It was predictable as Blake Griffin suffering the Clipper curse that the LA Lakers were going to coast through the season, switch the ON button in the playoffs and reach the finals. What was not expected was the Boston Celtics meeting them there.
Major storylines:
Defense
Boston took out three superstar led teams to reach the finals. Miami’s Dwyane Wade got his numbers but still succumbed to the Celtics tight D. Many expected LeBron James to bully his way against Boston. Not the case. James got his numbers but for the second straight year failed to reach the finals. Dwight Howard’s supporting cast was completely shut down. Howard did not enjoy support like he did in Orlando’s previous playoff series’.
What we’re trying to say is the Lakers have never faced a defense as stifling as Boston’s. Kobe Bryant will get his numbers but how is he going to involve his supporting cast?
The Lakers finally have someone to contain Paul Pierce. Ron Artest is the best perimeter defender in the league and he’ll make Pierce work for his points. Bryant can focus his attention towards Rajon Rondo. It’ll be interesting to see how much Pau Gasol has grown and how he’ll respond to Kendrick Perkins’ and Kevin Garnett’s rough defense.
Celtics have the obvious advantage in defense.
Rajon Rondo
Rondo is arguably the best point guard in the league. He is capable of hitting 15-footers now unlike in 2008. Bryant can’t leave him open anymore and help out swarming Pierce and Allen. The Lakers have to slow the pace down and take away Rondo’s quickness in the open court. Everything starts with Rondo on offense, if he’s shut down the entire Celtics offense will stall.
Bench
The bench will be a major factor for both teams. Rasheed Wallace has come on strong in the playoffs, Big Baby Davis provides energy and hustle and Nate Robinson can score points in a hurry. For the Lakers, Lamar Odom needs to stay focused. They can’t afford him to go drifting into space. Shannon Brown will have to play great defense on Ray Allen and Jordan Farmar has to knock down some shots.
Verdict
This is a tough call with both teams playing at such a high level. Lakers in 6 given that Kobe will be in revenge mode.
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Well I would like to see Kobe get another title plus he got everything to do it and a great chance against Boston odds are Boston – 4 for this next game and I just think LA will take that game.