Your Morning Dump… Where we congratulate Brandon Bass

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.

The reason Bass feels like a “young 30” is one of the reasons Celtics coach Brad Stevens said he was so “thankful” the veteran was with him his first two years as an NBA coach.

“The biggest influence that Brandon had – beside the fact that he’s a good basketball player – was the way he came to work every day,” Stevens said. “On off days he was in, stretching, lifting, taking care of his body with our training staff. He eats exceptionally well. He just prioritizes his body. He played 82 games two straight years.

“I am very fond of Brandon. He is a real pro. He’s a young guy in a lot of ways. For us, he was old from a roster standpoint. I thought he set a nice example for people.”

Worcester Telegram – Brandon Bass setting example for Lakers’ youngsters

After the debacle of the Celtics’ worst loss this season, we still can feel good for Brandon Bass.

Bass’ return to Boston last night was totally overshadowed by He Whose Name We Refuse to Mention. And isn’t that appropriate? Bass was rarely in the spotlight during his time with the Celtics. The muscular forward was a solid role player, who averaged 10.6 points over 304 games in four seasons with Boston, while also starting 29 playoff games.

In days gone by, Boston fans and media had expression, “a true Celtic,” to describe players who were hard-working, team-oriented, humble, and who never stopped hustling. That’s Bass. Although he looked much better in green than in purple, we’ll always wish him well.

Here’s more of what he had to say about his return to the Bean.

Related: CSNNE – New purple jersey, but same hard-working Bass

On Page 2: A quick summary of last night

Post-game reaction
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KUZro9rwVg]

Top 5 Plays by the Celtics vs. L.A.

1. _____________________________
2. _____________________________
3. _____________________________
4. _____________________________
5. _____________________________

And this:

The #Celtics embarrassed themselves tonight. You don’t let this team win on our court and give those purple-and-gold yahoos a moment.

— Chuck M. (@RedsArmy_Chuck) December 31, 2015

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsAnd, finally: And the capper to a bad night

Marcus Smart missed shootaround due to flat tire according to Brad Stevens. That’s why he was benched for most of first half.

— Brian Robb (@CelticsHub) December 31, 2015

The Rest of the Links:
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MassLive – Evan Turner, Celtics fall to Lakers, 112-104, in Kobe Bryant’s final trip to TD Garden | Marcus Smart benched for most of first half after missing Boston Celtics shootaround

Herald – Celtics fall to Lakers in Kobe Bryant’s final Garden appearance

ESPN Boston – Kobe Bryant ‘s double-double carries Lakers past Celtics | Kobe Bryant, in home away from home, thrives on final Boston boos

CSNNE – Stars, studs and duds: ‘Disappointing game’ for Celtics