So is the main argument that we will be better on both ends now that Rondo's out? That's completely false.
I can see it defensively, but not offensively. If the argument is that Rondo holds the ball too much, can someone explain to me how he ends game with an average of 11 assists? Maybe we ought to fault the role players for not hitting shots they are supposed to hit (Bass and Lee, specifically)? Maybe we need to fault our sub-par rebounding for Rondo not being able to get out in transition?
I don't think we're better, because I believe a engaged rajon rondo is the best player on the team.
However, short term I wouldn't be surprised to see us win more because I don't he was engaged defensively this year and was coasting, and also that he hurts some of the newer additions offensive production because they aren't used to moving without the ball and essentially being spot up shooters.
Lee, Terry, Green, and barbosa specifically come to mind as guys who have been asked to play roles coming off picks/ spot up shooting which aside from terry, they have never been known for.
I think a team engaged defensively, which Rondo was not, and allowing those guys to go back to their strengths, I.E getting iso's and getting their own shots/ drives COULD lead to short term success.
However, when playoff time rolls around, which is the time you generally get the absolute best out of Rajon, we won't be near as good.