The streak will end, maybe as soon as Wednesday night in Toronto. That will mark the first time the New Normal Celtics have to play on the road. Then again ... who would have them where they are now -- four straight victories bookended by certifiable big W's -- after learning eight days ago that Rajon Rondo will miss the rest of the season?

Then again, go back to a week ago Sunday. The Heat were in town, with old friend Ray Allen making his first Boston appearance since his defection to the Voldemorts of the NBA. The Celtics had lost six straight. Jeff Green was living up to his nickname (Mr. October). Jason Terry looked more like a barnstorming biplane than a jet. Courtney Lee looked utterly lost.

And, oh yes, the Celtics' record was 20-23, including an 18-20 mark in the games Rondo played. That did not include, naturally, the three games he missed due to league-imposed suspensions, two for his dustup with Kris Humphries and one for his baby-bumping of referee Rodney Mott in Atlanta.

This was supposed to be Rondo's breakout season, not only in terms of stats and achievements, but also in terms of leadership and overall command. He was anointed the team leader in October. He was given an extra-long leash by coach Doc Rivers. His ultra-strong personality would now be even more of a factor on and off the court.

The Celtics were quite willing to live with that. Rondo was an All-Star, a difference-maker, a unique talent. But in the 38 games that Rondo played, what did the Celtics get? They got Rondo chasing a silly assists mark over the first 15 games, a chase that ended with his Humphries altercation. They got a Rondo who, according to one scout interviewed by the estimable Marc Stein, was "playing for steals and assists sometimes instead of making the winning play or the easier play or defending his guy like he should."

They got 20 losses in those 38 games. That's the statistic to focus on. The Celtics were a sub-.500 team. Now they're above water again at 24-23, winners of four straight, and it is impossible not to notice what is going on. The Celtics have become the team they were supposed to be.