BOSTON -- When the final buzzer sounded on the Boston Celtics' 128-119 triumph over the Sacramento Kings on Sunday afternoon, Rajon Rondo first embraced former backcourt mate Avery Bradley then stood near halfcourt as a stream of his former coaches and teammates came over to share a moment. It almost looked like a receiving line, those on Boston's side maybe expressing their condolences for the Kings' struggles and Rondo complimenting his former squad on the progress they've made.
Rondo's return to Boston on Sunday -- only the second visit since he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks in December 2014 -- served as a reminder of just how far the Celtics have come since his departure.