Incredible Beginning

I'm almost at a loss for words after this, I am just glad I got to see it. This was a great game, extremely well played, and it made my heart beat faster than any game this year. Pierce might be the toughest player in the NBA, when you really think about it. This was truly a classical performance by him, an actualization of what makes him great. Obviously, Paul's health seems to be the utmost concern as the series moves forward. I don't even know what to say about the injury, or what to believe. I have to think Paul will play, but there is a chance that the injury will make it physically impossible to do so. If that happens, and I really, really shudder thinking about it, the Celtics can still win the series. But God knows it will make it much harder. But let's not try to freak out totally about that yet.

Perk's injury is also disconcerting, it is hard to say if he will even be close to 100% on Sunday. PJ played decently in his minutes tonight, but Powe definitely still should have played more in his place. Perk's injury could increase both their roles. Brown's defense was excellent down the stretch, as was every one of the Celtics' on the floor. Holding LA to 37 in the second half is phenomenal, even if the Lakers were missing plenty of shots they usually make. Actually, pretty much everyone on the Green played well tonight. Ray especially looked refreshed from the time off, and it was apparent from the outset he was willing to do anything to get the win (his 8 boards were huge.) Hopefully another two full days off before the next game will help keep his legs fresh.

Los Angeles is scary, as we all know. In the first half, which was a great half of basketball, we got to see how unstoppable they are when all the pieces are clicking. But the Celtics showed no signs of hesitancy tonight, and they couldn't afford to against such a powerhouse. Ultimately that was the most positive sign of the evening - Boston played rock solid, with none of the postseason jitters we've become all to accustomed to. Great game, great performances, and now I will worry myself to sleep.