Sullinger and Moore Shine Again

The Celtics youngsters took to the hardwood again on Wednesday afternoon and handily dispatched the Indiana Pacers 85-77. Jared Sullinger had another big game with 16 points and 8 boards, while E'twaun Moore continued to show his scoring prowess with 15 points. Moore is looking like a decent option to spell Rajon Rondo at point guard this season, with his great ball handling, as well as shooting touch, something that Rondo has never shown. Kris Joseph also had another solid performance, coming up close to a double-double with 12 points and 7 rebounds. Joseph reminds me of a poor mans Paul Pierce from back in the day. Joseph is an extremely hard worker, but also has the skill set and talent to drive, as well as create his own shot from time to time.
But the big story here is Jared Sullinger, who is looking like a player who could have an immense impact on the Celtics this year. Sullinger has proved the doubters wrong who passed on him due to medical concerns. He has been able to showcase a plethora of the offensive skills that he used so skillfully at Ohio State; his post up ability, long range shot, and hard-working defensive ability to contain larger post threats. If Sulley can replicate his playing ability now into the regular season, he could see some serious minutes behind PF Brandon Bass, who recently signed a three year extension with the Celtics. Sullinger is a younger version of Bass, but he contains a smooth shot from downtown that Bass has never possessed in his time in the NBA.
3rd year player Lance Stephenson of the Pacers continued to score in heavy doses with a 19 point outing against the C's. Stephenson's attitude was a big issue coming out of Cincinnati, and he has been involved in a few bust ups since joining the Pacers, most notably his choke sign to Lebron in game 3 of the playoffs last season. The Pacers first round pick Miles Plumlee also had a solid afternoon, scoring 18 points and grabbing 8 rebounds.
The C's play again today at 11 AM Eastern time against Brandon Knight's Detroit Pistons. Look for Moore and Sulley to continue to carry the team and show they deserve some solid minutes next season.

Go Celtics!