Brown's task not so tall

"But if he didn't make it, it still benefits Ernest. The fact that he gets to play in preseason games and other teams get to see him will still help. Either way, it's a win-win for Ernest. And it's going to be a win-win for us because if he makes the team, that means he beat someone else out, and that improves our team."

The Celtics signed Brown, a free agent, the day the 2003-04 regular season ended because they wanted to avoid competition for his services during the offseason. (Brown has a team option for the 2004-05 season worth $620,000.) Rivers likes the competitive dynamic among the big men that Brown helps bring to workouts. Brown comes to Boston after averaging 4.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists for its summer league entry. He played in three games for Miami during the 2001-02 season before making the minor league rounds.

"Boston has finally given me an opportunity without rolling out, `Well, without a guaranteed contract, there's no way you're going to make the team,' " said Brown. "I came in with a nice open mind, ready to play. Right now, camp is going well. The decision will be made sometime during preseason, whether I'll be here or not."

If Brown makes the team, veteran Michael Stewart could be the real odd man out. At least if the Celtics were looking to replace one center with another. But the $4.8 million Boston is slated to pay Stewart this season could make a move like that difficult for the owners to stomach. Other, less-expensive, options could include cutting some of the Celtics' younger players, but that's unlikely considering development remains a priority.

Brown has one driving focus this preseason: to make the Celtics. He has not even allowed himself to think about exhibition games as a personal showcase.

"[Rivers] wants you to rebound, block shots, and play good defense," said Brown. "I'm just concentrating on his plays and learning his strategy, and doing what needs to be done. I spent a lot of time in the [Celtics'] gym this summer, so he knows I'm a hard worker. Right now, it's basically just about playing. I'm here now and I'm concentrating on making sure I stay here."