Individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work. – Vince Lombardi
There's nothing better than watching Kobe Bryant carry the Lakers for three quarters, only to fall short at the end because of a complete team effort by the Celtics.
Kobe was brilliant – 41 points, 16 – 29 FG. But when a star takes 29 shots, his teammates stop playing and start watching. And that's what happened in the 4th quarter.
Glen Davis (13 points, 4 rebounds) made some HUGE plays in the 4th quarter. How about that pivot move on Andrew Bynum that resulted in a three point play? Or that charge he drew on Kobe with 2:55 remaining?
Paul Pierce was red hot in the 3rd quarter. He dropped 14 of his 32 points. The beauty of Paul – he didn't need to dominate the ball in the 4th. He let his teammates do the work.
Kevin Garnett was phenomenal – 18 points, 9-12 FG, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. He was the main reason why the Celtics outrebounded LA 43-30.
Ray Allen (21 points, 8-12 FG) had 5 big points that helped the Celtics pull away late in the game.
Rajon Rondo was a non-factor in the 1st half. He finished with 10 points and 16 assists. His 2nd half performance was a complete 180. 15 assists came after halftime!
Nate Robinson (11 points, 3-5 3FG) played his best game in weeks.
Maybe Jerry West was right to criticize the Lakers defense. The Celtics shot 60% and had 34 assists.
Pau Gasol was a non-factor. 12 points, 5-13 FG and an astonishing -20. A healthy KG is a huge reason why.
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