only chance at Game 7
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By Zac Williams. June 17, 2008
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1. Kobe Factor - Always Kobe Bryant having a great all around game is going to be the biggest key to the Los Angeles Lakers winning their first game in Boston this year. The Celtics have done a pretty good job defending him at home but also he's had plenty of good looks at the basket that have not gone in his favor thus far. Being the biggest game of the year so far, expect KB24 to give it everything he has offensively, defensively, and by talking to and keeping his teammates in the game at the same time.
2. Celtics Injuries - With the current injuries to Rondo and Perkins, other Boston bench players are going to have to have a great game in order to close the deal (remember Powe in Game 2). This is also a very good opportunity for LA's Odom, Fisher and Gasol to come out aggressive and help limit the bench from scoring and help free up the double team on KB24.
3. Derek Fisher - Where ya been buddy? D-Fish needs to start playing the clutch role player his reputation has been built up to be. He has basically been non-existent this series and for the current Lakers roster to win a title he has to play his best basketball.
4. Paul Pierce - This guy obviously is a heavy hitting offensive and defensive player like Kobe and Lebron, especially with his home crowd cheering him on. The Lakers defense is going to have to be intense against this guy, if not expect an easy 30+ points for Pierce by the end of the game.
5. Bench vs. bench - The Celtics bench players are bigger, like to play a slower paced game, and are more physical. The Lakers bench is faster, has better shooters, and has better passers. The Lakers bench needs to absolutely attack and run the ball down the court in order to produce more points than the home bench. If they run the ball and make good passing decisions the Celtics will wear out quick like we've seen a couple times now at Staples Center.
6. Coaching - Phil Jackson DON'T FALL ASLEEP!!!!
GO KOBE GO!
You were there.