Lakers vs. Celtics 2010 : Perkins Is Done, Does That Mean Boston Is Too?

 

The Celtics suffered two losses in Game Six of The NBA Finals on Tuesday. 

Most importantly, the Celtics lost the game. But fortunately for Boston, they can bounce back in Game Seven tonight. 

One thing Boston will not recover from, the loss of their six foot ten, 278 pound starting forward. Kendrick Perkins.

And for that reason alone, the Lakers will be crowned NBA Champions tonight.

Perkins tore two ligaments in his right knee during the first quarter on Tuesday. And when he left the court, Perkins took Boston’s championship hopes with him. 

Depth at the forward and center positions was the biggest advantage the Celtics had over the Lakers. But that was nullified the instant Perkins went down.

The Celtics were a tough, physical team with Perkins in the lineup.  But without him, they reverted to a jump shooting squad, with no post presence down low.

Boston still has bodies to put in the paint, but Kevin Garnett will have to turn back the clock and deliver a historic performance tonight if the Celtics are going to win.

Glen Davis must play productive minutes. Rasheed Wallace must keep his temper in check and avoid getting into foul trouble.

I am not as worried about Rasheed showing up as I am for “Big Baby” Davis. 

Davis has yet to prove that he can play effectively on the road.  He had a monster night in Game Four at home (we all saw the drool). But without the energy from his home crowd, I think his contribution off the bench will be minimal.

Bench production will be the biggest factor for Boston, but their starters will also have to make plays.

The Celtics are not going to give the Lakers the game. LA must make sure they close out, and play with the same urgency they brought on Tuesday. 
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers