Issue date: 2/4/10 Section: Sports

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Even before the Celtics' 90-89 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, it was clear that they were struggling. They have now lost three games in a row. The loss to the Lakers comes after a 100-91 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Friday and a 96-94 loss to the Orlando Magic on Thursday.

Sunday's game was also Boston's sixth loss in the past eight games. With the loss to the Lakers, the Celtics have now already lost eight games at home this season. To put that into perspective, they lost only six home games all of last season. Furthermore, the Atlanta Hawks have now officially swept the season series with the Celtics.

One bright spot for Boston has been the stellar play of point guard Rajon Rondo. Currently, Rondo is leading the NBA in steals and is ranked third in the league in assists which earned Rondo a selection to his first All-Star game. He was selected over Celtics guard Ray Allen, but Allen says that he is just happy that Rondo is finally getting the recognition that he deserves.

However, the Celtics are going to need more contributions from players other than Rondo if they want to start winning again. One would think that the return of Kevin Garnett would give the team a much needed boost, but so far it has failed to do so. The Celtics should take the All-Star break and get some much needed rest.

On Monday night, the Celtics put a tough losing streak to rest, defeating the Washington Wizards in Washington 99-88. Kevin Garnett led the Celtics in scoring on Monday night with 19 points while Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo each had 17.

To put it lightly, a loss in this game would have been a large disappointment to Celtics fans against an undermanned Wizards team without the services of suspended guard Gilbert Arenas. Arenas was suspended indefinitely following a well documented incident in which he brought guns into the locker room.

Despite the victory, Boston did enter the final quarter trailing 78-74. Lately, the fourth quarter has been the "Achilles Heel" for Boston however, the Celtics, were able to pull out a victory over Washington.

Up next for Boston, much to the relief of Celtic fans, is a three game home stand. Doc River's squad will play the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, the New Jersey Nets on Friday night, and the Orlando Magic on Sunday afternoon.

Boston should be favored against the Miami Heat, who boast a .500 record at 24-24 on the year. As for New Jersey on Friday, Boston should have no problem as long as there is no let down considering the Nets are an NBA worst 4-42 on the season.

The Orlando Magic (32-16)should prove to be the toughest test for the Celtics in the three game home stand as the Celtics look to get some payback, with a little help from the hometown fans in a potential playoff series preview.

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