I think the Celtics mentally needed a solid 48 minute win last night. C’s were playing well; in 1st quarter; they were in control of the game; Rondo was playing GREAT; and Celtics had a 10 point lead when Delonte subbed in (and later Pavlovich). Minny made a run, and started cutting into lead. Basketball coaching 101 teaches that the coach should call a time out to adjust strategy and hopefully change momentum. Then if trend continues, call another time out for same reasons and maybe sub a player or two.
Timeout don’t always work to change momentum, but they often do. In this sitution, there was nothing to lose-except the game. Doc let them “play thought it,” Indy took the lead, and the game was a dogfight for the rest of the night. Calling a time out or two at that time seemed like the obvious thing to do. I think it was a mistake that might (who really knows?) have cost the game.

If the celtics don’t win 18, Ainge needs to go. That Trade wasn’t just a gamble, as you so sweetly call it. It was a RECKLESS screwup. The only chance it works out is if Shaq comes back very healthy and stays that way, AND motivated. What are the chances of that? Yeah, nil.

AS for your comment about Rondo and Pierce, it’s obvious that the two have been locking horns all year over leadership of the team. But whatever, sell it however you want.