Stuck in one's Craw(ford)

By Harry Dunne

Who'd have thunk it? 

The Celtics would be 10-12 through 22 games. 

Who'd have thunk it?

The Celtics would be in first place in the Atlantic.

Who'd have thunk it?

Jordan Crawford would become a team leader. 

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The 25-year old Crawford was acquired via trade last season, and was expected to be--at most-- a fringe contributor to this team.  But now, he has taken the reins as the team's floor general, establishing himself as a true play maker for the Green. 

In back-to-back wins against Denver and New York, Crawford amassed 15 assists and 45 points.  In fact, over the past five games (3 wins), he has channeled his inner Rajon Rondo, putting up 20.2 PPG and 5.6 APG.  Most importantly, the former Xavier Musketeer's switch to point has allowed for Avery Bradley to assume his more natural off-guard position. 

Overall, with more than a quarter of the season behind us, the Celtics are in the driver's seat of their division.  If the season ended today, they would be hosting the Charlotte Bobcats in the first round of the playoffs... and that is crazy on multiple fronts. 

The ability for Crawford to play multiple positions, well; has given this rebuilding squad the flexibility they need in order to compete.  Thought to be a throwaway season, there may be something to salvage in 2013-14.  While most are clamoring for the NBA Draft lottery, few have noted the complexity of it all.   In 2014, the Celtics draft status is mostly contingent on the results of Atlanta and Brooklyn's season.

So... let's go C's!