Boston Celtics

Celtics, 33-20 (1)

By Gary Dzen

1 minute to read

The Celtics got off to a good start, taking a 26-16 lead while shooting 63 percent against the Suns in the first nine minutes. They extended the lead to 30-16 with 1:35 left in the quarter and the Suns could only get one point closer.

Kevin Garnett was forced to the bench after picking up his second foul at the 6:21 mark. He was replaced by Leon Powe, and the Celtics did not miss a beat.

Powe provided the highlight of the first quarter, scrambling for a loose ball under his own hoop and getting fouled in the act of shooting, while shooting underhand, from his knees.

Advertisement:

Kendrick Perkins played all 12 minutes of the quarter. Rajon Rondo played 11:03.

  • After Rondo was called for a charge on Steve Nash at the 5:33 mark, Rondo and Nash remained tangled for a moment on the floor. Shaquille O’Neal went over and grabbed Rondo by the arm, talking to Rondo on his way to the timeout. Rondo could be seen mouthing “My fault, Shaq” as the two parted ways.

    If I were Rondo and Shaq were grabbing my arm, I would say the same thing.

  • O’Neal went over to shake Doc Rivers’ hand while Amare Stoudemire was shooting free throws.

    • To comment, please create a screen name in your profile

    Conversation

    This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com