Sports Redux: The Long Regional Nightmare Is Over

The losing streak is over! The Celtics got back on track yesterday, though it was no sure thing. They survived a valiant effort from a spirited Portland team; even sans Rondo, their offense finally clicked in the second half thanks mostly to Ray Allen and 26 of his season-high 35 points.

Good thing Ray was on target, because Pierce wasn't, and neither were Tony or Perk. Garnett had a quiet 26 (still waiting for that loud 45, but we can wait until May if we must). Portland looked really sharp; they're a fun team to watch, with crisp passing, unselfishness and tons of energy. Good for them for shedding the "Jailblazers" image and no longer having to go on road trips in the old Con Air plane. Oh, and they expect #1 pick Greg Oden to be ready to play next year. Get used to these guys.

We'll stay out of the Randy Moss brouhaha, except to note that his first public reaction was about the distraction to the football team, rather than anything personal. Good. No, we're more concerned with another receiver, since we learned that when Donte Stallworth surrenders his brain to a Martian named Nicco when he takes the field. Nicco makes Stallworth make great plays, makes him punch his legs when he blows a play(!), and returns to Mars when the game's over. Lou Reed was unavailable for comment.

On ESPN: Bill Simmons lays the groundwork for comparing the two greatest Boston teams of all time. We disagree with his opinion that the Colts rolled over against San Diego to avoid the Patriots; it's pretty obvious that the difference-maker this year is the divide between the teams that coasted through December (Indy, Tampa, Dallas) and the teams that played full-speed because they needed to (San Diego), because of pride (Giants) or because they just enjoy kicking everyone's ass (you know who).

AP Photo by Charles Krupa. Thanks to the Rev. D.E. for the Simmons tip, and Caroline for the Nicco story.