For all the hype surrounding the NBA Finals, Game 1 lived up to it. Maybe the only thing missing from a great start to the NBA Finals was the short shorts, high tops, and knee-high socks that were the norm the last time these two teams meet in this series. Nonetheless, the Celtics pulled out a 98-88 victory in the Garden last night to take a 1-0 lead in the series. A victory that would make Bird, Parrish, and McHale proud.
Coming into the series it was obvious to say the Big 3 need to play well for the Celtics to win. That happened. Garnett lead the way with 24 points and 13 rebounds, Pierce was an efficient 7 for 10 for 22 points, and Allen had 19 points. Pierce was definitely the story in the 3rd quarter. After a poor man's Willis Reed impersonation, Pierce came back after colliding with teammate Kendrick Perkins. Pierce's reaction lead the audience to believe that would be very serious, but after about two minutes of gametime, Pierce triumphantly returned to a blazing appause which ultimately changed the momentum of the game.
As Kobe flourished in the 3rd with 12 points seemingly looking to take the game over, Pierce answered the bell. He was a perfect 5 for 5 in the quarter changing a 5 point Lakers lead into a 4 point Celtics edge going into the 4th.
As blame or praise usually falls on Kobe's shoulders, it is blame that probably should be associated with the star after the Game 1 loss. Bryant finished with a team-high 24 points but shot a dismal 9 for 26 from the floor. The Lakers could see more shooting woes for their star in the series with how well the Celtics can matchup with the star. James Posey, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Rajun Rondo took turns pestering Bryant which may be a sign of things to come.
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