While I was watching Game One of the NBA Finals, I received a text message from one of my friends who can't stand Kobe. That could be an understatement; he absolutely despises, loathes, and finds fault with every trip down the court that Kobe is a part of during a game. It read, "LeBron has one more year to prove his dominance...if not then it's Kobe". I couldn't help but chuckle to myself and responded with "To hell with next year, turn your TV on. If it's on, watch closer." LeBron has had seven years to prove his self-proclaimed "King" status. He's failed. Kobe is in the final games of the best playoff performance of his already prolific career. Analysts are saying he could be considered the greatest Laker ever if he wins this title. Nothing changed Thursday night in Game One with the Lakers beating the Celtics 102-89.
Bryant continued his domination finishing with 30 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. The Lakers big men used their length to their advantage once again. Pau Gasol had 23 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks, and Andrew Bynum finished with 10 points and 6 rebounds. Gasol and Bynum also stepped up to Phil Jackson's comments earlier this week proclaiming that the Lakers' big men must play more physically. Toughness was questioned, and the Lakers wouldn't stand for it. Defensive specialist Ron Artest (15 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals) did an excellent job with his primary job of the series: limit Paul Pierce's (24 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists) effectiveness. After nine points in the first quarter, Pierce was held to just two more in the second and third quarters combined.
The Celtics remained close throughout the game, but they were "outworked" according to head coach Doc Rivers. Watching ABC's broadcast of the game, Rivers was often "wired" and said that the Celtics were never playing completely together as a team, and he was right. The Celtics did not bring the same intensity that they had throughout the playoffs, and the team never really looked like they trusted each other tonight. Ray Allen (12 points) was in foul trouble with five personals by the end of the third quarter. Rajon Rondo finished with 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists and was easily the most effective Celtic tonight. The Celtic bench that has been so clutch throughout the playoffs? Well, they played like a typical bench and were almost non-existant. The most inspiring Celtic stat tonight? Center Kendrick Perkins remained with six technical fouls (one away from an automatic suspension after the seventh). Rasheed Wallace did pick up his fifth "T" tonight, however.
Looking forward to Game Two, what can we expect? With another game at LA, my prediction is another Lakers win and a commanding 2-0 lead. The Lakers are too good at Staples Center and will not drop a game at home this postseason.
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