They're picking up their game at the right time. Roster tweaks have revitalized Kevin Garnett's game, turned Avery Bradley into a starter and made Greg Stiemsma a vital part of the rotation. Rajon Rondo is on an assist streak and Paul Pierce is doing what Paul Pierce does. Doc Rivers is coaching his ass off. They had one of the best records in the NBA after the All Star break.
Their core players are also older than any other team. Pierce is now playing with a slight MCL tear and Ray Allen is hobbling around with bone spurs. While they definitely have a chance in any one series, you do wonder whether they can last the grind of playing through four playoff series.
Still, they've edged the Atlanta Hawks and that's one down, three to go. And while the Philadelphia 76ers won't exactly be easy, they definitely caught a break with Derrick Rose's injury and the subsequent elimination of the Chicago Bulls.
This is a good place to be. Considering that the Celtics have had vital rotation players suffer season ending injuries/heart ailments earlier in the season. Considering that this team might be broken up at the end of the season, with free agents aplenty in the squad. Considering that KG and Ray Ray will be free agents.
Just live in the present. Enjoy the ride as long as it lasts. Bob Ryan described it best - this is Year 5 in a 3 year plan. They got an NBA title in their 1st year, everything else is gravy. They came within an injury and were 5 minutes from a 2nd NBA title. It's been a blast for the past 5 years supporting them considering the seasons before that. So let's see how far the C's can drag this playoff run out. I hope it's all the way.
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