Highlight Performance:
Paul Pierce, BOS– Although Pierce producing is nothing new, the 13-year veteran produced yet another outstanding night, posting 28 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocked shots. He has been on a tear the last 4 games, and he has been great in both the assists and rebounding categories. With Rondo and Allen both out with injuries, the Celtics should continue to rely on him for production, and therefore his huge production spike may not be a mere hot streak. Pierce is on pace to set a career high in assists (5.1), and owners should feel confident to roll with him until further notice.
Performances to Forget:
Mario Chalmers, MIA– When Dwayne Wade and LeBron James are taking over the game, the only player to find any scraps is usually Chris
Chalmers is a non-factor when Wade and James are in the lineup.
Bosh. So when Chalmers is not hitting the occasional three-pointer, his value is extremely hollow. His value is truly based upon whether or not Wade is in the lineup, and as long as he is back and playing, Chalmers will be nothing more then an afterthought.
Players to Watch:
Marcus Camby, POR– To this point in his career, Camby is nothing more then a specialist. However, when it comes to rebounding lately, he has been quite special. On Friday, although he failed to score even a point, he hauled in 20 rebounds, the second time in the past 3 games he has done so. Camby is a rebound machine, but his value is severely depleted due to his complete lack of scoring this season. However, if you find yourself in need of some rebounds and blocks, Camby is your man.
Injuries:
Richard Hamilton, CHI– Thigh, Day-to-day
Jason Kidd, DAL– Calf, Questionable for Sunday
Delonte West, DAL– Hamstring, Day-to-day
Ty Lawson, DEN– Ankle, Day-to-day
Kevin Martin, HOU– Foot, Day-to-day
Carmelo Anthony, NYK– Wrist, Targeting Tuesday Return
Thabo Sefolosha, OKC– Foot, Day-to-day
Jameer Nelson, ORL– Mouth, Day-to-day