Pierce Forces OT, Bucks Shine

Paul Pierce hit a three pointer with just seconds left on the clock to force overtime for the Celtics when they looked to be dead in the water. But the Bucks finished strong and got the win 99-94 in Boston, taking the season series from the Celtics 3-1. The loss brings the Celtics back down to .500 (13-13). Pierce stayed hot for Boston pouring in a 35 point encore after his 40 on Wednesday night. Pierce was doing it all, also contributing 12 rebounds, five dimes, and three steals. Despite the big night from the captain, Doc Rivers got minimal contribution from the rest of the team scoring... (Jeff Green 14, Kevin Garnett 12, Courtney Lee 11). Garnett shot 6-for-22 from the field on the night and Jason Terry was a career worst 1-for-15. Paul Pierce commented on the rest of the teams tough night; "It's a team game, regardless of how I play. We've got to do better in stretches. I think when our offense isn't going for long stretches we've got to be able to defend."
Larry Sanders continued to give the Celtics fits, grabbing a monster double-double of 17 points and 20 boards to go along with his three assists, two blocks, and two steals. Monte Ellis led the way in scoring with 27 for Milwaukee, and Luke Mbah a Moute had a strong night with 20. The Bucks displayed a very versatile attack as Brandon Jennings neared a triple double as well (12 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists). The Bucks have clearly showed they are the better team so far this season, Doc Rivers agrees; "Give the Bucks credit. They've beaten us three times. They're the better team right now."
The Bucks showed everything the Celtics lack. A pair of speedy guards that can get to the hoop (at least till Bradley returns), toughness, and rebounding. Most importantly the Celtics don't have Larry Sanders who kills them every time. Sanders represents what Boston needs to add to their roster. An energetic player that is active around the hoop on both sides of the court and can rebound the hell out of the ball.
Again, Boston can not rely on big nights from Pierce to stay in games all year, they need to find that piece to add, but Rajon Rondo needs to step up and become a scorer to help the cause. The bench was better against the Bucks but not good enough. If the extra production is not coming from the bench it needs to come from Rondo. He finished with six points on eight shots in 45 minutes. Rondo's aggression and ability to score is the key to this teams success, and a stat line like that is not going to cut it. I have said he has to make himself a 25 PPG type player to make this team a playoff contender, and nights like last night only further prove that. We'll find out if he has it in him Christmas day in Brooklyn.