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Lakers stave off elimination
By Jeremy Kahn June 15, 2008 |
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Just three nights after blowing a 24-point lead, the Los Angeles Lakers jumped out to a 19-point lead over the Boston Celtics. Unlike game four, the Lakers were able to hang on and defeated the Celtics, 103-98 before 18,997 at Staples Center. With the victory, the Lakers staved off elimination for at least more one game, as the series will head back to Boston for game six and, if necessary, game seven on Thursday also in Boston. Kobe Bryant, who scored 15 points in the first quarter alone, was held to just 10 points over the final three quarters, but no two points were as big as his breakaway dunk in the final minute and the Lakers were able to send their fans home happy. Lamar Odom helped out Bryant, as he scored 20 for the Lakers, who are trying to become the first team ever to comeback from a 3-1 deficit to win an NBA Championship. Paul Pierce was absolutely magnificent in the loss, as he led all scorers with 38 points, while Kevin Garnett scored 13 points and grabbed 14 rebounds. Bryant got off to a huge start, as he hit four three-pointers in the first quarter, as the Lakers jumped out to a 25-15 lead. Vladimir Radmonovic made it 29-15, as he received a pass from Bryant. Jordan Farmar scored on a layup, to push the Lakers lead up to 41-22; however, like Thursday night, the Celtics got back in the game, even taking the lead at one point. Over the final 11:47 of the first half, the Celtics outscored the Lakers 31-14 to end the half, trailing by just three points. |
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