Celtics Show Lakers They Are For Real Win 107-94

Fans who were old enough, who attended the contest Friday night between the Boston Celtics and The Los Angeles Lakers must have had memories of 1984. That was the last time Boston defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals. Not to say that these editions of the teams are at all comparable at this point to the Larry/Magic teams, but Boston fans at the “New Garden” had to be pleased at what they saw. Boston led Los Angeles at the half 53-35, and won the game in convincing fashion 107-94.

As it has been all season this game was the result of the joint effort of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen. Considering these three players have been together now for only 11 regular season games, it is remarkable how cohesive a unit they are. They truly are an example of the whole being greater than the sum of their collective parts. Remember, up until this season each one of these three superstars were used to bearing the brunt of the workload on their won shoulders. When you have been in a situation like that long enough it is very tough to trust someone else with responsibility. It also means putting your ego, and personal goals aside for the greater good. These three players constantly defer to each other as well as their teammates. That just shows you just how special these three athletes are, and just how much they want that elusive championship.

As dominant as Garnett, Pierce, and Allen have been the team would not have opened their campaign like they have unless the “weak links” in the starting lineup complimented them. Well Boston coach Doc Rivers has to be pleased so far with point guard Rajon Rondo, who has far exceeded expectations. Even in a game like Friday when he only scored 6 points, far below his season average, he had 10 assists. And center Kendrick Perkins all?he did was lead the team along with Kevin Garnett in scoring?with 21 points, and added 9 rebounds as well. K.G. had yet another double-double this season as he pulled down?11 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocked shots and a steal. Pierce scored 20, 9 assists, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals, while Allen?added 18 points, 4 boards, and?4 assists. James Posey had another nice night for Boston off the bench with 10 points, and 6 rebounds.

Los Angeles guard Kobe Bryant led the way for the Lakers with 28 points, 4 rebounds , 4 assists, Vladimir Radmanovic came off the bench to score?18 points, and had 4 rebounds. And starting guard Derek Fisher as well as reserve guard?Jordan Farmar each had 13 points in the loss. Los Angeles falls to a record of 7-5, while the Celtics have a league best record of 10-1.