No Kevin Garnett, no problem, Celtics still have Rondo. On his 23rd birthday Rajon Rondo decided it was a good time to show off his talent against a very hot Phoenix Suns team. Not only scoring a game high 32 points, but also leading the team in assists, steals, and rebounds.
Rondo again showed his ability to dominate one of the best point guards in the game in Steve Nash, and with the help of Ray Allen, was able to make some team history in the process. As the two guards lit up the scoreboard all night, becoming the first Celtics backcourt duo to score 30 plus points each since 1977. After starting the year off strong Rondo looked as though he had a chance at the All Star game, but his struggles lately knocked him out of the voting. After his showing in Phoenix, it seems those struggles have gone away, and at a time when the Celtics need him the most with Garnett out.
With Rondo showing what he can do, I do not expect the Celtics to show much of a drop off with Garnett out of the lineup. With Garnett out the Celtics have posted a 12 and 2 record in the past, and there is no reason why they can't do it again. http://espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=290222021 reports, Rondo feels the same way "guys step up and play thier roles even better when kevin is out" Rondo said after his career night. Although there will be a drop in the defensive play, the offense should continue on with Rondo, Allen and Peirce leading the way. Over the next few weeks watch for Perkins and Scalabrine to step up defensively. Also watch for big baby Davis and Leon Powe to see substantial playing time with Garnett's absence.
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