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.
On Friday, Korver finished with 3 points on 1-for-5 shooting in 38 minutes as he was blanketed by the energetic Terry.
“Listen, Jason had 19 points, but I thought the thing he did better than anything was he guarded Korver,’’ Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. “And he was like glue. He just stayed on him, took away his shots.’’
Terry canned the game’s clinching free throws when he pump-faked on a 20-footer and got Korver to crash into him flying through the air. It was a semblance of revenge for the Celtics, who were embittered by their last meeting with Atlanta.
“I took the challenge very personally,” Terry said of guarding Korver. “The last time he was the difference in that game. The guy scores 20-something points in a half and we take that very personally.’’
Globe – Jet no longer a bumpy ride
Blanketed.
Glue.
Two words not often associated with Jason Terry’s defense. Terry, like Ray Allen, came to Boston with a reputation of being allergic to defense. But, as he proved last night, he can defend when he wants to. Or when Doc Rivers demands it.
Like his teammates, Terry had a spectacular February: 48% FG, 40% 3 FG. Aside from a 2-11 bomb vs Golden State, he’s continued with the hot shooting and is averaging close to 5 assists per game in March.
Related: ESPN Boston – Terry has Celtics covered | CSNNE – Terry sets tone with defense
The Celtics have now won a remarkable 14 of 18. What’s the secret?
“We haven’t given in to the [expletive] critics,” said Garnett, who finished with 17 points and seven boards in the 107-102 overtime win over the Hawks. “We’re working hard. We’re grinding. We’re showing our character. Our coach is a grinder himself, and his team is just that. We’re not looking for any handouts or sympathies or anything like that. We don’t expect anybody to give us nothing. We’re going out, working hard and gaining everything we’re getting. We’re giving ourselves a chance every night. We’re leaning on each other. We’re playing together.
“I could probably better answer your question later on in the postseason to see where were at. It’s still early. Everybody’s fighting for positioning. Everybody pretty much has the same road at this point, so it’s kind of early.”
Vintage KG. Click the link to watch the interview and hear the uncensored version.
Shameless Promo Alert:
You can listen to John this morning from 10-12 on AM 1510 NBC Radio in Boston. The caller line is 617-237-1234.
The rest of the links:
Herald – Extra work pays off for Celtics | C’s have plenty in reserve | Celtics keep nose to grindstone | Globe – Celtics payback Hawks with OT win | No stopping Celtics bench | CSNNE – Pierce: We understand sense of urgency | Austin Rivers likely done for season | ESPN Boston – Something special for C’s? | Pierce makes, sets up critical shots | Are Celtics better w/o Rondo? | WEEI – Josh Smith: Celtics trade was a possibility
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