Rajon?Rondo
All of last season the saying was, “As Rondo goes, so go the Celtics.” That will remain true this season, too.
Rondo has morphed his game from inexperienced, quiet guard to confident, flashy floor general. He’s not only a major part of this team’s present success, but also an even bigger part of their future once the Big Three decides to hang ’em up. The best part: He’s only going to get better.
Ray Allen
At some point this season, Allen will pass Reggie Miller for first place all-time in 3-point field goals made (2,560).
If that doesn’t tell you the type of career this guy has had, nothing will. The third peg of the Big Three, Allen has embraced his role with open arms. Even at his age, he’s one of the best-conditioned athletes in the league. His knack for draining 3’s opens up the court for his teammates.
Paul Pierce
Each season, Pierce’s name goes higher and higher up the list of greatest-ever Celtics.
After re-signing for four more years over the offseason, it’s likely Pierce will have played his entire career in Boston when it’s all said and done. Going into the season, “The Truth” is only 101 points away from 2,000 for his career. Only John Havlicek and Larry Bird have more as members of the Celtics — not bad company to be in, huh?
Kevin Garnett
When it was announced Kevin Garnett was traded to the Celtics before the 2007-08 season, it gave fans something they hadn’t felt in almost 20 years — hope.
The C’s missed him toward the end of ’08-09 due to injury, and he never seemed to fully heal from right knee surgery last season. Now, it appears Garnett’s physical ability will match his tenacity on the court. A healthy Garnett is key to a banner.
… and ‘Shaq’
When Kendrick Perkins tore his ACL, it was apparent the Celtics needed to replace him for the time being. Jermaine O’Neal the first domino to fall, followed by Shaquille O’Neal.
There’s no doubt Shaq has the experience to match his teammates, but does the surefire Hall of Famer have anything left in the “diesel” tank?
