2.04.2019

Rondo Doing Well with Keys to the Caddie

June 2008

Rondo Doing Well with Keys to the Caddie

The result hasn't always left a secure feeling.

There still are times when the quality of Rajon Rondo's play fluctuates like a tidal pool.

But the second-year point guard remains standing after 20 playoff games with the NBA Finals and Los Angeles Lakers due up as his next challenge.



Thus far, with the help of his more celebrated teammates, Rondo has withstood everything thrown at him.

And Friday night's series-ending win against the Detroit Pistons will stand as one of his finest moments - if only because of the deep jumper he buried with 2:34 left to give the Celtics a seven-point lead. The rest of the Celtics' points came from the free throw line, and the lead never dipped below two possessions the rest of the way.

Rondo has been dealing with these so-called ``dare'' shots throughout the playoffs - with better success at some times than others.

But his continued growth is undeniable.

``It comes down to work and confidence,'' said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. ``All I told him at halftime is to stop settling for the 3, and to stop thinking that you've got to get to the paint and make some crazy shot.

``I told him, `You've worked on your in-between jump shot all year and all summer, so take it and use it,' '' he said. ``That's what happened when he walked by, I just shouted, `In-between shot.' To me it's a great shot for him. He has the speed to get away. And he did that. One dribble - Bam! - and he makes the shot, and that's great for him. I just thought the world of it, because he had just missed a shot. That was just phenomenal for him and for the team.''

Rondo, like his teammates, now gets to take that ultimate step.

``It really hasn't sunk in yet,'' he said. ``I know they are a great matchup for us. We beat them two times in the regular season, but they've added a lot of players since then. They are playing well, just like us, and it's going to be a tough series. But right now I just want to enjoy this win.''

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