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.
Pierce doesn’t call the shots, but he does have a preference if his bosses make a move.
“Maybe we can use some more depth at the big spot after losing Sullinger,” Pierce said.
He made it clear, though, that Boston doesn’t necessarily need anyone new to come in.
“I like us where we are at right now,” Pierce said. “I’m like the man from ‘300.’ Let’s go to war with what we’ve got.”
Globe: Paul Pierce: “We’re not better off without Rondo”
The Celtics are actually averaging a couple more assists per game without Rondo. Their rebounding numbers are un-changed without Sullinger (they grabbed 48 in their first game without him). The Celtics are finding ways to make up for things they’ve lost by adjusting their styles of play.
No Rondo? They’ve got a lot of guard depth and they’re focusing on advancing the ball with the pass more, and shooting earlier in the shot clock so they can avoid having to run set offenses. No Sully? The C’s don’t retreat as much off their own shots, giving themselves more opportunities to grab offensive rebounds (they’re averaging 7 a game over the past 3).
I’m with Pierce…. especially when you take the ENTIRE picture into account. There’s no reason to blow it up, and I don’t think Wyc Grousbeck and company are going to pass up some likely playoff revenue if the same “nuclear” option exists over the summer (should they choose it). Maybe you can move someone for a big guy… but now you NEED everyone on this roster. The luxury of an extra guard is gone.
Maybe you can find a free agent big out there somewhere (look folks, NO ONE is going after Kenyon Martin. No one). Maybe you can find another guy to help score off the bench or be a ball handler.
So go with what you got. Rally around one another and fight like Spartans. Maybe you can learn a few lessons to incorporate into the game plan when Rondo and Sully return next season, and it will make this team that much better.
The rest of the links:
CSNNE: Doctor: Surgery should help Sullinger | ESPN Boston: Taking advantage of turnovers | Lineup watch: What’s working | The new normal | Video: Winning without Rondo | C’s seek consistency from “spotty” Wilcox | Globe: Sullinger’s agent: C’s understood he might need surgery | Herald: Even “no-pass” Bass chips in with assists
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