Lakers fans got the present they wanted for Christmas, a strong play-off intensity caliber performance from the home team vs. born-again nemesis, the defending champs Boston Celtics riding an all-time NBA best 27-2 record into L.A.
Hard-fought throughout, the Lakers exhibited the required mental and physical toughness down the stretch, a close-out defense that was rewarded with a 92-83 victory. The clamp-down was highlighted by stand-out blocks and scoring from Pau Gasol. 7 of his 20 pts. came in the final three minutes.
As usual, Kobe Bryant led all scorers with 27 pts., w/9 rebounds and 5 assists.
Lamar Odom surprised with back-to-back 3-pt. shots in the final quarter.
Andrew Bynum contributed key blocked shots in the game and 9 pts., making his presence felt, especially on D, making it clear he was a key missing factor in last year's Finals meltdown.
As usual, the ABC loafs were off in their own little world again, especially Van Gundy. The game's a distraction to these lame asses. As a fan, I found myself yelling, "Get back to game!" at the TV, as their interminable sidebars dragged on, regardless of neglected play-by-play as the game stormed on. No rhythm of in-out with these guys. They make the Channel 9 boyz look like geniuses.
The Celtics' Big 3, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen had solid outings, but were held in check at crunch time.
Great team play, great win, as L.A. improved to 24-5, best in the West, and ended the now 27-3 Celtics win streak at 19.
Keywords: Andrew Bynum, Boston Celtics, Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen.
