(Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
Final: Lakers 114, Celtics 105 - Embarrassing effort leads to embarrassing loss
BOSTON CELTICS vs. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
7:30 p.m. TNT
Line: Boston -14.5
INJURIES
Boston: Luke Kornet (QUESTIONABLE, hamstring)
Los Angeles: LeBron James (OUT, ankle), Anthony Davis (OUT, Achilles), Cam Reddish (OUT, ankle), Gabe Vincent (OUT, knee)
LAST TIME
Jaylen Brown (as usual) came out hot to pace the Celtics and help build an 18 point lead. Anthony Davis was huge early to fuel a late run and keep the Lakers close. Boston got a quick burst from Payton Pritchard but really got away from their best basketball and the Lakers cut the lead to one at the half. The shots started falling in the third, fueled by 13 by Kristaps Porzingis and 14 trips to the free throw line thanks to bonus free throws. The Celtics got contributions from just about everyone down the stretch to keep the Lakers at bay.
THINGS I’M LOOKING FOR
1. No Letdown: With LeBron and Davis ruled out of this game, very little juice is left. The updated line of 14.5 shows what Vegas thinks of this game, and the guys in Boston’s locker room definitely see that as well. The key for Boston in this game is not to let that disappointment or the thought that this will now be an easy game lead to a letdown. The Lakers have NBA players on their team as well, and this is a chance for these guys to shine on national television. They will come out strong.
2. Control the pace: The Lakers do like to run because they don’t have great shooters. So this is a plan similar to the Pacers game. Run when you can, but also force them to defend in the halfcourt. They won’t be able to do that very well, and running teams hate running back on defense.
3. Attack: With Davis out, there should be plenty of room to get into the paint. Attack and finish if you can, but make the right rim reads and work the ball around the horn for open 3-pointers. Do this early and enjoy a big lead the rest of the night.
Follow along with my thoughts as the game goes on. They’ll show up below and in the comments section, so hop in and share your opinion as well.