Danny Granger returns from a one-game suspension tonight. (Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)

Just a brief preview tonight, guys.

Sorry it’s going to be so short, but I will be attending the Brandeis-Rhode Island College Sweet 16 game, and I’ll be on the road by the time you read this.  Today, I also had to write a paper, go to ballet class, and bring my girlfriend to the airport.   (Seriously, I’m in ballet.  I’m about as good at it as Andris Biedrins is shooting free throws.  It’s an easy two credits though, baby.)

With all that stuff to do, I’ve been awake since 4:00 a.m. and still don’t have any time to write the preview. Talk about being busy.

Because of the Brandeis game, I may or may not be able to write the recap.  Sorry, no promises; I just don’t know how late the game will end.  There are very few things more important than the Celtics, but my best friend’s potentially final college basketball game is one of them.

If I can’t get back in time for a recap, I promise there will be extensive coverage tomorrow.  I love DVR.

*****

Three things to look for in today’s game:

1. Energy – It all starts with the heart.  If the Celtics can show a little, they should win this game handily.  If they don’t show any, they might get smacked around.  Sometimes, basketball is as simple as “Who wants it more?”
2. Anyone but Tyler Hansbrough – The UNC legend is sidelined — maybe for the rest of the season — with an ear infection.  I repeat: an ear infection.  One last time:  He might miss the remainder of the season with an ear infection.  Even little kids get over ear infections in a week or two, don’t they?
3. Paul Pierce – There has been a lot of negativity surrounding the Big Three recently.  (The whole team, too.)  Pierce, especially, has taken some heat in the media.  Can he bounce back from his struggles tonight?