West: 'I'll go to war and die for this team'

NEWPORT, R.I. -- It was an hour and a half after practice when Delonte West finally concluded his individual workout. West knows that he is under scrutiny this season and he's not taking any chances. "I’m just happy to be given this opportunity to do what I love," he said. "I’m lucky to be here. I’m happy to be here. I’m a soldier in Doc’s army. Whatever he needs me to do. I’ll go to war and die for this team. Playing every game, every minute this year like my life depended on it, cause it [does.] Nothing’s promised." 

The Celtics offer a familiar environment for West, who is facing a 10-game suspension to start the season from the NBA following his arrest on weapons charges and he is grateful for the chance. "I’ve been given this opportunity to prove to the NBA and the world that I’m a good person," West said. "I have a lot to prove and I don’t want to let anyone down. For them to say they want this guy back and Danny Ainge to say that, Wyc [Grousbeck] and the ownership and some of the players… that’s a high compliment. That’s something that you’re going to take to the grave with you. When you’re done playing you’ll tell your kids, 'Doc Rivers wanted me to play for him.' Maybe I’m not this quote unquote bad guy after all." 

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