Celtics Get Their Man

Take that, Miami!  Score another victory for the Celtics over the Heat as free agent, Troy Murphy, has chosen to sign on with Boston for the remainder of the season.  Although this win will not actually be registered in the standings, this has to be a significant loss to a Heat team who was desperately pursuing Murphy.

The decision came as somewhat of a surprise to me, because the situation in Miami offered him the opportunity of a lot more playing time due to their lack of the depth on the front line.  Of course, I am a little biased, but looking at it from a neutral perspective, if the goal is to win a championship, than it had to be an easy decision for Murphy.

The Celtics are 3-0 in their head-to-head match ups against the Heat this season, and Miami has posted a mediocre record of 14-15 against teams with winning records.  Not exactly championship material.  Though, the Heat were not complete losers in this buyout bargain period.  They signed veteran point guard, Mike Bibby, who just completed his contractual buyout after being traded from the Hawks to the Washington Wizards.

Bibby will likely fill a massive hole that Miami has had all year long at that position.  It is assumed that he will eventually supplant Mario Chalmers as the starter and finally provide them with a player who can set up their half-court offense late in games, something that has consistently plagued this team in close games against good teams.  This will allow LeBron James to stay at his more natural position as well as add a competent ball handler and an additional three-point threat.

It remains to be seen if any other moves are on the Horizon for the C's, but things are certainly looking a lot more positive with this key acquisition.  As this buyout bonanza continues look for Boston to pluck out at least one more of these fresh-on-the-market free agents.  Keep an eye on Corey Brewer and Samuel Dalembert, as buyout rumors are surrounding these players and their decisions could help swing the balance of power among the championship contenders once again.  I'll keep an an ear to the ground and keep you posted on any new developments.