PHILADELPHIA - The Celtics' heavy offensive reliance on Paul Pierce and Antoine Walker has earned them a few twisted looks from alleged basketball purists. But concentrated shooting patterns can work. Just ask Larry Brown, who rode an even narrower strategy (read: Allen Iverson) to the NBA Finals last season.

The 76ers' coach has admitted he likes a more balanced approach, but he is willing to accept what fits. And he thinks it fits just fine with the Celtics - and wasn't taking back his praise even after his club busted the Bostonians to the tune of 99-83 last night.