Rivers: 'We're not going to panic'

Doc Rivers made his weekly appearance on the Dennis & Callahan Show on Thursday, the morning after the Celtics fell to 14-17 on the season following a 93-83 loss to the Grizzlies. The Celtics have now dropped four straight, are currently in fourth place in the Atlantic Division (seven games behind the Knicks) and ninth in the Eastern Conference.

"We've been inconsistent," Rivers said. "Defense one night, offense last night. The first half last night we scored points and couldn't get stops, the second half we got stops and couldn't score points."

Rivers was asked to identify the biggest reason for the struggles of his team.

"Our inconsistent bench play, when Kevin [Garnett] comes out of games," Rivers said. "Over the year, the season so far, when Kevin has come out of games we've really struggled to get the bench to play well. ... Our depth hasn't shown, and that's one of the things we thought we would have coming into the year. That would be our biggest disappointment."

If the Celtics continue their mediocre play, there exists the possibility of a trade to change the look of the roster. Rivers was asked if Danny Ainge might make a deal if it is decided the team can't be competitive in the Eastern Conference.

"If we come to that conclusion, that time is always," Rivers said. "You know Danny, we are always going to look to improve our team but we're not going to panic."

Jeff Green had 10 points on 4-of-5 shooting in 15 minutes in Wednesday's loss, but his play has been inconsistent through 31 games. Rivers was asked if he has been frustrated in dealing with Green this season. 

"I'm patient with Jeff, I understand what he went through last year," Rivers said. "So, to me, I think patience is important with him. We push him like no other, I've probably been on him more than any other player. Last night, he only played 15 minutes, maybe he should have played more."

To hear the interview click on the Dennis & Callahan audio on demand page [1]. For more Celtics news visit weei.com/celtics [2].