Random Thoughts (April 29, 2009)

After watching him rise to a level that even his biggest supporters (myself included) probably thought was out of reach, Rajon Rondo has officially made himself indispensible to the Celtics. His amazing series against the Bulls (24.2 points, 10.2 assists, 10.2 rebounds, 3.2 steals) has vaulted his status from rising star into the realm of the best young point guards in the NBA. Rondo has transformed the "Big 3" of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett into the "Big 4." Expect to see Wyc Grousbeck open his checkbook this summer to ensure Rondo is a Celtic for a very long time... I avoided writing about the Red Sox during their eleven game winning streak because I didn't want to jinx their success. Now that they have finally lost, here are some quick-hit thoughts on their play in April:

• As much as I love David Ortiz, his time hitting in the third spot in Terry Francona's lineup has to be nearing an end unless he starts to produce like the Big Papi of 2003-2007. I am encouraged by his recent determination to hit to the opposite field but the Red Sox can not afford to have a singles hitter in the heart of their lineup. The options for Francona are limited -- J.D. Drew just doesn't play enough to warrant hitting him third -- but something will have to be done.
• We all loved the "Idiot" Red Sox of 2003 and 2004 but I think I like the intensity and passion of these Sox -- led by Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, Mike Lowell, and Jason Bay -- even more. These guys obviously love the game and their refusal to ever quit makes them a must watch for all nine innings.
• I will always be a member of the Manny Ramirez Fan Club but that doesn't mean I don't want Bay signed to a long-term extension immediately.
• It would be nice to see Jonathan Papelbon record a few 1-2-3 saves.
• It has to kill all Yankees, from George Steinbrenner to George Costanza, to see the Sox trot out Justin Masterson, Hunter Jones, and Michael Bowden to shut them down on national television.
• Ellsbury's steal of home was the play of the year. Take that Posada!

The Patriots draft has me very excited for 2009 and beyond. Bill Belichick once again refused to overpay for talent he did not want and instead recorded value picks in safety Patrick Chung, defensive lineman Ron Brace, cornerback Darius Butler, and tackle Sabastian Vullmer in the second round.

With the contracts of Richard Seymour, Vince Wilfork, Logan Mankins, and Stephen Neal all up after 2009, the Patriots need to be fiscally responsible. I applaud Belichick for going for value, both in terms of talent and finances, instead of trying to appease the media or fans with a first round pick.

Belichick's ability to fill the Patriots roster with quality talent that does not put pressure on their salary cap is the chief reason why they have dominated this decade...

It's almost May and the Bruins are still playing hockey. Gotta love it...

In my NHL playoff picks, I went 2-for-4 in the East and 3-for-4 in the West. For someone who doesn't watch too much hockey, I'll take those numbers.

I did lose the Devils, my choice to represent the East in the Stanley Cup Finals, in the first round...

Enjoy Jon Lester tonight...