Really just hoping to see a shootout and thrilling series. I've seen far too many silly calls by refs this post-season so hoping the refs just let them play and make the obvious calls.

IMO Celtics are not that different from the 2008 team, except the maturity of Rondo, the addition of Finley and an aging and underperforming Wallace. Robinson is too streaky to judge effectiveness. LA seems to have matured, Gasol has bulked up a bit so it should be interesting to watch him vs. Garnet...the mental toughness of Artest will go a long ways in defending Pierce.

If my understanding of Phil Jackson's triangle science is correct, my matchup predictions:
Kobe on Rondo
Fisher on Allen
Artest on Paul
Gasol on Garnet
Bynum on Perkins

Whichever bench show's up will make the difference...Predicting LA in six.

Probably accurate. Though when Farmar comes in he will have to switch to Rondo and Kobe slide to Allen or Pierce.

Lakers all the way.,

Yes, matchups will have to change but imo the starting matchups at start of each period are key...setting pace and momentum.

I've held a belief since game 2 of lakers/suns, that winner of that matchup would win the finals. To me, the most overlooked individual of this series is Phil Jackson, given the opportunity to exact revenge, he has his Jordan and imo, better role players (this season) than with bulls. This is the recipe for a great series :D

Interesting most of the night Fisher was on Rondo and did a good job on him (actually all you have to do is stay off of him he's not a good shooter).

Rondo isn't a shooter. His points come from the paint. He is first and foremost a playmaker.

Celtics gave up midway through the 3rd quarter, and were in foul trouble before the half.

Well...he's def' a playmaker but i don't think it's fair to say he isn't a shooter, he may not be a pure shooter, but he's a shooter. Whomever guards him won't give him open looks 'cause point guards like Rondo only need free throws or jumpshots to catch a spark...and he's young enough that a spark from him could remain consistent long enough to ignite his entire squad.

:iagree:He is no Ray Allen... one of the "purest" shooters ever (no 2 in all time 3-point field goals made). However, Rondo will drain it if you let him.

lesser of two evils for me is boston, go boston!

:confused: ...no comprende...i'll just assume it's cause you're in New England.