It was an epic rematch of last year's Finals. Both teams have faced plenty of adversity this season. Boston was hot, then cold, then in the midst of a 12 game win streak. KG's missed been out the last few days. L.A.'s dealt with injuries all season and just lost Bynum. Kobe's a game removed from a career night at The Garden.
But none of that mattered Thursday night; no excuses allowed for a game of such magnitude. In what was most important game thus far for both teams, and the Lakers stepped up to the plate, beating Boston at the TD Bankforth Garden, 110-109 in overtime. It was L.A.'s first trip to Boston since having their season ended there last year in Game 6 of the finals, falling to the Celtics, 131-92. Kobe led the Lakers with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, while Pau Gasol 24 and 14. Gotta give Gasol props. I always dog him for being soft but he stepped up.
Boston got a very balanced effort: Rajon Rondo contributed 16 points, 12 assists, and 8 boards. Ray Allen and Paul Pierce had 22 and 21, respectively. KG, in his first game back after missing the previous two with the flu, had 16 points and 6 boards. Allen slipped and fell as he hoisted and missed a final three point attempt at the buzzer.
Most significantly, though, is that the lakers got it done without Andrew Bynum. Last season, many thought that, had Bynum been healthy and playing, the Lakers would have beaten Boston. Well, he was out Thursday, and the Lakers got the W. I think that, even without Byum, the Lakers are still the best team in The L. Their role players have greatly improved, particularly Trevor Ariza, and Jordan Farmar, who's recently returned form an injury. Also, Lamar Odom quieted the critics with 20 points and 6 boards, and the game-winning free throws - a drastic improvement from his performance, or lack thereof, in last year's Finals. The Lakers better not move him. Especially in the absence of Bynum, he might be the key to the Lakers title hopes.
Ray Allen named as Jameer Nelson's replacement In 2009 All-Star Game...
I got no problem with Ray Allen, he's having the best season of "Big Three", in my opinion. But I need answers:
How is Mo Williams snubbed twice in one year? How can the Cavs, the best team in the East, have just 1 all-star?
Thats bullshit.
Also, Elton Brand = done for the year. Season-ending shoulder surgery. Karma for spurning the Clippers??? 80 million dollar bust??? I'll reserver judgment for one more season.
Other Scores From Around The League...2/5/09
Pacers 94, 76ers 99
Lakers 110, Celtics 109 (OT)
Mavs 87, Jazz 115
Via: ESPN
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