Smaller Lineups A Viable Strategy Versus The Sonics?

The Celtics beat the Sonics for the second time this season accounting for half of Seattle?s loses.  In both the victories, the Celtics have gone with a smaller lineup.  Five of the seven Celtics who scored nine or more points were 6 feet 7 or shorter.

"We match up well with them," guard Paul Pierce said. "They have guys that are versatile and can play a lot of positions and I think we are the same thing.

The Sonics outplayed the Celtics in many ways and the statistical categories back this up.  The Sonics attempted 13 more shots, had four more boards and had five fewer turnovers.  

When asked whether smaller lineups might be the key to toppling the top team in the NBA, Seattle Coach Nate McMillian said simply, "I don't think so, all teams can't do this. All teams can't put those types of players out there."