Jackie MacMullan strikes again.  In her latest article, she discussed Rondo’s growth over his time with the Celtics and taking on a leadership position.  If you have time, please read it, if you don’t– find time, if you really don’t, here is a brief overview:

• In response to being labeled “stonefaced, stubborn, and moody” Rondo quips ”Like Bird, right?… Danny [Ainge] told me Larry was the same way.”  This response is perfect for someone trying to project himself into being the leader of a championship contender.  Light allusions to a Celtic great can go a long way in Boston.
• He confirmed something that has been speculated on for a while: his move ‘out of the shadows’ is quite intentional, making himself more accessible to both the media and the fan base.  This article goes a long way in doing just that.
• While the past three years he has been pushed by media and management to take control of the Celtics, the article suggests that it did not happen because the big three were not ready to relinquish control and also Rondo may not have been quite ready.  Both true, but changes to both of those conditions make his leadership breakout this year very appropriate.
• Rondo tried to watch one of Avery Bradley’s games when Bradley was playing for the Maine Red Claws.  Nice they stick together through thick and thin.
• The Rondo family home has had its fair share of Celtic visitors.  This coupled with the trips to the west coast Rondo organized shows how much of a glue guy Rondo can be.  This story is littered with examples of how Rondo cares for his teammates, and this will serve as my second official pitch for you to go read the full article.
• “Sometimes it felt like Ray spent more time talking to the media than he did to his teammates.” — Keyon Dooling.  Ouch.
• Rondo talks politics with KG.  I would give my left ear to join them in commenting on the debate tonight.
• As expected, there are a couple of quotes which seem to indicate how exasperated Rondo is about talking about the Celtics former shooting gaurd: “Ray is Ray. Hopefully he’s in a good place. I’m happy where I am. Whatever decision Ray made is what he made.”
• I have to end on this great quote from Dooling: “It’s time for people to recognize how much Rondo means, not only to this great franchise, but to this great sports town… It’s time they got to know the Rajon Rondo we’ve all been embracing for some time now.”

Well… I’m sold on Rondo as a leader.  Seriously, please go read the article.  It’s riddled with great anecdotes and gives me goosebumps in preparation for October 30th.