In what was one of the most bizarre, smash-mouth, defensive-minded games in NBA Finals history, the Lakers defeated the Celtics 83-79 in the deciding Game 7 to claim the 2010 NBA championship. Kobe Bryant struggled mightily throughout the game, shooting only 6-24 from the floor, but made up for his offensive struggles with an impressive rebounding contribution (15 boards), and an ability to get to the free-throw line (11-15). Bryant’s 28 point and 8 rebound averages throughout the series also landed him the NBA Finals MVP award.
The Celtics led for the majority of the game, taking advantage of Bryant’s poor shooting from the field, but they couldn’t match the Lakers’ impressive 30-point fourth quarter. While the Celtics had played fantastic defense for the first three quarters, the Lakers made it a point to attack the basket which led to foul after Boston foul. The Lakers ended up shooting 21 free-throws in the fourth quarter, giving the Lakers the advantage they needed to win the game. It was apparent that the Celtics dearly missed Kendrick Perkins’ defensive presence down low, as they struggled to defend Pau Gasol in the post and couldn’t to keep pace with the Lakers’ rebounding efforts.
The Lakers found major help from Gasol and Ron Artest, who each came up with their second straight big game after their disappearing act in Game 5. Gasol contributed a modest 19 points, but was a monster on the glass with 18 rebounds. He was also the focal point of the Lakers offense down the stretch when Bryant’s shot couldn’t be relied upon. Artest continued to harass Paul Pierce on the defensive end of the floor, grabbed five steals, and put up 20 points (including a timely three). Those statistics pale in comparison to how brilliant his postgame interview was, thanking (among others) his hood, his doctor, his psychiatrist and finishes with a finale of promoting his upcoming rap single. Only Ron Artest.
It was a fantastic back-and-forth series that never lacked in drama or intrigue. It was hard to tell who had the edge at any given point in the series, because the momentum could shift at any moment. It was a battle of stars clashing, making life difficult for one another, and prevailing through what must have been an emotional roller-coaster at times. For a NBA playoffs that has, for the most part, been far from compelling – this heated series between the Lakers and Celtics was a great way to wrap up the season.
But the Lakers deserve to be commended for winning their second title in a row. It will be interesting to see if they can make it back again next year for their fourth NBA Finals appearance in a row. If they do, it would be an opportunity for Bryant to get his sixth championship, tying the amount of titles Michael Jordan won throughout his career.
Do you anticipate seeing the Lakers back in the Finals next year?
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lakers r the best and know one can beat them.im a true fan, 4 years.those guys r untouchable and we love it.c u celtic but not in this life time