Celtics Being Celtics

Celtics finished up a 4-game road trip with a record of 3-1. That one loss coming in Dallas in the second night of back-to-back games in a very close game. The most notable game was of course the win over Miami in South Beach. The Celtics grabbed an early lead and controlled most of the game. Sure you can make the excuse that the new "Big Three" still need to gel together, and that will take time. I can't deny that it takes time for new players to get on the same page - especially with D-Wade sidelined for all but 3 minutes of the preseason games. But this excuse only works for so long. 3 big-names players that have played before for USA shouldn't have too much trouble learning about each other.

What we learned from this road-trip is the Celtics are still the top team in the East, and that experience will usually beat youth. The Celtics aren't always playing the best, but are getting it done. In the past 4 games, they showed they can score over 110 points and give up 100, and can also score 90 points and while keeping the opponent in the 80s. To me this is a sign of a very good team. Whatever the needs of a game are, they can successfully execute and get the job done. I think a lot of this comes down to the play of Rajon Rondo. Averaging about 15 assists per game, he is managing the game, leading his team down the field and looking for his options.

I think if prior to the season you asked people if they'd be surprised if the Celtics started with an 8-2 record, that answer would be no. Something I'd like to point out from their record is that they are 5-1 against over-.500 teams, and 3-1 sub-.500 teams.

In comparison here are some interesting statistics that may show some true colors:
Orlando: Overall 6-3, vs. Over-.500 teams: 1-2, Sub-.500 teams: 5-1
Atlanta: Overall 7-4, vs. Over-.500 teams: 0-4, Sub-.500 teams: 7-0
Miami: Overall 6-4, vs. Over-.500 teams: 1-4, Sub-.500 teams: 5-0

I won't comment on these statistics because the reason I included them makes it self-explanatory.

Please add your comments below!