So, rock-steady defense is now buoyed by a stronger offense, as the Celtics are averaging 105.7 in this winning streak versus just 93.5 points per game before the streak. Their defense is still an excellent 91.4 points allowed, versus 89 points before the streak started.

If you suggested a second-year letdown for a fat and happy Celtics team, please line up right behind those who chose cassettes over CDs, Betamax over VHS, Atari over Apple, Commodore Computers over IBM, and Kmart over WalMart.

Just when you thought this team couldn't possibly get any better ... it did.

New Jersey 94, Toronto 87

The Lawrence Frank-ly surprising Nets broke a three-game losing streak by pounding the floundering Raptors on the boards 54-38. Suddenly high-scoring Devin Harris makes a solid one-two punch with Vince Carter. Nets rookie Brook Lopez continues to improve, while veteran Raptor Jermaine O'Neal continues to disappoint.

Indiana 118, Washington 98

Old habits die hard as the defense-allergic Wizards let the Pacers go off for 118. Danny Granger had five steals, as many as the whole Washington team. The only thing the Wizards are stealing is money from the owner.

Atlanta 83, Charlotte 79

At least it is entertaining watching Larry Brown use a zillion line-up changes, and alternately like and dislike the same players depending on the day. Brown said they just "can't get the ball in the basket." Even less, now that you traded your only true scorer, Jason Richardson. Newcomer Boris Diaw scored 25 points.

Atlanta struggled at home beating this crew? What does that say about Atlanta? And the Celtics are up next.

Milwaukee 98, Miami 83

As Dwyane Wade goes, so goes Miami. Wade scored just 15 points. Michael Redd thinks it was his defense. The Heat lost to Memphis the game before. These are two teams stuck in the middle, perhaps the worst place to be.

Denver 98, Dallas 88

What a difference Chauncey Billups has made for Denver. I read George Karl is looking for another big. Too bad they don't still have Marcus Camby. What a difference Jason Kidd hasn't made for Dallas. Are we done with the Gerald Green thing yet? With all of Dirk Nowitzki's size and talent, why hasn't anyone asked him to learn a few go-to post moves?

Truthfully, both teams are moving in the right direction. Billups makes Denver dangerous.

Phoenix 111, New York 103

Terry Porter bests Mike D'Antoni. But it seems like Porter's changes are not pleasing his players. Amare Stoudamire and Shaq both want to be the man. Go figure. Steve Nash misses the system that made him an MVP. Surprise. You have to use a different measure when evaluating players from systems like D'Antoni's or Don Nelson's.

Phoenix is about where I thought it would be. New York is ahead of my expectations right now.

Sacramento 118, Minnesota 103

What? I watched the beginning of this game. Minny was up 15-3 and Sac couldn't put it in the ocean. Looks like Minny has the bigger problems. Two bad teams with new coaches. Promising young bigs in Al Jefferson, Kevin Love, Spencer Hawes and Jason Thompson. Point guards needed.

Orlando 109, Golden State 98

The Magic are without Dwight Howard and still win and score 109 points. Jameer Nelson lights it up for 32. Marco Belinelli is showcased for trade and goes for 19 points off the bench. Do you think Chris Mullin regrets pursuing Nelson for that multi-year coaching contract now?

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