Celtics and Lakers Expect the Unexpected

With the NBA finals now a best 3 out of 5, the tide has turned. The Celtic team has it's swagger back. With the next 3 games at home, the leprechaun may not have to travel until the parade. Kobe of course will try to bring a tsunami east. He might have to settle for a shower. Here are some key things to look for during the next 5 games.

The Celtic defense returned in game 2. It must stay for the rest of the series. Any lack of concentration, or intensity will open the door for the Laker's team. The C's had a blip on the radar at the end of the second quarter Sunday night. They realize no lead is safe.

The Laker's need to put a body on Rondo. The coaching staff must have studied the 2008 film on Rondo. The 2010 version never gives up on a play. I realize Rondo is quick, but Phil Jackson must counter his speed by keeping a body on him. If they slow Rondo, they slow the whole team.

Paul Pierce has been quiet so far. Ron Artest has done his job. He must continue to make the rest of the Celtics do the scoring. If Pierce gets hot, the whole team usually responds. Plus Pierce can get to the line even with Artest playing him. Phil will keep Artest on Pierce. The Laker's will make Ray Allen beat them, but not from three point range. Look for the Laker's to run Allen off the line. They will try to funnel Allen into the big men.

I thought I saw Lamar Odom. He was bringing out water to the players. Amare Stoudemire was right a couple weeks ago. He said Odom was lucky when he dominated the Suns in game 1 of the conference final. So far Odom has 8 points, 10 fouls.

Game 2 turned the Finals towards the Boston Celtics. Winning in the Forum tells me that home court will mean nothing in this series. The Laker's goal should be to win a game in Boston. Just one win out of three games, will get the Laker's home for the final couple games. Kobe will do this, probably by himself, he is that good. Gasol has been tremendous. He carries the team when Kobe is on the bench. Besides those players, nobody will be scoring for L.A. Bynum will be taken off his game by the whistle blowers.

When it is all over look for Boston to put up another banner. The Los Angeles Laker's will return home, only to lose in 6 games. Doc Rivers will go 2 up on Phil. Look for the great Laker's coach to retire after the series.