Rondo had a mercurial, mostly successful career in Boston. He led the 2008 team to an NBA championship, wowed crowds with his passes, and drove coaches crazy with his independent, sanctimonious streak.
Whether you love him or have a different opinion, he doesn't change. He is the ultimate "to thine own self be true player." He is a pass-first, nonshooter, far above average rebounding guard who has supreme confidence that his way is the right way.
When you think of players likely to become coaches, you don't think of Rondo. Why? It isn't that he lacks the skill, knowledge, or will, but he is Mr. Inflexible.
His free agency should be fascinating. Ultimately, you are worth what your employer agrees to pay. Clippers' exec Kevin Eastman would say, "you are responsible for your paycheck." If Rondo helps the Mavs will a title, he will get paid. If it's something less, along with head-butting with Rick Carlisle, then what will the bucks say?
If I were at the Garden, I'd cheer him enthusiastically back, then anoint him the villain once the game starts. He's not a Celtic anymore, and it's not so clear that he always was. Rondo is his own man, for better and for worse, for richer or for poorer, until trade do us part.
I don't enjoy his style of play, as I think it inhibits optimal ball movement. I'd rather watch the Spurs or even the Triangle offense. But that's what I like to watch. Welcome back and good buy.
No comments:
Post a Comment