NBA FINALS

Tonight is game four of the Final series between the LA Lakers and the Boston Celtics, and though I sadly will be unable to watch, I have a feeling it is going to be a good one.

To back up and recap a bit, the Lakers are up 2-1, winning games one and three. The scores of the first three games have been 102-89, 103-94 and 91-84, and although surprisingly there hasn't been as much drama as I expected, certain players have made headlines.

To start with game one, Kobe was pretty much the leader. He scored 30 points overall, the lead scorer for both his team as well as topping Paul Pierce's 24, and lead his team to their first victory of the series. However, to give credit to the Celtics, something I usually hate doing, most of their key players (Pierce, Allen, Rondo, KG) did their thing as well, and tried their hardest to pull out in front.

Game two was a whole different story, not only due to LA's loss, but because Ray Allen outdid not only everyone else on the floor, but also made history by hitting eight three pointers, eventually ending up with 32 points for the evening. Rondo also did his thing with 19 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists, giving the Celtics a nine point win over the Lakers.

And as for game three, fortunately the Lakers were able to take back their lead, but not without some trouble from the Celtics, as it was a tight one throughout almost the whole game. Though at first Kobe was quiet, he finished with 29 points, leaving Derrick Fisher for honorable mention, not even by way of his 16, but by critical shots. In fact, he was so happy and proud of himself after the fact, he cried while interviewed. Manly? No. But understandable. Especially when the opponent is a long time rival. KG may have put in work with 25 points and a whole lot of chest beating, but Ray Allen had a horrible night 2 points deep. Granted, I surely didn't expect a repeat of game two, as such things in a row rarely if ever happen, but despite my dislike for the Celtics, it pained me to watch him struggle as much as he did.

Game four may not be a closing game, but I believe the result could very well determine the flow of at least the next game, if not the next two, or three. From the viewpoint of Boston, it is crucial to tie the series, both because they are at home and to keep motivation high. And for LA, it is just the opposite. An away win and continuing lead over the Celtics may very well give them the extra bit of drive they need to take it all. In any case, tonight shall be interesting, to say the least. And though again, I won't be watching, my heart is with the Lakers, 110%.