Your Morning Dump... Where KG isn't dead yet

(Image courtesy Boston Herald)

Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.

Garnett’s four blocked shots were further evidence that he had taken a giant step further away from right knee surgery that had him laboring and thinking through most of this season. And his four assists - mainly interior passes where instinct has to rule - were proof that he’s again playing the game with a level of comfort and confidence that is absolutely critical to this club.

“He’s back,” said Kendrick Perkins. “You can tell just how he got up on the shot-block. I thought the way he was blocking shots tonight was great. His help defense was great, the way he was spreading the court. As long as he keeps getting healthy with his leg, you can tell it’s coming. He’s picking it up.”

Boston Herald - KG's Inspired Play Just the Ticket

Paul Pierce garnered much of the attention after last night's win (deservedly so), but a deeper look reveals more positive news about KG. Even the doubters (myself included) have to admit Garnett is moving around a lot better of late. He still gets beat off the dribble more than we'd like, but there finally is some explosiveness to his game.

Last night's performance by this team was great, but I'm not backing off the ledge just yet. It will take a couple weeks worth of wins and solid defensive performances before I deem them "championship caliber" again.

On Page 2, Stephen Jackson says Paul Pierce challenged his manhood.

“It turned disrespectful when certain things were said,” Jackson said. “You can be emotional in the game and you talk to your teammates and do all that but when you get personal and direct certain things to people as far as their manhood, that’s when the problems come up. And I guarantee you that if I wasn’t in this gym, that wouldn’t have been said to me.”

WEEI

When I look at Stephen Jackson, two things come to mind: crazy and dangerous. I wouldn't say one word to that guy under any circumstances.

The rest of the links:

Globe - Jax takes it personally | Celtics have the answer | Robinson flashing array of skills | Herald - Cs blowout proves disco isn't dead | The Truth rebounds | Baby's on the boards | CSNNE - More positives from KG | Pierce, Robinson, and D carry Boston | ESPN Boston - Pierce, Cs show fight | Celtics Hub - And Gino danced | Celtics Blog - Pure Energy | WEEI - Larry Brown says Boston shouldn't panic |