While I certainly hope that the Celtics kick the crap out of the Heat, the fact of the matter is that is just game 1 of the regular season. Whether the C's win or lose and whether it's a blow out or not will likely matter very little when all is said and done. The C's could lose by 20 tonight and still win #18 and vice versa for the Heat.
That said, I'm still looking for some key things tonight as early barometers:
1) What is the state of our Big Three? It's not so much statistically how they do, it's how lively and young they look. Even if they're missing shots, are they still moving well and sticking with the Heat Big Three?
2) Can Rondo and Shaq abuse the wannabes that the Heat have at the 1 and 5?
3) Can Marquis Daniels effectively guard LeBron? That's not to say he stops him, but can he prove he can stick with bigger 3s?
4) How good is our bench? Can they ultimately be our wildcard as they either pound other benches or come in and run starting units into the ground with their energy?
Very true, well said and important questions. That said, I am so ready for this game. Been ready since the final buzzer of game 7. Heat or not, been waiting for the first jump ball. Just a little over an hour...
1) I expect to see them come out strong. Perhaps even too amped (KG). The second quarter/second half will probably be even more interesting (especially given the 3rd quarter woes of last year. That is where change has to happen). I expect a big game out of Rondo, which goes to #2. A potentially big advantage against the Heat for our boys in green.
3) I hope so. Tony may be missed in this regard. He really did develop into a very good one on one defender. I worry a little about 'Quis' movement. He has size but don't know if he has the pure athleticism needed to guard guys like LeBron.
4) Love the offseason bench moves. Think this is a great improvement for this team. Can't wait till Delonte comes back. Great pickup.
Topic: Heat (0-0) at Celtics (0-0) 10/26 (Read 99871 times)