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.
More urgently, they gave up 31 points on 13-of-19 shooting to Clippers centers Jordan and Chris Kaman. Though newcomer Nenad Krstic thrived offensively with 20 points and nine rebounds on 7-for-10 shooting, his tutoring at the other end of the floor will require more time.
But Doc Rivers isn’t ready to dial code red with his defense — at least not yet.
“You knew it before the game,” the Celtics coach said of how, without an ample supply of big men, the result was predictable.
“Just one extra big is all we needed,” he said. “But we don’t have it with the injuries. This has nothing to do with the trade or anything. We just didn’t have healthy bigs. Hopefully Baby will be back soon.”
Shaq’s return is more nebulous.
Herald - Big problems for Celtics
Nads defensive shortcomings were on display last night. There's no way he can hang with an athletic big like DeAndre Jordan (7 dunks). At least Krstic was able to make up the difference with his offense.
How useless is Troy Murphy? Even with the team in desperate need of bigs, the 6-11 Murphy played just 5 minutes last night. I'm not sure he's going to find his rhythm this year.
Equally depressing was the performance of Mo Williams. How the hell does Rajon Rondo allow Mo to score 28 points? Yes... I realize he can't be held solely responsible, but where is the "Not on my watch" attitude from this kid?
This was the perfect Clippers storm. Their bigs dominated. They made clutch shots. Something that comes around once in 86 years.
At least Doc has a sense of humor:
“No one cried,’’ said Doc Rivers. “We lost the game. We’re good.’’
Related link: Globe - Not much time to adjust to changes |
On Page 2, Carlos Arroyo impresses.