plw@panda.UUCP (Pete Williamson) (03/21/86)
At this moment, I think the GREEN is stronger then they have been since the Russell years. Certainly they are stronger than at any time during the BIRD era. Maybe I just think this is true because of what has happened to the SIXERS, but I think an important indicator is their posture towards their competition both on and off the court. On the court, of course, they are "demolishing" other teams. Demolishing is not really the right term, the score differentials aren't always large. But the Celtics simply aren't losing many games, the games they have lost have been squeakers for the most part, and Boston generally has complete control of the games from the outset. Incredibly, Larry Bird is having his greatest year ever, the bench is very strong and deep, and the Celts are playing at times as though the other teams aren't even there. Total disdain, a "scary" thing to watch. The only team that seems to be able to beat them is themselves. But off the court, Boston seems to be going out of their way to NOT infuriate/humiliate their opponents, in sharp contrast from past years. (M.L.Carr and Cedric Maxwell ???) Maybe this will change come playoff time, but right now, KC and company appear to be VERY SERIOUS about winning #16. I like their chances. -- Pete Williamson "By hook or by crook, we will !!" ... #2