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Dave McMenamin

  (2:55 PM)

I just got out of a meeting in the NBA Entertainment "war room" and I feel so riled up for this series, I might as well just have been sumo wrestling with George Karl in the locker room. Thanks for stopping by, I'll start off this marathon chat today and six hours later we'll all be watching this Back to the Future Lakers-Celtics series tip off. Let's get it started! (Yes, I just quoted Fergie, but this is real excitement I have going through me, so I don't care. I think my heartbeat is in sync with the Rocky theme song - duh DUHH DUHH DUHH duh DUHH DUHH duh duh DUHHHHH)

Joe (Oakland, CA)

Who would you take if you had to build your team,MJ or Kobe? I would still take MJ, he was just unstoppable on sides of the court and didn't take a half off.

Dave McMenamin

  (3:00 PM)

Starting off with Kobe vs. MJ. I love it. Are we talking about Kobe at 29 vs. Jordan at 29? If so, then there's a chance I take the Kob'ster. If we're talking from start of their career, to end of their career, MJ is the no brainer. Of course, Kobe could go on to win three more MVPs and four more rings before he retires and make me look foolish.

Mike: Boston, MA

Any idea of who tonights officiating crew will consist of?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:01 PM)

We post the referee assignments every morning on NBA.com:http://www.nba.com/news/referee.htmlTonight it's Bavetta, Foster and Rush.The NBA: Where Transparency Happens.

Vince (Paoli, PA)

Yo Dave-Remember the good ole days when you could closeline someone in the finals (McHale->Kurt Rambis) and not even get ejected from the game? I do, and they were awesome.Do you think the players on both teams really care about the old rivalry or is it something that only matters to the media/fans?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:05 PM)

If you hear Kevin Garnett talk about the intensity of playoffs vs. the regular season, you'd think he was describing croquet vs. rugby. Pride is a huge element in the postseason - this is when players build their legacies - so extraneous elbows and a little shoving here and there isn't about violence, it's about protecting their pride.As for players caring about the rivalry, I can tell you they do. They're watching the old games on NBA TV and ESPN, they're reading the stories, they see Sports Illustrated's cover this week. They're just as geeked as we are.

Igor (Los Angeles)

How similar is this years Spurs team which the lakers beat 4-1 with the Boston team. They both have a good defense and no offense. They both have 3 great players and they both have a hard time scoring at times. What are some reasons not to expect another 4-1 laker victory?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:07 PM)

Interesting comparison. You could go even further and say that an injured Manu is similar to the hampered Ray Allen who is playing with jello ankles. A five games series is a possibilitiy, but I'm going with Lakers in 6.

Dylan, San Francisco, CA

Dave- Any initial inkling on how the Rondo/House/Cassell rotation is going to look? Seems like a lot of people are pining for House to take up all of Rondo's bench minutes...is Doc done with Sam?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:10 PM)

All Doc has to do is some smart substitutions. Don't put Sam out there with Posey, Powe, Perkins and P.J. where he's the dominant personality and shoots everytime down the court because the other guys out there can't throw a rock in the ocean. Have him out there with KG and Pierce and make him accountable.That said, if I'm a Celtics fan, I don't want to see too much Sam I Am this series.

Mitch Smith (New Albany, IN)

Who do you think has the edge in the Perkins-Gasol matchup? Is Perkins' toughness going to be too much for Gasol?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:13 PM)

If Gasol's 15 footer is falling, then Pau wins the matchup in a landslide. If it's flat and he starts going inside to put up those flimsy flip shots of his, then Perk could prove more valuable. I know that 16-15 game in the Pistons series made Perkins look like a hybrid of Rick Mahorn and the Hulk, but that was a career night, not an every day occurrence.

Diane Cannon (LA)

The Lakers will not give me tixs anymore. I am not famous enough:( They gave them to Tiger Woods

Dave McMenamin

  (3:14 PM)

I still have love for you, Ms. Cannon. You've got a shape to you. And there's nothing quite like a woman dressed in purple leather.

Nicolas, Arizona

Hello Dave....The best defensive in the league vs the best offense...who will win?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:17 PM)

I've figured out that one of the main reasons I love basketball is because there is almost constant scoring. My attention span doesn't jive with nil-nil affairs in hockey or soccer.That said, I'm going with the offense. As John Madden says, the team who has the most points up on the scoreboard at the end of the game is probably going to be the winner.

Paul (Stratham, NH)

This is a question for Dave McMenamin. I'm a long time reader - first time blogger, but...if you could assemble your all-time Lakers team and all-time Celtics team who would be on those teams and who would win in a best of seven series under the current 2-3-2 system with Boston having home court advantage. Go Celtics! Make it rain!-Paul

Dave McMenamin

  (3:20 PM)

We'll do the starters:Celtics - Russel at the five, Garnett at the four, Bird at the three, Pierce at two, Tiny Archibald at the one.Lakers: Shaq at the five, Wilt at the four, Elgin Baylor at three, Magic and Kobe in the backcourt.The Lakers win in 5. Their guards are too good.

Nick (Syracuse, NY)

Besides the normal "X-Factors", couldn't the point be made that really the biggest difference maker in the finals for the Lakers would be the space cadet? If he gets hot and goes on one of those I feel like actually playing and making 3pointers today kind of moods, it would be truly shocking since it seems like he is the forgotten Laker, after all he has been able to come through at the most random times, even though it's only in small doses...

Dave McMenamin

  (3:22 PM)

Great to hear from Cuse. How 'bout that LAX team? As for Space Cadet, aka Mr First Quarter, aka Vlad Rad, I don't think we'll see that much of him in The Finals. If I'm Phil Jackson, I give Luke Walton and maybe even Trevor Ariza more playing time and put them on Paul Pierce in spells.

Lem, Medford MA

I believe that Ray Allen is the key for the Celtics to beat the Lakers. Without him, I dont think they have the firepower to take down LA. How much of a factor is Ray Allen in your eyes?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:24 PM)

Ray Allen's play is paramount. The Celtics struggle to score in streches, and if he's giving you the 17-22 points he's supposed to, that makes everything easier for the rest of the Boston team.

Lamar Odom (Lakers)

I feel that I am the x-factor in the series. Wat do you think? Kobe will be kobe, and gasol is gonna get like 18 and 7. Also, who do you think is gonna win the series and in how many games and why?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:26 PM)

Lamar, I know you get going when Kobe and Pau are on their game and everything opens up for you, but how about you go out, be aggressive and show us what you can do. I saw that late three you hit against Utah, I know you have it in you.As for the series:Lakers in 6. Boston wins tonight with the homecrowd push, L.A. takes Games 2, 3, 4. Boston wins in L.A. in Game 5 in a dig-deep last-ditch effort and the Lakers close it out in Boston in Game 6 to stop the Celtics from having the chance to have the home crowd behind them in Game 7.

Chris Wallace: (Memphis, TN)

Should I send my ring size to Jerry Buss or to the manufacturer directly?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:26 PM)

You send your specs to Buss and Kevin McHale just faxed his to Wyc Grousbeck.

Kelly (Holliston, MA)

Who wants it more - Kobe or KG?

Dave McMenamin

  (3:29 PM)

I'll sound like Bill Clinton, but it depends on what "it" is. If "it" is team acceptance, then if it's KG. If "it" is the desire to be known of the best of all time, then it's Kobe.

Lou (Los Angeles, CA)

Dave - I just wanted to tell you that if Bill Simmons and Rick Reilly had a love child, it would be you.

Dave McMenamin

  (3:31 PM)

Ha, we'll end on this one.Thanks for taking the time to chat. I'll be covering the Lakers beat this series and be chatting again on Sunday for Game 2.Now I'll kick it to NBA.com's John Schuhmann, our resident numbers guy, who will be covering the Celtics.

John Schuhmann

  (3:32 PM)

McMenamin is a tough act to follow, but I'll try my best. Let's go.

Drake (PA)

How much of a factor REALLY is home court advantge? It seems to me that the game is 5-on-5, the best team wins, doesnt matter if you play on the moom.

John Schuhmann

  (3:34 PM)

Over the course of the series, the best team will win. But after watching this year's playoffs, you can't doubt the power of home court advantage in a game.And I'd love to see Andre Iguodala's hang time on the moon. Let's see if we can set that up.

Antoine Walker (Dunkin Donuts)

Any chance Danny Ainge can sign me to a one day contract so I can hoist ill-advised shots and play no defense like Sam Cassell? Hey, at least I can wave a towel and wiggle...

John Schuhmann

  (3:36 PM)

Hey, you got your title. You're the last one who should be begging for more.

Brandon: Centereach,NY

Do you think the celtic defense used on lebron will work with Kobe, considering he is a much better outside shooter and he is also shooting over 50% for the playoffs? Allowing Kobe to shoot outside jumpers doesn't sound like a good idea!

John Schuhmann

  (3:38 PM)

You make a good point. Sagging off of Kobe is certainly a less desirable situation than sagging off LeBron. But it's probably better than the alternative. You don't want Kobe getting into the paint, breaking down the D and creating easy opportunities for his teammates.

Andre (Paris, France)

I read that if the Celtics win this Finals, that Rajon Rondo will be on par with Magic and Tony Parker, do you agree wit this?

John Schuhmann

  (3:40 PM)

I'd like to know where you read this. Does Rajon's mom have a column in the Louisville Courier-Journal?

Shaun (Los Angeles, CA)

Hello resident numbers guy from NBA.com! I have numbers for you... look at the playoff averages of the "Big 3" from both teams (KG, Allen, Pierce vs. Kobe, Gasol, Odom):Celtic 'Big Three' average: 54/18/11 (45%, 1.1 bpg, 3.1 spg)Laker 'Big Three' average: 65/25/13 (51%, 3.9 bpg, 2.6 spg)The Lakers trio lead in all but one category. They have the better coach and bench. They are undefeated at home while the Celtics are 2-7 on the road. If not for home court advantage doesn't that suggest that the Celtics had no chance coming into the series?

John Schuhmann

  (3:43 PM)

No chance? Those are strong words. The Lakers are certainly the stronger team offensively. But their big three's numbers will go down against the Boston defense.And the Boston big three's numbers should go up against the faster paced Lakers.Of course, the only numbers that count are the final scores for each team.

Mart(LA)

What Andre from Paris read was that like Magic and Parker, Rondo would win in his second year.

John Schuhmann

  (3:45 PM)

Aha. Thanks for the clarification. Well, if Rondo puts up 42 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists and 3 steals in a Game 7 win for the Celtics, we can talk.

Greg: Tampa, FL

The one advantage I do not hear being discussed is the Celtics ability to rebound. I see Perkins having a huge series on both the offensive and defensive glass. When the Celtics out rebound their opponents usually they win, do you see this being the case in this series as well?

John Schuhmann

  (3:49 PM)

Hey, I discussed it here: http://www.nba.com/finals2008/styles_20080602.htmlRebounding will be big. The Jazz gave the Lakers some trouble with their work on the boards and second-chance points, outrebounding L.A. by 8.0 boards per game.We know that the Celtics' offense can struggle at times, but if they can get offensive boards, it will provide them extra opportunities and slow down the Lakers as well.

Ben (DC)

Didn't Magic win it all in his rookie year?

John Schuhmann

  (3:51 PM)

Yes. That Game 7 performance I noted above was in his rookie season:http://www.nba.com/news/playoff_top10.htmlSo, I'm a bit hesitant to put Rondo in the same sentence as Magic, even if the Celtics win.

roberto rodriguez from panama, panama

Everybody is talking about c´s defense but how about LA defense, I believe that they are also a good defense team, I will appreciate your comments.

John Schuhmann

  (3:55 PM)

They are. In the regular season, they were the fifth best defense in the league. And in the postseason, they've also been the fifth best.So, expect some offensive droughts from the Celtics at times during this series.

Nathan ( Texas)

Will this series determine what the Celtics will do with Rondo next year? I think if Rondo has a bad series the Celtics should trade for TJ Ford, What do you think?

John Schuhmann

  (3:57 PM)

I don't think so. TJ Ford should definitely be available, but Rondo is in his second year and is only 22.Rondo's got a higher ceiling and just might be a better player right now. He's certainly a better defender.

Jeff

Marathon chat from 3-midnight? WAY TO KILL MY PRODUCTIVITY AT WORK. I do have to work on the west coast till 4, ya know. Sasha gets elbowed or smacked by the end of game two. Most likely Celtic to do it?

John Schuhmann

  (3:58 PM)

Easy. James Posey.

Magic

Um, that was Game 6 in the finals of my ROOKIE season

John Schuhmann

  (3:59 PM)

Game 6. You're right.We got it right eventually.

James (Toronto)

Who's your pick to gaurd Kobe?

John Schuhmann

  (3:59 PM)

Posey. We should see plenty of him in this series.

Rick Kamla

  (4:00 PM)

Hey, hey, everybody. Rick Kamla is in the house and ready to talk the talk with all you rabbid NBA fans.

John Schuhmann

  (4:00 PM)

My half hour is up. Next is my main man, Rick Kamla.

Andrew Bynum

With me back next year, do we even lose a game?

Rick Kamla

  (4:02 PM)

Hey, Andrew...if that's really your name. The Lakers will lose a game even with a healthy AB next year, but they won't lose many. If Bynum is healthy, I am predicting 65-70 wins in the regular season and another championship. that's right, back to back for the lakers. and it might be three in a row, or three of the next four if Bynum is as good as we all think he can be.

Steve (Denver)

Rick, John just mentioned that Posey should be guarding Kobe most of the series. If this is the case, does Rondo/Perkins get bumped to the bench?

Rick Kamla

  (4:04 PM)

The Lakers frequently go small. You saw the Spurs go with a small lineup a lot of the time, with Bowen at the four, barry at the three, and manu at the two, with Duncan at the five. The Celtics will matchup up much the same way, with Perk going to the bench. You'll see a lot of KG at the five, with Posey, Pierce Allen and Rondo. That might be Boston's best lineup in this series. No offense to Perk

Jason: Rossville,GA

If you had to pick between Bill Russel and Wilt Chamberlin, who would it be?

Rick Kamla

  (4:10 PM)

Great old school question, Jason. Tough call obviously. I'll take Russell just because of the success. If Wilt were on the Celtics instead of Russell, the Celts would have had lots of chips, but not 11 outta 13. Russell is the all-time winner in our sport, and while Wilt was a more powefrul offensive player, Russell was better overall, plus the intangibles.

Big Sean (Houston, Texas)

Hey Rick! Where does this Laker team compare with the Great Laker teams of the past

Rick Kamla

  (4:13 PM)

Big Sean...it''s Little Rick. That remains to be seen, but if this team has the success I am forecasting, at least three championships, then it'll be one of the best. But even if Kobe wins three chips with this group, they will pale in comparison to the Showtime Lakers who won five chips in nine seasons. By the way, for my money, the Showtime Lakers is the greatest Laker version of all-time and they will never ever be matched or surpassed.

Marty (Manila)

Are we gonna see any flagrant fouls called in this series? Do you think it's going to get chippy out there?

Rick Kamla

  (4:17 PM)

Yes, there will be at least one flagrant foul in this series. Anytime you have Posey in a playoff series, there is a strong likelihood for a FF. And I'm not saying that in a bad way. I love that about Posey. His toughness is one of the reasons Boston is in the Finals. Perk is also capable of sending a message with a FF. On the Lakers, I could see Turiaf toppling Rondo a la R Price in the Utah series.

Black Mamba, LA

If AK47 and Mr. Scissorhand couldn't do anything about my lethal Hiss, what does Posey have?

Rick Kamla

  (4:20 PM)

Hi Kobe. I mean...Black Mamba wannabe. I love the Edward Scissorhands reference. Good question. Posey is not as good of a defender as those two, but he's the best perimeter defender Boston has, so he gets the job of being the Kobe Stopper. Posey is probably nastier than those two players though, and that's what is needed in this series.

Tony Marzilli (Newton, MA)

Rick personally question, do you think Simmons is a sell out for moving to LA, I say yes

Rick Kamla

  (4:21 PM)

How can you be a sellout for moving to arguably the best state in the country? If you wanna talk about sellouts. Let's talk about the Dave Matthews Band or Blues Traveler, who turned their backs on their grass roots followings for the allure of pop success.

Ben (Saint Paul, MN)

Hey Rick. Are you picking the Lakers in 6 like the rest of the "Experts", or are you gonna man-up and go out on a limb (say... Celtics in 7)?

Rick Kamla

  (4:23 PM)

Ben, you're my boy. I hate my prediction of Lakers in Six for two reasons. One, everybody in the free world has the same prediction and I am anything but a sheep that conforms to the masses. Two, I want KG to win the title. I'd love Celtics in 7, that's what I want, but my brain says lakers in six.

Ryan (Toronto)

Whos ending there career with more rings Kobe or MJ.

Rick Kamla

  (4:26 PM)

Ryan, love the Q. Here's the deal. We all know Jordan has six and Kobe has three...and counting. Kobe is 29 with three. Jordan had only two at 29...so the best is yet to come from Kobe. I am on record, radio and TV and web, saying that as long as this group stays together and Bynum is healty next year, Kobe will win at least three more titles. He will end up with the same amount as Jordan, six and six.

mitch: (college station,TX)

Rick, to you was the finals already played between the spurs and lakers or does the celtics have the bench to play with the lakers?

Rick Kamla

  (4:27 PM)

I thought the Finals was the Western Finals until Boston won two road games in Detroit, including closing out the Pistons at the Palace. That proved to me that the Celtics are championship worthy. I still think the Lakers will win, but the Celtics are far more than sacrifial lambs.

Steve( Washington D.C)

Any chance of a sweep or Lakers in 5?

Rick Kamla

  (4:30 PM)

All right, time for one more answer. Steve, it's your lucky day. No chance of a sweep, but there is a chance for Lakers in five. The lakers will win one of the first two in Boston, and then they could run the table in LA. It's only happened twice that the home team swept all three at home, in 04 and 06, and it's possible but unliekly in this series.

Rick Kamla

  (4:31 PM)

It's been a blast, you guys. I'll be joining you on gamedays throughout the Finals. And now...it's time for Hall of Famer Dr. Jack Ramsey. Peace>>>

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:33 PM)

It's Celts and Lakers again for the 11th time. It should be a good one, but I think the Lakers have too much fire power. Let's get started!

Luis (NYC)

Dr. Jack - Do you think Doc sticks KG on Odom and Perk on Gasol? If the Celtics can control the glass, theres no way the Lakers can hang on. Celtics in 6.

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:35 PM)

I think it will start off with KG on Odom and Perkins on Gasol. The Celts will hope that Perkins can muscle Gasol inside and would like to see him be content to shoot from the edges. But Gasol is a little quicker than Perkins and can put it on the floor and has a nice running hook, which can hurt Perkins. If KG has to go on Gasol, the Celts could be in trouble. I am picking the Lakers, and it could happen in five, and four would not shock me.

Matt (Lubbock, TX)

Dr. Jack, is your finals prediction prediacted solely on the Lakers bench or do you think their starting 5 is also better than Boston's?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:38 PM)

I think the Lakers have an edge at three positions and the Celts at two. I think Boston has the edge with KG vs. Odom/Gasol and Pierce also has the edge. The Lakers bench is deeper and younger, and I think those young legs win out here.

Chris (Aggieland)

Who takes the first game? Boston or LA? Even with the good D, will it be a high scoring game?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:39 PM)

I think LA can win it in Game 1. It will be a tough defensive battle. The Celts play great defense, and Tom Thibodeau does a great job organizing the D, with KG as the cornerstone of everything. But the Lakers, with Kobe, find ways to win big games. They hit their free throws and his teammates get good shots down the stretch because of Kobe's ability.

Christian (Manchester, NH)

Dr Jack, everyone is talking about stopping Kobe. What about Paul Pierce, wouldn't he be the overall x-factor in this series???

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:41 PM)

Pierce is having his best season ever, and has risen to the occasion during these plyoffs. I think LA will defend him with Radmanovic, and then bring in Vujacic, who can be a pest. I think Pierce will have a big game, but I just do not know how they are going to stop Kobe.

mike (ca)

rank 3 of my fav lakers...magic, j west, kobe

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:43 PM)

That's a tough one. I will give Magic a razor blade edge over Kobe, and Jerry West would be the show horse in all this. But West was a great player in his day and would still be in today's game. But Magic and Kobe would be the top guys in the debate. And I am not sure that at the end of his career I would not give Kobe the edge over Magic. He is an amazing player.

matt(toronto)

What kind of impact will Bynum's absence have on the Lakers in this series??

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:45 PM)

Well, it does not matter. They are past that. They will start thinking about him at camp next year, where he will be a very good player on this roster, and make this an even better team. But right now Bynum is not even in their thoughts. I think the Lakers are on the top of their game and have proven themseleves as the best team in the league, and they may keep getting better throughout this series.

Chris (Houston)

If the Celts concern is stopping Kobe, that is pointless because he cant be stopped. If Bryant goes crazy and the Lakers still lose, so what? My question is, will the Celtics bench show up enough to give them a shot to win?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:49 PM)

The Celtics have a good bench, although it is not as god as the Lakers, but PJ Brown and James Posey have both been positive coming off the bench. If Boston is to contend, I think Posey will have to be a big factor. He could makes things very difficult for Kobe, because he is so physical on defense; he gets right up in there. He will not be able to stop Kobe, but he could influence Kobe's game. And I think we will see House coming off the bench more than Cassel. But Farmar, Vujacic, Turiaf, Walton and Ariza, can all come into a game not disrupt the harmony of the Lakers' game; so I will give the edge to LA there.

Amit Aggarwal (Holmdel, NJ)

Is Trever Ariza gonna play in this series? I think he would be a great asset to put on Pierce.

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:51 PM)

I agree with you. He will play and should play. Ariza is a versatile, long player. He can defend the twos and threes well and can make the open jump shot. He would have played more if he did not break his foot this season. Phil Jackson likes him, but I think his minutes will depend on how well Jackson thinks he can adjust to the team's game. But I look at him as a positive X-factor for the Lakers.

Harold (Los Angeles, Ca)

Do you see KG and Pierce doing what they can to get Odom and Gasol into foul trouble? Will the refs let these teams play or will they be whistle happy

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:55 PM)

Good players look to take advatage of their matchups, and one way to do that is getting your guy in foul trouble, and Pierce and KG will try to do that against anyone that defends them. But Phil Jackson is not going to risk his star players if that becomes an issue. If Gasol gets in early foul trouble, you will see him on Perkins. The same goes for Kobe, who I believe will start off on Allen. Typically officials will try to keep a series under control in it's early stages. But when you get to the finals, these are the best of the best when it comes to officiating. I believe it will be a clean, under control series.

B (Baltimore)

I would argue that the Lakers bench is younger and far less experienced. Posey has a ring, Cassel has two and PJ Brown has a ton of experience. I think the bench will be an advantage for the Celtics.

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:57 PM)

Well do agree they have experience, but Cassel and Brown cannot play long minutes at their ages. The lakers are younger, quicker and stronger. Now experience may be a factor, especially since the Lakers bench has never been there before. But I think the Lakers bench will show up..

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:58 PM)

Got to get ready for the game. Should be a good one, and we will talk again and see how my predictions turned out. Thank you for your questions.

Chad Ford

  (5:16 PM)

Aloha everyone. Sorry for the delay. I had a tough time finding the chat room in cyberspace today. Took a wrong turn I guess. Lets roll ...

Raymond: ( San Antonio, Texas )

Who will have the greater legacy 20 years from now? Shaq or Kobe ? ( If Kobe Bryant wins his 4th ring )

Chad Ford

  (5:18 PM)

Tough one. Shaq was so dominate ... I think he reinvented the game for big guys. For years, every other team in the league was obsessed with finding an antidote for Shaq. Now that he's on the downward turn in his career, I think we're more apt to see Kobe as having the better legacy. But for me ... it will be Shaq.

Ryan (Los Angeles)

Chad. Isnt it true, that no matter what Kobe does or wins, he will never be thought of as better than MJ. 100 years from now, MJ will still be the best, right?

Chad Ford

  (5:19 PM)

That's the other thing. Kobe, fairly or unfairly, will always be judged against MJ. As good as Kobe is ... those are impossible shoes to fill.

Majeed

Chad, How badly will Doc get outcoached by the Zen Master???

Chad Ford

  (5:21 PM)

I think it's a big disparity ... maybe the biggest between the two teams. Phil is like the MJ of coaching. He's so good, we don't even bother considering him for Coach of the Year. I like Doc and think he's a very good coach. But the two aren't in the same league with each other.

Mike (Chicago)

Out of the big 3 from Boston...Who do you think will have the biggest impact in game 1? (personally I believe Pierce deserves it).

Chad Ford

  (5:22 PM)

It needs to be Paul Pierce. He needs to go out and defend Kobe the way he defended LeBron James. If he can put the clamps on Kobe ... the Celtics will be in very good shape. As good as LeBron is however, Kobe will be harder to stop. Pierce forced LeBron to shoot long jumpers. That's not his forte. Kobe? He'll take whatever you give him.

Disgruntled Celtics Fan (Boston)

Chad I'm having a hard time figuring people out. I understand the Lakers have Koby but seems like some of these predictions are a little one sided. Dr Jack said he wouldn't be surprised by a sweep. If the Celts could take two in Detriot I don't see why they can't win in LA LA land let alone at home where they are dominant. We beat LA twice and I know there was no Pau but at that point they had the supposed best young center in the league playing and we didn't have our point gaurd in one of those games. I just don't get it.

Chad Ford

  (5:24 PM)

I don't think it will be a sweep. I think the Celtics are very good and could win this thing. I just think the Lakers have the best player, the best coach, and the most depth. But the Celtics are very good and getting better. They way they handled Detroit, I thought, was very impressive. It seems to me they're getting their confidence at the right time. But if the Lakers had Pau all year? I think they would've had the best record in the league.

David (Palo Alto, CA)

Do you think the Lakers would benefit from having Andrew Bynum against the Celtics?

Chad Ford

  (5:25 PM)

Ummm sure. Ditto with a fully healthy Trevor Ariza. I think the Lakers are headed for a five year run where they are the undisputed best team in the West if Bynum gets healthy and returns to form. They are scary.

Chad Ford

  (5:27 PM)

And can I say ... as someone who really thought the Lakers were on the brink of the apocalypse this summer ... that this may be the most surprising comeback ever. Remember when Kobe was bolting, Mitch Kupchak was getting fired and everyone was pushing for the Lakers to trade Andrew Bynum for Jason Kidd or Zach Randolph. Wow.

Majeed

Thanks for taking my question Chad. How does the 5 extra games the Celts have played thus in the playoffs far factor in the series? Tired legs/fatigue at all, esp in 4th quarters/OT for a much older team?

Chad Ford

  (5:29 PM)

You think it would bother them. But everyone thought that the long layoff was going to favor Detroit in the last series. The Celtics were supposed to be exhausted from the big Cavs series. It never materialized. I think everyone seems just fine. Besides, the NBA gave them a pretty big break before the Finals.

Tim (Los Angeles)

Chad, how many games did you pick LA to win this year and did you have them making the playoffs at all?

Chad Ford

  (5:30 PM)

I can't remember how many games I picked them to win ... but no, I didn't have them making the playoffs. I thought Kobe would be traded and this team would be in full rebuilding mode. That's why I say it's the story of the year. The Celtics one is impressive too. They were a disaster in June as well. And I remember when the C's traded for Ray Allen there were a lot of groans. It wasn't until KG came on that we knew there would be something special. I think it's a great story angle ... the rise of two storied franchises from the dust.

Jerry

So are Danny Ainge and Mitch Kupchak the real MVPs of the season?

Chad Ford

  (5:32 PM)

In a lot of ways yes. The did what good GMs do. But they got huge assists from Chris Wallace and Kevin McHale. Wallace especially may go down in infamy (if your not a Lakers fan) of pulling off the most lopsided, season changing deal, in NBA history.

Chris Paul, N'Awlins

Chad, do I still get shafted from the MVP award if the lakers didn't "trade" for Pau?

Chad Ford

  (5:33 PM)

No ... it would've been CP3 for MVP.

Ian (Boston, MA)

How do you see the Celtics starting five matching up defensively? Will KG size up against Gasol, leaving Perk to try and stop Odom off the dribble, or will KG stick with Odom leaving Perk on Gasol?

Chad Ford

  (5:34 PM)

I think you'll see Odom on KG. And I think Pierce will match-up with Kobe. That leave Ray Allen and Radmanovic guarding each other and Perkins vs. Pau.

Shaq (Phoenix)

Do you really think Kobe has matured or we'll see oldself come sour time?

Chad Ford

  (5:36 PM)

That's the question isn't it. J.A. Adande pointed out in the last podcast that Kobe basically shot the Lakers out of their latest Finals series versus the Pistons. Will he, in the heat of the moment, be Kobe the leader and facilitator, or will he be Kobe "Get the Hell Outta My Way" Bryant. If he's the former, the Lakers win. If he's the latter, I think the Celtics unselfishness would put them over the top.

craig - Newport Beach, CA

Let me answer... as a Kobe fan since day one... I'm afraid of a meltdown... he almost did it in all three playoff series... Focus Kobe... Focus...

Chad Ford

  (5:37 PM)

There you go ...

Rudy (Union City, CA)

Here's one finals match-up I haven't heard anyone discuss yet. Ainge over Kupchak for exec of the year? That was highway robbery. Ainge set his team up to win this year, maybe next. Kupchak built a winner today, with an even brighter future down the road. Sure, they both got a bit of charity, but didn't Kubchack really make the executive moves of the year?

Chad Ford

  (5:38 PM)

A bit of charity? At least Danny Ainge gave up a legitimate young prospect and future All-Star in Al Jefferson. The Lakers? They gave away nothing that they wanted or really needed.

Blue (Honolulu)

One for the kama'aina, what you say, braddah? If Spurs signed Scola instead of giving him to the Rockets, Spurs might have just beaten the Lakers, no?

Chad Ford

  (5:39 PM)

Yeah, it think that was a pretty big blunder by the Spurs. I think they always doubted that Scola could play and star in the league. Bad call.

Disgruntled Pistons Fan (Detroit, MI)

The only reason I see the Lakers winning is because of the way the Detroit-Boston series went. I mean in my eyes the way the Pistons played in game 6 was despicable. Any truth to that or is that just me trying to make myself feel better?

Chad Ford

  (5:41 PM)

I think you saw from Joe Dumars press conference that he was disgusted too. The Pistons beat themselves, once again, more than the Celtics beat them. It will be interesting to see how Dumars shakes things up. I think Sheed is gone for sure. But I also wonder if Rip might move on to free up more playing time for Stuckey.

Matt (Chicago)

Chad, you're the man with all the inside info. Feed us middle Americans a few trade rumors. What is up with Hinrich?

Chad Ford

  (5:43 PM)

He's probably gone. Ditto for T.J. Ford. And Jermaine O'Neal. I'd be shocked if any of those three were wearing the same uniform next year. I also think the chances of the Bulls re-signing Ben Gordon are slim. Other than that ... lots of draft rumors flying around.

28 other teams (U.S. and Canada)

What about us?

Chad Ford

  (5:44 PM)

This is supposed to be a Finals chat. I've been trying to use restraint in not answering all the draft questions. Do I have your permission to take a few. Honestly, how long can you really chat about the Finals?

Damien

I heard a rumor about the Heat trading Wade to move up 1 spot in the draft.....is there any truth to this and if that happened would the bulls still trade Hinrich?

Chad Ford

  (5:45 PM)

The sources I spoke to insist the that Heat are NOT trading Dwyane Wade. However, I think it's a tempting offer if Pat Riley decides he wants to do a total overhaul of the team. Personally, I think Wade is too good to trade, no matter what. But ... I've heard that there are concerns in the Heat front office about his health in the long term.

Chris (St. Paul, MN)

Come on! Tell me the Wolves won't take Lopez! Please! Please! I beg you to tell me, even if its a lie, I need an authority to say it!

Chad Ford

  (5:46 PM)

Kevin McHale is on the clock Chris. What can I say? I think it would be a huge mistake. I'd draft Mayo.

Mike (Avondale, AZ)

No one cares about the 28 other teams...here's an idea, get to the finals then we will talk about your team!

Chad Ford

  (5:47 PM)

Tell us what you really think Mike. I'm guessing your not a Suns fan.

Dirk (Dallas, TX)

Chad, what are your thoughts on the 2-3-2 game schedule? I think it not only kills any home-court advantage but possibly gives the away team a leg up. See my situation; a bad last 6 minutes of Game 3 sent the series from up 2-0 to losing 4-2.

Chad Ford

  (5:48 PM)

Yup. I agree ... If the home teams blows one of the first two games, they have to really sweat it.

Franky (Chicago)

Man, I'm confused Chad! I don't know to watch the game here and chill, or go out??? I mean, I don't feel like going anywhere but noooo, the boys always have something in planned. I'll probably just give dough to go buy booze or whatever. It usually works, LOL!!

Chad Ford

  (5:49 PM)

... someone help Franky. I think the booze arrived hours ago.

Betlog (Lakewood)

Chad, who would win in a chess game... Tex Winter or Thibodeu?

Chad Ford

  (5:50 PM)

No one with a first name of "Tex" wins chess games.

JB (TX)

Totally disagree, the team that has homecourt is 17-6 in this format. By the way 11 mins till I go home

Chad Ford

  (5:50 PM)

Thanks for the update JB. I'll have dinner waiting for you.

Jake (Baltimore, MD)

But at poker?

Chad Ford

  (5:50 PM)

No you're talking.

MP (NY)

Chad - PLEASE stick to draft questions. We can get finals answers from anybody, but no one else at espn will answer draft questions. Every chat they all say "Ask Chad."

Chad Ford

  (5:51 PM)

OK MP ... ask me. This is your chance.

MP (NY)

How far will Kevin Love fall now that he measured out as a midget with alligator arms?

Chad Ford

  (5:54 PM)

There you go ... I actually think K Love measured OK. He had nearly a 6-foot-11 1/4 foot wingspan (not bad for a guy who's 6-foot-7 3/4 in socks) and he had a decent 8-foot-10 standing reach. Not ideal for a power forward, but within the acceptable range. His athletic ability in the combine also showed well. I actually think he was probably helped by everything. NBA GM expected much worse.

Kevin, Ohio

Do you think that KG won't start because he will expend so much energy during introductions that he passes out? Lakers in 5. Kobe is too good.

Chad Ford

  (5:55 PM)

Funny ... but also not out of the realm of possibility. He's going to be Red Bulling it tonight. I'd have an oxygen mask waiting by the side of the bench.

Fitzy (Boston)

Biggest draft bust?? I say Beasley. The guy is like 5'9''

Chad Ford

  (5:56 PM)

What? When do 6-foot-8 power forwards with 7 foot wingspans and the ability to play inside and out get killed like this. There are a lot of reasons not to like Michael Beasley, but the measurement thing is a pretty weak one.

Boston Celtics

wow... no one gives Celtics a chance! Chad, anybody posts Celtics in 4 yet?

Chad Ford

  (5:58 PM)

Nope. You're the first. I love how you refused to include your name -- preventing us from mocking you later. Nice move. Shows incredible confidence in your team.

LB

I'll take the C's in 4

Chad Ford

  (5:59 PM)

Will anyone include their full name, address and social security number with that prediction?

Jowall (Miami, FL)

I think OJ Mayo is the most complete player in the draft. what do you think?

Chad Ford

  (6:00 PM)

Right now yes. And the most NBA ready. With his excellent athletic scores, he to me, should be the No. 3 pick. Maybe No. 2 if you're Miami.

Chad Ford

  (6:01 PM)

I'm not getting any SS#s or full names on that Celtics in 4 prediction. Here's mine (minus the SS#) Lakers in 6. Take it to the bank. See you next week.

Jemele Hill

  (6:03 PM)

Alright, this is Jemele Hill from Page 2. Fire away!

Matt (Los Angeles CA)

Hey Jemele, are you and the rest of America still pulling for a Spurs-Pistons final? Because after all, they do it the right way...

Jemele Hill

  (6:05 PM)

I don't know if you heard, but the Pistons and Spurs are playing in the consolation bracket. Pistons in 7.

KoF (Toronto)

Talk about the finals parties...we know you have at least one chat appropriate story.

Jemele Hill

  (6:07 PM)

Let me tell you how lame I am: I had an opportunity to go to ESPN's Revenge Of The Jocks party with Chad Johnson last night. But no, what did I do? I stayed in and did some work (Rob King, ENC of ESPN.com, I hope you're listening!). But I'm making up for a little bit tonight. Going to see a taping of The Soup.Yes, that's what life has come to for me. Oh, I guess I should mention I'm out here in L.A. already doing the Jim Rome Is Burning show.

jdawg (san diego, ca)

jemele- love your work!can anyone trust the celtic's big 3 in crunch time against kobe's defense? does luke walton's final experience count for anything?

Jemele Hill

  (6:09 PM)

The Lakers play pretty good team D, but not as good as the Celtics. But to answer your question, no, I don't think the Big 3 can be trusted in crunch time. The only player you can trust on the floor in this series when it matters is Kobe.

Cody (Schenectady, New York)

More likely - Lakers in four or Celtics in four?

Jemele Hill

  (6:10 PM)

Lakers in 4. By the way, there seems to be a huge disparity with the picks for this series. All the local Boston media is picking the C's. All the national media is picking the Lakers. Someone explain that.

Mike (Avondale, AZ)

The only player you can trust is KOBE?? I guess you missed game 7 of the Cavs series...Paul Pierce did kind of good

Jemele Hill

  (6:11 PM)

Tell me who you'd rather have in crunch time: Kobe or Pierce. Exactly.

MR. Clutch

Who do you think will be the X factor for either team?

Jemele Hill

  (6:12 PM)

X-factor(s): Lamar Odom and the Lakers bench. For Boston, Kendrick Perkins. He was huge against the Pistons.

Will (San Diego, CA)

You think the Lakers can win the first two in Boston!?! I'd love it but that wont happen

Jemele Hill

  (6:13 PM)

No, I don't. But I see the Lakers winning one. Not tonight, but Game 2. No way the Lakers lose both games in Boston.

AL Sharpton(NY)

I read that the NBA got a high grade in diversity, but there hasn't been a black head coach win a title since KC Jones. Am I reading too much into that?

Jemele Hill

  (6:14 PM)

Wait. Chuck Daly doesn't count?

Ty (Detroit, MI)

Jemele, first off I love your work even though I went to King and you're a Cass Tech grad. I enjoyed Joe D blasting his team and putting everyone on notice, like McDyess said Detroit is sick of excuses from this team. What's your take?

Jemele Hill

  (6:16 PM)

My take is...please don't hire Michael Curry! No, but Joe D was right. The Pistons didn't respect Flip Saunders, who was about half the problem. Flip is a playoff-level coach, but not a championship level coach.Nevertheless, sometimes when a team has been together and has done as much as the Pistons have, they start to get complacent. The Pistons started believing they could turn it on and off when they wanted. I believe the Shaq-Kobe Lakers had the same problem in '04.

WiLL (Portland, OR)

Can you make it happen; Lakers and Celtics in game 7, tied game, Lakers with the ball with 5 seconds left. And of course Kobe with the ball... I'm tellin you, there would be nothing sweeter to have that kind of ending, make or miss...

Jemele Hill

  (6:17 PM)

I'm guessing the Lakers might prefer a sweep.

Ty (Detroit, MI)

Jemele, couldn't it be argued that Boston had a little tougher road tha LA? By the time they played them you can say that Atlanta, Cleveland and Detroit were just as good as Denver then Utah and SA.

Jemele Hill

  (6:19 PM)

I disagree with that argument. If Cleveland played in the West, I'm not even sure they would make the playoffs. Atlanta wouldn't either. Utah could win the East, and Denver would probably be a top-3 seed. Remember, a 50-win team (Golden State) didn't even make the playoffs in the West.

Kevin: (New York City, NY)

Ray Allen with the ball with 3 seconds left on the clock. Game 7 of the Finals.Score is 98-96, Lakers up by 2.Can Ray Ray hit the 3?

Jemele Hill

  (6:19 PM)

Clang

Robert (Los Angeles)

Do you think Bird or even better, Kevin McHale, show up for any of the Boston home games?

Jemele Hill

  (6:20 PM)

They're not walking through that door...sorry, couldn't resist. I wouldn't be surprised. After all, Kevin McHale blessed his former franchise with a top-50 player. He's got to see the gift through.

Dustin (TX)

Did someone just compare the Hawks and Cavs to the Nugs Jazz and Spurs? Wow!!

Jemele Hill

  (6:20 PM)

They could be writing from Happy Hour. Give 'em a break.

John (Boston)

What is Rondo's ceiling long term in your opinion? I'm thinking a 17ppg 8 apg 5 rpg type guy while always being among the leader in steals.

Jemele Hill

  (6:22 PM)

I was wrong about Rondo. He's got a great ceiling. I could see him leading the league in steals, but I'm going to scale down a bit and say 15 and 8. He could be a great all-around guard. Just needs a jumper.

Matt (Los Angeles CA)

Who stays and who goes when Joe D starts blowing up the Pistons?

Jemele Hill

  (6:23 PM)

Sheed and Chauncey are the most likely candidate, with Sheed going first. They love Stuckey and he showed, he's a NBA starter. Pistons play their cards right with Sheed's contract and they'll have a ton of money once his salary comes off the books and they can make a strong play in the free agent market.

Sean (Spokane)

You are the worst writer on espnbill simmons may be biased but he is funny, you just suck

Jemele Hill

  (6:23 PM)

(Puts gun in mouth)

Muz, (Stony Brook, NY)

Is D-Wade going Hollywood? And I'm not talking about the Lakers.

Jemele Hill

  (6:24 PM)

My Heat sources tell me his new nickname is Holly-Wade. Word is that D-Wade was feeling himself a little too much, and that's part of the reason Miami just fell apart.

Dave, Atlanta, GA

what are the chances that LeBron is in Cleveland in 2010? 20% or less?

Jemele Hill

  (6:25 PM)

.005 percent.

Damon (Tempe, AZ)

If the Celtics lose this finals series, they don't make it back next year. If the Lakers lose this finals series, they do. Do you agree?

Jemele Hill

  (6:27 PM)

No, I don't agree. The Cavs are as good as they're going to get. You could say that LeBron would be a year better...but he was supposed to be a year better this year and they got eliminated one round earlier. The Pistons are in a little bit of turmoil and vulnerable. The Magic still are a player away. Atlanta isn't there yet. The Celtics could win the East again and return.

Jim (Columbus, OH)

Do you have a time machine so we can fast-forward to Chris Sheridan? Thanks.

Jemele Hill

  (6:28 PM)

If someone has a 1985 DeLorean handy, we'll get that done.

John (Destin, FL)

I thought about giving up journalism because I would never be good enough to make it to a big publication. Then I read your work. Thanks for the encouragement

Jemele Hill

  (6:28 PM)

I'm a role model.

Ajay (Los Angeles)

Which Lamar Odom shows up tonight? Do you think the pressure of the finals will get to him?

Jemele Hill

  (6:29 PM)

This is the most impressive stretch of games I've ever seen Lamar Odom play. I say he shows up the rest of the way.

Dave, Atlanta, GA

How is it that KG gets mentioned as an all-time great Celtic when he has only been there one season? Does that make Bob McAdoo an all-time great Laker? What is up with the east coast media myopia?

Jemele Hill

  (6:31 PM)

I want to say it was former Celtic Cornbread Maxwell that put the all-time great Celtic label on KG. Based of Cornbread's criteria, I guess Rashard Lewis is an all-time Great Magic. Or Magi. Or whatever the plural is.

Larry (Las Vegas, NV)

Do you think this series can get to the 'hatred feud' from the 80's? Especially if they play in the Finals next year? And who will be the Rambis/McKale contestants?

Jemele Hill

  (6:33 PM)

Sadly, we're in the age of gentleman's basketball in the NBA. I miss playoff fouls so much. Unfortunately, no one will want to risk a suspension.

Michael J. Fox (Los Angeles, CA)

Funny you should mention it. I got the delorean in the $35 parking garage just across the street from staples.

Jemele Hill

  (6:33 PM)

Unfortunately, I'm in Huntington Beach and with rush hour right around the corner, it will take me 10 days to get there.

Daniel (La La Land)

Is their anybody on the Celtics the Lakers need to bother to double team?

Jemele Hill

  (6:34 PM)

Great question. I'll say, yes. Double Pierce. Get the ball out of his hands because he's the master creator.

Matt ( Fort Wayne, IN)

Who will be able to contain Kobe Bryant (the magic Johnson of this series)?

Jemele Hill

  (6:34 PM)

No one.

Mike (Macomb, IL)

You're doing Jim Rome's show? If I saw that guy on the street I would head butt him in the nose. HE sucks.

Jemele Hill

  (6:35 PM)

I'd be careful. Rome's done some MMA. Seriously.

Joe Ford (Boise, ID)

Don't you think KG, Pierce and Allen at their best, is better than Kobe, Gasol, and Odom

Jemele Hill

  (6:36 PM)

No. Kobe is the biggest superstar in this game. He's the best player in the world, and the closer. Besides, unlike KG, Gasol stays underneath the basket. Garnett is more versatile, but offensively, Gasol is more effective for his team. He won't be shooting 20-foot fade-a-ways.

Cameron (Corona, CA)

Do you thin Kobe Bryant becoming the MVP has an affect on his performance? Who do you think is going to win game #1 tonight? Why?

Jemele Hill

  (6:37 PM)

Why would the MVP affect Kobe? It certainly didn't in the last series. Boston wins Game 1. I can only imagine how ridiculous that building will be, and I expect the Celtics to play with a similar energy. Game 2 goes the LA.

Jeff (Atlanta,GA)

Please tell me the pistons are interviewing MIKE WOODSON!!!! Down here, we are dying to get that fastbreak killing coach out of here!

Paul

Yes, the rivalry is there, but why is there so much emphasis is being put in 2008 Lakers-Celtics Finals version when the 60s and 80s Lakers-Celtics RIVALRY took almost the entire decade in the 60s and 80s to build. This is the first time that current Lakers-Celtics teams are meeting this decade. Any input?

Jemele Hill

  (6:39 PM)

Welcome to the world of the 24-hour news cycle.

Barry, Boston, Massachusets

who do you think will win this series and why? GO GREEN!

Jemele Hill

  (6:39 PM)

I see LA winning this series. Bigger superstar. Better bench. Better coach.

Drew(KS)

Are there any chances kobe flips out and starts playing selfish and not trusting anyone again?

Jemele Hill

  (6:39 PM)

I highly doubt it. Look at where unselfish play has gotten him this season.

Andrew (Branchville, NJ)

Kendrick Perkins has shown he can be the man and with Gasol guarding KG a lot, do you think KP can potentially come up huge in this series?

Jemele Hill

  (6:41 PM)

Yes, I do. He had an unbelievable series against Detroit. They could not box him out. What I like about Perkins is he stays within himself. He's not trying to do too much, even though you can tell he's feeling pretty confident. He just has to stop complaining after every call.

Rod "G" (Jacksonville, FL)

If Andrew Bynum returns healthy to the Lakers next year, is there a team in the West let along the NBA that will be able to compete with them?

Jemele Hill

  (6:41 PM)

The Lakers are set up to win back-to-back titles, possibly even do a second three-peat. This team is young and they have best player in his prime. If they win this one, you know that Kobe will kill himself to equal Jordan's rings.

Stephen Mauriello ( Palm Beach, FL )

Whom on the Lakers guards Ray Allen, Derek Fisher or Kobe Bryant

Jemele Hill

  (6:42 PM)

Kobe takes Ray. I like Kobe's chances in that one.

Fitzy (Boston)

Who is the Danny Ferry of this series?? Coming off the bench just to fight one of the untouchables.

Jemele Hill

  (6:43 PM)

Mbenga, definitely

Harold (Los Angeles, Ca)

You've seen Sasha play...any chance he just annoys Ray Allen so much on defense that Ray gets a flagrant?

Jemele Hill

  (6:44 PM)

If Vujacic were guarding me, I'd strangle him with his own scrunchy. That's another bonus for the Lakers...they've got the most irritating player on either side.

Jerry (NY)

Who do you like in the Rondo vs Fisher match-up? I think Rondo might have this one based on his elite speed.

Jemele Hill

  (6:45 PM)

Speed vs. Experience...I'll take experience. And let's not forget that Rondo has struggled on the road and D Fish isn't exactly running in slow motion.

riz (brielle, nj)

How big do you think Jesus Shuttlesworth will be this series?

Jemele Hill

  (6:47 PM)

I don't see him going off on the Lakers like he did Denzel Washington. But I think he'll be somewhat effective. Guarding Kobe on the other end is going to take a lot out of him, but I expect Boston to take more of a team approach to guarding Kobe because they need Ray's offense.

Rudy (Camarillo, CA)

I don't know why people think Rondo is going to get the best of Fish. After facing AI, Deron Williams and Tony Parker, Rondo isn't going to present any problems that Fish hasn't already faced...

jd

Kobe is a rapist. How can millions of people cheer for such a man? A man who abuses a woman should be castrated, not praised. What does so many Americans supporting an admitted adulterer and probable rapist say about our society?

Jemele Hill

  (6:48 PM)

Ever heard of the phrase..."charges dropped?"

shawn michaels (wwe)

who needs the title? kobe or KG?

Jemele Hill

  (6:49 PM)

Kobe. His legacy is at stake. If he wants to be in the same sentence as Michael Jordan. he's got to deliver one. Shaq won without him. Now, he's got to show he can win without Shaq.

Jose Alvarado, Cottonwood, Az.

Looking back on your article do you regret saying Chris Paul was MVP? Or do you still believe Kobe Bryant won it for the wrong reasons?

Jemele Hill

  (6:51 PM)

No, I don't regret it. It's a regular-season award. What Chris Paul did was absolutely ridiculous. He resurrected a franchise, nearly won the West, and without him, the Hornets are a lottery team. He put up some of the finest numbers any PG has put up in the history of the game. I realize what the Lakers would be without Kobe, but this was not his most dominating season. I thought Kobe deserved the MVP for getting Smush Parker and Kwame Brown to the playoffs.

Fitzy (Boston)

Rondo's patented hand wave in the face will slow anyone down. Chauncey wasn't hurt. It was the HAND!

Clinton (federal way, wa)

I have a good question for everybody. how did the Gasol trade go thru for LA, and the Joe Smith trade failed (initially) for Minn when Garnett was there?

Jemele Hill

  (6:53 PM)

Anyone? And great observation.

Shaq (Phoenix, AZ)

Didn't I have a top 3 SG on my team when I won the title? Name one other player on the lakers playing like an all star...dont do it..dont say LO.

Nick (Newport Beach, CA)

i'm planning on throwing a lakers championship celebration party once they take it.any chance you can get DJ Mbenga to spin at it?

Jemele Hill

  (6:54 PM)

For a small booking fee.

Kevin McHale

Mitch probably did what I did, paid Stern off to let the one-sided trade through...

Dan (Vladivostok, Russia)

Is it amust for Lakers to take one of the first two in Boston ?

Jemele Hill

  (6:55 PM)

YES.

Steven O'Rourke (Grand rapids, MI)

Does Boston's bench need to play a huge role in the finals for Boston to have a good chance of winning??

Jemele Hill

  (6:56 PM)

For sure. It'd be nice if Sam Cassell, you know, showed up.

steven nyc

just saw replay of 87 and those teams were both better than their 08 versions (mag, kareem, worthy, scott, rambis, with coop green and thompson on bench vs larry, dj, mchale, parrish and ainge)seems to me two kobe ny=umbers to look for1 shooting%. if he's45+ lookout Clts,40-beantown wins2 fts 10+ good for l a, san antonio-like 6 in 5 games l a's chances diminish greatly.

Jemele Hill

  (6:57 PM)

Someone translate that for me.

Jemele Hill

  (6:58 PM)

Alright, people, I enjoyed this. On my way to take pictures with Tickle Me Elmo on Hollywood Blvd. Celtics by 9 tonight.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:01 PM)

Greetings all, and wow, Jemele, A Tickle Me Elmo reference in the chat room. Never seen that before. got 30 minutes to gab with y'all, so bring it on ...

Luke (Boston, MA)

Who do the think is the best outside shooter out of the two teams?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:02 PM)

Derek Fisher. Usually I'd say Ray Allen, but I've seen too much of Ray Allen in this postseason to give him that much of a boost.

Sully (Southie)

Why does everyone discount kobe's huge ego? Does everyone forget that he destroyed the lakers against the pistons. And then decided it was time to only pass against the suns in game 7. won't he try and take over to the game in some ways as a detriment to his team

Chris Sheridan

  (7:04 PM)

Kobe has matured, Sully. If I'm a Lakers fan, I worry tonight that he takes the first half off offensively as he did in Game 1 against the Spurs. There have been a couple series this postseason where what happened in Game 1 had a carryover effect into Games 2 and 3 (think Suns-Spurs and Lakers-Spurs), so it's something to keep an eye on.

Fitzy (Boston)

Gotta choose sides Chris...who ya got?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:06 PM)

Lakers in 6, like practically everyone. Stein has Lakers in 5. Dr. Jack was just over here saying how he wouldn;t be surprised by Lakers in 4. I think the Lakers will get one of the first two here, and the C's will get one in L.A., and the Lakers will close it here. Biggest factor for Lakers: 3-point shooting. for Celtics: rebounding _ especially offensive rebounding and second-chance points.

Krisanu (queens,NY)

i understand Stuckey is somewhat of a consolation for Dumars' epic mess up of the '03 draft (using Orlando's pick in Darko trade)...but do you think Dumars might go after Carmelo now that he has the chance? to me, a package of Rip+Tayshaun is much better than Richard Jefferson + Marcus Williams (which is what the nuggets are reportedly asking). what do you think, could this happen?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:09 PM)

I think Joe Dumars would prefer to trade Rasheed, but Hamilton might get him the most in return, and Stuckey can step into that spot. Still, I think Joe will take aim at Amare Stoudemire as his No.1 target, trying to get him for Sheed and a couple throw-ins of the Alex Acker variety. Sheed's inside-outside game would be a better fit in Phoenix with Shaq filling up the low post, and I know the Suns have expressed interest in Sheed before.

Nick (Waltham, MA)

What is it with you ESPN bandwagon writers? I've followed the Celts all season buddy. They are blue collar and physical. You really think the soft as Charmin Lakers can handle us?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:15 PM)

hey, wait a minute Nick. I thought the Celtics' fans were the Bandwagon Bunch. At least that's what they were calling them in Cleveland when they did a coup,e of very funny video skits that they played on the scoreboard mocking the Celtics' supposed fair-weather fans. I know all the ESPN writrs here, and I can assure you that none of them are fans of anything except compelling games and interesting storylines.

Bojan (Maryville TN)

Do you think it's time for the Bulls to rebuild their roster by trading guys like Kirk Hinrich, Loul Deng, and Ben Gordon? I don't think they should, they just need the right coach and Doug Collins is the one

Chris Sheridan

  (7:18 PM)

I think the'll ty to move Hinrich. I think the time to trade Gordon and deng was last October when everyone knew what their asking price was _ and that the Bulls weren't willing to meet it. Now chicago is stuck with two guys with an over-inflated sense of their worth, and both are coming off bad seasons. Makes them harder to trade than Kirk, whose contract actually goes down _ $10 million this year, then 9.5, then 9, then 8M.

Jose Alvarado

Soft as charmin bud.... Celtic fans. The Definition of bandwagen fans. Chris werent the celtics fans cheering for kobe last year... MVP... MVP.. MVP! Hahaha. I think the fact that you have two new all stars on your team has more to do with the fact that you are a celtics fan than you would like to admit.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:18 PM)

I'll let Jose's post speak for itself.

Benny (New Jersey)

3 Doors Down really? This was the best we could do...The NBA: Where washed up music careers happen.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:22 PM)

Is that the halftime entertainment? Wow. well, at least it isn;t Big and Rich, which was the halftime show at all-Styar a couple years ago. and James Taylor is singing the national anthem. If Game 1 is anywhere near as intense as he is, we're in for a treat.

Tenzin, NY

Who is gonna have to be the factor if celtics want to win?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:25 PM)

1. Paul Pierce. can't win if he doesn;t get to the line and scored in the mid-20s or better. 2. Kendrick Perkins. Don;t laugh. If this guy gets double-digits in rebounds, and the celtics can score 10 points off his offensive rebounds, I like their chances a lot more. 3. KG and Ray allen, for obvious reasons. 4. James Posey. If someone is going to slow dwn Kobe, this might be the guy. and if he can;t slow him, he won;t be afraid to whack that injured pinky of his. 5. Rondo: If he's hitting his shot, he's a whole different threat.

Thomas (Brooklyn,NY)

Hey Chris I know this is Finals chat but PLEASE PLEASE answer my Spurs question. Are you hearing anything about the Spurs plans this off-season? Would love to see them make a run at Artest or JR Smith. Any chances of that happening or are you hearing something totally different?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:29 PM)

I heard third-hand that they want to take a run an Ramunas Siskauskas, a two-guard for Lithuania (and CSKA Moscow) who can also play the 1 and 3 positions. Siskauskas had a clause in his contract allowing him to opt out if CSKA won the Euroleague, and they did. The guy is probably the best one-on-one player in Europe, somewhat of a latter-dfay Bodiroga. So keep an eye on that. And while I'm on th spurs, allow me to opine that the Scola trade killed them. He was exactly what they needed in this year's postseason.

Mike C (Los Angeles)

Maybe it just feels this way because I live in LA, but the hype and media coverage for these Finals seem almost Super Bowl-like. How do you think these Finals will measure up to the MJ Finals in the 90s as far as ratings and public interest goes?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:30 PM)

Depends on the competitiveness of the series.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:31 PM)

That's in for my chat allotment time. Enjoy the game tonight folks, and we'll chat again soon.

Rob Peterson

  (7:32 PM)

Hello? Hello? Is this thing on?

Rob Peterson

  (7:33 PM)

Hey, everyone, Rob Peterson from NBA.com joining you for the next 90 -- yes, 90 -- minutes.We're about 10 rows from the court and we're hoping to wrangle some celebs to chat in the next hour and a half. I see Bill Russell, Dr. J and other legends here. We may be able to get them up here...So, in the meantime, we'll talk Finals. This is my sixth Finals with NBA.com and this is the most excited I've been for a series.

Allan (Anaheim, California)

Yes it is...How u doing Rob? Hey i read an article from The Sports Guy and he seems that he's a little scare about the series. I know he's the biggest celtics fan but he really disrespected the Lakers...Wat's your take on that?

Rob Peterson

  (7:36 PM)

Allan ... He should be scared of the Lakers. They took one of the toughest conferences in NBA history, they have the MVP who doesn't care about hurting your feelings on the court and they have a guy who has nine rings as coach. If that doesn't scare you, I don't know what would.Oh, and they have one of the best young centers in the game in Gasol.So, fear is good, fear is healthy. The Celtics know what they're in for.

Nate (Anaheim)

Do you see the Celtic crowd really bother the Lakers who won in Utah "The most difficult place to play"?

Rob Peterson

  (7:38 PM)

Nate, home has been the Celtics' haven not only this season, but historically. That '86 team went a sick 40-1 during the regular season.To be frank, I've never been to a game here, but I know Boston fans (and have Boston fans as friends) in general are insanely into their teams.I imagine tonight will be electric here. The Lakers will need to deal with it... If they can do it as well as they did in Utah, they have a chance to steal one here.

Mike (Toledo, OH)

I have the Lakers splitting the first two and winning the next 3 at home. I don't mean to disrespect the Celtics but I don't think they'd be able to keep up with the Lakers. We saw what happened with the Spurs. What's your take on this?

Rob Peterson

  (7:40 PM)

Mike, I've been hearing a lot of "Lakers in 5" talk. I'm saying Celtics in 7 (more on this later...)But then again, I thought the Cavs would take at least two from the Spurs last year.With the Spurs, I think Manu's mushy ankles hurt the SA as much as anything. Not having him at full strength hurt the Spurs.That being said, I like the Lakers' killer instinct. They've turned it up to 11...

Matt (Melbourne, Australia)

Hey Rob! What's the feel there? I heard the hype is out of this world.Many on ESPN believe rebounding by Perkins and Garnett could be a deciding factor (somewhat), but did Pau and Lamar surprise you in Game 4/5 in relation to their rebounding? It certainly surprised me to see Pau "harden up"...no longer soft!

Rob Peterson

  (7:41 PM)

Matt --The feeling here is one of anticipation. The Celtics fans, who cheered for 16 titles in 41 years, haven't been here in 21 ... so, they're ready to bust out.I've seen Beat LA t-shirts for three straight days. They've even put them on the press chairs... (I"ll be sending mine to my buddy Matt...)

Mojo (rising)

Foul trouble to me is the biggest factor. If the Lakers can avoid getting into foul trouble early, they should be close at the end. Then its Kobe time.The Lakers are the only team I have seen called for defensive three seconds this whole season, and they usually get one a game. What's up with that?

Rob Peterson

  (7:43 PM)

Where is Rising? Wait, I don't want to know.Trust me, I've seen plenty of teams called for defensive three seconds. The Lakers aren't the only ones. What that means sometimes is someone isn't rotating fast enough or not paying attention.As for foul trouble, I agree. Most teams talk about getting other teams into the penalty early, but Boston's Sam Cassell said yesterday that they're gonna play Kobe like they played 'Bron -- physical. Depends on how the game is called tonight.

Bill Simmons (LA or Boston?)

I agree with Celtics in 7!!

Rob Peterson

  (7:44 PM)

I'm channeling my inner-Simmons.Whatever that is...

Josh (Long Beach, California)

Rob...Has there been any news on the condition of Ariza's foot? Do you think he will be called on more this series to help lock down Ray Allen?

Rob Peterson

  (7:46 PM)

Josh, I haven't heard anything more about Ariza's foot. If he's ready, I can imagine the Lakers using him for short stretches to give Kobe a break on D (not that Kobe needs a break...)That being said, I think Kobe can shut down Ray pretty easily. I love Ray, but he hasn't had the best of postseasons.

JB (Portland, OR)

Hey Rob, can you explain to me why many are saying that LA has the better bench? Boston is 10 deep, with veteran playoff experience (Posey, Cassell, Brown), rebounding (Powe, Brown, Davis), and 3 pt shooting (House, Posey). What gives?

Rob Peterson

  (7:48 PM)

JB ...I think people are saying the Lakers have a better bench because Phil Jackson has used them more consistently than Doc Rivers has used his bench.The Lakers' pine players seem more comfortable in their roles, whereas Doc seems to think Sam I Am and PJ Brown have expiration dates and that he needs to use them before they go bad.

Chris (Narragansett, RI)

Will Ray Allen finally find his shot? The last few games of the conference finals he seemed to get hot...will it continue?

Rob Peterson

  (7:50 PM)

Chris ...As a shooter myself (i.e. someone who doesn't pass, thinks he's always open and dribbles with his head down), confidence is all. There really are times the basket feels like and ocean and all you need to do is fling it in.If Ray's found his confidence, then he could be a factor.My thing with Ray is, I wonder how healthy his ankles are. Legs are crucial to shooters. He won't say he's injured, he'll say he feels fine.But I wonder truly how fine he feels.

Daniel (Los Angeles, CA)

I have the Lakers taking it in 6. Now, as far as tonight's game is concerned I believe that the winner of this game will not create any type of favorite for the outcome of the series. But I feel that this game is going to be the most important game as far as defense. The Big Three will score, maybe not as much as they should, but they will score. The Lakers will do what they always do. But what is your outlook on the importance of game 1 and what aspect of the game will stand out the most as far as impacting the rest of the series?

Rob Peterson

  (7:52 PM)

Daniel -- excellent question, even if I skimmed it.Here's the stat to know: Phil Jackson's teams are 41-0 when winning the first game of a Playoffs or Finals series.I may be dumb, but even I can't argue against 41 in a row.That's spectacular.

Rob Peterson

  (7:52 PM)

Whoops I see four people wearing Kobe shirts... I hope they have police protection.

jayson (bulacan, philippines)

hey rob,you think the celtics can shut kobe down like they did lebron on games 1 to 6?

Rob Peterson

  (7:54 PM)

Jayson ...If the Celtics can shut down Kobe, that'll be a first for anyone, and definitely a team effort.NBA.com's John Schuhmann noted in an article yesterday, that the Lakers' assist:field goal ratio has gone down in the postseason.Strange as it sounds, I'm of the mind you let Kobe get his and shut down the others.I know. I'm nuts. I'm the only one they could find to chat for 90...

Jim (Des Plaines, IL)

hey rob, assuming the bulls draft rose, what big name players ex.(Brand, Carmelo) do you see John Paxson pursuing in free agency or through a trade, and is there a chance the bulls can land that all star player by offering the players they currently have on their roster???

Rob Peterson

  (7:55 PM)

Whoa, a Draft question.As Bucks fan (there, I said it), I have no idea what the Bulls are doing. Neither does anyone else, apparently.They need a coach first.

Shawn Thomas (Houston, Texas)

I just got a Kobe jersey and I'm proud to say I'm going for the Lakers. I have the Lakers in 7. It's going to be an amazing series. How much do you think Kobe will contribute tonight?

Rob Peterson

  (7:57 PM)

Turning your back on the Rockets, Shawn? For shame ...Anyway, as far as contributing, I think Kobe'll be like Mike. He's learned how to pace himself. Before it's been all out all the time.Now, he picks his spots. It makes him that much more explosive.

Steve-o (Waterloo, Ontario)

Hey Rob.If you switched Kobe for Lebron before the season began, what would the Lakers record have been? Would they be in the finals?

Rob Peterson

  (7:57 PM)

Steve-o: No, if they don't add Pau. Yes, if they do.Signed, Rob-o

John (Inglewood, California)

Hey Rob, There was an interview where Rajon Rondo was comparing guarding Kobe the same as guarding Joe Johnson. Are you kidding me? Help me understand this

Rob Peterson

  (7:59 PM)

John --I didn't hear the interview, but when I heard someone ask Rondo if he was going to guard Kobe, he laughed nervously.That spoke volumes. I don't think anyone in the league relishes getting lit up by Kobe.

JJ, PDX

What kind of game do you expect tonight? Defensive game (in the high 80's)? Or a 100+ point shootout reminiscent of the 80's matchups?

Rob Peterson

  (8:01 PM)

JJ ... Good question. As a lover of offense, I would (heart) a game in the 100s.People thought those old Celtics teams were slow. You should check out some of those scores. In the '84 series, no team scored fewer than 103 points in a game.That'd be high tonight.Then again, I could be wrong. So what's new?

luis guadalajara mexico|

hey rob i think that the celtics trio its better than the lakers duo! are you with me or not?

Rob Peterson

  (8:02 PM)

Luis...I think both teams have three stars.I don't know which one you're leaving out of the Lakers trio: Odom or Gasol. I'm thinking Odom.

Kevin Garnett (Boston)

Rob I am so PUMPED FOR THIS GAME!I'M PUNCHING EVERYTHING NEAR MY LOCKERI JUST TOOK OUT ONE OF DOC'S TEETH!ARRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHHH

Rob Peterson

  (8:02 PM)

I know, I heard you all the way out here.

Dave (Baltimore)

Rob, I think its obvious just by this chat that, there is no answer for Kobe on the Celtics roster. so yes they maybe physical but who is going to keep up with him? i say noone, Lakers in 6

Rob Peterson

  (8:03 PM)

Dave --Ubuntu!It'll be team defense that stops Kobe, not one man...

Matt (Keene, New Hampshire)

Hi Rob. With Ray Allen's career arguable past its apex how important is an NBA Championship for him this year?

Rob Peterson

  (8:04 PM)

Matt --We have this conversation in the office all the time.For pro athletes, I think the ring's the thing. Robert Horry has made a career of that.Still, I think Ray has a little more left than we think. I don't think it'll be his last chance.

Amit Aggarwal (Holmdel, NJ)

Lakers sweeeeeeeeeeep?

Rob Peterson

  (8:04 PM)

Now, let's not get silly.

Bojan (Maryville TN)

Remember Kobe didn't shoot well against the Celtics in the regular season. He was only in the 30% range in shooting. What makes everybody think he's going to all of a sudden explode on the Celtics this series?

Rob Peterson

  (8:07 PM)

I can say this: that was last year.No, really. The Lakers and Celtics played the day after Thanksgiving and on Dec. 30.Gasol was not in the picture. He adds a whole different dimension to the Lakers.Then again, the Celtics could try to beat Gasol to a bloody pulp. That may be a strategy.

John (Phoenix, AZ)

Yeah, becuase no one else in these playoffs has tried team defense on Kobe, so now it will work absolutely for the Celtics. Is that seriously what you're saying? Incidently, the Jazz is THE most physical team in the league, and the Spurs are hardly chump change defensively.

Rob Peterson

  (8:08 PM)

Don't get snotty, John. Kobe still loves you.I said if they do stop Kobe, it'll be a team effort.Wow, you can't even speculate without some Kobe fans going off the deep end.

CP (New York, New york)

Rob, I see it a hard series, why so many people think will be easy for the Lakers

Rob Peterson

  (8:09 PM)

CP --Because the Lakers clobbered the defending champs in five games and the Celtics had to go seven against the Hawks and Cavs.

Rob Peterson

  (8:09 PM)

The Beat LA chant has started. I just hope Celtics fans don't start beating on LA fans.

Charly (Memphis)

Is it just me, or is the resemblance between Steve Lavin and Frank Isola frightening?

Rob Peterson

  (8:10 PM)

In reality, they're twins. Separated at birth.Shocking, I know.I did radio with Frank last year. He's a good dude.

Jerom (Bulacan, PHI)

hey Rob, what are the reasons why celtics lost to their road games in the play offs... 3 on the hawks and 3 on cavs.

Rob Peterson

  (8:12 PM)

Jerom ...Good question. At one point, I turned to the guys in the office and said, "Wow, 66 wins isn't what it used to be."But with two wins on the road against the Pistons, they've shown they're ready. Many have brought this up, and I agree ... the Celtics had to learn to play postseason ball together.It sounds flimsy, but I think it's true.Either that, or we're all full of crap and the Celtics were coasting in the first two rounds and no one had the guts to call them on it.You choose.

Marshall (Nashville, TN)

In this Finals what wins it, Defense or Offense?

Rob Peterson

  (8:12 PM)

Balance wins championships.

Cathal (Hingham, MA)

Jordan didn't lose a Final series. He just wouldn't let it happen. Kobe's chance to be that type of player happens now.

Rob Peterson

  (8:13 PM)

Wah-wah!Kobe lost in 2004.Though, I get what you're saying.

Patty (LA, CA)

Rob, The Cs lost because they're mental wussies. They were afraid being away from home. I keed, I keed! Seriously, though, are you concerned that the Celtics may have peaked too early while the Lakers are only now peaking? As a Lakers fan, I know this will be a hard fought question and I actually do expect Allen to show up. He always plays well against Kobe.

Rob Peterson

  (8:14 PM)

Patty --That's funny. I liked.Anyway, I don't think either team has peaked. At least I hope not. That way we'll have a hell of a series.I tell this to everyone. As a dad of who's away from his two small kids, I root for a sweep, but as a basketball fan, I root for seven games.

Val (Anaheim)

Are you wearing a big foam finger while typing this chat?

Rob Peterson

  (8:15 PM)

Yefdsfdsfdsfds.

Marshall (Nashville TN)

how will Paul do against the #1 defense, is this his chance to prove he is a major canadite over KOBE for MVP??

Rob Peterson

  (8:15 PM)

Uh, no. But it Pierce has a good series, he'll add his name to a long list of Celtics legends.

Adam (Orange County, CA)

Rob Peterson, what makes you credible to answer these NBA questions?

Rob Peterson

  (8:16 PM)

Are you incredulous that I'm credible or that someone thinks I'm credible?Get back to me.

Dominic (Arlington, TX)

I have to work until 8:30 my time, which means I miss the 1st half. Is there anywhere to watch online?

Rob Peterson

  (8:17 PM)

Dominic --Sadly, no.But you can follow along with NBA.com's GameCenter. Shot charts, play-by-play, box scores.It's like being here ... now get someone to shout BEAT LA in your ear and it'll be just like it.

Adam (Orange County, CA)

Rob, enough with your non-sense. I am will taking over this chat. Thank you.

Rob Peterson

  (8:17 PM)

Later.

violent J (detroit,MI)

Yeah peterson didn't you choose the pistons in 6?

Rob Peterson

  (8:18 PM)

If I did, I take the fifth.I told you, my predictions are the worst. It runs in the family. We cause the stock market crash in '29.Take my advice: don't take my advice.

Eduardo (San Francisco,CA)

Hey Rob, Do you think there will be some Home losses in this series? If so, which team will have a home game loss?

Rob Peterson

  (8:19 PM)

Eduardo ...I think the Celtics and the Lakers will win one on each other's court.As you know, only two teams in NBA Finals history won the middle three home games: Detroit in '04 and Miami in '06.It ain't easy.

Marshall (Nashville TN)

how do u think the point gaurd battle will look. A veteran Fisher and a younger less experenced Ronda (which who i might add has proved himself for the future

Rob Peterson

  (8:20 PM)

Marhsall This is an intriguing matchup. Fisher's experience and strength vs. Rondo's youth and speed. I'll go with experience and strength right now. Ask me again before Game 2.

RW (Tahiti)

Do you see Jack Nicholson behind the Lakers bench??? I hope he doesn't get mad and blow his cover, he'd get killed out there. Seriously, is he attending, or there is no way in hell he'd step in Boston?Lakers in 6.

Rob Peterson

  (8:22 PM)

I haven't seen him, but he's come to Boston for a Finals before, so it's not out of the question.Oh, and in The Departed, he ran Boston ... so, anything can happen.

Bill Belichek, Boston

Don't tell anyone, but I taped the Lakers practice yesterday and broke down the triangle all night last night for the Celtics...Plus I know their end of half and end of game play...that's not against the rules, is it?

Rob Peterson

  (8:22 PM)

Bwahahahaha...I love it.

Tree (Santa Barbara)

Hey Rob - How do you think Lamar Odom will match up well?

Rob Peterson

  (8:24 PM)

Uh ... I'll answer like I think you meant it.I think Odom will be a huge X-factor in this series, especially on the boards. The Lakers need him to hit the glass and hard. That may be more important than anything else he does in this series. Possessions. If he can provide them, the Lakers will be tough to beat.

Chuck Norris (Dallas, Texas)

Rob, I am a D-Wade fan. Where do you think he will end up playing next year?

Rob Peterson

  (8:24 PM)

Whoa ... what's this?Miami.Did I make Chuck Norris cry?

Sebastian (Brooklyn)

Are Magic and Larry going to jump center?

Rob Peterson

  (8:25 PM)

Great, great, great suggestion... kind of like a ceremonial first pitch.If I ever get an audience with Commissioner Stern, I'll ask.

Tippy (Mass)

Hay Rob, Will Rondo have a series like the Cavs series. Because he is not guarding Buillups?

Rob Peterson

  (8:26 PM)

You mean where he can be a playmaker and not have to concentrate on being a pest?I think he needs to be a playmaker regardless of whom he's guarding. The Celtics need Rondo to grow up fast.

Tippy (Mass)

When are you going to put seriouse questions on?

Rob Peterson

  (8:27 PM)

Like this one? We've been on for an hour... I'm gonna get my silly on once in a while.

David (Twin Falls, Idaho)

Do you think that if the lakers win this year that kobe will jump in to the top 10 players ever?

Rob Peterson

  (8:27 PM)

David ...I think Kobe is already one of the Top 10 players in NBA history.His willingness to step on your neck and not care (along with his ridiculous skills)...

Rob Peterson

  (8:28 PM)

Ha! They just played McHale clotheslining Rambis on the video board and the crowd went bananas.They're playing "In the Air Tonight".God, it is the eighties. Where are my flight pants?

Roger Clemens (Houston, TX)

I checked the NBA archives and it seems like the Lakers have gotten the best of the Celts in the past couple of finals.. or have I simply misremembered?

Rob Peterson

  (8:29 PM)

Roger ...I love how you injected yourself into this conversation.The Celtics won the first eight meetings between the two in The Finals. The Lakers won the last two, '85 and '87.Say "Hi!" to Mindy for me.

Sebastian (Brooklyn)

Shouldn't there be a shout out to Minnesota here? That state gave the Celtics KG and they gave LA the Lakers...

Rob Peterson

  (8:31 PM)

Sebastian ...Good call. Big ups to those folks in the Midwest and the Minny.They can take some pride in this one. Or, they can feel the deep, searing pain that goes with losing the Lakers and KG.I'm thinking No. 2.

Koby, Puerto Rico

The San Antonio Spurs needed a perfect game from their big three to win against this Laker squad. I've seen most of the losses of the Celtics come when just one of their Big Three is not getting it done in the offensive end. Do you think they need a perfect game to win against this inspired Lakers Squad? I have Lakers in 6 like everybody else. As a fan and a critic even if I chose the Celtics at the beggining of the season

Rob Peterson

  (8:31 PM)

Koby --I don't think they need a perfect game, but with that thought, I think the Lakers can play less than great and still win.

mark Fort Myers FLA

whats the feeling like in the arena tonight with the celtics fans, probably a over confident bunch, i think that sounds familiar, Giants anyone!!!!

Rob Peterson

  (8:33 PM)

Mark ... Let's put it this way, I've been to six Finals, and this is the earliest I've seen this many people -- about 40 minutes before tip -- in the arena. It's already 2/3ds full.And everyone's standing.Like I said, let's get this thing going.And now they're cuing the Rocky music.

Rob Peterson

  (8:33 PM)

Damn, this is nice. I wish everyone could be here.

Mike (Lexington, KY)

How much pressure does Kobe have to be feeling about now?? I know he is outstanding etc., but he has been given so much attention this past week that he may have an off night! Your thoughts?? Go Lakers!

Rob Peterson

  (8:34 PM)

Mike --The only pressure I think Kobe feels is the one he puts on himself to be great ... which, of course, makes him great.As far as outside pressure, he's impervious. I don't think he cares. He just wants to win.

Mort Gonzalez (Lompoc, CA)

How can the Lakers contain Garnett?

Rob Peterson

  (8:36 PM)

Mort --One of the biggest criticisms I've had of KG is ... I can't remember too many times I've heard this: "Kevin Garnett scored the Wolves or Cs last 18 points of the fourth quarter" or "he scored 24 of his game high 38 in the fourth."That's not to say KG isn't clutch, but I'm not sure he's one of those takeover guys.Now, Pierce, he's a takeover guy.

bird rulz newark nj

I say too many people falling in love with Lakers. Celts slapped them around twice this season. Only reason there is Laker mania is because they've played really well this post season. Fair enough but, the Celts D changes it all. Lakers havent run into a grinder like this all post season. They'll get their wake up call tonight and will be running for the trainers table after the game. Hope they stocked up on plenty of bandages and Ben Gay.Celtics in 6...BOO YAH!!

Rob Peterson

  (8:37 PM)

That's a nice rant. I'll leave it at that.Oh, and Stu Scott wants his catch phrase back.

Maddie (Hoboken)

Rob-Have the Celtics turned the heat up to 100 to get the edge?

Rob Peterson

  (8:38 PM)

Maddie --Actually, it's cool in here. I'm wearing a suit (which I always do when I chat -- I must be presentable) and I can say I'm quite comfortable.

Red A. (Heaven)

Sect 12, Row 7, seat 1......do you feel me there yet?

Rob Peterson

  (8:39 PM)

Red --Good to see you. Thanks for all you did for the NBA.

Garth Brooks

Laker's Offense or Boston's defense??? Who do you pick

Rob Peterson

  (8:40 PM)

Garth --I'm going Celtics D. I said Cs in 7.Then again, I'm chronically wrong when it comes to these things.Want me to scare Lakers fans? Lakers in five.There, I've jinxed both sides.

SHOCKER llil (Washington)

just got on this but who would you take kobe or jordan in the finals..?

Rob Peterson

  (8:41 PM)

Shocker --MJ. By a mile.

Mattie Winehart (Casmalia, CA)

Rob - Do you have any predictions for any suprises that Phil Jackson might throw out there. I still love when he was able to contain Alan Iverson with Tyron Lue

Rob Peterson

  (8:44 PM)

Mattie --I'm not sure that comparison is apt. That Sixers team had one guy and one guy only who could kill you -- AI. The Lakers could scheme to stop him.(I remember that team tackling it's way past my Bucks into The Finals... not that I'm bitter or anything.)But it's different this year. KG can score, Allen and Pierce can go off. It's tougher this year than it was in '01.As for what he may do, I think we could see a lot of what they Lakers brought against the Spurs, who also had three guys you need to account for...

Alex (Boston)

As the PTI guys would say...Rob, Who ya got?Im hoping you got the Celtics

Rob Peterson

  (8:46 PM)

Alex, right now I have Cs in seven.As I've noted. I'm not good at predictions. I thought Dennis Kucinich was a lock for the Democratic nomination for president.(OK, that's a fib, but you know what I mean.)

Glen Big Dawg Robinson

As a Buck fan Rob, can you tell me what I did wrong in my career? How come people don't remember me for the scoring threat that I was??That hurts man... Big Dawg gonna cry.

Rob Peterson

  (8:47 PM)

Dude, you won a ring with the Spurs in 2005.If you're going to be an impostor, be a good one.

Blake (Hope Mills, NC)

Hey Rob do you think if the 2004 Lakers had their same team today that they would be considered a dynasty?

Rob Peterson

  (8:48 PM)

No, because that '04 Lakers team got their behinds handed to them in five ...Or as the Pistons fans called it, "The Five-Game Sweep".

Curtis Flagg (Indianapolis)

never forget about the fisher factor he has given the lakers organization his unwillingness to win despite going through extreme adversities

Rob Peterson

  (8:49 PM)

Curtis --I can't forget about Fisher. He's another reason this Lakers squad has made it this far.

Bill (Kharkov, Ukraine)

I think all this "Kobe is the best player of his generation" stuff is a slap in the face to Duncan. More titles as Alpha Dog, better team plater, better teammate, all world defense most his career. Really is there any comparison over their career?

Rob Peterson

  (8:50 PM)

Bill --You're opening Pandora's box here. And there's some validation to your argument.NBA.com's John Schuhmann has always called Duncan the best player. Plus he has four rings to Kobe's three.Kobe, however, everyone will agree, is far more dynamic than TD.

Tom Brady (Boston)

Hey Rob, do you see Gisele there by any chance? I can't find her...

Rob Peterson

  (8:51 PM)

Whoa.. my room key is missing.Tom, I'll get back to you.

Ramon (Raleigh, NC)

Hey Rob do you think that Vlad Radmonavich is kind of an underdog player because he has has some good recent performances.

Rob Peterson

  (8:52 PM)

I don't know about underdog, Ramon.I think streaky would be more appropriate.

Mike (Lexington, KY)

Perkins could be the X Factor for the Celts. He can rebound and has the ability to score. Do you see him making a big contribution or will the Lakers contain him??

Rob Peterson

  (8:53 PM)

Mike --Perkins needs to be physical to make a difference.

Rob Peterson

  (8:53 PM)

Hold on, National Anthem.

Rob Peterson

  (8:55 PM)

Most ... mellow ... anthem ... ever.James Taylor everyone!

Cory (UCLA Campus)

Do you think that Jordan Farmar will have a good game or a bad game cause it looks like he kinda has had some of his up's and down's.

Rob Peterson

  (8:56 PM)

Cory --Young point guards are like that. Difference in this series is that the Lakers' young point comes off the bench.The Celtics start theirs.

Rob Peterson

  (8:57 PM)

They just finished introducing the Lakers. Now, it's Celtics time. It's dark and loud.

Rob Peterson

  (8:59 PM)

Just want to take a moment and thank everyone for their comments tonight.Game 1, NBA Finals, Lakers, Celtics.You're dumb if you're not pumped for this one.

vince (O.C., Ca)

The only reason Detroit won in '89 and 2004 was because of injuries. Lakers were the better team both years. Hamstring injuries to two starters in '89, Magic and Byron and a knee injury to Malone in 2004. Otherwise Lakers would have two more championships. But that's ok. We're about to get a few more, and quickly!

Rob Peterson

  (8:59 PM)

You play with what you have ... Sorry about the injuries, but that's how it goes.

Rob Peterson

  (9:01 PM)

All right everyone. I'm out. Gotta go blog for NBA.com.Thanks for the questions and comments. See you before Game 2.

Buzzmaster

  (9:02 PM)

Annnnnnnnnd, I'm back!

Buzzmaster

  (9:02 PM)

Anyone miss me?

Buzzmaster

  (9:02 PM)

Didn't think so. So, I hear there's some sort of game going on tonight? I think I heard the Kansas City Royals are playing or something.

Buzzmaster

  (9:03 PM)

Just kidding! It's NBA Finals time, baby! Get PUM-ped.

rockport texas

grab your snacks your drinks cuz here we go

Mike (Lexington, KY)

Its sadly funny how so many pundits, bloggers, talk-jocks etc. ignore the injury factor when it somes to the outcome of games and/or series'.

Buzzmaster

  (9:03 PM)

Sorry, like my bud Rob Peterson said, got to play with what you got.

Mike (Lexington, KY)

Yah Buzz this MLS game is sweet...:)

Ronee Wong (France)

Who are you?

Buzzmaster

  (9:04 PM)

Better question....who am I not?

Brian (Philly)

Yo Buzz. I hope KG gets it done. For a man who's never ended up in the sections of the sports pages for anything negative, he deserves it in my opinion. A true player, and a true human being.

Jay (NY)

Jeff Van Gundy always looks like he's going to say something wildly inappropriate but somehow keeps it in.

Buzzmaster

  (9:05 PM)

It's part of his charm..no seriously, from watching and hearing Jeff during these playoffs, I think he's one of the best TV guys out there.

Mike (Lexington, KY)

Here we go Lakers Here wo go!!!

Damien (Newfoundland, Canada)

Anyone notice how focused Kobe looked? Don't you get the impression he's able to block out everything going on around him and focus like nobody else in the league today?

Buzzmaster

  (9:06 PM)

Is it just me or has Phil Jackson grown? He looks bigger and bigger every time I see him on TV.

Steve-O (Denver)

Kobe's gonna average 35ppg, no doubt

pablo:(wisconsion)

CELTICS GONNA KICK THE LAKERS BUTT

Buzzmaster

  (9:06 PM)

Thanks for keeping that clean.

Blake (Hope Mills, NC)

Hey Buzzmaster who do you have winning this game and how many games

Buzzmaster

  (9:07 PM)

Oh man. I don't know. If I were any good at predictions, I would be retired, swimming in my millions, a la Scrooge McDuck.

Jay (NY)

Zen's teachings allow him to manipulate his energy to grow his bones bigger.

Concerned Celtic fan

KG looks like he's going to black out.

Some Dumb Boston Guy

Go Bruins!!!

myles Fraser (Needham, MA)

Beat LA beat LA Beat LA

Cathal (Hingham, MA)

How awkward is it with some of the starters doing shootaround with just their uniforms?

Buzzmaster

  (9:08 PM)

Not awkward, I wouldn't think.

David (Twin Falls, ID)

I Think Boston is afraid of losing here in game 1

Buzzmaster

  (9:09 PM)

Great. This chat has been fine all day long and now that I take over, it starts going on the fritz just before tip-off!!

Buzzmaster

  (9:46 PM)

Sorry folks, we have an IT crew working on the problem. But it seems that our chat server is down right now. Stay tuned.

Armand (Tetouan-Morocco)

Celtics will win. No doubt!!!!!

Brian (Providence, RI)

Kobe is 2-8 and we're only down 2...as a Laker fan, I feel good

Buzzmaster

  (10:17 PM)

What's this??? Are we back? Just in time for halftime?

Buzzmaster

  (10:17 PM)

By golly, I think we are!

Cathal (Hingham, MA)

Did Doc Rivers just call a timeout less than a minute before a TV timeout? Nice.

Marc Stein

  (10:18 PM)

Hello, all. I think I have made it to Chatland to be with you. If this arena wireless keeps working, I will try to be your halftime show.

Buzzmaster

  (10:19 PM)

We might have Marc Stein stopping by to chat during halftime here.

Marc Stein

  (10:19 PM)

Send me a sign, SportsNation. Lob me some questions.

Marc Stein

  (10:20 PM)

Just what we expected in the first half, right? Sam I Am and Turiaf raining in jumpers.

Charlie (Milwaukee)

Marc, early thoughts on Game 1?

Marc Stein

  (10:21 PM)

Lakers have to feel good to have the lead when Kobe has missed a lot of makeable Js.

Myles Fraser (Needham, MA)

We need Pierce back in this game. Rondo needs to play defense.

Marc Stein

  (10:21 PM)

By the same token, Boston had to fearing a lot worse when Pierce got that third foul.

Trent (Duluth, MN)

Can KG please take over? He didn't score for the last 5 minutes of the second quarter, nor did he look for his shot much. He needs to put up 40 and 15 tonight for them to win! This is the KG we in Minny have come to know...but he needs to take over!!

Marc Stein

  (10:23 PM)

What? Dare I say KG is off to a decent start. Even he joked about his first shot as a Celtic on Opening Night when he was lucky to hit the backboard because he was so jacked up. I think he'll take 16 and 6 for Half 1.

Greg: Tampa, FL

When PP exited the game in the first half the Celtics offense struggle, and he wasnt even producing. To me it looks as if the Lakers are overplaying him opening up shots for other players. Does he really deserve these double teams?

Marc Stein

  (10:23 PM)

What choice do the Lakers have. He's the one guy who L.A. has no answer for defensively unless it wants to keep Kobe on him all the time. The Lakers obviously don't.

philymon76

Odom needs to stay aggresive in second half

Marc Stein

  (10:24 PM)

I'll let him know.

Marc Stein

  (10:24 PM)

I'm kidding.

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

LA fans must feel good. We heard all week about Boston D and LA has 51 at the half.

Marc Stein

  (10:25 PM)

This is no slight to the Celtics' D, which has been fantastic all year. But the Lakers are the best passing team in the league and have multiple weapons. Boston will have to play D at a much higher level to do to the Lakers what it did to Cleveland.

James (Wellington, New Zealand)

If we are doing an in game chat, why isn't Simmons here on a laptop from the game? That would be off the HOOOOK!

Marc Stein

  (10:26 PM)

You think he's a better chatter than me?!?!?

Marc Stein

  (10:27 PM)

You're right. He is. But Simmo is too emotionally invested in this series to sit still that long on a game night.

John (Seattle WA)

There's no way Kobe will miss as many shots in the second half, I bet this game ends with Lake Show by 10

Marc Stein

  (10:27 PM)

One thing I will say: Kobe's misses weren't all open looks. On the early misses, Ray was doing a nice job of contesting him when so many of us know-it-alls said he had no chance guarding No. 24.

Trent (Duluth, Mn)

Here is the question then (since you mentioned he is off to a decent start, which I agree with)...will a "Decent" KG get them a W? They need more than just the same old KG.

Marc Stein

  (10:28 PM)

Guess I wasn't sarcastic enough, Trent. Sixteen and six is better than decent

Sumeet (Corona, CA)

Do you think Kobe can live with Gasol getting NBA Finals MVP?

Marc Stein

  (10:29 PM)

I'll go out on a limb and say that Kobe will win Finals MVP if the Lakers win this thing.

Ian(Calgary,AB)

Is it just me or did Cassell drink some youth juice? He looks like he warped back to '94 the way hes playing.

Marc Stein

  (10:30 PM)

I hope so. He's one of my favorite players of all-time and I want to see lots of him in this series. But those first three makes weren't exactly gimmes. He was just turning and firing and they were going in.

Jim (CA)

How frightening was that Bird Magic split screen commercial just now?! Are they both aging in dog years?

Marc Stein

  (10:30 PM)

I'm not exactly aging gracefully, so I probably shouldn't comment too extensively. But I'd be lying if I said that commercial didn't elicit a laugh from the folks sitting near me.

Deems (Las Vegas, NV)

true or false: triangle offense is superior to the celtics defense

Marc Stein

  (10:31 PM)

Answer: C. The Lakers break from the triangle a lot more than we ever talk about.

Ronell (Corona, CA.)

The one thing I noticed about Kobe tonight. He is really looking for his teammates. He is setting them up nicely...just the way M.J. used to before he took over.

Marc Stein

  (10:32 PM)

It's not as drastic as Kobe's Game 1 setup mode in the San Antonio series, but getting Odom and Gasol off early is something that means a lot to Kobe because he wants to lift their confidence as quickly as possible. And Pau is in this series right from the jump. Another big plus for L.A.

Philymon76 (Fresno,Ca)

So far does the game live up to the hype?

Marc Stein

  (10:33 PM)

Funny. I'm in the midst of gauging that myself. What does SportsNation think?

Fresno CA

Im not watching the game. IM in class!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Marc Stein

  (10:34 PM)

Wish I would have had classes in school with internet access.

Allan (Anaheim, California)

Stein Big Fan Of Yours Here.......If the Lakers take game 1 and maybe game 2....is the series over or does it get more interesting?

Marc Stein

  (10:36 PM)

I said going in that the Celtics have to go up 2-zip if they want to win this series. And I remain convinced of that.

aj (el paso,il)

how big a factor is paul pierce's foul trouble going to be in the second half?

Marc Stein

  (10:36 PM)

Can you tell me how fast he's going to pick up No. 4?

Chris (Detroit)

No, the game has not lived up to the hype. Spurs/Pistons would be a more exciting game.

Marc Stein

  (10:37 PM)

More sarcasm, Trent.

Sebastian (Brooklyn)

Which name is harder to write in a chat? Vujacic or Radmanovic?

Marc Stein

  (10:38 PM)

Neither. My family has Eastern European roots, so those names roll off the tounge. And keyboard.

Marc Stein

  (10:39 PM)

Second half is here, friends. I have to go back to chronicling the game for ESPN.com. But I hope to do this at halftime of every game if my wireless connection cooperates. See you again soon in Chatland.

Buzzmaster

  (10:40 PM)

Thanks Marc!

Buzzmaster

  (10:40 PM)

And we're back for the second half....as I knock on wood that our server stays up.

Chris (Detroit)

That was not meant as sarcasm. Seriously, no way this series can live up to the week of hype.

Myles Fraser (Needham, MA)

Paul PIERCE!!!!!! here we go boys!

Jeff,Philippines

Is Kobe just cold or is it the D of Allen?

Marc Stein

  (10:40 PM)

But I can't leave without suggesting that Pierce four-point play helped out on the Living Up To The Hype meter.

a.j. (el paso,il)

pierce is fired up, number 4 might come sooner

Marc Stein

  (10:41 PM)

Talk to you Sunday night!

Brian (Seattle WA)

How rediculous is that big trophy in the middle of the court?

Buzzmaster

  (10:43 PM)

It looks very large.

Buzzmaster

  (10:43 PM)

Anyone else think that Garnett is pumped for his first visit to the Finals?

Stein ( Boston )

Prediction for kobe's second half...

Buzzmaster

  (10:43 PM)

H-O-T.

One (Los Angeles)

We are all champions its the heart that separate us that leaves no barriers to hold us.

Brian (Philly)

Buzz? Chat working? How much time you miss in the first half?

Buzzmaster

  (10:45 PM)

Grrrrrrr. Don't want to stinkin' talk about it.

Ronell (Corona, CA.)

Didn't the Celtics used to wear black shoes when they were at home. What happened?

Buzzmaster

  (10:45 PM)

Personal sneaker deals, I'm sure.

Jay (NY)

For those who don't know it was my incredible wit that actually crashed the server. It just couldn't take anymore.

Buzzmaster

  (10:45 PM)

Good call.

Brian (Philly)

So bad that Gasol got called for a backcourt violation when he wasn't backcourt.

Brian (Philly)

Bah-zing for Jay.

Buzzmaster

  (10:47 PM)

Oooooh. Pierce down for the Celts.

John (Cloquet, MN)

Can you guys tell me what's going with the game, my kids are playing the Wii.

Buzzmaster

  (10:47 PM)

He get an elbow to the face or something?

a.j. (el paso,il)

buzzmaster, if pierce's injury is serious, are the celtics finished

Buzzmaster

  (10:48 PM)

This is not good.

Brendo(Atlanta)

Kobe is getting on fire.....

David, VA

If he hurt his knee.... LA in 4

ERIC - NYC

Did you just hear Paul Pierce after he fell!?!? He said "No, no, please." He probably thinks this is bad...

Troy (Chicago, IL)

NO NO NO!!! I do not want to win the series because Pierce got injured. Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too cheap

Jay (NY)

John, tell your kids they're grow up to be someone named Ryan from San Diego if they don't watch the game. They'll know what it means and stop right away.

Buzzmaster

  (10:49 PM)

It's hard to see what it was.

Brian (Philly)

Back-2-back posts? I'm so happy, I may never bring up Kimbo and that dude's ear ever again.

Buzzmaster

  (10:50 PM)

Wow. Pierce is already in a wheelchair.

Vinnie (ATL)

Pierce is not hurt. The NBA needed another commercial break so he is acting. These commercials are ridiculous!

Jim (Boston)

Please put in Cassell Doc!!!! Rondo is terrible.

Ronell (Corona, CA.)

Any word on Paul Pierce? Even though he is a Celtic, He is still from So Cal

David, VA

In wheelchair.... Tore ACL, heard it here first

Kris (SD, Ca)

Dammit. hopefully peirce isnt injuried! I mean i want the lakers to win but not because of an injury. =/

Ryan Los Angles, CA

Did you see PP in the wheelchair??Doesn't look good.

Steiny (NYC)

I feel bad for Pierce. He is came all this way and he is hurt. Crazy

Buzzmaster

  (10:51 PM)

KG needs to be a bigger beast now to keep the Celts in it.

Buzzmaster

  (10:51 PM)

Michelle Tafoya saying that Pierce walked into the lockerroom. Could be a good sign.

Buzzmaster

  (10:51 PM)

Willis Reed, anyone?

Chris (Detroit)

Sweet Justice, Paul Pierce is hurt.

Sahil (Toronto, Ontario)

Pierce needs to come back. I dont want his absence to take away from the lakers ring. They would have won regardless of this injury.

Ronell (Corona, CA.)

Wow. I see him coming back by the 4th quarter. If not only to get his team fired up

Ray (Los Angeles)

Kobe TIME

Buzzmaster

  (10:52 PM)

Now Perkins is limping. Yikes.

Chris (Detroit)

I know that is evil but I hate that guy.

Buzzmaster

  (10:53 PM)

That's just not right man. Not right at all. You're mean.

jesse (anaheim, ca)

Lets hope Paul's injury is not serious!

Buzzmaster

  (10:53 PM)

I agree. He's all heart.

Ronell (Corona, CA.)

The Celts are a wounded bunch. Perkins is limping.

Brian (Philly)

Yo Chris, Detroit still on fire? Classless.

Steiny (NYC)

Wow this is insane. Come on Doc rally your troopes.

Brian (Seattle WA)

There is nothing sweeter than watching Kobe take over a game

CG (Waco)

What's up Buzz. Just got off work. Has this been an exciting game so far?

Buzzmaster

  (10:54 PM)

Pretty exciting. Though Pierce just went down with what looked like a pretty serious injury.

Jon (Basking Ridge, NJ)

Now Perkins is injured?!?? Forget 4, Lakers could win this in 3.

Buzzmaster

  (10:55 PM)

Pierce coming back out!!!!

Jake ( Peterbrough, Ontario)

ITSSSSS OVERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR. The truth has been silenced

John (Cloquet, MN)

Here come Pierce!!!

Buzzmaster

  (10:55 PM)

Huh. Wonder what happened. He looks pretty good.

Buzzmaster

  (10:55 PM)

Sprained knee.

Justin (Ohio)

Paul "Willis" Pierce.

a.j. (el paso,il)

here comes pierce, the heart of a champion

Jon (Basking Ridge, NJ)

Pierce is back!

Myles Fraser (Needham, MA)

Pierce is BACK

CG (Waco)

I thought I just heard super hero music when Pierce came back out.

Paul (Dover NH)

THE TRUTH CANT BE SILENCED!!!!

Jim (Boston)

Pierce is back!!!! Come on Celts!!!

Buzzmaster

  (10:58 PM)

I have the live feed from the game and the announcers in the break were just saying that Phil Jackson is a good timeout taker. They're going to talk about it when they come back from break.

John (Cloquet, MN)

If Pierce hits his first shot they are going to go nuts.

Justin (Ohio)

Anyone else pick up on Doc holding Pierce back until he heard it from the doctors? Kinda cool.

Jon (Basking Ridge, NJ)

Shades of Willis Reed

Jim (Boston)

Pierce is back. Yeah!!! er wait, TV timeout. Energy gone.....stupid timeouts!!!

a.j. (el paso,il)

pierce had jackson scared

Paul Pierce (Boston)

Ain't no thang.

crax (NY)

paul pierce cmon man lets get fired up

Ian (Salt Lake)

Buzz how do I get me one of them live feeds? THERE IS THE ROCKY MUSIC I TOTALLY CALLED THAT!

Ian (Salt Lake)

*cues up Rocky theme song*

Brian (Philly)

Wow Buzz, it's like you know the future.

Jon (Basking Ridge, NJ)

Rocky music. classic Boston Garden move.

Ian(Calgary,AB)

You could not have scripted this any better. We are only in game 1 and this is looking like one for the ages!

Joby Smith, Broken Bow Oklahoma

Thank GOD Paul Pierce, is back on the court.

Phil Jackson

I just took the air out of your balloon!!!

Jay (NY)

Buzz with the inside info...nice work

Justin (Ohio)

Psychic Buzz... What is happening now?

Buzzmaster

  (11:02 PM)

We're playing a basketball game with the Celtics leading.

Buzzmaster

  (11:02 PM)

PJ Brown with the nice use of the booty to create some space.

Jim (Boston)

Pierce didn't look too good on those free throws.

Agent Smith (The Matrix)

What good is a knee...if you can't see?

Ken: (East Lansing, MI)

Also, the Willis Reed comparisons are a bit exaggerated at this point. Willis was dealing with a potentially career ending injury. This is a classic example of being "hurt" vs being "injured"

John (Cloquet, MN)

Buzz must have Biff Tannen's sports almanac.

Ian (Salt Lake)

He certainly knows how to back that thang up

Buzzmaster

  (11:03 PM)

Dumb foul for KG.

Buzzmaster

  (11:03 PM)

Perkins coming back after an ankle sprain.

Buzzmaster

  (11:04 PM)

With how big, strong, fast and athletic these guys all are, it is really amazing that there aren't more injuries with them all banging around on the court like they do.

Ray (Los Angeles)

Garnet looks puzzled.

Jesse Oregon

THE LAKERS CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH YOU CANT STOP THE TRUTH

Munny ( Toronto, Ontario)

Buzz, can I get a shout out or what!!!! Lakes in 6!!

Buzzmaster

  (11:05 PM)

Pierce goes down and holds the knee. Playing with his sleeve.

CG (Waco)

No love for Perkins? What's up with that?

Brian (Philly)

Perkins is wondering where his thunderous applause was.

Johnny (Boston)

I thought the trampolines were taken away after halftime

Brian (AZ)

I'm still waiting to see which player "The Machine" take the 10% from to get to 110%.

Ian (Salt Lake)

Forget flopping, There needs to be a fine for fans who stand up before a 3 pointer goes in. CLANG.

Tom (Chicago)

How can someone be the truth if they've never won anything? Just a question...

Buzzmaster

  (11:06 PM)

Same way someone can be The Answer.

Jon (Basking Ridge, NJ)

Kobe still only went to the line twice. Wonder what's up with that.

Justin (Ohio)

I agree Buzz. I've thought for a few years now they should make the court and the lane wider. Would open things up quite a bit, I think. Kinda like Olympic hockey.

Brian (Philly)

Kobe...........feeling it.

Vinnie (ATL)

This game is playing right into the Lakers hands. Close game. 4th quarter Kobe takes over. This is the leagues best defense? Please.

Steiny (NYC)

Wow that scared me for a little bit. I am not rooting for one team, I just want a good game, and with Paulie hurt it is not a good game. Everybody take advantage of this moment because we are seeing one of the greatest players to ever play the game right now.

Tom (Chicago)

This just in: Kobe is kind of good. What a shot!

a.j. (el paso,il)

buzz, how many points you think kobe will have in the 4th

Buzzmaster

  (11:07 PM)

3.5.

Spike Lee (Madison Square Garden)

I invented standing up before a 3 pointer goes in.

Johnny (Boston)

Everytime I see Cassell take a shot I have horrible flashbacks of Antoine

Buzzmaster

  (11:07 PM)

Good defense by PJ.

Buzzmaster

  (11:07 PM)

Pierce for 3!!

Ian(Calgary,AB)

Kobe is starting to get that look in his eyes.

Buzzmaster

  (11:08 PM)

Pierce for 'nother three!

Tom (Chicago)

Pierce looks like he is barely jumping on his threes, but they're still going in.

Zak (Tucson)

That knee injury was the best thing that could've happened to Pierce. The man is on fire!

Johnny (Boston)

And about that knock on Pierce's nickname... it was given by a multiple-time champion, Shaq. And those threes looked pretty true to me.

a.j. (el paso,il)

back 2 back 3's for pierce

CG (Waco)

Pierce is on FIRE!!

Ryan (San Diego)

Haha its funny to see the Celtics fans get all happy...its not even the 4th yet. Wait til the Celtics start laying bricks during crunch time

Shakir (Bethel, CT)

Beat LA

Buzzmaster

  (11:10 PM)

Is Jordan Farmar the one-minute or less to go in a quarter guy or something?

Brian (Philly)

Not quite Isiah's performance vs. the Lakers, but Pierce is doing a decent impression.

John (Cloquet, MN)

My kids wore me down bugging me to turn the Wii back on every 10 seconds. I think it is time to turn it off again.

Sahil (Toronto, Ontario)

Buzz, you cant be serious. Kobe's gonna get 3.5 points? Even if it was 35 thats still a stretch. But if anyone can do it its the black mamba!!

CG (Waco)

Lakers need to attack right now since Pierce is resting.

Tom (Chicago)

It wasn't a knock, it was just a question. To be honest, I could care less what his nickname is.

Jon (Ohio)

Wow a 'toine reference now the Celics are jinxed

Kevin (Berkely)

Will be interesting to see how Pierce's knee responds after the rest and the next game.

Buzzmaster

  (11:11 PM)

Pierce on the bike at the end of the quarter.

Steve (Minneapolis, MN)

remember when people thought Rajon was the weakest player on the team?I'd take him as my PG any day (granted, I AM a wolves fan)

Drew (Acworth, GA)

They listened to the Doc, closeout the quarter!

bagi

Lets go BOSTON, BEAT la

Justin (Ohio)

By the way Buzz, thanks alot for doing these in game chats. Appreciate it.

Buzzmaster

  (11:14 PM)

You're welcome. I enjoy it too. Well, at least while the server is working anyway.

a.j. (el paso,il)

now it's time for the mvp to do his thing

Buzzmaster

  (11:14 PM)

Which one? Kobe or KG?

gejo( san antonio)

phil jackson is the best time out taker in the nba!

Ian(Calgary,AB)

Gasol looks like he's just glad to be here. Maybe he should stop wearing his old Memphis Grizzles "lucky" underoos.

CG (Waco)

Game 2 is not til Sunday? What's up with that? What happened to every other day unless you're switching courts?

Danny (Minneapolis, MN)

Paul Pierce is my hero.

Kevin (Berkley)

OK, maybe this series will live up to the hype. Yeah, Buzz thanks for doing the chats and posting the comments.

Joihnny (Boston)

I'm really glad I bought an HDTV the other day.

Brian (Boston, MA)

Is it me or is Pierce alittle too dramatic?

Buzzmaster

  (11:15 PM)

For an athlete, there's nothing scarier than going down, hearing a pop or feeling a pull. Your next injury could be ''the one.''

Mike (East Windsor, NJ)

Amazing game!!

Salim (Montreal, Canada)

It's now 11:15, let's see how long a 4th quarter really is...

Brian (Philly)

Should have seen Buzz during the 3 OT Stanley Cup game. He was working on 3 Red Bulls and a steady stream of general idiocy from the people.

Buzzmaster

  (11:16 PM)

All of that was out of the ordinary, except for the last part.

Jamila (Boston)

This is just game one and we've already had our Willis Reed moment.

Tony (New Jersey)

Pierce is gonna tire himself out on that bike.

Vinnie (ATL)

Doesn't ESPN own half the servers on the web? They also employee all most every computer geek on the planet. How does a server go down with those resources?

Buzzmaster

  (11:17 PM)

Something still can go wrong when you have half the world's population coming to your site.

Ian (Salt Lake)

As a tall white guy, watching Luke Walton "play" basketball always makes me feel better about my performance in pickup games.

Paul Pierce (Boston)

Ill be fine consider the long wait for game 2 Ill get plenty of rest

Eric - NYC

I'm sorry, the Ref'ing has been AWFUL! Both ways, just terrible calls

Buzzmaster

  (11:17 PM)

That means it's been good, if you're saying it's terrible both ways.

G-Bo (OH)

It could be worse The Grizz still could be in Vancouver.

Justin (Ohio)

I'm not sure if it is an amazing game? Competive game yes, just not sure on amazing yet.

Brian (Philly)

Vinnie, after seeing Buzz at work the last few years......anything's possible.

Russ (San Diego)

GOD BLESS TED KENNEDY!!

G-Bo (OH)

On that note who's idea was to put an NBA franchise in Vancouver?

Buzzmaster

  (11:18 PM)

G-Bo, is your cousin Deebo?

Ian (Salt Lake)

And Buzz comes through with the most startlingly accurate observation about refs in some time.

Ian(Calgary,AB)

Odom seriously makes me want to pull my hair out.

Perkins (Boston)

I'm still waiting for someone from the crowd to give me an applause for coming back.

Ryan (San Diego)

Cassell is such a ball hog, as a Laker fan I love that he is in there

G-Bo (OH)

No-No

Kevin, San Jose, CA

Paul Pierce is NOT Willis Reed! He is crying as he's taken off the court in a wheelchair, then walks back on the court before the timeout is over!?!? He is looking for attention!! There is NO CHANCE he could be hurt and walk back on the court! This is ridiculous!

Buzzmaster

  (11:20 PM)

Yes, yes. That's exactly what he was thinking while playing in the NBA Finals for the first time. He's thinking while dribbling and guarding Kobe ''hmmmm, everyone's cheering, but not for me. I can't hear my name too much. Now, what can I do to get people to talk about me some more? Me, the captain of the Celtics and one of the best players on the team? Talk about me more....hmmmmm.''

Jamila (Boston)

That play was insane.

Johnny (Boston)

What's this? Cassell taking a good shot? It's the end of the world as we know it...

Buzzmaster

  (11:20 PM)

That's a good song.

Michael (Flathead Valley, MT)

deebo? nice Friday reference

South Fulton TN

This is what the finals are all about

Johnny (Boston)

Phew. An 3 early in the shot clock. Back to normal.

CG (Waco)

Uh oh. It's 1 on 5 out there and that's big trouble. Will Cassell stop shooting already?

Buzzmaster

  (11:21 PM)

You need a TO baby!

Ronan (Austin, TX)

Now he's really going to hog

Kevin (Berkley)

Response to Kevin in San Jose. Now that is THE TRUTH

Boston (MA)

*claps* There you go Perk.

Brian (Boston)

Thank you Doc for putting in Cassell. Thanks Doc

Rodd Mann (St. LouisL:o)

There's much banging around the Net tonight! Is this the NHL??

Justin (Ohio)

I was listening to Sam Smith on The Tony Kornheiser radio show today and he was saying Kobe was the only player on either team to start on the two respective teams from the 80's? Thoughts?

Steiny (NYC)

Cassell is going to be the MVP!!!

Ian (Salt Lake)

Jack Black as a panda=awesome.

Ryan (San Diego)

Kobe is going in to shoot everything mode...not good

Jamila (Boston)

Regardless of the results, the editors at Sportscenter are gonna have a heck of a time tonight.

Brian (Philly)

Yo Lakers, you can guard the 3. It's ok.

Dave (Fair Haven, NJ)

Eddie Houses son gets more time on the court in timeouts then Eddie does during this game

Buzzmaster

  (11:23 PM)

OK, I think I'm really late to the party on this one...but what's the deal with Eddie House's kid being on the bench?

Eddie (Davis, CA)

Pierce thing was preplanned.... boost for the crowd. Love it

Brian (Boston)

But Buzz....How can someone not be able to get up, have to get carried to a wheelchair, then in 5 mins be able to go and perform at a high level. It's dramatic

Buzzmaster

  (11:25 PM)

He walked into the lockerroom. I'm thinking the wheelchair was the team's idea. And I'm saying, there's nothing worse for an athlete than getting that thinking that your fall is ''the big one'' as in career-ending injury. It's almost more mental than physical. Once he realized he was all right, he was probably able to come back out.

Johnny (Boston)

Red fixed Pierce's knee.

Ian (Salt Lake)

Bring your kid to work day, Buzz.

Brian (Philly)

That kid's got great seats.

G-Bo (OH)

Could be worse, Larry Hughes could go into shoot evreything mode.

Buzzmaster

  (11:25 PM)

Can I just call you Deebo?

Justin (Ohio)

$70 or $80 million contract and people are questioning precaution? Stupid.

Rodd Mann (St. Louis)

It's the Finals so whatever it takes for the CELTICS to Win is OK by me

John (Cloquet, MN)

Mr. Miyagi fixed Pierce's knee.

Ian(Calgary,AB)

Phil Jackson just conceded the game with that bonehead move.

eric (ashland, or)

buzz..i'm at work...i hate this. i wish i was in boston for this..sounds like a barn burner!

Johnny (Boston)

Cassell with a quality shot.

Johnny (Boston)

I don't like KG in the 4th. I'm not calling him bad in the clutch, but he takes those 17 footers that fall in the 1st and clank in the 4th. Go to the hole. It's the playoffs; Pau will fall.

Tony (New Jersey)

Celtics are tired. Time for LA to close this game out. KG's set shot was an air-ball.

Ian (Salt Lake)

Good to see Cassell will not shoot when he HAS TO.

Dick

I think I need a rematch with Barkley in a straight line 100m, no going back and forth this time.

G-Bo (OH)

That's it I'm changing my name.

Tom (Chicago)

Do you think Simmons is getting ready to jump on the court and tackle Cassell so he can't play anymore?

Kobe

I hate this seat.

Ryan (San Diego)

Its a close game and garnett is laying bricks...weird

josh (chicago)

Cassell needs to go back to the bench

Johnny (Boston)

Come on, KG! It's Turiaf! Tommy would call him an "ENERGY GUY." Know who also is a energy guy? Justin Reed!

Tony (New Jersey)

Celtics are tired. Their shots are falling short of the rim. That is always a sign of being tired.

Ian(Calgary,AB)

New NBA rule: Only teams named the Lakers and Celtics can play in the finals.

Ian (Salt Lake)

My neighbors are probably wondering why they keep hearing me jeering "SHOOT IT LUKE! SHOOT IT!"

Brent (Lafayette IN)

LA is killing boston here in the fourth quarter on the boards. Too many second chance opportunities

John (Cloquet, MN)

pssssst...Buzz, what are the announcers saying?

Buzzmaster

  (11:29 PM)

They just faded to black.

Rodd Mann (St. Louis)

5 Minutes to Go Boyz!!! I feel like a Redwings in Game 5!!!

Ryan (San Diego)

Not 1 reach in foul called on that possession? Pretty sure the Celtics were slapping around...retarded

Justin (Ohio)

10:00 am or 11:30 pm and Ryan (San Diego) is just as clever.

Buzzmaster

  (11:30 PM)

They just said they want Pierce and Kobe back in the game, but especially Pierce. He's sat a long time.

Lebron (Ohio)

Well that new rule ruins me.

John (Cloquet, MN)

Can anyone tell me why and how the new Incredible Hulk movie will be different from the one that came out a few years ago?

Buzzmaster

  (11:31 PM)

Good. I'm not the only one that was going crazy. I thought they just had a Hulk movie, but then I saw the commercial and thought I was wrong.

CG (Waco)

Cassell better be on the bench when play starts back because if the Celts lose Doc is getting the blame.

Alex (Dominican Republic)

Who the Hell wants to see the movie, The Strangers, when the tag line is: "you won't sleep for weeks".

Ryan (San Diego)

Justin, you can't teach it...just something your born with I guess. Thats what they tell me

Buzzmaster

  (11:32 PM)

Rondo's back in. I was wondering what happened to him.

Cedric (Memphis)

I love the fact that Eddie House's kid gets to be all on the court like that. If I couldn't get in the game at least let my kid be the biggest cheerleader and best high fiver we have.

Buzzmaster

  (11:32 PM)

Pierce again!

Ian (Salt Lake)

The difference is Ed Norton, but it's unlikely even that will make it any good.

Tom (Chicago)

Ed Norton is not Eric Bana. Liv Tyler is not Jennifer Connolly. No Ang Lee. There are all your differences.

Buzzmaster

  (11:33 PM)

Gasol's got a weird shooting motion.

B-Bo (OH)

You'll never guess who I am!

Buzzmaster

  (11:33 PM)

Deebo!

Johnny (Boston)

Pau rattles it out. Jason Williams is enjoying this.

John (Cloquet, MN)

Uggh...my kids got cheetos all over one of the Wii remotes.

Buzzmaster

  (11:34 PM)

Grounded for life.

CG (Waco)

How did PJ Brown get that rebound?

Buzzmaster

  (11:34 PM)

Using his booty, probably.

Ian (Salt Lake)

Hahaha..Seriously. I love Luke Walton. I am so his biggest fan. Best rebound ever.

Justin (Ohio)

Ryan, I'm not even sure if I was joking. I am jealous of your dillusional state of mind.

B-Bo (OH)

YOU FIEND!

Michael (Flathead Valley, MT)

no fair Buzz, DTVs' feed is like 6 secs slower than yours

Johnny (Boston)

KG! STOP! Dunk on someone.

Dave (Iowa City)

How is that not a loose ball foul on PJ brown?

Buzzmaster

  (11:35 PM)

Refs couldn't see past his bum.

Aaron(KY)

If I change my name to Ian, will a post get posted?

Buzzmaster

  (11:35 PM)

Probably not.

Ryan (San Diego)

YES!...Keep letting garnett shoot, they're going to build a house for the homeless

Shawn (Las Vegas)

Rondo just makes some dumb plays sometimes

Brent (Lafayette, IN)

Who are you guys voting for player of the game?

Zak (Tucson)

PJ got that rebound using the Barkley booty.

Brian (Philly)

Uh, Lakers shooting like KG. But Celtics have others making shots.

Aaron(KY)

Wow. Mention Ian and it gets in there. Let's talk about more movies during a NBA chat, why don't we?

Buzzmaster

  (11:36 PM)

Sure, why not? Now stop complaining.

Tom (Chicago)

Does anyone else find it odd that during an NBA chat, the only person that gets posted continuously is a Canadian, but during the NHL finals, not a Canadian to be found?

John (Cloquet, MN)

Did anybody catch what Phil was saying to Odom after that foul?

Buzzmaster

  (11:37 PM)

Cut the crap and start playing ball.

Rodd Mann (St. Louis)

Busch Beer, Cheap Cigars and the NBA Finals..Can it get any better???

Justin (Ohio)

I'm voting for Glenn "Big Baby" Davis.

Zak (Tucson)

Pierce for PotG. His return was the turning point for the Celts. Hitting those back to back 3s did the Lakers in.

Chris (Detroit)

So if I apologize for the Pierce comment, will you post my comments again?

Buzzmaster

  (11:38 PM)

I haven't seen your posts either. We're sifting through thousands of them right now. I'll say it now and probably get complained to many more times before the Finals are over....sorry if you don't get posted. I just post what I am seeing.

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

Game 1 to David Stern and his refs.

Buzzmaster

  (11:39 PM)

I have a feeling by the end of this series, I will be going off on all the ref comments.

Brent (Lafayette IN)

I would vote for Pierce, but I'm just not sure how you go from being carried off the court in agony to running up and down the court in a matter of minutes.

Buzzmaster

  (11:39 PM)

See, I don't know if it was physical agony. I think it was all mental. That he thought he was injured really badly.

Tom (NY)

Pierce hasn't grabbed or limped once with his knee! man, hope he is ok!

Ian(Calgary,AB)

Nice! It looks like Odom has finally found his groove. It only took him 45 minutes to realize he was playing in the finals.

Ryan (San Diego)

Aaron, I just got my Sex and the City tickets off of Fandango...have you seen it? I hope its as good as the series, but they usually never are

CG (Waco)

Man can we at least wait til Game 4 before people start complainging about the refs?

KG (Boston)

Man, I'm nervous.

Chris (Detroit)

I understand, not complaing.

PJ Brown (Boston)

I'm playing a great game... why are you all hatin'?

Ben (Windsor, ON)

Crap blocking call

Drew (Acworth, GA)

That was an offensive foul on Odom. He should be on the bench not the free throw line.

Ian (Salt Lake)

Buzz, I will be right there to print your rant for posterity. I am sure it will be epic.

Zak (Tucson)

You must admit though Buzz, the refereeing has been bad as ever these playoffs. The only reason this isn't a Celtics-Suns finals is the officiating. I'm not crazy, am I?

Buzzmaster

  (11:41 PM)

You're crazy. Officiating might not be great, but's it's not horrendous either. It is what it is.

Deebo (OH)

ARE YOU HAPPY KNOW?!

Buzzmaster

  (11:42 PM)

DEEBO!

John (Alaska)

Come on Celts! Put these guys away! Kobe is going to get his.

Brent (Lafayette, IN)

Either pierce was realing hurting and has great recovery, or he was being overly dramatic, you tell me.

Buzzmaster

  (11:42 PM)

Uggggh. I give up.

Brian (Philly)

Van Gundy called Kobe the game's best "closer" is Kobe Mariano Rivera then?

Chris (Detroit)

Can someone call my phone, I can't find it.

Brian (Philly)

If you had to ask Zak....its you.

Johnny (Boston)

I haven't seen my name on here in a while. I'm more hit-or-miss than Sam Cassell

Shawn (Las Vegas)

The only reason the Bulls are not hear is b/c the refs screwed them all season. If the ref would have been better it would be Bulls-Lakers.

Buzzmaster

  (11:43 PM)

Booty with the rebound!

Brent (Lafayette, IN)

It is hard to argue against pierce for player of the game otherwise though. He's having a great game

Ryan (San Diego)

Haha, the Lakers are down 5 and its like I'm not even worried because I know everybody on the celtics chokes

Chris (Detroit)

Complaining about the refs is what poorly educated sports fans do. People were complaing about the refs from the wings game last night and we won the cup. Its just crazy.

Ben (Windsor, ON)

Rondo with two HUGE defensive plays on one possession... awesome stuff.

Alex (Dominican Republic)

Nice suit Kobe, that was from the 1984 draft collection, alongside with the Malone short tie and the Barkley maroon suit.

Aaron(KY)

Pierce was faking. An objective person can clearly see that.

Buzzmaster

  (11:44 PM)

Clearly.

Zak (Tucson)

Offensive foul on Gasol. His arm was fully extended pushing off of Garnett. BS call.

Orrin (Oxford, NY)

I chose the Lakers in 6 over the Celtics before the playoffs even started and unless Pierce and Garnett continue to play out of their minds, it will only last 6.

Dallas Drake (St. Louis)

I'll call your Cell Phone!!

Jimmy (RI)

Stupid turnovers!!!!!! ARRRGGHHHHH!!!!Come on!!

Sahil (Toronto, Ontario)

Ray's missed free throw is reflective of his play offs

Shaq

Please dont let Kobe win please dont let Kobe win please dont let Kobe win

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

Of course you at Espn refuse to admit it rigged,because your BSPN. The Boston/New York homer network.

Buzzmaster

  (11:45 PM)

Well......duuuuhhhhhh.

Jalean House (Boston)

Hey please stop hatin on me for having better seats than many of you could ever afford in ten lifetimes. If you stop I can hook you up with some tickets! Gotta go, we're up 5 and Rondo at the line.

Ryan (San Diego)

Well, unless the celtics go to the line every possession...then they will actually win the game

Brian (Philly)

Um.......still waiting for Kobe.

Jamila (Boston)

Six? There's no way this series doesn't go seven. David Stern will guarantee it.

Ian (Salt Lake)

I'm with ya Buzz. Pierce was scared, not faking.

Ronell (Corona, CA.)

I must say. Best finals game I have seen in a long time.

Buzzmaster

  (11:46 PM)

Ooooohhhhh!

CG (Waco)

That could be the deathnail for the Lakers losing that rebound.

Kobe

I laid a big egg this game. Sorry everyone

Doc Rivers (Thinking to himself)

I think I should give Sam another try, I think he's due.

Brian (Philly)

THERE'S KG!!!!!

Shawn (Las Vegas)

That is why KG is a winner. Plays that don't show up in the stats

Brent (IN)

PJ brown is the player of the game. What a performance by the old man.

Buzzmaster

  (11:46 PM)

Are you giving it to PJ himself or to his booty?

CG (Waco)

Now that was a dagger.

Johnny (Boston)

YES! KG! THERE YOU GO!

John (Cloquet, MN)

That's why I love KG!!!

Angry Raiders Fan (Oakland)

But thats all the refs do, man. They countinously screw us over, man. Always, man. I WILL DESTROY THEM, man.

Buzzmaster

  (11:47 PM)

Nicely played.

Ryan (San Diego)

Shawn, that play will show up in the stats as 2 points. I would have laughed if he missed that

Jesse Oregon

KG IS THE MAN THROW IT DOWN BIG FELLA

Greg (Minneapolis)

The Timberwolves got jacked so bad in that deal.

Charles B (AZ)

Damn, this is not gonna help me pay off those markers...C'mon Kobe you were a sure thing!

Buzzmaster

  (11:48 PM)

Garnett did not show a good handle on that play. A cleaner dribble and he's at the line for a three-point play.

Tony (New Jersey)

Game 2, Lakers win by 10. That is a guarantee. As long as Bavetta is not one of the officials.

Buzzmaster

  (11:48 PM)

Will you come back to the chat on Sunday night if that doesn't happen?

Zak (Tucson)

Its about time KG got physical. I was sure he was gonna shoot the jumper on Radmonavich, at which point I would've changed the channel.

arf (nyc)

this one is over folks, nice one odoom for turning up ...

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

Boston gets an *. Couldn't win without it being rigged.

Andrew (Salt Lake City)

Don't ever complain about the refs, Laker fans. You have no idea what kind of treatment you get.

KG

Told ya'll I was clutch!

Phil Jackson

Buzz should we start fouling?

Buzzmaster

  (11:49 PM)

Naaahhhh, you've still got plenty of time.

Ryan (San Diego)

Thats because Garnett is so freaked out by the clutch situation he can't even dribble

Michael (Flathead Valley, MT)

PJs booty is fundamental, beware Kobe next game, he will go off

David (beaumont)

he looks nervous seemed like he handled the ball better in minn

Orrin (Oxford, NY)

I really don't care what anyone says. Basketball needs instant replay. Too many bs calls both way.

Buzzmaster

  (11:49 PM)

They have instant replay. But you're not going to use it to check fouls. No sport will.

Shawn (Las Vegas

I swear to god if people don't stop complaining about the refs, I am going to take my frozen envelope and leave.

Brent (Lafayette IN)

Ok Kobe, here's your shot. Down 8 one minute left. You want it, here it is. Biggest Stage!

Ben (Windsor, ON)

Someone please lock Cassell in his room for game 2. Boston must have been -10 when he was in the game.

John (Cloquet, MN)

BALLGAME!!

Chris (Detroit)

If basketball had instant replay, the games would last 8 hours instead of just 4

Brian (Philly)

Um......someone tell Ryan that KG and Kobe just switched sides.

Cedric (Memphis)

I'm voting for House's Kid as the mvp

Michael (New Orleans)

Simply put...and this is what I hate about the NBA...Boston is allowed to play defense and LA isn't...watch all that "great" defense become fouls in LA

josh (chicago)

you cant have instant replay for what you think are bs calls. the games would last forever. its like using instant replay for balls and strikes.

Chuck, Atlanta

Well, it's clear the NBA wants this series to go to seven games. Home cooking on the part of the refs? You got it!

Buzzmaster

  (11:51 PM)

Clearly.

Jamila (Boston)

Buzz, I think Phil Jackson took your no-fouling advice.

Buzzmaster

  (11:51 PM)

I could be an NBA coach.

Jimmy (RI)

Way to go "Zen Master". You might want to foul there.

Buzzmaster

  (11:52 PM)

I think it was more poor execution on the players part.

Aaron(KY)

Buzz....how long you been a C's fan?

Buzzmaster

  (11:52 PM)

Who says I'm a C's fan?

Brent (Lafayette IN)

Good game all. Now lets go vote for PJ! Lookin' forward to game 2.

Ryan (doniphan mo)

buzz you just want to get the blame off yourself

Brian (Philly)

Boston was the hungrier team tonight. Lakers need to remember how to play big in big games.

David, Tampa , Fl

How much to you think the refs won on the game? Its clear Garnett constantley goes over the back on rebounds.

Buzzmaster

  (11:53 PM)

Clearly.

Ryan (LA)

Wow. What a great game. Give it up to Boston, the better team tonight won the game. I can't wait for game 2! This was better than I could ever hoped!

Tony (New Jersey)

Pierce is player of the game. What a DRAMA-KING.

Buzzmaster

  (11:54 PM)

Pierce saying that he heard his knee pop. And it's sore after the game.

Jimmy (RI)

3 more wins, haters!! Go Celts. Go Celtic fans!!! BEAT LA!!!

Ian(Calgary,AB)

Kobe is 24/72 shooting in 3 games versus the Celtics this season. A scorching 33%! Ouch.

CG (Waco)

Good game I hope for a better one Sunday.

Brian (Philly)

........Still waiting for Kobe...........

Aaron(KY)

Every reaction to every comment says your a C's fan OR a Lakers hater.

Buzzmaster

  (11:54 PM)

Dude, you need to lighten up.

Cam(CA)

Glad to see the officials giving Boston the game....

Chris (Detroit)

Enough with the refs. For the love of everything that is holy, enough about the refs

Ryan (San Diego)

The lakers played like crap and were still in it all the way til the end...win game 2

Greg (Minneapolis)

We'll see if Kobe the man or the boy shows up next game...I don't think they can afford to go down 0-2

Bryan ((IA))

I have to assume everyone whinning about the refs is losing money on this, if the Lakers could make any shots they'd be in the game

Deebo (OH)

This post is for you Buzz

Buzzmaster

  (11:55 PM)

Yah! DEEBO!

Ryan (doniphan mo)

PP is the man playing thrugh the pain to help his team win in the finals

Tony (New Jersey)

Pierce's explaination was other-worldly about his supposedly injured knee. What a DRAMA-KING!!!

Aaron(KY)

I'll take that as confirmation :)

Buzzmaster

  (11:56 PM)

You make me laugh, Aaron.

Shawn (Las Vegas)

Buzz - It appears that we need quite a few orders of Whamburgers and French-Cries

Cam(CA)

Not hitting shots contributed. Bad officiating on the Walton foul off the miss and other calls contributed to killing any chance for momentum.

Myles Fraser (Needham, MA)

good game

Brent(Ohio)

Just one game everyone. Well done Boston but the Lakers looked rusty - especially Kobe. As Legler said, if Bos doesn't win game one they got some serious problems. A lot more to come in this series.

Johnny (Boston)

The Zen Master is 41-0 in series when winning game 1. What is he when losing games 1, 2, 3, and 4?

Brian (Philly)

Me and Deebo carried this chat. Glad to be of service Buzz.

Michael (Flathead Valley, MT)

and you know this, man

sahil (Toronto, Ontario)

Thanks for the chat Buzz. Good night

Josh ( LA )

As a Laker fan I am encouraged with todays loss. Odom did nothing. Gasol didnt have a huge impact. Kobe was terrible. Farmar was no where to be found. We were in it the whole game. Stop blaming refs. P.S. That is one cool name buzzmaster!

Buzzmaster

  (11:57 PM)

Josh, let me just say this...that is probably one of the most logical, sane posts we've had all night. Are you sure you belong in this chat?

Dave (chicago)

Every Laker who played at least 15 minutes had 3 fouls, when does that ever happen?

Jimmy (RI)

Good game. Glad it's only 10pm...oh wait. Stupid LA/Late start time.

Biff Tannen (Hill Valley)

See Buzz, I told you the Celtics would win Game 1 98-88.

Brad (NJ)

Think Kobe will shoot 9-26 in game 2? He goes off for at least 40. Lakers BIG in game 2.

Ryan (San Diego)

The 1 week layoff was evident...not even worried. Look at all the celtics fans confident...you do realize you guys took the Cavs and Hawks to 7 games right?

Tony (New Jersey)

Boston will need the 2 1/2 days off to recuperate after tonight's game. Get out the Ben-Gay boys.

Buzzmaster

  (11:59 PM)

OK everyone. Thanks for stopping by. We'll be back again on Sunday night for Game 2!