Mercer

[murdoch@exo.com (Hank Murdoch)]

 "dan.p" <dan.p@MCI2000.com>  wrote :

>> Mercer must have gotten a confidence boost with this game, as he was a
vital part of the offense.  Had a Jordan-esque move off a teammeate's
missed free throw where he swooped in and slammed the miss home.  Hit
jumper after jumper and looked great in the open floor.  Even as a rookie
he'll take it to the basket with confidence on the break.  Got a couple of
steals, too.. <<

 I was impressed by Mercer's play tonight too.  Looked smooth and confident,
and was definitely shooting well.  I'm also impressed by his high effort on
defense, and the many times he either deflected a pass or came close to
intercepting one.  Seems to have a smart game, and is making real progress
with each game.  If he keeps it up, he will be a real highlight for the
season (and will make the highlight reel a lot too).

>>  I love his demeanor - reminds me a lot of Joe Dumars. 
Doesn't make a big show after a good play, just stays very low key and
keeps on playing.  He's becoming my favorite Celtic <<

I like his demeanor too.  It's nice to see someone make a great play and not
forget to get back on defense because they're too busy talking trash or
working on a new dance routine (I'm not talking about our players BTW -  I
don't mind the obvious joy in playing that a McCarty or Walker show at
times, I like to see players having fun playing the game).  But Mercer's
understated style is refreshing, and he's becomming one of my favorites too.

Re : the game - I'm just glad they got the win against Chicago in the
openner.  They will have a lot of games like tonight until they settle their
rotations and get some experience - and some more coaching on the x's and
o's.  But at least they know after the Bulls game that they have what it
takes to win against anyone, once they develop some consistancy. 

But regardless of the score, with Mercer, McCarty, Bowen, Walker, Knight et
al., the fun is back ! (even in a loss like tonight.)

Hank M.

P.S.  DeClerq seems to be adapting to the new style a little better too.