Getting bedrock value

"But I like the split. I like the fact that the veterans feel responsible for the young guys. It's amazing how well Gary has just walked into our locker room and become one of our leaders immediately. It's that old saying, `You are who you are.' If you're a leader, you're a leader. He's been as positive a leader as I've seen in a long time."

Clearly, there were bigger egos to stroke, players who needed attention more than McCarty ever will. And therein lies the true value of McCarty for the Celtics. When it comes to community outreach and benefit concerts, McCarty serves as the team's go-to guy. When it comes to playing time and points, he doesn't mind being in the background as a role player.

During the exhibition season, McCarty has averaged slightly fewer than 20 minutes per game, down slightly from last season, but about what he expected. He owns career averages of 5.6 points per game, 2.8 rebounds, and 18.8 minutes. It's not how much McCarty plays or how many points he scores, but when he takes the court.

Coaches can depend on the veteran to stretch the defense with 3-point shooting and make crucial shots. He can come up with a high-scoring, high-energy performance when his teammates are struggling. He can start, as he did during all four of the Celtics' playoff games last spring. Or he can sit for three quarters, come off the bench and acclimate to the play in an instant. That versatility makes it interesting for Rivers, who has not determined how to best use McCarty or when. While the minutes will likely be inconsistent, McCarty will certainly be called on to provide energy.