MADRID — Reading too much into positive preseason vibes is the curse of every sports fan, but there was plenty for the Celtics to be proud of as they eased past European champion Real Madrid, 111-96, to round off a successful trip across the pond.
Led by Avery Bradley’s 17 points in little over 20 minutes of action, and David Lee’s 13 points and team-high 11 rebounds, the young Celtics proved the gulf between Europe’s best and the NBA remains huge.
Bradley was rightly quick to point out the contribution of his teammates. This six-day trip to Europe to beat up on lesser opposition may serve more for marketing purposes than regular-season preparation, but it has made clear that what this squad lacks in superstar power, it has to make up for in team chemistry.