PROTECT THE PAINT

The Boston Celtics have a lot on the line tonight. They play Phoenix tonight staring a potential 3-game losing streak in the face. The game can be viewed  live on NBATV at 9:00 PM EST.

Can Garnett slow Amar'e down tonight? (Credit: picapp.com)

Phoenix is reeling with confidence after crushing the Los Angeles Lakers118-103 on Monday night. Steve Nash and the Suns have been on fire at home, boasting a 12-2 home record this year. Amar’e Stoudamire is playing like the Amar’e of old, putting up 20 and 10 over the month of December.

It has already been discussed how Boston is hurting without Paul Pierce. The Celtics have dropped off dramatically without Pierce in the line up, and have lost to the likes of the Clippers and the Warriors.

Not a good sign before heading down to Phoenix for tonight’s game.

Can Kevin Garnett or Ray Allen step it up against the Suns and push Boston over the top? Rajon Rondo has been a monster, but without a huge game from Garnett or Allen, it seems like Boston cannot put together a win.

What this game should come down to tonight is which teams second unit performs best. Boston managed to squeeze out 15 points from their bench versus the Warriors. Phoenix’s bench scored a total of 52 points against the Lakers. Jared Dudley led the way with 19 points and 7 rebounds. This disparity in bench scoring favors the Suns.

How can your bench only score 15 points against Golden State? The Warriors are not taught to play defense. The Celtics will be facing the top scoring team in the league tonight. The Warriors are the second highest. You do the math.

Steve Nash disassembled the Lakers on Monday. (Credit:picapp.com)

Can Boston avoid a third straight road loss?

Will Rajon Rondo be able to slow down or aggravate Steve Nash’s game?

Can the Celtics second unit compete with the Suns?

Can Boston compete without Paul Pierce?

These seem to be the most pertinent questions heading into tonight’s game, and it will be a battle worth catching from the moment the ball tips off.

Similar Posts:

• The Boston Celtics Average Without Paul Pierce
• Boston Celtics vs. Atlanta Hawks: NBA Game of the Week
• Orlando Magic vs. Phoenix Suns: NBA Game of the Week
• Amare Stoudemire and the Rising Suns
• NBA News: Steve Nash to Sign Two-Year Extension