Big Boys of Boston

There has been a lot of hype in Boston this week, as the Bruins, Patriots, and Celtics have all made the headlines recently in big ways.

The Celtic's recent acquisition of Stephon Marbury paid off last night in their 104-99 victory over the Indiana Pacers. 

After more than thirteen months off the court, Steph returned to action and did so in a big way, contributing to the Celtics victory by going 4-of-6 for eight points and adding two assists in 13 minutes.

In addition to Marbury, Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen were the heroes of the game.  Allen scored a game-high 30 points and went 6-of-10 from three-point land, while Rondo dished for a career-high-tying 17 assists.

Earlier in week, the Celtic's less popular older brother, the Bruins redeemed themselves after a less-than-spectacular road trip that was capped off with back-to-back losses to the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning. 

However, the Bruins returned to the Garden and were rewarded with the return of Michael Ryder.

Ryder was back on Tuesday and cashed in with a goal and an assist in the Bruins 6-1 thwarting of the Florida Panthers. Two days later, he potted another two goals and assisted a third as the B's went on to rout the Anaheim Ducks. 

Ryder's three goals over the week brought his season total up to 22, which means, barring anymore unfortunate injuries, he should break the 30 goal barrier.

Finally, New England Patriots veteran outside linebacker Mike Vrabel was traded yesterday to the Kansas City Chiefs for an undisclosed draft pick.

This is a controversial move by the Patriots' management, and will probably cause an outcry from the fans if it does not have a beneficial outcome.

It was also confirmed yesterday that the Patriots had signed ex-Jacksonville Jaguar running back Fred Taylor. What this means for Lawrence Maroney's role on the team is debatable.