Now or Later?
Two years ago the Boston Celtics won their first NBA title in 24 years and celebrated on their home floor with a 4-2 series win over the Los Angeles Lakers. In 2009, the Lakers stormed back to the Finals with a vengeance and beat the Orlando Magic at their place. That’s when we all witnessed Kobe Bryant breathe a sigh of relief that told those who doubted he could win it all without Shaquille O’Neal, no matter what arena he played in.
How ironic is that here we are, two years later, watching the same two teams on the biggest NBA stage, simulating a revival of the old Celtics/Lakers rivalry that ruled back in the 1980s, starring Magic Johnson, Larry Byrd, etc., since this list could go on until tomorrow…
This 2010 finals series will either end tonight or Thursday in the Celtics’ favor, who will have to settle (but surely not complain!) for celebrating a title win on the road this time. Paul Pierce could have a stellar show in his hometown of LA, and maybe with much help from the other two of the ‘big3′ or Boston’s bench players, who can’t be denied this series.
Or, maybe Kobe Bryant will score at least 35 points or 40 to make up for the Lakers’ rather lame bench play. And hey, if Roy Artest gets that glazed look off his face and come back to earth to play, and Lamar Odom could stop honeymooning for just one night with Khloe Kardashian, they can help Bryant pull off the upset. Then the Lakers can have that planned parade after hoisting up the trophy for a second straight season- this time in front of their home crowd.
It’s all pie in the sky for LA unless they force Boston to a game 7, and take it from them, because right now, with a 3-2 series lead this is basically Celtic’s title to win now or later (seven games). Unless, they leave the door wide open…
Knowing what Kobe is capable of, miracles and clutch performances happen. He most definitely has the skills, but it’s #24’s will to win that takes over the game. And to differentiate himself from other greats he’s emulated, this year Kobe shows he means business by introducing to us the bottom rack of his teeth. Look out!
Better yet, Boston better be on guard. To totally go up in flames the next two games and hand it all over to the Lakers on a gold platter would be a hot pot of mess for the Celtics now that they have the advantage.
So while Kobe shows his grill, Coach Doc Rivers should be preaching to his Celtics to show some guts. And close it out.
Sticking to my original prediction: Boston’s defense and bench will make a difference and they win this series and their 28th NBA title in 7 games.
Game 6 between the Celtics and Lakers is 8pm CT at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
[...] vacation package for a few teammates? Bryant did thank Gasol, mind you, but before game 6 I said Artest and Odom had to come out of their funks and make some plays if the Lakers were to have a shot at a comeback and title. Artest was right on [...]