Rondo’s extension gives Celtics hope for the long haul

Longtime Celtics fans are all too familiar with what it is like to watch an aging trio of stars limp their way into the sunset, for it was 20 years ago that we first saw the lasting image of Larry Bird unable to sit with his teammates on the bench in fear that his back would tighten up, rendering him unable to play. Such is the life of NBA stars on the backside of 30, especially when those stars are forced into heavy minutes simply for their team to remain competitive. The question still remains, however: If Len Bias had not tragically passed away, would a burden have been taken off the shoulders of the original Big 3? Would the Celtics have competed for even more championships? And would the infusion of his youthful legs have extended the careers of arguably the greatest front line ever to wear a NBA uniform? Unfortunately, those questions will forever remain radio talk-show fodder. The good news is, 20 years later, the new “Big Three” have now got their young star, their infusion of youth, and quite possibly their key to the NBA’s fountain of youth in point guard Rajon Rondo.With the ink still damp on his new five-year, $55 million contract, Rondo has suddenly become the most significant bridge in Boston, for when the playing days of the current Big Three are done, it will be Rondo leading the charge for a new group of Celtics. Coach Doc Rivers says Rondo is still preparing for this challenge.”He still wants to get better,” Rivers said. “He needs to keep working on his game to improve it. He’s earned what he has, but this can’t be your defining moment of your career. Winning has to be your defining moment and just getting better has to be it.”What this deal means for this current group of Celtics is simple. No excuses. Pending free agency can be a distraction, especially to young players on the verge of their first big payday. With Kevin Garnett healthy, Paul Pierce in the best shape of his life, the defense giving up an NBA-low 81 points per game, and Rondo paid, this group of Celtics truly has the opportunity to be one for the record books.Twenty years ago, the Celtics’ bridge between the present and the future collapsed, sending the Green into a two-decade-long tailspin. With the signing of Rondo to a long-term extension, the Celtics have not only extended their current window of championship opportunity, they have managed to make sure that their next championship window comes sooner rather than later.