Celtics Struggles Continue, Get Trounced By The Hornets

For the first time since the 2006-2007 season, the Celtics have begun the season 0-3. The previous two games were hard fought, close games. But last night was a nightmare for the Celtics in a 78-97 loss to the Hornets. They seemed like they were tired, had no energy, but more importantly, had no passion and lacked effort. There were several times throughout the game where the Celtics had four guys down low and couldn't come up with a rebound.

Obviously the absence of their captain and leading scorer in Paul Pierce has hurt them, but you would think they would be able to win at least one game without him. Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen seem to be the only ones on the court who "care." If I were to tell you at the beginning of the year that Rajon Rondo would be the Celtics leading scorer, you would most likely say not a chance. Rondo seems to be playing with quite a big chip on his shoulder after the offseason trade rumors. He is averaging a double-double with 22 points per game and 10 assists per game. Not much else you can ask your point guard to bring to the table for your team. As for Ray Allen, he has started off with a hot hand. He's hit 63% of his 3-pointers, and is averaging 21 points per game.

Bottom line is that the Celtics need every aspect of what has become their "Big 4." If one of those guys is hurt, (Garnett, Allen, Pierce, Rondo) they will be playing golf this offseason. Without Garnett, they can't rebound. Without Allen, they can't score. Without Pierce, they have no leadership. And without Rondo, they have no chance.

An important factor about this season is the fact that there are 16 less games being played. That means a two week injury has the possibility of missing around 8-10 games. Paul Pierce, get healthy. Your team and city needs you.