Kobe Bryant proved that the Boston Celtics can’t guard him one-on-one, or even two-on-one. For 48 minutes, Bryant shredded the Celtics defense while scoring 38 points in the game and going off for 19 points in the third quarter.
However, Bryant and the Lakers are still one game away from losing the NBA Finals after the Celtics defeated them 92-86.
The Celtics baited the Lakers into becoming a one-man team by conceding to Bryant’s scoring binge and playing rigorous defense on the other four Lakers who who were on the court. Pau Gasol was the only Laker starter to reach double figures besides Bryant and the bench combined for only 13 points.
The Celtics were able to take a 3-2 lead in the Finals with the help of four starters in double figures and Paul Pierce’s 27 points. Game 6 will take place on Tuesday in Los Angeles. –a.r.
