Bleacher Report - Articles by Frances White

Boston Celtics J. R. Giddens: The Forgotten

Frances White — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:41:11 -0400

At 6'5" J.R. Giddens is an enticing prospect, he has length, defensive tenacity and of course that sweet shooting stroke.

So why is it he spent most of his time in the D-league for the 2008-09 season?

During the season when Danny graced us with his presence because of various injuries, he could be seen cheering wildly like those Cameron Crazies at Duke.

I only found one photo of him in Celtic Green, his rookie picture. Rumor has it that the Celtics have increased talks in finding a new home for him.

Has Danny given up on him?

By all accounts Giddens did very well in the summer league he played defense and scored. In other words he did things Boston already knew he could do. His problems were more between his ears then because of his ability.

The speed of the game overwhelmed him; therefore, consider the pre-season his audition to make the team. In fact one of the big three's future contract extentions may hinge on J.R. making the team.

Giddens and Ray Allen are both known for their shooting ability, but Giddens has the edge in that he has the natural inclination to play defense. If he can channel his aggressiveness into postive contributions on the floor, the Celtics may deem Allen expendable or give him less than his asking price.

The Celtics do need for him to get it more so than Bill Walker. Because if he does, they won't have to sell their soul to get a high profile free agent in 2010. Believe it or not, Eddie House may be forced to find a new home if he does.

This season Giddens must prove he is part of the Boston Celtic present and future.

The New England Patriots Have True Grit

Frances White — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:01:04 -0400

There are many views about how the Patriots fared Monday night, the majority of which say the Bills just plain choked. I prefer to think that New England just stepped up to the challenge.

A young secondary clamped down on Terrell Owens and Lee Evans but somehow failed to shore up the middle part of the field. They still couldn't stop the run. Yet when it counted they stepped up to the challenge and gave Tom Brady the opportunity he needed to lead them to victory.

Bill Belichick now has a raw defensive blueprint from which to draw on. He understood that both teams were inexperienced and both Owens and Brady were coming back from injury. The game was essentially up for grabs and his team found a way to win.

The Mayo injury will test that blueprint even further.

Media heads are now thinking that Belichick must be missing Richard Seymour now, especially since he had a great defensive game. His team lost when it counted.

Where was that fire when he was here?

Last year when Bruschi needed defensive leadership help, the only one that provided that help was Mayo with his fire and tenacity. Bruschi saw that and taught him the little nuances of leadership that helped him to elevate his game.

Seymour will wow you with statistical numbers, but no one trusted him enough to follow. New England made a great move; they took their eye-candy Richard Seymour and used him as a dowry for a future option.

I'm sure you have all had some eye-candy in your past lives at one time or other.

Jerod Mayo is the real deal and the defensive coaches of New England will conjure up schemes as the defense continues to grow.

This weekend the Jets and Rex Ryan smell an easy win because they think they can take advantage of the defense. They are now for all intensive purposes, in the Jets mind, on equal footing with a slight advantage. Their next glamour boy of Broadway, Mark Sanchez, is fresh off a win in Houston.

The Patriot offense and defense were tested under the bright lights of Monday Night Football and passed. The Jets walked all over a clueless Texan team.

I'll put my money on the Pats any day.

Rajon Rondo: Enigma Or Champion?...You Decide

Frances White — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:10:16 -0400

Throughout the offseason, Rajon Rondo’s name has been mentioned in trade rumors, been an alleged malcontent, a non-conformist, and Danny Ainge’s worse nightmare. Yet Rondo remained in Boston working on his game, and continued working with the younger Celtics.

Rajon Rondo’s four-year Celtic odyssey has seen moments of brilliance and other times left you scratching your head. He was not in the first 20 players picked of the 2006 draft. In fact, he was drafted 21st overall by Phoenix and then was promptly sold to Boston for cash considerations. His first season, he hardly played because the Sebastian Telfair experiment was on full tilt; Rondo consistently outplayed him.

That offseason, Boston had a whirlwind summer, and when the dust cleared, he had been handed the starting job and had three possible hall-of-famers to pass the ball to.

Imagine the pressure he was under until he was able to gain their trust. Pierce was probably telling him, "this is my team," Ray-Ray probably shot daggers with his eyes, and KG let him know—in no uncertain terms—that he better not muckup. To make it even worse, Doc told him how to tie his sneakers and whom to pass, too.

When it was all said and done, Rondo had helped deliver banner 17 to a starving Celtic nation.

The 2008-09 NBA season saw him lead his team to a 60+ that saw their repeat hopes dashed by injury. During the playoffs, he averaged a near triple-double at 6’1’’ tall. The shortest player had better averages than the more celebrated big men of the playoffs. Yet pundits and casual fans persist with trade rumors and say that he does not deserve to be mentioned with the top echelon guards of the NBA.

Devin Harris was given the nod over him for the all-star game. Harris has never taken his team to a championship (he was a role player in Dallas); to make matters worse, New Jersey did not even make the playoffs. But his name was called ahead of Rondo’s.

After the season, the media was quick to point out his inconsistencies during the playoffs and made a concerted effort to say that is the reason he was not an all-star; even though he was a championship point guard, who led his team to a 60-win season and averaged a near triple double.

Am I missing something here?

Tommy Heinsohn, the man who has been here for every single Celtic Championship, has seen the likes of Dee Brown, John Bagley, Sherman Douglas, Charles Smith, Tiny Archibald, and Brian Shaw (to name a few) run the parquet. He played with the original “Houdini of the hardwood” Bob Couscy. He stated that he would give anything to play with Rondo now. He would run through walls to catch one of his passes because his vision and passing ability is comparable to Couscy’s.

Heinsohn does not mince his word and very rarely compares today’s players to the greats he has played with or against. Therefore, in Tommy’s esteemed opinion, Rondo is a future hall-of-famer.

The 21st pick in the 2006 draft has achieved championship status ahead of his more celebrated peers like Brandon Roy, La Marcus Aldridge, and Rudy Gay. He is the one walking with the hardware and possibly closer to a second than the aforementioned players.

He has the temperament of a basketball savant leaping to challenges, yet because of his youthful exuberance, his inexperience caused him to lose focus. The 2009-10 NBA season will be his second at fully running the team. Prior to this, Doc did not trust him to make his own decisions.

We all know the results of that, and now we want to see a more confident Rondo express himself more on the floor and lead the Celtics to banner 18.

He is precocious, he is young, and that in itself may enable him to bring the 2010 NBA championship to Boston.

Boston Celtics: Hungry For Another Championship Run

Frances White — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:56:40 -0400

The 2009-10 NBA season will be starting soon, and the Boston Celtics are on pace to reclaim what they believe is rightfully theirs. Players like Rondo, Pierce, KG, and yes, even unsigned Lester Hudson, have been at the Celtic training facility in Waltham already.

This past offseason, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic, and to some extent the Portland Trail Blazers, with the signing of Andre Miller, have strengthened their respective rosters.

Boston added more veteran experience to its bench with the signing of Rasheed Wallace, Shelden Williams, and Marquis Daniels.

Kevin Garnett has reported that everything is as it’s supposed to be and Glen “Big Baby” Davis is back to claim his moniker as the “Ticket Stub."

The Celtics have a championship caliber team, but still have questions to answer when it comes to solidifying their roster.

Boston has one more roster spot to fill, and the burning question remains: should they go big or small?

There are arguments for either choice.

The Celtic big men are long in the tooth and there are injury concerns. KG and Wallace are both on the wrong side of 30, and Kendrick Perkins is essentially operating on one shoulder.

Beyond that, Davis and Williams are their only other options; Scalabrine is a crap shoot, he is only good for two minutes at the most. The need for another "big" seems to be the more pressing issue here.

Lester Hudson was the Celtics' lone pick in the second round; he played well enough in summer league that the Celtics released the ever affable Gabe Pruitt.

Lester has yet to sign a contract because of the broken finger he suffered in summer league play. Danny Ainge has freely admitted that he has been watching his progress throughout his collegiate career.

Ainge has a history as a GM of getting players he personally scouted in college or high school. Sebastian Telfair, Rajon Rondo, Marquis Daniels, and Lester Hudson were all personal favorites of Boston’s GM.

One thing is for sure: Danny will give Lester every opportunity to make the active roster during the preseason. If the Daniels experiment as a quasi-point works out, he will be playing either in Europe or the D league. Robert Swift, another Ainge favorite, may yet become a Celtic if that occurs.

This season gang-green is primed to compete knowing that they will be prepared for a championship run.

Top 10 Unsung Heroes of the Boston Celtics' 17 Championships

Frances White — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:28:32 -0400

All throughout their storied history the Boston Celtics have had players who weren't household names, but contributed when it counted. I am sure if Johnny Most was alive today he could tell the story in his raspy voice. a story of supporting players whose names we forget. So it is in the spirit of togetherness that Red forged with the players who wore the Celtic jersey at a time when overt racism effected one of his star players daily life. To today's team who embraced that togetherness in "Ubuntu" to revive its championship legacy. Here are my top 10 Boston Celtics unsung hero in no particular order.

Begin Slideshow

The Patriots "Sey"-No-"Mour" to Number 93 and his Championship Dreams

Frances White — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:52:54 -0400

A few days ago, Patriot Nation received a shock to the system. The last remnants of the defensive link to all three Super Bowl championships had left.

Richard Seymour was traded to the Oakland Raiders for a 2011 first-round pick. NFL insiders on ESPN did not even list New England as a Super Bowl contender after they heard about the trade.

This makes it a total of three veteran players, Mike Vrabel and Tedy Bruschi being the others, that the Patriots have lost in the preseason.

The on-the-field leadership for the defensive backs has been placed on the broad shoulders of Jerod Mayo, a second-year player whose rookie season warranted his selection as the 10th overall in the first round.

Young players like Brandon Meriwether and Tully Banta-Cain as well as rookies Patrick Chung and Darius Butler will have to step it up.

The media have all but given up on a championship parade in Government Center for the Patriots. Rumors abound about how "Uncle" Bill has all but given up on the season and this trade proves it, especially since Seymour has refused to report to the Raiders as of this writing.

The Patriots have no claim to him.

The past few years the Patriot defense has been a lackluster bunch. There was a sort of malaise that had them allowing the offense to dictate the flow of the game. They had forgotten it was defense that had gotten them those rings and the right to be given the "D" word..."Dynasty."

They had a Hall-of-Fame coach, quarterback, and possibly a wide receiver in Randy Moss. Yet, last year, when Tom Brady was felled, they failed to step up their support for his replacement, Matt Cassell, in tight games.

The offense wasn't the problem, his team had went 11-6 and in any other year that would have been good enough to make the playoffs. Bill Belichick knew then that he had to do something; his defense had gotten lazy, and let's face it, he needed new challenges to whet his championship appetite.

Like Larry Brown of the Charlotte Bobcats, Belichick is a teacher by nature. He has been studying football film since he was 12 years old. Therefore, he must have some genius behind what others have considered madness with this blow to his defensive unit.

Dean Pees has been experimenting with the 4-3 base defense. Such a defense requires young legs, and who knows maybe "Uncle" Bill will come up with a hybrid defense that will stop all this talk about the lack of a dominant defense.

The New England Patriots face challenges on both sides of the ball with a quarterback returning from injury and the sheer youth of the defense.

This season, the doubting pundits have reignited that fire in Belichick's belly. He will lather the boys up with the disrespect card and send them out on the field.

Meanwhile Patriot Nation should keep repeating this mantra: "In Bill we Trust!" three times every night before they go to bed.

Boston Celtics:Marquis Daniels Quest For a Jersey and The Number 13

Frances White — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:51:13 -0400

A number is an arbitrary thing, but human nature forces us to place a significant amount of value into it. There are celebrations for birthdays, anniversaries, numbers that have value only to that individual and special holidays that are celebrated world wide such as New Year's Eve.

Dictionary.com has so many meanings for the word number that it makes you wonder...Do we really need so many?

Numbers have, and always will be a part of the human psyche and the way we view things.

Rumour has it that Marquis Daniel's is looking for a number to wear after he signs with Boston. The one number he should avoid is the number 13.

This number has been associated with mythological mysticism or holiness. More often than not its reputation for bad luck overrides any other significant meaning.

In Norse folklore it speaks of Loki's betrayal of the god Baldur (god of nobility). Loki gave Hoor, who killed Baldur, the spear to complete the evil deed. Loki was the uninvited 13th guest at Baldur's dinner celebration.

There are few players taken with the 13th pick whose names can jog a fan's memory.

The most recognized names taken at that position were Chuck Cooper, Mitch Kupchak, Hal Greer, Jim Cleamons, Kobe Bryant, Karl Malone and Richard Jefferson. Cleamons is mentioned only because of his association with Phil Jackson as an assistant coach.

Historically, the Boston Celtics have never had the 13th pick in the draft. The closest they have ever been is the 11th and 12th pick.

They have had players who have worn the No. 13 jersey for the green. None of which were all-stars. The local Boston product Dana Barros has managed to make himself a quasi-celebrity in gang green circles. He currently plays a role within the organization.

The most unfortunate wearer of that number for the green was Charles Smith. Smith was the precursor to Rondo. A scatterbug of a guard who could get to the basket at will, cause havoc on the defensive end, and create for his teammates. He was part of the hey-day of Hoya-mania at the University of Georgetown and made the First Team All- Rookie team during the 1988-89 season.

A momentary lapse on the Boston University Bridge changed the course of his life and NBA career forever. He was sent to jail for vehicular manslaughter.

Delonte West would end up with the most freakish of injuries and Gabe Pruitt's tenure ended with the Celtics after declining to pick up his rookie option.

Marquis, Boston understands that it doesn't have many numbers for you to choose from. There are other numbers still available to you such as: 7, 8, 26, and 36 to name a few. Just stay away from the now vacated number 13.

Charlotte Bobcats: Larry "Tinker" Brown Is Doing Things His Way

Frances White — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:12:46 -0400

Larry Brown is the very defintion of a nomad.

His NBA wanderlust has taken him from L.A. to New York, and somewhere in between he managed to win a title with the Detroit Pistons. Brown inherited a Piston team that took him only two years to get that championship.

He nearly won a second in his third year, but his former team, the San Antonio Spurs, robbed him of back-to-back titles.

But the Piston coaching job was not his best, because they were already a top echelon team.

Brown's biggest accomplishment was guiding the hapless Los Angeles Clippers to the playoffs in consecutive years. As usual, owner Donald Sterling had to meddle, and Brown packed his bags and left.

Let's hope Sterling doesn't cause this year's No. 1 pick Blake Griffin to bolt after his rookie contract. But I digress.

Brown's passion is developing players, and it is rare to find an NBA coach who teaches the nuances of the game like he does.

Brown works with what he is given until he can influence the game off the court. He is the only coach in NBA history to take seven different teams to the playoffs.

One team had a single viable offensive threat: The Philadelphia 76ers with Allen Iverson. That year, they lost to a Shaq and Kobe-led Laker team.

His quest for his idea of basketball's "Holy Grail," the perfect game, is never-ending. His constant trade requests drives management to distraction.

But Brown is finally coaching a team where he has complete control of personnel decisions: The Charlotte Bobcats. And now he only has five players left from last year's opener on the roster.

His recent one-for-one trade that sent Emeka Okafur to New Orleans in exchange for Tyson Chandler proves that management is behind him. His reason for the trade was that Okafur is too rigid in his playing of the game, whereas Chandler is a more mobile and active defender. To Brown, It didn't matter that Okafur is the more polished offensive player.

Brown also does not let personal feelings get in the way of evaluating players.

Brown's longevity, flexibility, and knowledge of the game has allowed him to weather the changes of the NBA landscape.

He will walk away from a contract, like he did in L.A., to uphold his principles.

Yet, more often or not, his basketball instincts are correct about the player he is evaluating.

The Boston Celtics Get "Marquis" Help with Daniels Signing

Frances White — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:00:21 -0400

It is always assumed that it is the big name NBA free agents that bring championships to a team. This is not always the case. Pau Gasol was a much maligned star in Memphis and his name was hardly ever mentioned with the greats. Yet when paired with Kobe Bryant, they were able to bring a championship to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Manu Ginobili was a second round pick, and Tony Parker was a late first rounder. San Antonio has managed to win three rings with both of them playing major roles.

Boston has its "Big Three," but they would not have been able to bring banner 17 to the Celtics without Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins.

They were unable to repeat due to injuries and an offensively challenged bench. The enigmatic Eddie House proved to be the one-dimensional player that he is. When he was on no one could stop him. His lack of foot speed on the defensive-end kept him off the floor in crucial situations.

Brian Scalabrine tried but his "try-too-hard' mentality often caused him to commit dumb fouls.

Tony Allen continues to defy logic with his low-basketball acumen. It seems that after each injury he regresses in his knowledge of how to play the game.

Glen Davis was forced to start due to Kevin Garnett and Leone Powe's injuries.

Youngsters, like Gabe Pruitt, J.R. Giddens, and Bill Walker could not crack the rotation. And the Stephon Marbury Mikki Moore experiment was a complete disaster.

As a result, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen had to score in bunches to give them a chance at winning.

Celtic management knew they had to get offensive help for the the second unit. First, they signed Rasheed Wallace as a possible backup for KG. Now they had to address the wing position.

The Boston Celtics wanted an experienced wing man to spell Pierce and Allen during the regular season. Free agent names like Matt Barnes, Jerry Stackhouse and Jamario Moon were bandied about like hot commodities.

Jamario Moon was lauded as the front-runner for the job, but ultimately signed with Cleveland.

Matt Barnes' penchant for shooting three's eliminated him out of the discussion.

Adding Jerry Stackhouse would age the Celtic's roster by a significant margin.

The Celtics wanted to find a veteran at the median age of 26-28. They may have possibly found that when they signed Marquis Daniels.

Daniels beat the odds when the Dallas Mavericks picked him up as an undrafted free agent in 2003. He instantly became a rotation player and has averaged about 17 minutes per game throughout his career.

Dallas was so enamored with him that in 2004 they gave him a six-year contract worth $38 million. The Mavericks were trying to find a backup for Nowitzki; in 2006, they traded him to Indiana for Austin Croshere.

Daniels became a free agent after the Pacers thought the final year of his original six-year contract was to expensive. Larry Bird used Marquis as an example for the inconsistent overall play of the team. They refused to pickup their team option worth $7 million.

One could argue that it wasn't fair; however, in today's NBA economy it made strong fiscal sense.

Tony Allen and Brian Scalabrine may be part of a sign-and-trade deal, if Indiana wants to go that route. They do not necessarily have to do it, because Daniels is not a restricted free-agent. If Indiana agrees to this option, then it would help the Celtics get rid of two players coming off an injury year.

After the deal is done, Indian can simply release both former Celtic players.

Boston can then look for a low cost big man to bolster the roster. Robert Swift seems to come to mind. They took a flyer on Patrick O'Bryant so why not Swift. Ainge has always been enamored with the big man.

If the Celtics sign Daniels out right, then Tony Allen, Brian Scalabrine, Gabe Pruitt, or Lester Hudson will be the odd man out. Boston will make another minor trade to relieve its roster of all its floatsum and jetsum.

Daniels career average of 13 PPG certainly makes him a better candidate than any of the aforementioned players. He brings the same slashing and defensive capabilities as Tony Allen.

At 6'6", he is taller and can bother the shot of taller opponents. Something Tony Allen was unable or unwilling to do. He can also be trusted to play defense without going for the same up-fake moves all the the time.

Boston has now added Rasheed Wallace and Marquis Daniels as key cogs to their bench. The 2008 season has seen upper echelon teams get stronger and in Cleveland's case get bigger with "The Big Witnesss Protection," Shaq.

Boston has its own power to counteract Shaq and Dwight Howard. They can play pretty much one-on-one defense with Perk on either man. Or they can take them out of their comfort zone with Rasheed stretching the floor.

Daniels can match up against Orlando's Vince Carter and Cleveland's Anthony Parker or Jamario Moon.

Dictionary.com states that the word marquis means a nobleman ranking next below a duke and above an earl or count. Daniels ranked well below the radar of many contending teams and the Celtics were able to get him without giving up any core players.

Boston Celtic management has a strategic plan to preserve the "Big Three" for the playoffs and win the 2010 Championship.

They just might have succeeded with Marquis Daniels making his mark on the second unit.

The Boston Celtics: Youngsters Know it Isn't Easy Wearing Green

Frances White — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:34:24 -0400

The past two years have seen the Boston Celtics go from being NBA fodder to elite status. In that span they have brought balance back to the Boston sports scene.

Talk radio topics were either the Red Sox or the Patriots.

For 20 years the Celtic hopeful pinned their hopes on youth movement and mismanagement.

Then it happened, a new management said "youth be damned."

And voila! Order was restored.

The Celtic faithful could be heard not only in winter but in the dog days of summer.

The addition of Rasheed Wallace has ear-marked the Celtics as being in the "golden" days of their game. Ainge is looking to push it to the edge by adding more veteran help at the wing position.

That would make the Celtics woefully thin in young legs. Because if he does make this move, it will make one or more of the young players expendable. The rest will have to make due with the two or three minutes they might get.

There is a delicate balance the Celtics must maintain so that they can continue to maintain their edge in championships.

Kobe Bryant has his fourth, and his Lakers are down two to the Celtics in overall numbers. Bryant's ego wants him to not only attempt to tie Jordan, he wants to pass him. He wants to be known as the greatest.

The Lakers have youth behind Kobe with Andrew Bynum and Jordan Farmar. Adam Morrison may yet be that '"Paxson" type shooter they need.

Gasol, Fischer and Artest are part of the core veteran group. The Lakers have the edge in youth with experience.

The young Celtic players, with the exception of Glen Davis and Leon Powe, barely got playing time.

The Celtics know they are part of the top teams in the Eastern conference. They will be there as long as they have the new "Big Four."

But Boston has to find a way to stay their long after they are gone.

After all the wheeling and dealing they have placed that responsibility on the narrow shoulders of Rajon Rondo and the broad back of Kendrick Perkins. Beyond that they have holes to fill in the roster. Perkins shoulder issues may put them in a tenuous position.

Boston's lone 2008 first round pick, J. R. Giddens was sent to the NBDL.

Bill Walker, who they bought from Washington was able to take his spot.

Tony Allen has been consistent in maintaining his injury status.

Pruitt's DUI and the arrival of Marbury effectively ended his opportunities last year.

The Celtics aren't even sure if Davis will return because they may not be able to match the other offers he may receive.

Leon Powe's third knee injury forced the Celtics to release him.

2010 is supposed to be a free agent bonanza and a bidding war will probably ensue for the stellar 2003 draft class. The Celtics need to be in the hunt for one of them. They want young veteran experience that is hungry to be part of the Celtic tradition.

But it is the youth that presently fills the roster that is a concern. By all accounts Giddens, Walker, Pruitt and even second round pick Lester Hudson did nothing to hurt their cause. They now have to decide what to do.

Hudson is recovering from a broken finger, so he may be the odd man out because he was drafted so low.

One could argue, that Boston needs them and can do without another veteran wing. This could possibly help Pierce, and company.

If the bench can maintain leads with the help of Wallace, the youngsters may see more playing time. This would allow Pierce, Garnett and Allen to be fresh for a championship run.

Danny and Doc give them nothing. Davis and Powe were the only ones who got any significant time in their first two years in the league. Giddens, Walker and Pruitt have experienced how difficult it is.

They may be young an athletic but it is the "game" between their ears that matters to management.

Jerry Stackhouse: How the Boston Celtics Can Make It a Family Affair

Frances White — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:04:48 -0400

Now that the Boston Celtics have lost out on the Grant Hill sweepstakes, they need to look in another direction.

Evidently making more money and starting means more to Hill than winning a championship. His father played professional sports, so you would think the drive to have a ring would be stronger. I am glad the Celtics didn't get him now, though, because I wouldn't want such a heartless player to be on my team.

There are various rumors on the Internet saying the Celtics should go after Matt Barnes. But, in reality, they don't need him; Bill Walker is the Celtics' "Matt Barnes." Barnes is a nice piece, but I don't see him taking Walker's place.

Jerry Stackhouse, on the other hand, makes sense.

Stackhouse has just been released by the Memphis Grizzlies, probably to make room for Allen Iverson. Iverson like Hill cares about starting more than competing on a top team, the only difference is no other team is desperate enough to sign A.I.

Stackhouse would be the perfect mentor to Walker because they both have similar games. If he comes on board, the Celtics will now possess two veteran players in Pierce and Stackhouse who have bruising games.

When Pierce goes to the bench, opponents won't be able to relax because Stackhouse will be in the game.

During the Dallas Mavericks 2006 NBA Finals against the Heat, Stackhouse was the only Maverick to exhibit the prerequisite toughness at that time. Last year was the first time in Stackhouses' 14 year career that he has not averaged double figures. How he ended up in Cuban's doghouse is anybody's guess, but Stackhouse still has more game in him.

He has long since accepted his role as sixth man without resentment. When he is called upon he supplies aggressive defense and offense.

Stackhouse was a top five pick in the 1995 draft class, as was Kevin Garnett and Rasheed Wallace. He was the third pick followed by the aforementioned Wallace and Garnett.

For his career he averaged 18 PPG. If the Celtics can persuade him to take the veterans minimum, he can then spell Pierce or Ray Allen. The second unit would have Wallace and Stackhouse, players who can play multiple positions.

Jerry Stackhouse is not concerned about starting, so if he wants a ring it makes sense to go to Boston. Apart from being in the same draft class as Rasheed, they were North Carolina teammates. They both left after their sophomore seasons and the Carolina Blue fraternity stick together. That alone could be the thing that draws him to Boston.

For all we know, Stackhouse may have been Boston's Plan B after all. If he is their Plan B, then other NBA teams will truly fear Gang Green.

Boston Celtics May Be Targeting Joe Johnson in 2010

Frances White — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:37:22 -0400

Today, the NBA released the 2009-2010 salary cap, and as expected, it was lowered by approximately $1 million. Last year's cap was at $58 million, and next year it will drop to $57 million.

The Boston Celtics are among the many suitors bracing themselves for the 2010 free agent class.

This class features a list of the NBA's premier players: Chris Bosh, LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Carlos Boozer, Ray Allen, Joe Johnson, and Tracy McGrady are the headliners.

Wade has recently said on ESPN that he is hesitant to sign an extension with Miami until they surround him with talent.

Chris Bosh exercised his early termination option (EPO) for next summer.

Carlos Boozer elected to opt-in this year and wait to ply his wares on the free agency market in 2010.

LeBron James has Cleveland swooning at his every move, and he refuses to commit. However, he was quick to shoot down a rumor that he told Trevor Ariza he would stay in an attempted recruiting effort.

Ray Allen is still a fantastic player, but at this stage in his career, the Celtics are reluctant to bring up the "E" word—extension.

Tracy McGrady's inability to stay healthy has diminished his value.

Through it all, Joe Johnson has remained quiet and waits patiently for 2010.

The core of Boston's roster is over 30, and 2010 will see the "Big Three" become the "Big Two." Therefore, the Celtics need to find a star to make the "Big Three" whole again.

Wade, James, and Bosh may be out of their price range. I wouldn't trust Boozer after he reneged on a gentlemen's agreement with the Cavaliers. And that leaves Joe Johnson.

As it stands now, Gabe Pruitt, J.R. Giddens, Bill Walker, and Lester Hudson are vying for three roster spots. The first two games of summer league has seen Hudson prove that he is more than a scorer. He can handle the ball with either hand, and his ridiculous wing span is the key to his defensive prowess.

Hudson is proving he belongs, and I am assuming from his limited summer league experience that he makes the team. That leaves only two spots for three players. I believe that Pruitt, because of his experience, will also be back.

Giddens and Walker are second-year players and barely saw the floor during the 2008-2009 season. In Walker's defense, he stayed on the active roster throughout the regular season and playoffs.

Next year is Eddie House's last year with the team, and if Lester Hudson delivers when it counts, then Hudson will replace him. A Pruitt and Hudson combination is already being used in the summer league.

Let us assume that the high-flying Walker makes the squad and becomes a spot player in the rotation to spell Paul Pierce. That is important because the Celtics will have a starting shooting guard opening next summer.

Imagine a starting five of Rondo, Johnson, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Kendrick Perkins. Other NBA teams have stars in their eyes and will make a hard run at the other top free agents. Johnson may just slip under the NBA radar, and the Celtics may be able to make an offer that he cannot refuse.

For one, if the Celtics win the 2010 championship, Johnson would have more than a passing fancy to join the "Boston Three-Party."

Second, the current Boston regime had nothing to do with his unceremonious exit from Boston during his rookie season.

Third, Johnson must surely be wary of the inept management of the Atlanta Hawks.

The Celtics have an opportunity to get a big-name player with a most-ordinary name. Joe Johnson is a three-time All-Star, and, like Allen, has a smooth stroke that leaves you in awe. At 6'7" and only 29 years of age, he is younger and taller than Ray-Ray.

Yes, the Celtics have a plan because "Trader Dan" is building for longevity. Let's hope that this plan includes him acquiring "No Ordinary" Joe Johnson.

Boston Celtics-Portland Trail Blazers: Should They Talk Trade?

Frances White — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:58:03 -0400

Now that the Celtics have signed their guy, Rasheed Wallace, all eyes will turn on the status of Glen "Big Baby" Davis.

There is no doubt that Davis has an NBA game and has the heart to step up under the glare of the bright lights. It is his height and ability to shed and keep the weight off of his 6'8'' frame that is the issue.

By all accounts Davis has an excellent basketball IQ. The Celtics traded for him two years ago, courtesy of the brain doctor who gave Ainge his stamp of approval on draft day.

Big Baby has always been a fan of Kevin Garnett, so when KG talked he listened. He learned his lessons so well that he proclaimed himself the "Ticket Stub."

Well fans, this "Ticket Stub" is looking for a huge pay day in his first free agent run. The only problem is that there is another free agent whose status has to be resolved before he can gauge his value.

David Lee is a restricted free agent for the New York Knicks and Portland has more than a passing interest in him. They have the players to consider a sign-and-trade with the Knicks.

Problem is that the Knicks can counter any offer and they have not tipped their hand as to their intentions. Joe Dumars had interest but he was concerned that he would lose out on Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva.

Portland is still stinging from the Hedo Turkoglu defection.

Turkoglu had verbally committed and had a change of heart at the last minute.

Lee is high on everyones wish list because he is a walking double-double: An energy guy who doesn't demand the ball. Lee knows his role.

I doubt D'Antoni wants to lose a guy who has proven that he is the Knicks interior presence and not Eddie Curry. Let's suppose that the Knicks do manage to resign Lee, what will Davis be left with?

Glen has publicly stated that if he goes to a contender he doesn't mind coming off the bench, if it is a team that is not in contention he would like to be a starter.

In other words, he won't leave the Celtics unless a second-tier team wants to over pay him.

The Celtics could have a "bench mob" of:

Wallace—Center

Big Baby/free agent—Power Forward

Grant Hill/Tony Allen (if the rumors are true)—SF

Giddens/Walker—SG

Hudson/Pruitt/House—G

This gives them a solid bench that won't make many unforced errors with any combination of these players.

Blazer free agents are: Steve Blake, Channing Frye, Travis Outlaw, Martell Webster, Ike Diogu. Out of that group only Steve Blake is an un-restricted free agent.

Darius Miles contract has muddied the waters since he played more than 10 games last season. His contract goes back on their books.

The Celtics could have an interest in Channing Frye, Martell Webster or Travis Outlaw.

Channing would give them another 6'10'' player who can hit the outside shot and can extend his range to the three-point line.

Outlaw gives them an athletic wing who at 6'8'' would be a great pickup to spell Pierce. Boston is courting Grant Hill, but getting Outlaw would give them more youth and athleticism. Webster could also give them versatility at the two or three.

The Celtics have Gabe Pruitt, JR. Giddens and Bill Walker at the end of the bench. Boston can dump their salaries without losing much. They were fringe players at best last year.

If the Celtics second round pick Lester Hudson makes the opening day roster then one of them will go. By all accounts Lester is the real deal.

The Blazers could get "Big Baby" as a consolation prize to the David Lee sweepstakes. If they do, the Celtics could get compensation by getting either Frye, Webster or Outlaw and possibly a 2010 first round pick.

Remember the Blazers do not want to get younger, they have enough youth. Davis could provide championship experience and added toughness.

Where Davis ends up is anyone's guess, but the Celtics should not let him walk without getting compensation for developing him.

Boston Celtics Bring Rasheed Wallace to Redemption Town

Frances White — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:53:11 -0400

Lately Boston teams have had a history of giving pro-athletes an opportunity to redeem their careers. Its unofficial motto seems to come straight from the words inscribed on the Statue of liberty: Give me your tired your poor your huddled masses yearning for a championship. Okay, I added my own words in there, but you get my drift.

Bill Belichick started the trend with Corey Dillon, who was viewed as a malcontent. He was a major contributor in the New England Patriots 2004 Super Bowl Championship run.

In 2007, Bill once again took on a mercurial talent in Randy Moss. That year they ended up with a regular season record of 16-0 and lost in the Super Bowl to the New York football Giants.

It stands to reason because of the Patriots success with perceived chemistry busting talent that other teams would follow suit. Doc Rivers has a standing relationship with Bill Belichick. The Celtics have picked his brain in terms of how to keep a team year in and year out in the championship run.

The Red Sox have taken on Manny Ramirez and John Smoltz, with Ramirez being a major part of two World Series championship teams.

Danny Ainge just like the Patriots head coach keeps his emotions in check when evaluating immediate team needs.

Yes, we are all saddened that Leon Powe was not be extended a contract offer, but we all know the reason why. Powe will not be ready to play until midseason and it makes very little business sense to keep a roster spot open for sentimental reasons.

In the past two years, the Celtics have taken on Sam Cassell, Stephon Marbury, and now Rasheed Wallace.

Wallace has accepted the two year MLE deal that will bring him roughly five million a year. Clearly it is not about the money with Wallace, he is of a different breed of NBA player.

His talents scream perennial all-star but his play says he just wants to be one of the boys. He doesn't crave the limelight, so I can see him turning down the opportunity to play with the Cavs, Mavericks or Orlando as had been rumored.

The Celtics sent a full out press to Wallace's home in Detroit and were able to sell him and his wife on the merits of coming to Boston. As much as he has been maligned and called a hothead, Wallace has always been a favorite among his peers. Apparently he was touched by the outpouring of love the Celtics showed, that he has joined gang green.

The Celtics now have that scoring punch that they need from the bench and are now looking to add more.

Names like Grant Hill and Antonio McDyess have been mentioned for the $1.3 million veterans exception as well as the biannual $1.9 million most teams get. Doc Rivers will talk to Hill at some point because they are neighbors in Orlando.

A reader on this site left me a comment linked to my article "The Red letter Days of Allen Iverson," saying that the Celtics should make a run at Iverson. If it is not a starting job, Allen doesn't want to hear it even at his advanced age of 36. It would definitely be a coup if he tempered his personality to finally win that elusive championship.

Bruce Bowen who may be released by Milwaukee could be a possible addition, but at this point it seems like his defense has deteriorated. Although coming back to Boston may rejuvenate his game.

The Celtics may have gotten the free agent scoop of the summer with Wallace. He at least gives them a chance to compete for the 2010 championship. And with only a two-year deal, his future is firmly linked with the "big three."

Ainge has succeeded in keeping the Celtics in the conversation as the East elite. Now we can only hope that he continues to add value to his bench from the refuse heap of NBA free agency.

The Red Letter Days of Allen Iverson

Frances White — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 21:45:39 -0400

Allen Iverson has always defied convention. He seems to always be front page news starting with high school. When he got to the pros, his trademark braids and hip-hop clothing became hot topics.

Iverson spent his first eleven years in the league as a Philadelphia 76er. He has career averages of 27 PPG, 6 assists, and 2 steals. His talent warrants that others allow him to display his offensive skills. Anything less, will see him talk about practice as if it is a minor annoyance or baby an injury.

Allen has taken his team to the NBA Finals one time and managed to win only one game. Paired with Carmelo Anthony in Denver, he proceeded to continue to do things his way. Denver could never make it out of the second round even with his scoring prowess.

Three years into his tenure there, Denver traded him to Detroit for hometown hero Chauncey Billups. Why not? Dumars had always coveted Iverson and he essentially got him as a one year rental.

The Iverson experiment didn't even make it through the season and Billups took Denver to the Western Conference Finals. Detroit ended up suspending Iverson and firing head coach Michael Curry in the off-season. Joe Dumars decided to take his salary cap-room and spend it elsewhere. Iverson was allowed to go into free agency.

NBA general managers have not even made a token jester to Iverson inspite of his credentials. If he couldn't get along with a classy guy like Dumars, then he had been black-balled.

Rumour has it that Allen has interest in the Memphis Grizzlies. If he wants to show the young Grizz, how to play for themselves he will do it. If Chris Wallace just wants to draw fans then he will do it.

Memphis may be the perfect team for Iverson and his fall from NBA grace could have changed his perspective. He could be a great mentor for Mike Conley Jr. He can take on the challenge to lead instead of demanding to be followed.

Iverson still averages double figures, and can teach the young Memphis team how to win. Deep down he knows his a winner, a winner that has been humbled and a Hall of Fame player. He can help them win games at home until they learn how to win on the road.

He has a choice to reinvent himself; to reshape a career that calls for him to be center stage.

NBA Free Agents Comings and Goings

Frances White — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:35:23 -0400

July first marked the beginning of NBA free agency and hardly a sound was heard from NBA teams. The media had their own idea of where they thought the top tier free agents were going. One thing that is known for sure, the road to the 2010 NBA Championship has just gotten a lot more tougher with the Spurs and Magic making trades for essentially nothing. The Eastern Conference has boosted its cache of legitmate contending teams, and the Western Conference just keeps plugging along. More significant changes are in store for teams such as Cleveland, Lakers, Celtics and Detroit to name a few. I will also talk about teams that are still in the conversation to pick up an inpmact free agent or two.

Begin Slideshow

Danny Ainge Finds a Diamond in the Rough in Lester Hudson

Frances White — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:21:53 -0400

Prior to the NBA draft their were various trade rumour involving anyone on the Celtics not named Pierce and Garnett. Media outlets were quick to portrait Rajon Rondo as hot headed and a rebel. Ainge had to call a news conference to keep the damage control to a minimum.

Some sources even went as far as to say that the trade rumours about Rondo were to either prove to Rondo that he wasn't a max player or to get him to get with the company line.

Regardless it was a shrewd move on Danny's part, because the draft was saturated with guards. With players such as Brandon Jennings, Stephen Curry, Johnny Flynn and Ricky Rubio teams saw no need to go after Rondo.

Ainge has possibly produced a perfect storm for another championship. Rondo will be in the Celtics fold for next season and the Celtics will have their starting five intact for the first time since the 2007-08 season. Rondo will have the bitter taste of this off-season and will want to prove that he is part of the elite guard of the NBA.

Ainge knows that he has dodged a bullet with Eddie House being his only source of outside shooting off the bench. House is barely 6-foot tall and has a slight build. Danny knows that he cannot depend on Eddie much longer as his primary offensive threat off the bench.

Danny Ainge has had the knack for finding NBA players in the second round fodder of the NBA draft. The last NBA player drafted in the second round with the 58th pick was Don Reid. He was a serviceable backup for 10 years with career averages of 3.6 ppg and 2.9 RPG. Reid wasn't known for his scoring prowess.

Ainge has found such players as Ryan Gomes, Leon Powe, Glen Davis and now possibly Lester Hudson.

Hudson was the NCAA's second leading scorer behind Stephen Curry. At 6'3'' he averaged 27.5 ppg, 4.2 assists, 7.9 rebounds and shoots three pointers at a 37 percent clip.

In his only game against national powerhouse Memphis; Lester more than held his own. This prompted Rick Pitino to heap praise on the youngster because Lester was scoring at will.

The question is what did Ainge see in Lester Hudson that caused him to draft him with the 58th pick. I dare say it wasn't what he saw on the court but with whom he equated him with when he saw Hudson.

Those of you who remember the bad boy era may recall a 6' 2'' guard from Baylor University called Vinnie Johnson. He was such a prolific scorer himself that the Boston Celtics gave him his monniker the "Microwave". Johnson was the 6th man for the Pistons and needed little time to get started before he would rain jumpers on his opponents. Ainge more often than not found himself on the receiving end of these forays.

Hudson and Johnson share similar stories they both started out at junior college then transfered to a traditional four year school. Johnson averaged 25 ppg and Lester 27 ppg in college. Lester though is a little bit taller and probably a better passer than Johnson. They both share the same body type and can play defense on bigger guards because of their solid build and low center of gravity.

Ainge will invite Lester to camp and summer league, with hopes he has found his new "microwave".

Statistically speaking Hudson only has a three percent chance of making the team. But if Ainge's track record holds true to form Lester may find his name being called on opening day as the 2009-10 Celtics are being introduced.

Lets Make A Deal: NBA Trades Left and Right

Frances White — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:43:00 -0400

The 2009 Draft came and went. There were very few surprises, and as usual the draft wouldn't be the draft without New Yorkers heckling David Stern. The Clippers for once didn't have brain cramps and picked Balke Griffin the number one consensus pick. Thabeet went to the Grizzlies at two. After that James Harden at three was a surprise. Minnesota for some inexplicable reason choose three point guards, one (Ty Lawson) they traded to Denver for cash and future considerations. They now have Johnny Flynn and Ricky Rubio a major trade is waiting to happen because Rubio is threatening to go back to Europe. Stay tuned for that result. But this slide show is about the trades that happened with veteran teams and players and how it effects the NBA landscape.

Begin Slideshow

Shaq's Six Degrees Of Seperation

Frances White — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 13:36:58 -0400

Shaquille O'Neal has loaded up his Shaq-Mobile and headed to the mistake by the lake, Cleveland, Ohio. Before LeBron the Cavaliers just like the Celtics prior to the new big three was not a destination of choice. Both cities were considered NBA outposts and were routinely dismissed by free agents.

But I digress this after all this is about the big Shaq-huna, a man whose travels has seen him partner with arguably the top three players in the NBA. He brought Kobe three rings, and until this past season Kobe had never won without him.

Kobe was soon tired of being second fiddle and gave the Laker brass an ultimatum, get rid of Shaq or he walks. In spite of Kobe's greatness the Lakers refuse to be held hostage to his petulant demands. The Lakers did do the wise thing in spite of Kobe's demands and traded Shaq only because of his age and contract demands.

Shaq ended up with the next closest thing to Kobe, Dwayne Wade, a Chicago native whose stock rose when he took the Miami Heat to the second round of the 2004 playoffs without any significant help. In 2006 Wade got his championship and for the first time Shaq was not named MVP of the Finals.

When David Stern went to present the MVP trophy to Wade, Shaq ingratiated himself into the ceremony. For a brief moment a look of annoyance flashed across Wade's face. The next year with Wade injured, Shaq mailed in the season and forced a trade to Phoenix. Since Shaq left Miami, his relationship with Wade just like Kobe has cooled down.

The Phoenix move quickly backfired and destroyed Phoenix's chemistry. They were unceremoniously dismissed in the first round of the 2007 playoffs and did not even make the playoffs this year.

A big fall for a man with a giant size ego, his once carefully orchestrated moves had not resulted in a championship.

The only difference between his move to Phoenix from Miami is that I haven't heard Shaq publicly say a disparaging word about Wade.

They say the third time is a charm and O'Neal wants to cement his name in the annals of NBA history as the greatest big man ever by winning his fifth ring with LeBron.

Can Shaq and LeBron co-exist and bring a championship to Cleveland in 2010?

There are marked differences between Shaq's move to Cleveland and his other Championship cohorts. Kobe and Wade weren't necessarily household names when he joined them. Shaq was the bigger than life mentality that took the spotlight either with his quick barbs or by his mere physical presence.

Now Shaq is matched up with a figure that by himself is as iconic a personality as Shaq, sans the rings. LeBron James is known for his monstrous forays through the paint and for his rim rattling dunks. His game is predicated on spacing so he could kick the ball out to his shooters.

Getting Shaq is a knee jerk reaction to what the Magic did to the Cavalier big men. The logic here is that Shaq will demand double teams and make it easier for Delonte West and Mo Williams to shoot the three.

Cleveland will have a starting line up of Lebron, Shaq, Williams, Delonte West and possibly Verajao if he re-ups. After Williams and West who both need help to get their shots off, the Cavs still do not have a bench. Also the premise here as I stated before is that Shaq will command a double team.

Memo to the Cavs: Kendrick Perkins can play Shaq without much significant help, Dwight Howard can play Shaq somewhat without help too. If those are the two teams that Cleveland is trying to overtake then this move does not make sense for a team with championship hopes.

Everywhere Shaq has been, where he has actually won, the other star has been left with acrimony and resentment against Shaq.

The media has said that LeBron will stroke Shaq's ego. Dwayne Wade did that and look what Shaq did. Did LeBron talk to Wade, or Kobe? He probably did, but with the full effects of his teams collapse still on his mind King James is willing to play with the devil to get his ring. Besides Shaq has only one year left on his contract.

Cavalier management is trying desperately to placate James instead of following what the Lakers did and build a team that can stand on its own even if Kobe retires.

James may still bolt after this season, because besides James they do not have any viable assets. The mentality here is that if it doesn't work out then they could trade Shaq by the deadline. Once again a desperate team will take a chance on O'Neal, and this move already reeks of desperation.

LeBron is a fitness buff, and clearly Shaq is not. They are both motivated by a driving force to be the best and win championships. For now this may be enough but the real test will be if Shaq makes it past the trade deadline in Cleveland.

Shaq has now spread his massive arms over Kobe, Wade and now LeBron. Like a djinn, he will clap his hands and say "Shaq-zamm" rub his super sized cranium and may bring that championship magic to LeBron and his Cavaliers.

The Memphis Grizzlies and Boston Celtics Continue Trade Talks

Frances White — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:06:01 -0400

The Celtics are once again trying to make a big splash in the draft without having a top pick. Two years ago Danny Ainge officially brought gang green back into the NBA consciousness. Prior to that NBA free-agents would not even have Boston on their radar as a destination. Teams took delight in beating the hapless Celtics.

Ainge's wheeling and dealing has left the Celtics without a first round pick. Five years with him and Doc Rivers at the helm brought a revival of the Celtic mystic. Opponents knew they had to bring their "A" game in order to beat them.

Al Jefferson's growth brought the new "big three" together and now Rajon Rondo seems to be heading down Interstate 93. The latest rumour has Boston offering Rajon Rondo and Brian Scalabrine to Memphis for Rudy Gay and Mike Conley. Scalabrine is essentially salary-cap fodder.

If this trade happens, then the Timberwolves and Grizzlies will be making a two for one deal. The 'wolves' have four first round picks and would love to get their hands on Thabeet. This would allow Jefferson to move to his natural power forward position.

Might Kevin Love end up back in the Grizzlies fold; remember he is the one that leaked McHale had been fired. Privately, management may not be happy with his mis-queue.

The Grizzlies could get the fifth or sixth pick and Kevin Love in exchange for the second overall pick.

The Grizzlies could have a lineup of Rajon Rondo, O.J. Mayo, first round pick, Kevin Love and Marc Gasol. They now have a point guard with championship playoff experience who is only a fourth year player.

The Celtics would start Mike Conley, Rudy Gay, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Kendrick Perkins. Ray Allen would come off the bench because I cannot see Rudy not starting. That does not scream championship to me.

Why are the Celtics willing to give up a defensive and assist whiz at point guard?

Rondo only increased his scoring by one point during the regular season. He averaged 10 ppg in 2007 and 11 ppg in 2008. Where as Conley averaged nine ppg in his rookie season and his sophomore year he had 10 ppg. Rondo averaged one more assist then Conley. Conley has a better jump shot and makes his free-throws.

For all his prowess in the playoffs, Rondo's penchant for gambling and inability to make free-throws cost Boston at least five losses in the 2008 season. Rondo turns the ball over three times a game, Conley only 1.7.

Rudy Gay does not make sense because he plays the same position as Pierce. Gay may be part of a contingency trade.

Ownership has already gone on record as saying they will go over the luxury tax to stay in the championship hunt. One thing we do know is that "Trader Dan" will not go quietly into the night.

What Can The Boston Celtics Do With The 58th Pick?

Frances White — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 18:11:59 -0400

The prospect of raising banner 18 was put on hiatus until the 2009 season. The Boston Celtics—without Kevin Garnett—came within a game seven of making it back to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Danny Ainge and Doc Rivers did an admirable job of getting the most out of the players, with second round picks Leon Powe and Glen Davis developing into valuable role-players.

This year because of the Kevin Garnett deal the Celtics are faced with signing free-agents or undrafted prospects, and the 58th pick in the second round.

Rajon Rondo, Kendrick Perkins and Ray Allen have all been linked with trade rumors in the Celtics quest for a first round pick.

The only name not mentioned is Glen Davis, and that may be because he has not started negotiations with other teams. What is Davis worth? He may be worth anywhere from picks 11-15.

The Celtics need immediate help at the four and five spot.

Players that may be available are: Austin Daye, B.J. Mullens, Earl Clark and Tyler Hansborough. Some draft boards have Daye taken ahead of Hansborough who is the more celebrated player. Daye is 6'10", has a nice shooting touch but has no bulk. He has Garnett's build but has a better jump shot.

KG could take him under his wing but he is not someone you can build a team around. Trading up may not be the wisest choice and keeping Davis can only help.

The Celtics do have options with the 58th pick.

Leo Lyons Missouri 6'9"- He can face up and take his man off the dribble. According to Hollinger's formula Lyons ranked fourth per 100 possessions and third in free throws ahead of Dejuan Blair, Jordan Hill and Earl Clark.

Jeff Adrienne 6'6"-The Celtics don't need another undersized power forward, but he does have a 7'4" wingspan. Plus it would be a great story of a hometown boy who makes his pro debut on local sports team.

Chris Johnson 6'11' - Great instincts under the board, needs to add weight.

If the Celtics do keep this pick, Leo Lyons seems to be a good fit.

He already has an offensive game and it is predicated on taking it to the basket. His coach was a disciple of Nolan Richardson's 40 minutes of Hell school of defense. Lyons could be that athletic James Posey type they can groom.

Boston Celtics Top Five Trade and Draft Blunders

Frances White — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 12:41:38 -0400

The Boston Celtics have never had a number one pick in the NBA Draft, yet they are the most storied franchise in the NBA. The Lakers may have been to the Finals more tiems, but the it is the Celtics who edge them in championships. The Celtics have made their share of draft day blunders as well as some fortunate decisions on their way to championship gold. We all know of the original "Big Three' and the new 'Big Three" both came to be from shrewd draft and trade transactions by upper management. But their are a few decisions that some times leave you scratching your heaad or saying wow I didin't see that one coming. Here are my top five draft or trade blunders the Celtics have made.

Begin Slideshow

Vince Wilfork Tells the New England Patriots: "Show Me The Money!"

Frances White — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:43:05 -0400

We all remember Tom Cruises' role in Jerry Maguire, a super-uber sports agent who wanted his client to get top dollar for his services. The famous scene from that movie has Cuba Gooding Jr. imploring Tom Cruise to say "show me the money" over the phone.

The New England Patriots are the Donald Trump of the NFL when it comes to contract negotiations for their own free agents. The master helmsman of the decision making process is Bill Belichick himself.

The two opposing forces are on a collision course diametrically opposed to what they think Vince Wilfork is worth.

To his credit, Wolfork has only missed the OTA's, causing as little waves as possible. He is showing goodwill by attending charity events, and even spoke to Boston sports radio hosts Dale and Holley on WEEI about his contract situation.

Wilfork was very diplomatic in his response, but may have weakened his bargaining position by doing so.

Wilfork has been the middle man for the Patriot defense since his rookie season. He gives the Patriots a player whose leverage at nose tackle makes it hard for opposing centers to move him backwards, and he has been a part of one of the Patriots' championship runs.

At 27 years old, he may only have three or four productive years left. In 2008, he recorded a career-high 66 tackles and tied his career high with two sacks.

Wilfork rarely misses a defensive assignment, and in 2007 was named to his first Pro Bowl team. He has made 51 of a possible 61 starts since joining the Patriots, and played a major role in the 2006 defense that only allowed 14.81 points per game.

His performance has rarely dropped, and yet the Patriots are still not willing to give him the money he wants.

They drafted Ron Brace who, at 6'3'', gives them more height at the nose tackle. Brace is a strong run defender and, lets face it, Wilfork is not known for running players down from behind. The Patriots have the luxury of bringing Brace along slowly while having Wilfork in the fold.

Wilfork, to his credit, has publicly stated that he wants to be a Patriot. His actions prove that his word is his bond. It was taken as a dumb move since he did not take a firmer stance to his contract demands.

Playing nose tackle is a thankless job, and it is rare that a nose tackle can demand top dollar on the open market.

In the end, the Patriots will do the right thing by Wilfork and resign him.

But it may not be for the amount of money, or time, that he thinks he deserves.

Lakers and Celtics: Same As It Ever Was

Frances White — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:58:21 -0400

The LeBron-Kobe showdown failed to materialize, as we all know, and order has been restored to the basketball universe. The last two NBA champions are from the most storied franchises in NBA history. Isn't it ironic that Kobe's first Finals MVP trophy is named after the greatest player and Celtic ever?

The basketball gods do have a sense of humor.

LeBron will get his championship, but for now, history is on a collision course to repeat itself. Two Finals MVPs have resurrected their team's destinies. Lakers versus Celtics, Kobe vs. Pierce, Pau vs. KG, and Doc vs. the Zen Master. Star power, star quality all the time, Stern has already put his favorite son LeBron on the back burner. You do not bite the hand that feeds you, LeBron.

Kobe Bryant has finally shown that he could win without Shaq. He got his wish: He had a decent big man who didn't take away his photo ops. He now feels validated. He is gunning for Magic's and Michael's record, and in his eyes, he will be the greatest shooting guard ever if he should accomplish this feat.

According to the media (LeBron's incredible stats supports that), James should be the one battling Kobe for championships. He is apparently Kobe's peer, the other driven superstar that is searching out greatness.

Well, someone forgot to tell Paul Pierce that, because he feels that injuries robbed his team of the chance to repeat.

Pierce and Bryant were drafted two years apart. Bryant was drafted 13th overall in 1996 and Pierce 10th overall in 1998. Both had a love for the purple and gold growing up. One got traded to the team of his dreams, the other to his sworn childhood nemesis, the Boston Celtics.

Bryant had the good fortune of being coached by one of the greatest coaches in NBA history, Phil Jackson. Pierce had to endure a carousel of former Celtic players and mediocre coaches for his first ten years. Bryant had Shaq, and, well, Pierce had Mark Blount. Get the picture?

Kobe got his fourth ring, but in his mind, he probably thinks it his first. Paul got his first in 2008, and like Bryant felt vindicated. He felt vindicated because he had felt the weight of past Celtic championships on him. Pierce cried when he got trophy with his teammates and coaches surrounding him. Bryant had to find someone to hug while his teammates celebrated.

Both franchises have tasted victory, and neither team would help the other change a flat-tire in a blinding snowstorm. Yes, the rivalry is that intense. Next year's Laker-Celtic games will be televised. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the revolution will be televised.

The bizarro world that saw The Big Fundamental, Tim Duncan, win a championship in every odd year since 1999, is gone. The last two championships have come from true championship pedigree. George Mikan and Red Auerbach are probably debating how many more championships Kobe and Paul can win between them.

Mitch Kupchak's heist of Pau Gasol rivals that of the Island of Manhattan sale for a string of beads. The NBA is still looking for the secret underhanded deal in Area 51 that is sure to surface down the road. It took two years for the deal to pay off in a Laker championship.

Danny Ainge's blockbuster sale of the fifth pick and Al Jefferson and some spare parts yielded two all-stars for the Celtics. The addition of Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett paid immediate dividends with banner No. 17.

Mitch and Danny now face similar challenges: How to keep their championship core together without mortgaging the future.

The Lakers have decisions to make on Trevor Ariza and Lamar Odom. The Lakers may be forced to make a sign-and-trade with one of them. Los Angeles has a young big man in Andrew Bynum they can build around and have a bright future.

The Celtics need youth, atheleticism and speed in the frontcourt. This offseason marks a critical juncture for the team, because this will prove that they are truly back on the road to glory.

Kobe and Paul have seen the front office of their respective teams provide them with what they needed to win a championship. Instead of looking for a would-be King without a throne, let us look at "The Truth" and "The Mamba," two players, one sure-fire Hall-of Fame, another needing at least one more championship to make his way there.

The next three years will provide perhaps a historic glimpse into more than one Finals championship act for these two franchises, these two greats. Both forever linked by destiny; both forever linked by team dynasty.

Stan Van Gundy Makes Rafer Alston Disappear in Fourth-Quarter Collapse

Frances White — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:23:38 -0400

Game three saw Rafer Alston play like "Skip to my Lou." He knifed his way through the lane with a series of twisting layups around the Laker big men. He pushed the ball at every opportunity which helped to create the historic shooting percentage of 62 percent.

The Magic got their first Finals win ever in the franchises history. Confetti was released on the floor as if they had actually won something; when in fact they were still fighting for their playoff lives.

Game four, Rafer came out and pushed the ball looking more for his shot then running the team. The Magic's first couple of possessions resulted in turnovers. But Howard morphed into the Defensive Player of the Year that he is and patrolled the paint like Superman.

It seemed he had arms like Mr. Fantastic grabbing rebounds through and around his teammates and Laker big men.

The Magic finished the game with 17 turnovers, seven of them from Howard. In both Magic overtime losses, Howard had the most turnovers.

The second half saw a totally different Magic team they stopped pushing the ball. Time and time again Lewis was caught flatfooted on the swing of the ball. he had lost his aggressiveness. The Lakers didn't do anything different Lewis simply did not have the ability to push his game to another level.

Van Gundy gave all the fourth quarter minutes to Nelson. There were no reports of any injury to Rafer Alston. He could be seen sitting at the end of the bench electing not to be in the huddle. Had Alston played the outcome may have been different because Nelson's size slowed down the movement of the ball.

For all his offensive innovation in game ending situations, Stan Van Gundy failed to recognize he needed defense with a three point lead.

Orlando needed size at the guard spot with 4.1 seconds left in regulation. Courtney Lee should have been on the court instead of Jameer Nelson. With a three-point lead, if you don't foul, you want length and size on all shooters.

Jameer Nelson does not fit that description and the offensive chemistry suffered with him at the point.

The Lakers are about to draw the curtains on this Magic act and it wasn't because the Lakers made it difficult for them.

Phil will surpass Red Auerbach in rings, but he will never touch Red's legacy. Kobe will finally get his own ring without Shaq, and you know he is secretly relishing that fact.

The Celtics' Trade and Draft Options

Frances White — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:14:31 -0400

The last five years the Celtics have drafted for longevity.

They should do so again, but trade up and grab the second overall pick in this year's NBA Draft.

The days of M.L. Carr's tomfoolery approach to being a "yes" man are gone. Now under new management, the Celtics purged themselves and started with a blank slate. After the house cleaning, Paul Pierce was the only player left standing.

Pierce was considered a second-tier talent on a horrible team, yet he never publicly complained like his West Coast counterpart. The team rewarded his patience by surrounding him with Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, as well as some shrewd draft day decisions.

The Celtics built the next link to the Celtic dynasty on Paul's broad shoulders, and he delivered.

The patient Celtics re-branded themselves into must-see television once again. They won a championship, and played one of the best series ever against the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the 2009 NBA Playoffs.

Pierce, Garnett, and Allen have a maximum of three years of playoff level basketball left to play. It is up to Ainge to work his magic and reorganize his view of what the "big three" are comprised of.

Rajon Rondo is the heir apparent, and may be the only sure thing beyond the projected three-year window for the PGA Tour.

Perkins is a serviceable center and has improved his skill level every season. He will not command big money on the open market, but he has trade value because of his championship experience.

Rumor has it that the Celtics are having discussions with the Memphis Grizzlies about the second pick in the draft.

Kendrick Perkins' rights were originally owned by Memphis.

Rudy Gay and O.J. Mayo are the players the Grizzlies want to build around, and their GM Chris Wallace has Celtic ties.

Memphis does not want to be in a perpetual cycle of rebuilding, and they need veteran experience that will help the kids grow.

Danny has taken draft picks and turned them into players other teams covet. Perkins and Glen Davis fit that bill. The Celtics can do a sign-and-trade with Memphis and include Perkins in the deal. Perkins may be included to complete the trade because of his shoulder issues.

Memphis will have two young big men who have run the gauntlet of the playoffs to a championship. With the trade, they could compete with a starting five of Mike Conley, Rudy Gay, O.J. Mayo, Davis, and Perkins.

The Celtics could select Thabeet with the second pick, who is limited offensively, but has the defensive tenacity they need in a center. He could thrive under the tutelage of Garnett.

They could also make a minor trade with Portland. Boston can put together a package of J.R. Giddens and Gabe Pruitt, and in return possibly get Channing Frye.

Frye is a legitimate 6'10'' guy who can make the 15 foot jump shot. Pruitt gives Portland another big guard who can score and run the team. Giddens will also provide Portland with a legitimate 6'8" scorer.

The Celtics can re-sign Marbury, and fans will be hearing more from Bill Walker on the parquet next year. They will have a backup point in Marbury who can create his own shot as well as setup his teammates.

If Boston makes these trades it keeps four players who were the core of their championship team together, and gives them a shot for the future as well.

Doc and Danny: Two Guys and a Team

Frances White — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:30:49 -0400

North Station lies in the heart of the Italian-American community of the North End in Boston. The original station stood on an overhead platform and as the trolley track curves, you used to be able to see the old Boston Garden.

Every championship memory etched in its bricks stoked by Red's cigar. I used to work in a fast food restaurant across the street from the Garden. One day my manager gave me tickets to go and see M.J. and Bird play; I was so excited.

I figured, "Wow! My manager gave up tickets; they must be great seats." I proudly walked up to the usher and asked for directions to my seat. He simply pointed up the stairs. Needless to say, I had the ultimate nosebleed seats in the old garden.

I sat in those narrow wooden seats that were every uncomfortable. The players were mere specks on the court, but I got to see two of the top 50 greatest players in NBA history in their prime play.

At that moment, all of that was lost on me because my butt hurt. I stayed because I was a teenager who had nothing better to do.

To tell you the truth, at that time, I was not a big Celtic fan. They had gotten rid of my favorite player Cedric Maxwell, and they were my sworn enemy. I never went to the championship parades of the 80s. I was that vexed.

I find it ironic that I became a fan after I saw the team struggling. I saw Sherman Douglas and his pudginess himself, John Bagley, run the parquet. I remember the short tragic Celtic history of Charles Smith when I crossed the BU bridge.

I watched a young Glen "Doc " Rivers bring his Atlanta Hawks to town as a second round pick. Rivers was never a star, but he was a solid point guard who knew how to run a team. After his playing days were over, his charismatic smile and honesty made him a natural as an NBA analyst.

Shortly after, he got a coaching gig with the Orlando Magic, where he had a young Tracy McGrady and an injured Grant Hill. He garnered Coach of the Year honors and the farthest he got was the semifinals with that group. Orlando unceremoniously dumped him, even though he never had a full complement of players.

I never liked Danny Ainge as a player; to me, he was a whiner and a cheap shot artist. Who can forget when he fought Tree Hollins.

I would think a guy from Utah would not be that feisty. I was wrong.

After his playing days, Ainge followed a similar path as Rivers, sans Coach of the Year honors. Ainge was the unwitting accomplice in aiding the Lakers run to three-straight championships. Robert Horry threw a towel in Ainge's face when he coached Phoenix.

They ended up trading him to the Lakers.

I thought it was great. In fact, I laughed at it.

In 2003, Ainge was hired as Director of Basketball Operations for the Celtics and immediately hired Doc Rivers as the head coach with Red's blessing off course.

Auerbach believed in Ainge and Rivers. It was unfortunate he could not be there to see the handy work of the man he stuck by.

Doc and Danny were not stars as players, but their basketball acumen shine as architects of Banner 17.

Both coach and GM have combined for the Auerbachian move of going from worst to first in one season.

They are now two years removed from that banner year, and the way they handle the 2009 draft will be critical to keeping that championship legacy alive.

Dwight Howard: A Modern Day Bill Russell

Frances White — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 13:06:50 -0400

Before you get up in arms, hear me out. Everyone is quick to look at the offensive output of most great centers. Mikan, Chamberlain, Shaq, Robinson, and Jabbar weren't exactly known for their defense. The only center to accomplish that feat is the greatest player in the history of the NBA, Bill Russell.

Russell always said he could score, but it was defense that won championships. Russell had an uncanny knack for turning a blocked shot into a fast break. His ability to aid and recover helped build trust with his teammates. He anchored his way to 11 championships, eight of them straight.

The NBA Finals MVP is now named after him, and it is a fitting tribute to a man who stood only 6'9", but towered over others at his position.

Now there is another player whose defensive presence may define his own legacy of championships. Dwight Howard has the defensive skill-set to make that imprint. When Howard complained about not getting enough touches, it signaled an important step in his development.

He raised his level of play and established his defensive presence in the paint. This triggered the Magic’s fast break and opened up the three for them.

The first two games of the NBA Finals, Howard has not been a factor, giving the Magic few opportunities to run. When he had his only dunk, he made a feeble attempt at flexing his biceps. He has complained every time he has missed a shot, and has failed to go up with strength.

Is Howard a bully who can't play with someone his own size? The way he approaches these next three opportunities on his home court will tell.

Superman must turn in to "Beast," an affable giant off the court, but an unflappable force in the paint. Dwight must patrol the paint like a Tasmanian Devil craves carrion.

He must use his strength on defense; the offense will come. He has the defensive qualities of Bill Russell and athleticism seldom seen in a man of his size. He spoke with Russell in Los Angeles, and one can only hope he absorbed some of Bill's championship essence.

Howard can be the one dominant force that could do what Shaq didn't do, which was bring a championship to the Magic Kingdom.

If he does that, then he can at least stand in the shadows of Bill Russell more so than any other center.

Jameer Nelson, the Orlando Magic's Little General, Returns

Frances White — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 18:52:48 -0400

Jameer Nelson made his NBA playoff debut last night after three months of rehab on his injured shoulder. The media questioned why he would risk coming back but they forget Ariza also came back from injury during last year's finals.

Nelson played 23 minutes scored 6 points and dished out 4 assists. His counter part Rafer Alston played 25 minutes also scored 6 points but had one assist. The rust was obvious on his shot but his passing was right on time.

Nelson gave a pass to the cutting Gortac that sat up like he was serving it on a platter. Gortac caught it in stride and made the lay-up.

Overall the Magic played like a team out of sync it may be a result of Nelsons return. On the other hand it can be attributed to the Magic not playing every other day like the previous rounds.

The Lakers defensive strategy was to trap Nelson in the corners at every opportunity. He only had one turnover but his lack of size may come back to haunt them. Prior to his injury Nelson was the x-factor in both regular season wins against the Lakers. He was able to use his speed and quickness against Derek Fisher.

Orlando has a decision to make because realistically they cannot go on dividing the time between Alston and Nelson. Anthony Johnson is a servicable player but he should be relegated to third guard duty.

Rafer Alston is not an efficient passer. His passing attempts to Dwight Howard is reminiscent of an AND1 game. While he did an admirable job he is better suited as the second guard of the bench.

Rafer is not particular adept at penetrating to find the open man. Whereas Nelson is capable of finding the angles to make the Magic's inside players more effective.

Jameer will also be able to take the fourth quarter repsonsibility away from Hedo Turkgolu who was forced to be the catalyst for the offense. He is stronger then Alston and will make better decisions in crunch time minutes.

They were blown out in game one but it wasn't because the Lakers did anything special—they just missed wide open shots.

In spite of his rust, Orlando needs Nelson's skills to have a chance at beating the Lakers.

The European Game is in the NBA Finals

Frances White — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 19:13:41 -0400

It wasn't too long ago that NBA teams would never dream of having a European player as a central figure on any team.

Drazen Petrovic was the first Euro-star that I remember to start making a name for himself. After Portland traded him to New Jersey, he flourished—unfortunately his life was cut short just when his star was rising.

In the past, many people doubted the virility of the European players because they feared that the game would be lost in translation. Players like Dino Radja and Gheorge Muhresan came and went with little impact on their teams.

The San Antonio Spurs were the first team to win with a European player play as a central role in a championship venue. The Spurs proved that there are tough-minded, skilled European Players.

Manu Ginobili accomplished what few players have done—win an NBA championship and Olympic Gold in the same year. Tony Parker, the point guard for the San Antonio Spurs won the finals MVP in 2007. Both of these players were drafted near the end of the first and second round.

The Lakers run the vaunted triangle offense, in which a player's movement is predicated on the defense. The center and forward are the catalyst for this offense, since everything runs out of the low post. In this setup the Lakers use Pau Gasol, who complements his low post game with good passing.

Kobe Bryant spent his formative years in Europe, so the team has a natural flow with a European flavor.

As much as the Lakers scream Euro, the Magic have the style of play which is a perfect conceptualization of the European game. All of their big men except Dwight Howard, Gortac, and Battie have face-up game. The important factor here is Howard.

The Magic run a series of pick and roll plays, which dares the defense to pick its poison. Howard sets the screens, and the shooters flair out to the three point line.

When Kobe is resting, it is up to Gasol to run the team; for the Magic it is Hedo Turkoglu. Turkoglu has the most pressure because he is the one who dictates the crunch time minutes in the fourth quarter.

The NBA has slowly incorporated the Eurpoean game into their fabric of everyday play.

Now, there are European players on both teams whose contributions will determine who will win the 2009 NBA championship.