BOSTON -- For over 20 minutes, Celtics rookies JaJuan Johnson and ETwaun Moore ran the court in a scene reminiscent of their previous four years at Purdue University.
The former college teammates have both received limited playing time this season on a veteran team. But with a shorthanded lineup on Tuesday against the Miami Heat, the two played meaningful minutes together.
Johnson recorded six points, three rebounds, two blocks, and a steal in 23 minutes. Moore posted seven points, seven boards, and one assist in over 24.
Following the Celtics 78-66 win, Johnson and Moore talked to CSNNE.com about playing together once again:
Back in Action Together
Johnson: It felt good. Its always fun to just play with somebody youre really, really comfortable with. Especially getting a win, thats the most important thing. It was just fun that we were able to contribute and have a good time.
Moore: It was definitely fun. I know his game, I know what he likes to do. Its always great when we play together. It was just fun.
College vs. the NBA
Boston Celtics
Johnson: The biggest difference, I guess, in college we were like the guys who you know were getting the ball. So you kind of play off of that a lot. Obviously at this level weve got to pay our dues and keep trying to improve. Thats the difference. Youve still got to play within the team offense.
Moore: Its not a whole lot different. Were doing kind of similar things -- pick-and-roll, pop, hand off, things like that. Its kind of similar.
Assessing One Another Then and Now
Johnson: I think ETwaun has slowed down a lot. His ball handling has got a lot better. Hes been running the sets, he gets people more organized, and everything like that. Its been good just to see that from him.
Moore: I see JaJuan has definitely got a little stronger, more physical. That was definitely a step up. Hes always learning more.That (Johnson was called for an offensive foul) was what he needed, a little physical.