The TRUTH of the matter

Rajon Rondo is the best player on the Celtics. Kevin Garnett is their heart and soul. Ray Allen is their most clutch player. But who is the player that will most determine the Celtics fate this postseason? That would be none other than the Truth himself; the captain Paul Pierce. Pierce's struggles lately have been well documented. His season average of 18.1 PPG is his lowest since his rookie season. Now when he has a 20+ point night we get excited, when it used to be the norm. His three point shooting average of over 44% is the highest it's ever been, but that was never what made Paul great.

In the first 15 or 20 games of the season he was playing some of the best basketball of his career and certainly the most efficient. He was rolling and consequently the Celtics were too. Then injuries hit and the Celtics season started spiraling out of control as well. There were nights when he barely was heard from and even nights when he cost the Celtics games.  Where was the player Celtics fans had loved for so long?

Lately he has come alive.  His 55 points in the last two games against two solid west coast teams on the road is impressive. He looks more energetic and fiery out there.  It's no coincidence that both resulted in wins.  Yes, he may have lost a step or two, but he is still the only Celtics that can go out there and score 30 points. The fact is they may need him to do that a few times for them to have a chance at the title.

I hope the Truth is back and here to stay.  He's the closest thing we have to a Kobe or Lebron. He battled them toe to toe and beat them two years ago. Can he do it again? The answer to that will determine the Celtics fate this postseason.