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.
"...Shaq may play,’’ Rivers said. “They looked tired. We went a little longer, we didn’t do a lot of running, we did a lot of instructional stuff. Overall it was a good practice — actually, it was a great practice, with a day off I thought our focus was as good as it’s been.’’
Globe: Shaq could be back in lineup vs. Pacers
We might actually start getting some good news about injuries. Jermaine O'Neal is working his way back (more on that later this morning) and Rondo's ankle is feeling better. Now with Shaq back, we could be looking at a pretty full C's roster before you know it.
With Semih battling shoulder and now groin issues... this is a great time to have Shaq back in the lineup. And Indy is no joke. Yes, they're playing about .500 ball... but they're dangerous. Roy Hibbert is playing very well and he'll present a serious challenge in the post to the C's front court. Having a big body like Shaq in there to defend him is pretty important. I like what Semih has given the Celtics, but putting him up against Hibbert right now will not work out in Semih's favor.
By the way... there are still tickets to be had for today's game. Check 'em out if you want to see Shaq's return. Remember, it's a 1pm start.
On Page 2: "Cheers" to Kevin McHale's 57th Birthday
It's Kevin McHale's birthday... so to celebrate he's part of the episode where Kevin McHale gets obsessed with counting the bolts in the Garden floor as part of a disagreement between Norm and Cliff.
That's actually part 3 of the episode. If you want to watch the whole thing in order... here's part 1 and here's part 2 (cameo by Glen Ordway in part 2).
The rest of the links:
ESPN Boston: Baby on charges | WEEI: What the Orlando moves mean for Boston | The education of Avery Bradley | Herald: Jermaine O'Neal braced for action | Marquis Daniels on a mission | CSNNE: Bradley ready for his turn with Celtics | O'Neal's wish: to play before the holidays