Your 2008-09 Boston Celtics primer

Last year was last year. 

How's that for a bit of philosophy? 

OK, it's not exactly Confucius.  But it's pretty much the mantra of the 2008-09 Boston Celtics.  And as we move on to the new season, with a new goal of hoisting a new banner... I'll answer the questions the voices in my  head  you might have.

Should we be worried that these guys will get fat and happy after finally winning it all?

Nope.  Primarily because Kevin Garnett is neither.  When he was asked about it, he said winning one title can be considered a fluke.  And he doesn't want to be a fluke.

Paul Pierce is happy, but he's not fat.  He came into camp 10 pounds lighter.  That says something.  If any of the Big 3 was going to get complacent, it would be Paul.  But  he's back at his rookie weight, fully healthy, and raring to go. 

And we never have to worry about Ray Allen. His OCD won't let him be anything but fully prepared.

With those three ready to go, there's nothing to worry about with this team. They'll be ready.

But everyone says they're getting old.

Yes, they're getting older.  Ray is 33.  So he's nearing the end of his career.  KG is 32 and Paul is 31.  They've been around, but they're not ancient.

But Doc Rivers knows this.  That's why we're not going to see a 66-win team this year.  Last year, these guys played a lot early because they needed to jell.  Now they have.  So we'll see their minutes go down early in the season.  Doc will play them more down the road as they prepare for the postseason.  They have that luxury.

Will Tony Allen REALLY be able to replace James Posey?

Well, they're different players.  But yes.  At least minutes-wise.  But where Posey was a great team defender, Tony is a much better 1-on-1 defender.  Posey is a better three-point shooter, but Tony is a much better slasher.  Tony will earn points from the line.  And as an added bonus, he'll help rack up fouls against the other team, which might force them to go deeper into their bench

The loss of Posey hurts.  But Tony Allen, provided he is mentally prepared, will add a different element. 

Is Kendrick Perkins OK?

We'll see.  His shoulder is a concern.  But he seems OK right now.  The good thing is Patrick O'Bryant has shown enough ability to step in should Perk go down. 

Oh yeah, he's one of the new guys...

Yep, and he's going to help.  But he'll be the only one that really gets significant minutes.  Darius Miles is already gone, and first-round draft pick JR Giddens looks destined for the NBDL.  Second-round pick Bill Walker might see a few minutes.

Right, I saw that dude on YouTube.

Yes you did.  Probably dunking on Theo Ratliff.  Or catching a putback against Cleveland (watch the bump on LeBron at the end.  He won't forget that.  Just FYI.).  He's got some serious hops and the attitude to back up his on-the-court bravado.  It led to a little altercation against Houston... so that's got to be kept in check a little.  But he might help. 

I get it.  You like the way the Celtics look this year.

Yes I do.  Rajon Rondo will take another step toward NBA stardom.  The Big 3 are hungry for more.  The C's bench is just as good as it was before, and the coaching staff is all back and ready to repeat.  The competition has gotten better, but the Celtics have a year under their belts and the knowledge that they can overcome adversity to excel.  NBA GM's might like the Celtics to lose in the Finals, but I think our road to the title might actually feel a little easier this year.