It's just one game
This doesn't take away anything from the Celtics win. They looked great defensively and held Wade and Lebron out of the paint for the most part. In the NBA everyone makes a run, so you knew the Heat would come back at some point. I think the Celtics showed excellent poise closing it out.
Both of these teams are better than they showed last night. Wade is clearly rusty and will get better. You have to believe Bosh will get more used to the spotlight as the season goes on, though I don't think he'll be that much of a factor against the Celtics. You also have to think they are going to add one or two more rotation players before the playoffs begin. Then there is Lebron. As much as I dislike the guy, it's pretty clear to me that he is the man on this team and takes a back seat to nobody. It should be interesting how they handle late game situations from here on out. Good thing there is only one basketball.
The Celtics used their old formula of great team defense and timely shooting by Ray and Paul to win and that is great to see. There bench played great, especially Big Baby who by now is becoming a big game legend. All the guy does is make big plays, whether it be taking charges or scoring in the paint. Marquis looked solid as well and seems to be playing with more effort. When Delonte and Perk come back this bench is probably the deepest in the league.
The biggest advantages we have against Miami are at the Center and Point Guard positions. Rondo will run circles around Arroyo, Chalmers, and House. His command of the game is truly amazing. I think it would benefit the Heat to play Lebron at point guard at the end of games like they did last night, but hopefully that doesn't happen. Maybe an even bigger advantage is down low. Shaq played well tonight and when Perk comes back the Heat won't be able to match Boston inside. If only Perk and Shaq could shoot free throws.
Overall it was a pretty satisfying victory by the Celtics, but one we have to take with a grain of salt. I think if last season told us anything it is that the regular season doesn't mean much in basketball. Let's enjoy this victory and come out strong again tonight.
