From my perspective I view this team as rare exception where I can overlook the age issues and just enjoy the thought of things potentially falling into place.
Before I go any further, I would like to say that I view Jason Terry in relatively the same vein as Ray from a competitive standpoint, assuming that Ray does not come back.
Anyways, I view the current Celtics as a true rarity in sports. Age is always going to be a worry, but how often is there a group of aging players that is as cohesive as our group (keep in mind that I believe Terry will completely fit in with the culture in Boston)? Most veteran players lose their competitive desire when they reach their mid-30's, all for various reasons. Some can't adapt once they lose their athletic ability. Others lose motivation if/when they are on a non-contending team, and then you have a large amount who are simply content collecting their paychecks.
The 1998-1999 Houston Rockets are the last team I can think of that had three aging players of the same caliber as ours (Olajuwon, Barkley, and Pippen). The major difference is that their group had never played together and Barkley wasn't committed enough to winning a title. Pippen and Barkley clashed throughout the season and they were never able reach their full potential.
Our team is entirely different than that group. With the exception of the lockout where Pierce and KG weren't in top shape, our Big Three has done everything possible to remain at the top of their games. Grit and Balls all the way!
Also it's not as if our entire team is old. Rondo is arguably the best PG in the NBA, plus Bradley and Green are going to be EXTREMELY important pieces of the puzzle. If anything we are shaping up to have an excellent blend of veterans and youth.
BTW, I only used the 1998-1999 Rockets as an example to prove my point. I'm NOT trying to start a comparison of their trio to ours.
Topic: My thoughts for those who worried about an aging team..... (Read 1102 times)