Sports Redux: Celtics Escape Wolf Trap

Jim Mone / Associated Press Let’s face it. That was uglier than Minnesota’s starting power forward . But if the Celtics are going to make a run at 70+ wins this season (and while PTI and the Globe and others are speculating about the possibility, we say, let’s can that talk and let things unfold), they have to win games like last night. Trap games, against young athletic teams, on the second night of back-to-backs. And somehow, finally, the Celtics did. The C’s had their worst defensive night of the season, allowing Minnesota to shoot 52% and letting old friend Al Jefferson pound Perk down low as the Wolves built an 8-point halftime lead. Offensively, Pierce couldn’t get anything going, Ray hit one of his dry spells, and only KG’s midrange jumpers seemed to fall for the longest time. Finally, though, in the last four minutes, the C’s locked down, forcing some wild Minnesota shots and turnovers to seal the 92-90 win. Doc Rivers on

the turnaround: "We didn’t get too excited, didn’t get too frustrated when we were playing awful. I think that’s good. That is a sign of experience. I don’t think anybody panicked." The Suns come to town tomorrow. And, well, it’s still 2-1 this century! Yes, the Yankees (mostly Matsui) pounded Pedro and the Phillies to claim their 27th World Series title. Luckily for Red Sox fans and all good Americans, this Series went so long it’s only like three weeks until pitchers and catchers report to spring training. We keep telling ourselves, anyway. The Herald breaks down some of the things that are keeping Theo Epstein worrying these days. It seems like it’s been months since the Patriots pummeled the Bucs in London. Now they’re getting ready for the Dolphins on Sunday, and Tom Brady says he’s never felt better . The mood in Miami is less than confident .

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Sports Redux: Celtics Escape Wolf Trap