Early Results Just In...

I was flipping the channels last night, courtesy of NBA League Pass and ESPN...

Boston is on an early season mission, their latest conquest being the Nuggets. Even though they pummeled Denver, it was more of the Nugs not showing up than anything the Celtics were doing. Hall of Famer Bob Cousy joined the Celtics broadcast, and both he and Homer Heinsohn were remarking how bad Denver's defense was by the middle of the second quarter.

What is remarkable about this version of the C's is that these guys are really sharing the ball. Last night they had 32 assists. True they had 21 turnovers, but when you shoot over 60% for the game and out rebound your opponent, you can afford those turnovers, at least against regular season, indifferent competition. One sign of concern for the Celtics--James Posey went down with an injury. It didn't seem serious, but injuries will be the test of this club, because their bench is still suspect. They are going to have to keep the Big Three and their major role players healthy come playoff time, to have any chance of making a deep playoff run. One bright spot off the bench has been Eddie House. Traditionally not much of point guard, he's come in and given them decent play, and also has been able to hit his usual long ball in the early games. At the post-game press conference, you can tell KG is enjoying being in the limelight again.

As for the Nuggets, not to show up for a game against major competition--even on a back-to-back--this early in the season is pretty troubling. Are they overrated? They've got a lot of talent on their team, but also plenty of attitude. I think Karl has a lot on his hands right now.

My new nickname for Shaq is the Big Drop Off. Yeah, he doesn't get his motor running until the playoffs, but he looks really OLD and disinterested out there right now. I think the Miami folks are figuring out maybe Davis and Blount weren't that good of additions to their squad.

Robert Swift of Seattle resembles a 2K version of Bill Walton, when he was with the TrailBlazers, a mountain man with major tattoos. He has had major injuries, but he looks like he's coming around. Kevin Durant on the other hand, looks lost. Against Memphis he was shooting out of rhythm, and jacking up shots left and right. As bad as the Wolves are, the Sonics may be worse. Wally is doing a pretty good job for them coming off the bench, but he looks a step slow. He's still clapping his hands for the ball out on the perimeter, however. Some things will never change.