Marquis ‘quisy’ Daniel’s arrival is supposed to give Paul Pierce and Ray Allen some added rest during the grind of the regular season. His 6’6’’ frame makes him an above average defender.  The Celtics have not had a viable utility man since their championship year of 2008.

James Posey was a lightly regarded signing during the 2007-08 season.  His agent had to convince him that Boston was the right fit for him.  Posey made famous the pre-game man-hugs a game-time ritual. Others made fun of it but the Celtics embraced it (no pun intended) and ended up being the last team standing.

Last season, Posey was gone, though the Celtics didn’t struggle, injuries to the front line made his absence even more painful.  It didn’t help that Tony Allen continued to be a non-factor in his fourth injury-prone season. 

This season the Celtics got a utility man who was already willing to buy into the ubuntu concept. Daniels was willing to sign a minimum contract, even though he could make more money elsewhere.  He says he wants to fit in and do whatever it takes to help bring banner 18 to Boston. 

Five game into the preseason and he has indeed been that glue with the second unit.  Pre-season numbers are skewed, but his ability to run and understand the offense is evident. 

There is no assumption here that Daniels is Posey.  He is not a reliable three-point threat; rather he is more of a slasher and will get his threes the old-fashioned way.

He is a throwback player who rarely dunks; his movement on the court looks awkward.  Sometimes you want to say what is this guy doing, till he makes a sweet pass to Eddie in the corner for a three.  How about a bounce-pass to Glen Davis for a lay-up after drawing the defense?

Quisy, brings an added dimension that Posey didn’t.  He is a better passer and not just a spot of shooter.  This makes him a more dangerous offensive threat.  The defense has to pay attention to him at all times, not just on the three point line.

The Celtics have made another ripple in the championship continuum.  Let us hope that marquis Daniels helps the Celtics make the loudest noise in June.

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