Rationale for Scalabrine

As expected, Brian Scalabrine will get the start for the Celtics tonight in place of the suspended Kevin Garnett.

If it seems strange for a player who averaged just 1.8 points and 1.7 rebounds in 48 games last season to start in place a perennial All-Star, Doc Rivers offers a couple of reasons for the move.

"We want to keep the second unit intact," Rivers told the media. "Scal's a utility player. He played the 3 the other night, He plays the 4. He plays within his role."

The other night was a 13-minute stint against the Bucks in which Scalabrine went 2 for 2 and had 1 assist in his most extensive playing time of the season.

Leon Powe was another option to start at the 4, but Powe's an energy player whose game seems suited to come off the bench. After a 21-point effort in Game 2 of last year's NBA Finals, Powe put up a dud when he started Game 5 in place of Kendrick Perkins, going scoreless in 5 minutes of play.

Like Powe, Glen Davis lacks experience as a starter in the NBA. And rookie Patrick O'Bryant lacks experience, period. So Scalabrine, for one night, appears to be the best option.

"You don't replace Kevin Garnett," said Rivers. "Everybody chips in a little. Everybody plays their role."