Fishing for Bass

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After last night, it's silly to bring any sort of pessimism to the Celtics table.

They played their best game in nearly a month. Why not just shut up and enjoy?

And that's what we've done for most of the day, but before I close up shop (remember, I'm retiring tomorrow), there's one concern that's worth mentioning.

Brandon Bass.

Actually, "concern" is too strong of a word at this point. But there's no question that since the playoffs began, Bass has yet to live up to the reliable standard he's set for himself.

The stats tell one story:

Regular Season: 31.7 minutes, 12.5 points, 6.2 rebounds and shooting .479 in the field.

Playoffs: 31 minutes, 8.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and shooting .414 from the field

But more than that, Bass just hasn't been present. Do you have any real memories of No. 30 from the first four games of this series? Is there one play, jumper, rebound or defensive stop that sticks out in your mind?

I've got nothing. I know he's scored. I know he's rebounded. I know he's played some great team defensive, but he just hasn't been a factor. And this is a guy who's spent the last six month playing that reliable role for the C's. We've spent the last six months celebrating him for that. For being the rock that Big Baby never could be.

But if there's one thing about Davis, it's that (aside from his last year in Boston) he always steps up when the lights are brightest. The playoff are his time. And again, this season, he's averaging 20 points and 9.5 boards through the Magic's four postseason games.

The Celtics don't need that from Bass. All they need is what he's given (12-14 points, 6-8 boards, .01-.06 assists a night.) Game 5 would be a good time to start delivering.

Rich can be reached at rlevine@comcastsportsnet.com. Follow Rich on Twitter at http:twitter.comrich_levine

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