"The Celtics are in a rather odd position as 2010 comes to a close.

They own the best record in the Eastern Conference, yet in many ways things couldn't be worse.

When Kevin Garnett went down in the first quarter of Wednesday's loss in Detroit, the Celts were without three starters. But if their defensive anchor can get through this leg issue, there is every reason for the Shamrocks to be optimistic about 2011.

That they have managed to get through the first 30 games of their new season so well speaks to their vastly improved depth. The Celtics have been dogged by injuries from the start, not yet having the rotation they hope will take them to the 18th championship in franchise history.

Kendrick Perkins has been out since tearing up his right knee in Game 6 of the Finals last June. Jermaine O'Neal, Shaquille O'Neal and Rajon Rondo have been in and out of the lineup. Delonte West began the season on the suspended list (by the NBA for offseason gun possession charges), and got in a grand total of nearly five games before fracturing his right wrist.

Barring further troubles, all are expected to be back as the Celts make their run."