BOSTONNets guard Deron Williams (ribs, oblique) won't play tonight against Boston -- a major blow to New Jersey, a team that's struggling enough as it is.
Even worse for Williams is the fact that it will prevent him from matching up against Boston's Rajon Rondo. As much as players talk up the fact that they don't go into any game looking at an individual matchup, that's not the case when elite players such as Williams and Rondo face one another.
"He's one of the best point guards in the game," Williams told CSNNE.com. "He's probably the best defender; on-the-ball defender."
Rondo's offense isn't too shabby, either.
"He's not the best shooter, but is very effective," Williams said. "Knows how to score, he knows how play off the ball when (Ray) or Paul (Pierce) are isolated, he's always cutting back-door, always making himself a threat."
For Williams, he'll see all those qualities first-hand, though unable to do anything about it.
"It's hard having to watch and not play," Williams said. "I'm a competitor; he's a competitor. Of course I want to be out there, especially against one of the best. And Rondo is definitely one of the best."
The Nets are also expected to be without forward Kris Humphries, who is nursing a left shoulder injury.