In the first week of the NBA Season, the Boston Celtics are clicking on all cylinders, they shoot flawlessly, rebound emphatically and play tough physical defense. It's too early to say that these Celtics are going straight to the NBA Finals with the way they have started the season. But it's nice to see that they are back from a dismal playoff showing last season. You could see the hunger and inspiration on every Celtics' player every time they play.
Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen are still the main vital cog of the Celtics plus the court generalship of the underrated Rajon Rondo. These four players have formed a bond of brotherhood wearing the Celtics' uniform. They play with fire, pride and passion in front of the diehard Celtics' fans. Veteran Rasheed Wallace is also a big help for the Celtics, in 4 games, he averaged 10 ppg, 4 rpg and has avoided unnecessary technical fouls.
One drawback with the Celtic lineup is that they are not deep enough to protect their starters. Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen are more prone to injuries due to old age. Suffering a season ending injury on the Celtics star player is a cause of concern as the season progresses.
The Philadelphia 76ers consists mostly of young, quick and athletic players that could challenge the grizzled Celtics veterans. Hosting the Celtics in their home court could give them an adequate advantage with their rabid fan support. PG Lou Williams is having a breakout season as he averages 20.3 ppg, 5 apg and 1.67 spg. They also now have a healthy Elton Brand while Andre Iguodala and Thaddues Young are running circles against their defenders.
Speed and home crowd support may deal Boston's first loss of the season but the seasoned handicappers installed the Celtics as the favorite to beat the Sixers on Tuesday.
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