The Truth Helps

Just like this blog, The Truth always helps.  Paul Pierce is back!  Pierce led the Celtics to a 96-85 victory last night against the winless Pistons.  Celtics fans, we can all take a step back from the ledge.  We don’t have to tank for the lottery anymore.  We are now 1-3 (yes I can and will always say we).  It truly is amazing what happens when your best player comes back from an injury.  Pierce had 12 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds.  They don’t seem like great numbers, but numbers don’t always tell the whole story.  The team was energized, confident, and this all comes back to the captain.

Suddenly Jermaine didn’t look like his career was over; he had 19 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks and was a plus 25 (yeah like the hockey stat).  The starters plus Brandon Bass combined for 82 points on 31-51 shooting (61%).  This was because there was someone else besides Rondo on the floor who could create his own shot.  Suddenly guys like Ray, KG, JO, and Bass were wide open due to penetrating ability of both Rondo and Paul.

The defense was also much improved.  Tayshawn Prince (Paul’s cover) had 10 points and was a minus 17.  Rotations were quicker and help was needed less because instead of Sasha and his matador defense we had a physical Pierce out there.  The Celtics held the Pistons to 43% from the field and a measly 18% from deep.  If only we had this against the Knicks and Heat.  Here’s to hoping the Celtics can make one more run and have a healthy 2012.  This Celtics fan is taking a step back from the ledge.

Happy New Years.  All about Number 18 in 2012.

Posted in: Matt,NBA