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What an action-packed week for the Atlantic Division as we all witnessed the Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets brawl on Wednesday’s night, Nets outstanding performances as of late, Celtics struggling with injuries, the Toronto Raptors signing Mickael Pietrus, New York Knicks’ power forward Amar’e Soutdemire may return to play around Christmas time, and Jrue Holiday making history.
The Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets presented a highly-contested battle containing a small fight between the two teams. In the result of the fight, Boston’s Rajon Rondo received a two-game suspension:
I was sticking up for my teammates. I didn’t try to start a fight. I’m not trying to be a bully. I just didn’t think the play was fair that he made on Kevin (Garnett), that’s all. -Rajon Rondo (via ESPN Boston’s Chris Forsberg)
Addtionally, Celtics’ Kevin Garnett was fined $25,000 for his actions.
On the other side, Kris Humprhies, who was throw out of Wednesday’s game did not receive any suspension, but Gerald Wallace did receive a hefty fine. Wallace was fined $35,000 for his actions.
With all that being said, there is verity that the Nets are outplaying teams in the new and improved Atlantic Division. Something about getting a new franchise with a new identity is motivational.
As the Nets have struggled in the past, they are trying to make quick transformation with the likes of elite point guard Deron Williams, three-point shooter Joe Johnson, versatile swingman Gerald Wallace, pretty-boy Kris Humphries, and one of the most underrated centers in the game when healthy, Brook Lopez. Avery Johnson is presenting a huge impact with his knowledge of basketball and his actions.
Boston Celtics on the other hand, have a lot of work to do if they want to obtain another crack at the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Doc Rivers’ team needs to get the ball rolling with only an 8-7 record.
Coincidentally, now the Celtics will struggle even more without three of vital players in their rotation: Jeff Green and Chris Wilcox. Green, who suffered a right knee injury on Wednesday, is questionable for tonight’s game and Wilcox, who is suffering from a illness, is doubtful to play in the next upcoming games.
While there are some dark events happening with the Celtics there are a few bright spots in the horizon including the return of Kris Joseph and Avery Bradley close to returning:
Celtics officially recall Kris Joseph from Maine
-chris forsberg (@ESPNForsberg)
If it’s any consolation for #celtics fans, an NBA source told the Globe that Avery Bradley is “very close” to returning to practice— gary washburn (@GwashNBAGlobe)
North of the border, the Toronto Raptors have signed swingman Mickael Pietrus to a one-year deal worth the veteran minimum. He will play tonight against the Phoenix Suns.
Back down to the East coast, the New York Knicks are improving game by game and making an enormous statement in the Atlantic Division thus far. Great things stay consistent with this team as Amar’e Stoudemire takes the floor in practice and is aiming to return around Christmas:
Kidd eyes next week’s road trip; Stoudemire sighting, doing shooting drills, jogging, gearing up for holiday return http://nyp.st/QvoGh8
-Marc Berman
@NYPost_Berman
The last team in the division, meaning the Philadelphia 76ers made news regarding their own player. Jrue Holiday makes history within the franchise posting a career-high 33 points and 13 assists a similar performance to “The Answer.” A.I. had at least 13 field goals and 13 assists in 2006.
