In a shortened NBA season, it might be even more important to get off to a strong start. But after losing by 19 points to the New Orleans Hornets on Wednesday night, the Boston Celtics dropped to 0-3. Are the Celtics too old to be title contenders? Is coach Doc Rivers losing the team? Is Boston no longer elite on the defensive end?
Well, no New Englanders should start to panic. Paul Pierce has yet to play. All three losses were on the road, and two were to teams expected to compete for the top-four spots in the Eastern Conference — the Knicks and Heat.
Help is on the way in the form of their upcoming schedule. The Celtics’ next three opponents — the Pistons and Wizards (twice) — are also winless. And nine of their next 11 games are at home.
Yes, it’s early. But if the Celtics’ problems persist through this home stretch, then Boston should worry.
– Jeffrey Tomik
