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.
“Jason Collins, for getting one point and two rebounds, had an amazing impact on the game for us,” said Celtics coach Doc Rivers.
His ability to defend the post and draw charges not only provided a much-needed defensive presence, but it also allowed Kevin Garnett to go back to his natural power forward position which paid dividends for the Celtics at both ends of the floor.
“First basket we had was a pick; it was a bone-crushing pick, and it was by Jason,” Rivers said. “That’s what we told you before the game, he sets picks — hard ones. That set the tone.”
Said Collins: “If I’m not scoring, I better do something on the offensive end. I pride myself on setting tough picks; going out there and being physical. And on the defensive end, players drive the lane. … are they going to try and take a charge on you or foul you pretty hard.”
If Doc and KG are praising Collins, and Paul Pierce is giving him the game ball then he must be doing something right.
But Jason Collins can’t be the answer to the Celtics defensive woes. He just can’t.
Doc knows what this teams needs. Right now it’s solid screens and tough, interior defense.
But Jason Collins can’t be the answer to the Celtics defensive woes. He just can’t.
Rivers picked a good night to start Collins because the Cavs super active irritant Anderson Varejao was out with a knee injury. Collins flaws – weak rebounder and limited mobility – were not exposed.
Maybe this will serve as a wake-up call to the other guys (ahem, Brandon Bass and Chris Wilcox) who aren’t getting the job done defensively. For all the praise heaped by his teammates, Collins was mediocre last night. But that’s an indication of just how bad the Celtics have been.
Jason Collins can’t be the answer to the Celtics woes. He just can’t.
Related links: ESPN Boston – Collins starting to contribute more | Globe – Terry, Collins get the start |
The rest of the links:
ESPN Boston – Pierce sharper than ever | Terry praises Pierce, needles Lebron | Herald – No fooling Pierce, C’s | Terry on the rebound | Ainge preaches patience | Globe – Oh captain | Pierce submits old time performance | CSNNE – Terry takes shot at Ray Allen | Pierce takes matters into own hands |
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