Celtics-Lakers, Game 1. Boston's stifling team defense keeps arguably the best player in the game out on the perimeter and out of the lane. The superstar shoots an uncharacteristically low percentage. “I had some good looks, they just didn’t go down for me,” a resolute Kobe Bryant said.
Celtics-Cavaliers, Game 1. Boston's stifling team defense keeps arguably the best player in the game out on the perimeter and out of the lane. The superstar shoots an uncharacteristically low percentage. “I missed a lot of shots I know I can make,” James said, staring at the stat sheet incredulously.
I don't know what Game 2 of the NBA Finals is going to bring… but I do know this: The Celtics can successfully keep a perimeter star that wants to drive… out on the perimeter. They have a plan of attack on defense that forces that perimeter player to do just enough different… that those shots fall just short… or just long. The difference between the Lakers and the Cavs is… the Cavs are a much better rebounding team. If the D can keep Kobe just off balance enough in Game 2…. he WILL go into hero-mode… and we're going to see the good ol' 25-30 shot, no-pass Kobe try to find his range.
Kobe has a legacy to consider here. He's going to try to win this on his own. I think the C's will be happy to let him try.
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