position (although it’s awfully fun to track Brooklyn’s misery). It’s also way too early to sweat the Celtics 1-3 start.
After all, we predicted this in our season preview:
Relax. Have you looked at the schedule? It’s no picnic. San Antonio, Houston, OKC, Atlanta (2x), Miami, and Washington (2x) are all tough contests. I’m also expecting some growing pains as Stevens figures out the kinks in his rotation. The schedule really softens up in January and February.
The losses aside, I think we all hoped certain individuals would be playing better. Zeller and Olynyk are in funks. The beefed up front court isn’t rebounding well (BOS is 20th with a -7.7 diff). And these guys can’t hold onto the ball (17 turnovers per game is 28th).
Sigh…
Just how good is Ben Simmons again?
Related links: Globe – Celtics lose to Pacers | ESPN Boston – No panic, but urgency is rising | Herald – Celtics come up short in road loss | Mass LIVE – Stevens trying to figure out puzzle | CSNNE – Fight to the finish
On Page 2, finally a reason to dislike RJ Hunter.
“It felt good,” Hunter said after making 1-of-2 shots and picking up a steal in playing 13 minutes of the 100-98 loss to the Pacers. “I felt like my first appearance was a while ago though, so I felt pretty comfortable today. It was just a tough game.
“Everything aside, that’s definitely special,” he added of being back in Indy. “There’s no energy like being home. For that first shot to go in here is great, but, again, it’s still tough with a loss.”
Of hitting his first shot, Hunter said, “Hey, I thought it was a 3. So, I mean, it’s cool, but I’m not excited about that. Great look by IT (Isaiah Thomas), so I was set up.
“I think I’ve been ready and I’m trying to stay ready. Even if I’m on the bench, I’m engaged with what’s going on on the court.”
Hunter acquired 10 tickets for friends and family. He certainly knew the way to Banker’s Life Fieldhouse.
“I’ve been to countless games, probably over 100,” Hunter said.
As for his favorite Pacers player growing up, he said, “Reggie (Miller), of course, but I think Jermaine O’Neal was a hero. He ran Indy. I would say J.O., because he was killin’ there for a while.”
Hey RJ, I’m going to cut you some slack because you’re new to town. But Jermaine O’Neal isn’t highly regarded around these parts. In fact, I think this is the last time you should mention his name.
And ICYMI… another look at Jae Crowder’s full court shot.
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