Sitting on top of the East the Boston Celtics are on a 9-game winning streak. To an already stellar star-studded lineup a new veteran guard joins the team in Sam Cassell. He cut ties with the Clippers (real smart move) to play for a contender. With all the positives surrounding the franchise they still aren't content with their 50-12 record. I know they don't want to be too cocky or take the rest of season for granted, but the Celtics don't have to be concerned about the playoffs until that time comes. The only team close to them is the Pistons. Both teams have clinched their divisions.
Doc Rivers was interviewed after the Celtics' 100-86 win over the Sixers. He commented about how the Celtics aren't going to bask in the glory of 50 wins and they have loftier goals to achieve. I understand he wants his players focused and not to get carried away with their success. That doesn't mean his team can't celebrate a little and get excited, come on Doc where is your spirit? With Garnett, Pierce, Allen, and Cassell healthy Boston will be a scary team to face in the playoffs. When a starter like Garnett can hit 11-of-14 field goals for 26 points as he did last night other teams will have a tough time containing their offense.
I think coming down to the final week of the regular season schedule Boston can relax because there will be no point in overextending themselves and risking injury to one of their stars. I can't say they're the best team in the East, but they sure look like it right now. Their real competition in the conference will be the Pistons, Cavaliers, and Magic. As a team the Celts average 101 points per game (allow 90 by opponents) and shoots 39% on three-pointers. Their defense will be tested to great lengths though, and is a weakness they can improve upon. They may not have the long incredible streak of the Houston Rockets, but are well on their way to a fantastic finish.
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