Is it me or does the media LOVE Boston sports? It seems like the slightest winning for any team in the area results in a tidal wave of stories specific to New England. As a disclaimer, if you read Xpinionated, then you know I am slightly considerably biased against the entire New England area. But let's say a couple of things about the amazing season the 07-08 Celtics had this year.
Most Improved. The Celtics accomplished the biggest turnaround ever for an NBA team by increasing their win total by 42 wins. Great achievement. . . except last year's roster doesn't feature at least nine players on this year's roster. Only 40% of your previous roster is there. In my mind, this isn't the true meaning of Most Improved. In my mind, Most Improved means taking what you had, working on it through practice/experience/playcalling and drastically improving your results. It does not mean gutting your roster and pulling off some spectacular GM moves. Personally, I think the recognition for Most Improved should go to teams carrying at least 60% of the previous season's roster. However, I'm not sure this is an official recognition so there are no rules...
Best Regular Season Record. With 66 wins, the Celts also had the most wins in the league. Impressive indeed. 60+ wins in this league is always an accomplishment. Taking a look at who the Celtics get to play night in and night out, it seems to me that playing in the Eastern Conference had much to do with their success. In fact, based on Hollinger's Statistics on ESPN.com, Boston has the lowest strength of schedule in their league. San Antonio has the highest. Does anyone think any of the top four seeds could not have accomplished the same feat against the Eastern Conference? And yes, Boston had a great record against the West, but I doubt they would have the same kind of success if it was a day in day out kind of thing instead of just a road trip to get hyped for.
With all that said, it sure is nice to have Boston around to hate....even if it's only for a couple of years....
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