Top Five (or More) Issues Facing Boston Celtics at Midseason

1. Mental Toughness

Since the 2008 Finals, opposing teams have been putting bigger, physical opponents on Rondo making it harder for the floor general to get the Celtics into an offensive set.  This opposes a mis-match with Pierce and/or Ray Allen’s which should free up one of the two for an explosive night offensively.   

2. Pierce needs to attack basket more creating more foul shot opportunities.

Since the off-season, Pierce has lost 15 pounds trying to become more than just a jump shooter. He knows with more opportunities to get to the free-throw line, the better chance his team will win night in and night out with a lot tougher schedule after the All-Star Break.  This will also break down defenses opening up spots on the floor for Allen and KG to get to to make key plays.

3. The Bench needs to keep the lead so our starters can get rest.

We all know Eddie House can “jack it up”  when he wants to.  Though Glen Davis along with Tony Allen and Leon Powe need to show some more consistency.  With the starters out there longer it can make for a tiresome and sloppy finish to games in the fourth quarter, which is the reason why they haven’t been able to close out contest night in and night out recently.  I like to see more of Bill Walker during games to get him more affluent to Doc River’s offense. 

4. Free Agent/Trade Deadline.

I repeat, Stephon Marbury is not the key to the recent woes at the Celtics guard scenario.  Obviously he is not someone Rondo needs on the guidance or nurturing level. Nor is he a team player. With the impeccable team chemistry this club has it would be a stretch to add him to their line up.

Look for the Celtics to find another shooter to fill now Hornet’s forward James Posey’s spot.  With the departure of Posey, Boston has become more defensively on the bench though lost that offensive spark. 
 
5. Stop looking ahead to big matchups. 

After the big lose to the Lakers on Christmas Day, Boston only won one out of four on that West Coast Swing.  If Boston is to repeat, they have to keep pace and stay within Doc River’s philosophy of team ball and getting to the foul line.  With the emergence of Orlando and Cleveland this year, home-court will be a major player in the post-season this year.  Imagine a Game Seven in Cleveland or Orlando in May?   I don’t think I want to.