[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=csZDrjmq7io]
Just look at TMac's reaction to that. Priceless.
Just for the record, no... tonight's game against Houston isn't a Finals preview... but that's how some outlets will play this up. Yes, Houston is going to be good. But for some reason, people always seem to forget how many times Ron Artest was supposed to be the "missing piece", but hasn't been.
Trust me, Houston. Something is going to go wrong. Now... I ain't mad at ya. I've got nothing against Houston. I'm just being honest with Rockets fans. Artest isn't the answer.
As for the Celtics, they need to take it right at the Rockets tonight. Get it into the paint, make Yao move and commit, and use our athleticism to make him pay. I think I'll have an aneurysm if I see another jump-shot fest.
And I've got to share this item from Jerry West:
In the 1960 s, the Lakers lost to Boston in the NBA Finals six times. West said everyone was frustrated but that he was probably the most frustrated of all during that time.In 1969, then-owner Jack Kent Cooke had balloons placed in the Forum rafters of Game 7, a symbol of his confidence that his Lakers would win. West, who knew nothing of Cooke's plans, saw the balloons when he walked onto the court - and so did the Celtics.
The Celtics won.
"That was the most embarrassing moment of my life," West said. "Jack Kent Cooke was the owner of the Lakers. I was so offended, I couldn't even tell you. That was one of the worst things I've ever seen in my life. I don't think you ever want to try to embarrass anyone, particularly an athlete. That was probably the low point of my life."
Hah Hah. Awesome.
Herald: Celtics watch Pistons add Iverson | Pierce on facing Artest | Globe: Questions, injuries still nag McGrady | Celtics see power struggle | Answer isn't clear in all this | Enterprise News: Road test awaits Celts | Sixers win by 34
After the jump, the Pacific Division previews... which are last of our blogger previews.
Golden St. Warriors
Rob Mahoney: Upside and Motor
LA Clippers
ClipperSteve: Clips Nation
LA Lakers
Kurt: Forum Blue & Gold
Josh Tucker: Respect Kobe
Trevor Smith: HoopsAddict
Phoenix Suns
Phoenix Stan: Bright Side of the Sun
Sacramento Kings
Tom Ziller: Sactown Royalty
Also see links to all the previews at CelticsBlog.com