Jeff Green realizes that patience can be short in Boston, especially when every game is significant and he was considered the Celtics’ major free agent acquisition this season.

While there was an understandable grace period after he underwent surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm, Green slowly has found his way in his role as sparkplug off the bench, volume scorer, and capable 3-point shooter.

In four December games, Green is averaging 15.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 56.8 percent shooting from the field and 60 percent from the 3-point line. After being wildly inconsistent through the season’s first month, Green is beginning to settle down, find his niche, and contribute to Celtics victories.

“Being aggressive, attacking the rim, getting to the free throw line,” he said when asked the reasons for his recent success. “I’m getting there [physically]. My balance is getting there. I’m running the floor hard, at a good pace defensively. Staying low. My legs are getting a lot stronger. It’s been a slow process but it’s coming along.”

via Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe