Boston Celtics at Los Angeles Lakers
NBA Championship Finals, Game One
June 3, 2010 at 9pm ET on ABC - Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA
The Line: Los Angeles Lakers -5.5 Over/Under 192
It's a rematch from the 2008 finals as the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics collide in a familiar championship rivalry.
It was the Celtics season in 2008 as the acquisitions of Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett to play alongside Paul Pierce proved the perfect formula to recreate NBA championship magic in Boston against the Lakers. Kobe was hell bent on winning a championship without Shaq, but it took some time for Pao Gasol to truly blend into the roster. Gasol's contributions were fully highlighted in 2009 as Kobe got his fourth ring.
Some things remain the same from the 2008 series when Boston abused LA, but some important things have changed as well.
For Boston, the biggest change is the development of Rajon Rondo. The solid young point guard was instrumental to the team's success in '08, but has since developed a jump shot, fine tuned his stealing ability, and developed a greater mental toughness. The big three are now a little bit older, but adrenaline has a tendency to mask age and replace it with veteran hunger. Boston's bench has changed dramatically as well with the departure of James Posey and Leon Powe, and the recent resurgence of Rasheed Wallace on the current roster. Boston's starting five can be one of the most elite units in the game when gelling at their highest level.
For the Lakers, the biggest change is Pao Gasol. When LA first got the steal of the century in Gasol from Memphis, Pao's finesse style was often criticized. The Gasol of 2010 now has all the finesse and an abundance of strength and toughness that makes him the most versatile center in the league. Kobe Bryant hasn't lost an ounce of his clutchness, and Ron Artest offers a gritty veteran defensive (and possibly scoring) presence that the 2008 team lacked. The Lakers will enter the series with a little chip on their shoulder, having been worked last time these two collided in 08.
Ultimately the matchups that the coaches decide on should play a big role in how the series plays out. Using Derek Fisher to guard Rondo clearly won't work, and Kobe may have to put in some work at the defensive end in this regard. Ron Artest will likely draw Paul Pierce, giving him one of the more difficult matchups he's faced this post-season. Ray Allen could benefit if Kobe diverts his attention elsewhere, although Fisher will be apt at dodging the screens that set up Jesus Shuttlesworth's open looks. Kendrick Perkins is a worthy defender, but stopping Pao Gasol without getting into foul trouble will define the paint game. And then there's the coaching matchup of Doc Rivers vs. Phil Jackson.. and based on overall track record the Lakers have the clear advantage there.
This should be a thrilling series, and the regular season matchups were both decided by a single point. I look for LA to be much tougher than last time the two met in the finals. 5.5 points seems very tempting the way the Celtics have performed this post-season, but I think the Lakers overpower Boston in the opening game. Hate to lay the points, but I think the Lakers and their historically inflated lines are the side to be on for game one.
Brian Fitz's Pick: Los Angeles Lakers -5.5
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