In order to truly compete though (and I mean for a title), Rondo is going to have to show up with a Jump Shot. The best scenario for the Celtics is if Rondo gets fewer assists but forces the other team to defend him honestly. This will lead to a more balanced attack and easier baskets for everyone else but Rondo will not get stat sheet points for the baskets, even though it will be the result of his improved play.
We are not going to have the team with the best single player usually and especially as we get further in the playoffs. To win, we need balance. I think Doc understands this and I hope Rondo does.
I believe that Rondo can achieve this improvement but he has a ways to go. His shot is still slow and awkward. Those are two pretty big things to improve but I am excited to see what he brings this year.
I'd love to see Rondo continue to improve his jump shot (and his free throw shooting), but I'm not sure I agree that he should be shooting more and passing less.
The Celtics have one of the most balanced offenses in the league with 5 guys taking between 10 to 15 shot attempts a game and nobody over 15.
Rondo, the distributor, is the catalyst for this balanced attack. His passing ability is what makes him special. For him to continue to grow into the player that he's capable of being, he needs to keep capitalizing on his strengths and not try to force himself to become a player that he's not.
Personally, I could care less if he never averages more than fifteen points a game for a season. We've already seen that he's willing and able to pick up the scoring load as needed in the post-season, but during the regular season, I like it when he's more focused on getting everybody involved in the offense.
