ESPN

John Hollinger

  (3:10 PM)

Greetings from Boston, where I'm expecting the Celtics will clinch tonight. Let's discuss ....

Phil Jackson, LA

What do I do to slow down Paul Pierce? Why do I keep starting V-Rod?

John Hollinger

  (3:11 PM)

Those are two huge questions for L.A. The Lakers were destroyed by the high pick and roll with Pierce last night and need to figure out a new way to defend it. I remain surprised they haven't throw more zone looks at Boston since Pierce has been so comfy attacking off the bounce, but then again Boston's hit a ton of 3s this series too.

Ronnie (Santa Ana, CA)

C'mon John....Realistically, what kinda shot do you give the Lakers at winning the next two games?

John Hollinger

  (3:12 PM)

Very small. They've done nothing in the first five games to make me think they're the better team, and they'll need to significantly better to win back to back in the Celtics' building.

Doc Rivers, Boston

Why do I play Sam Cassell? Why do I make random subs? How was I lucky enough to get this team?

John Hollinger

  (3:13 PM)

Here we go again ... Cassell actually played well in Game 5, if anyone cared to notice. Doc put Sam in because House kept getting beat off the dribble by Farmar and Rondo was giving him nothing. Were you hoping for Gabe Pruitt?

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Will Perkins/ Allen play tonight?

John Hollinger

  (3:15 PM)

I've read that Perkins will play but I think it's gonna be one of those deals where he tries it for four minutes and then has to shut it down. Allen I'd expect to play.

German (San Juan, PR)

Why do the Lakers even bother to defend a pick and roll so far away (30 feet) from the basket?

John Hollinger

  (3:16 PM)

Good point-- all series long it's seemed to me that they've been to close on Pierce, especially Vlad.

John (Portland, ME)

Why did Doc start Powe in Game 5, only to bench him for the rest of the game after only five minutes?

John Hollinger

  (3:18 PM)

I was surprised he started Powe because he almost never plays Powe and Garnett together. He ended up not playing after that because Doc went with Posey and/or Pierce as his de facto power forward for most of the game with the small lineup, so that eliminated the need for Powe. I suspect he'll only play about five minutes as Garnett's backup tonight, with PJ starting and Posey seeing heavy minutes.

Andy (Denver)

Who was the guy that dared Phil Jackson to play Chris Mihm? That had to be the reason he did it, right?

John Hollinger

  (3:19 PM)

I take it he wasn't happy with what Turiaf had been giving him, but that was still bizarre and it almost cost the Lakers Game 5. One more example of Doc outcoaching Phil in this series.

Alec (Alabama)

Will Big Baby maybe get some minutes tonight?

John Hollinger

  (3:20 PM)

Yes, I should have mentioned him earlier. If Perkins can't go and the Lakers' inside guys keep having their way like they did in Game 5, we may very well see Big Baby as a physical presence.

Bennett Salvatore, Boston

Should I go with 2 fouls on Gasol in the first 3 minutes or wait until the 7 minute mark?

John Hollinger

  (3:23 PM)

Interesting that two of the three refs from the infamous Wade game are working tonight. Also interesting because Crawford and Rush are let-em-play types while Salvatore tends to call really ticky-tacky stuff. Could make the game seem a bit ragged.

Eddie F. Rush (Boston, MA)

John, the Lakers are 14-6 in the postseason including an 0-3 mark when I officiate their games...this series is OVER...mark my words.

John Hollinger

  (3:25 PM)

Riiiiight ... I'm sure that's because of Eddie and not because the Lakers happened to play badly those days. By the way, true story: Eddie was two seats away from me on my plane to Boston last night.

William , San Mateo

You note that Boston has made many key 3s this series. Why can't the Lakers scrap the doubling and stay at home with shooters like Allen, Posey, and Pierce?

John Hollinger

  (3:26 PM)

They seem really fearful of Garnett in the post, don't they? They may need to just let Pau try his hand at playing him one-on-one, because the rotations are killing them.

Jay (Los Angeles)

instead of Chris Mihm , why didn't Phil substitute newble in to defend paul pierce , they're pretty much the same body type and size???

John Hollinger

  (3:28 PM)

I thought we were going to see Newble after Phil activated him for Game 3, but instead it's Ariza that's going those minutes as a backup 3. Probably too late to go with Ira now -- if you throw a guy out there who hasn't played in a month you end up with a Mihm situation.

Michael (Marietta, GA)

What the heck is wrong with RAD? He hits like 1 or 2 three pointers and then tries to run the point guard position and looks lost on Defense all the time. Should they start Vujacic or Ariza instead?

John Hollinger

  (3:30 PM)

As you saw Sunday, Radmanovic is an absolute disaster in the open court, pretty much a guaranteed turnover. LA likes him because he can defend 3s (well, sort of) and can hit the long ball, but I think they're better with Sasha or Farmar or even Ariza out there.

Mark (Bangor, PA)

Don't you think it would be good to start House tonight? Rajon is clearly slower right now.

John Hollinger

  (3:31 PM)

Cs will hope that the 48 hours have helped Rondo heal some more, so he gets the first look. It's only if he struggles again that Doc will turn to House and Cassell.

Pablo (BCN, Spain)

Let's talk about important things... thoughts on the Sports Guy Mansion? And how hot is the Sports Gal?

John Hollinger

  (3:33 PM)

Ha ha ... didn't make out to the Mansion. However, we did enjoy a very nice barbecue at The Lounge, where I learned that Dr. Jack Ramsay can still play a mean game of Horse.

Typical Bostonian (Beantown)

One year ago I would rather go to one Red Sox game then have season tickets to the Celtics. I am a frontrunner.

John Hollinger

  (3:34 PM)

Um, did you see the Celtics last year? That's not a frontrunner, my friend, that's sanity.

David Stern (Mt. Olympus)

Every game is worth 80 millions dollars. There will be a game seven. It is all in the refs.

John Hollinger

  (3:37 PM)

You realize the series ended in four last year, right? And that it's only gone seven twice in the last two decades? As Marc Heisler of the LA Times pointed out a couple days ago, if the league is trying to fix things, they suck at it.

Dee, Chicago

Does Pierce pretty much have MVP locked up with a win tonight?

John Hollinger

  (3:38 PM)

Ray Allen can still get back in the discussion if he blows up and Pierce spits out another 2-for-14. Otherwise, it's Pierce.

Typical Person not from Boston (Anywhere else in America)

My jealously as a sports fan is inauspiciously covered up by my criticizing Boston fans for choosing to watch a World Championship Baseball team once in an historic ballpark instead of watching a basketball team that starts Sebastian Telfair 82 times for the same amount of money.

Brad - Tulsa ok

why are celtics not playing Tony Allen more?

John Hollinger

  (3:39 PM)

Basiclaly, they haven't needed him. Boston has been able to defend Kobe just fine without using Allen, and the Celtics would prefer to have a floor spacer out there on the offensive end. He'll probably only see 3-5 minutes tonight behind the other Allen.

Chris Mihm (Los Angeles, CA)

Seriously. Is the NBA finals, with our season on the line, an appropriate time to experiment with me?

John Hollinger

  (3:40 PM)

Heavens no.

Tom Brady (La-La Land)

Who will be known as a bigger choke? My Patriots last season or Boston in these next two games?

John Hollinger

  (3:41 PM)

Some brave talk coming out of L.A. considering how this series has gone. It would indeed be a bigger choke if the Celtics dropped the next two, but it ain't happening.

Kevin (Bay Area, CA)

LA is 3-4 possessions away from being up 3-2. Why all this talk about Boston dominating?

John Hollinger

  (3:43 PM)

Boston is 3-4 possessions away from being up 5-0. You can always play the what-if game and say "if we just won every close game and got every 50-50 ball we'd be awesome!" ... but that's not how it works.

John (Portland, ME)

Was the atmosphere really that bad at Club Staples Center the past three games?

John Hollinger

  (3:44 PM)

It got better in Game 4 and especially Game 5. But Game 3 was really, really lame, bordering on depressing actually. And at no point did I think they matched the Boston crowd in Games 1 and 2.

Desperate Laker Fan

Probably a wrong idea to go to Espn. Everything is Celtics win tonight. As much as that's likely the outcome, I still have to believe. Can you offer some optimism?

John Hollinger

  (3:48 PM)

Sure. The Celtics are really banged up right now and we haven't seem Kobe explode yet, and it appears Pau and Odom may have rediscovered their spines in Game 5 -- the first game all series where the Lakers matched Boston in the scrapping department. The odds favor Boston, but that's why they play these things on the court and not on paper.

Laker Fans

East Coast Bias!! East Coast Bias!!!!

John Hollinger

  (3:48 PM)

That was really evident in the MVP vote, wasn't it?

varis(miami,fl)

if celtics dont win 2nite do u think the series shifts in the Fakers favor becuz goin against kobe in a game 7 is scary to me as a boston fan

John Hollinger

  (3:51 PM)

Still be in Boston's favor unless somebody else gets hurt ... homecourt is a big deal. Go back to Spurs-Pistons in 05, for instance -- Detroit won Game 6 on the road but couldn't give an encore performance.

Ira (utah)

you have avowed that the Celts would win tonight but not give a scrap of supporting information?

John Hollinger

  (3:53 PM)

You mean other than than what happened in the first five games? Even in winning Game 5 L.A. looked all kinds of shaky -- Pierce blistered them, they lost two huge leads, they made several mental errors (as did their coach). Nothing they've done inspires confidence that they can win once in Beantown, let alone twice.

celts fan, boston

Everyone, including me, keeps saying what a huge different Kendrick Perkin's defense makes? I'm wondering actually is he just a big body or is he really a great defender in the nba today?

John Hollinger

  (3:55 PM)

I had him as an honorable mention all-defense guy -- he's really tough and physical and moves his feet surprisingly well. And I think his physicality really bothered Pau and Odom in the first three games.

Brian (DC)

Why on earth did KG get the defensive player award? He's not even the DPOY on his own team...Pierce has been heads and tails ABOVE garnett all series.

John Hollinger

  (3:56 PM)

Completely disagree. Garnett has been huge at that end, controlling the boards, neutralizing Odom while still helping against Kobe, and generally shortening the court for L.A.

Kid Rock

Is this the best NBA matchup? I believe Detroit vs. San Antonio could have provided more...

John Hollinger

  (3:58 PM)

I disagree. Both those teams were outclassed in the conference finals. San Antonio, in particular, would have all kinds of trouble scoring against Boston.

Fred (Pomona)

What if Lakers win series? Were would that be in the most improbable wins in NBA history? Not saying its going to happen, but it would be strange to see a team that really hasn't had a great all-around game in this series win.

John Hollinger

  (4:00 PM)

Improbably in the sense of coming from 3-1 down and winning twice on the road, yes, which I believe has only been done a couple times in any series (most of the 3-1 comebacks have been by the team with home court). But I disagree on the last part -- they'll need two great all-around games to leave here with a title.

Jake (Stayton, Or)

Pierce played all but 2 seconds in game 5, How does that take a toll on your body? Will he be fatigued at all tonight in game 6?

John Hollinger

  (4:02 PM)

I think that's a real worry for Boston, yes. KG only played 33 so he may be in the ironman role tonight.

David (RI)

Why did it take Doc the entire playoffs to use the Ray Allen, Pierce, Garnett, Posey, House line up? They used that a lot in the beginning of the season and started 30-3, why go away from it?

John Hollinger

  (4:03 PM)

It's the best and worst side of Doc. He likes to use all his toys, and when he got PJ and Sam at midseason he tried a bunch of different lineups with those two. It just took him too long to get back to what was working in December.

John Hollinger

  (4:04 PM)

Folks, that's all the time I have, but we have an armada of chatters coming up behind me. Thanks for all the great questions and I'll be back at this time next week.

Buzzmaster

  (4:05 PM)

Thanks, John. Will Perdue is up next!

Herman (LA)

Why no adjustments from PJ? Perkins is good on the block, but seems like they should run high screen and roll to draw him out and also allow Pau more face up chances away from the basket rather than trying hopelessly to back him down.

Will Perdue

  (4:08 PM)

Perkins announced at shootaround today that he was going to give it a go. If that is the casem the Lakers will not be as effective in the post. You may see them try to open up, go at Kevin Garnett, and try to get him in foul trouble.

Bring Bynum Back (City of Angels)

Will, I don't recall you or your teammates ever disappearing on MJ like Kobe's teammates have during these Finals. Is Kobe receiving too much criticism?

Will Perdue

  (4:10 PM)

I don't think he's getting too much criticism. I think Tom Thibodeau and the Celtics aren't getting enough for their defense. They're the best I have ever seen at defending the triangle. There is supposed to be a counter in that for every defensive set. But it seems like the Celtics have limited the half-court offense for the Lakers. One thing the Lakers and Kobe have not been doing is capitalizing on those options. They waited too long to run the offense and have to take bad shots. They need to try to get back quick and take easy shots before the Celtics can set up.

Jenelle (Charlotte, NC)

Why in the world did Doc decide, after not having played pretty much the entire post-season, that Tony Allen would suddenly be productive and efficient in Game 5? I mean, did the Celts lose that game intentionally so they could take the series back home?

Will Perdue

  (4:12 PM)

Tony Allen actually played well. He's brought in more as a defender against Kobe. When he gives you something on the offensive end, that is like icing on the cake. Doc felt Rajon Rondo and his ankle were not where they needed to be, so he went in a different direction. I personally thought he was one of the reaons why the Celtics had an opportunity to win that game.

Fred (LA)

We have yet to seen Kobe have one of his "great" game...We have yet to seen the Lakers clicking on all cyclinders, dont you think their due?

Will Perdue

  (4:14 PM)

They are definitely due. Even though Game 5 was not aesthetically pleasing, the Lakers played better than the Celtics in many different areas. They played better defense, were more aggressive, got to the free throw line more early on, and rebounded better. That was their best all-around game and they still barely won. More credit needs to go to the Celtics defense, basically. In order for the Lakers to win tonight, they need a more balanced offense.

Mueller NYC

Will Farmer play more tonight? He provided a spark and in particular the Fisher, Farmer, Bryant, Odom, Gasol lineup looked good.

Will Perdue

  (4:15 PM)

One thing the Celtics have admitted is that they struggle with dribble penetration. That is Farmar's greatest strength. One reason he was effective in Game 5 is that he continued to go at Garnett when Garnett was in foul trouble. I would expect him to do much of the same tonight.

Zeus (Canada)

Is Ray Allen going to be the X factor tonite???

Will Perdue

  (4:16 PM)

No, but it will be interesting to see what he does. He had to deal with a family emergency in Game 5, and had to take a redeye back last night. Fatigue will have to figure. But I think the X-factor will be Garnett. He hasn't had that dominant game we've come to expect. I think he has his best game tonight.

Stevie (LA)

Why don't the Lakers use Fisher guarding Allen more? They are both older jump shooters, who have lost a little quickness over the years. Perfect matchup, right?

Will Perdue

  (4:17 PM)

Wrong, Allen is a little better and quicker. When Fisher has guarded him, he's been able to get by on the dribble-drive which jeapordizes the defense. Surprisingly, the Lakers have not implemented a zone defense to keep that from happening. It looks like the Lakers will live and die with the man-to-man.

JP (Boston)

I have not heard much about the Celtics falling behind ealry in the last two games. Do you think that a strong first quarter from the Celtics tonight will almost guarentee Banner 17?

Will Perdue

  (4:18 PM)

It won't guarantee it, but it will let the Lakers know that they have come to play. The Celtics may be overconfident of being able to come back at every time. I think fatigue will be a factor for both teams, and if they get down too big too early, they will have to expend too much energy to get over the hump and win the game.

J (Beantown)

Do you think there is more pressure on KG to end the series tonight at home (since he was pretty much AWOL in Game 5)and share the burden of the work with Pierce or do you think Kobe has more to prove given that, more than ever, folks have been claiming he's Jordan-esque?

Will Perdue

  (4:20 PM)

I think there is more pressure on Kobe. The one thing you've been able to count on with Boston is that they have more firepower offensively. The Lakers in turn offensively have been very inconsistent. Odom has been hit or miss on the offensive side, and Gasol has not matched the Celtics' intensity, so a lot of pressure has been put on Kobe to make up for that.

Shawn (Ohio)

With all this talk of the Lakers would be winning this series if they had Bynum! Do you think that the Laker even make the trade for Gasol if Bynum had not gotten hurt and would they be in the Finals with Bynum? ... Boston fan asking

Will Perdue

  (4:21 PM)

They probably don't make the Gasol trade, but not necessarily, because Memphis was the one who put it out that they would take offers for Gasol. Were Bynum in the game, he could be a big body on Perkins or Garnett, and they would be more physical overall, as far as being able to contest shots. Plus he was Kobe's bailout at the rim.

Logan (OH)

What does Rondo bring to the table that House doesn't? House is a much better scorer.

Will Perdue

  (4:23 PM)

Rondo is a prototypical point guard, looking to push, distribute, and score last. He is a stopper on defense and rebounds. Eddie House is just basically a scorer. He positions himself on the three point line, waits until the defense collapses, then finds his shot. He's pretty one-dimensional.

brent(montana)

can we get your prediction-score?

Will Perdue

  (4:24 PM)

Before this series started, I thought the Lakers would win in 6, so I was wrong there. Considering all the adversity the Celtics have faced, what with fatigue and travel problems, you would think the Lakers would win tonight. But I have a gut feeling the Celtics will close things out tonight.

Will Perdue

  (4:25 PM)

Look for the first half of this game to be somewhat sloppy, much like we saw in Game 3, because Doc did admit that his guys were gassed after Game 3. Tonight will be more about mental toughness than physical toughness. Both teams will have to deal with physical fatigue, and whoever wants to win more will step up.

Buzzmaster

  (4:27 PM)

Thanks Will! Next up is Dr. Jack Ramsay!

Ray (Bstn)

Last shot tonight for the Celtics, who takes it? Pierce? Allen? or whoever has got the best look?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:32 PM)

I'd go for Pierce. He's been great in the clutch throughout the playoffs. I go back to Game 7 in the Cleveland series and Game 7 in the Atlanta series. What he's done in this series, he's had one less than spectacular game.

Frank (NJ)

Kobe is one of the most athletic players i've ever seen and looked great as the defensive stopper on the US team this past summer. WHY CAN'T HE STOP PIERCE?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:33 PM)

Kobe has been, and the Lakers in general, have not defended the high screen and roll well. I don't blame Kobe it's the system. The system is flawed. Pau steps out not high. The Lakers have been stepping out wide and not high. Pierce has been killing them. If they're going to win Game 6, they have to have an answer for that.

david (tallahassee)

coach, which of these players (lakers/celtics) could've played for you?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:35 PM)

A lot of them. I would start with KG. I love his game, his intensity, the impact he has with his teammates. The way he brings it every game. I would start with him. I would love to have coached Kobe, Pierce, Ray Allen. I think Rondo has a game yet to be fully exploited. I have always like Fisher. PJ Brown, James Posey, Eddie House as bench guys. A lot of players out there I'm watching that I would have been thrilled to coach.

Brad(NM)

Was it a clean strip or did Kobe reach on Pierce that led to the game ending dunk?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:36 PM)

Reviewing the video, it looked like Kobe got some arm when he tapped that ball from behind and then scored on the fast break from Odom. But it's a close call and at the time it occurred, I didn't think it was a foul, but after looking at the video, it looked like a foul occurred.

Giang (Beantown)

If you're Phil Jackson, whats the biggest adjustment you make before tonight's game 6?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:37 PM)

I think it's one we already spoke about, defending the high screen and roll. It's big. I don't think they can win if they play it that way in Game 6. Second concern I have are the turnovers. The Lakers have been handling the ball reasonably well in this series. Those adjustments must be made. And hope he gets aggressive games from Gasol and Odom that he got in Game 5.

Logan (OH)

If the Celtics admitted they struggle with dribble penetration, why is Kobe taking jumpshots and not attacking?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:39 PM)

Well, I talked to Kobe after Game 1 and asked him if he thought he needed to take the ball to the basket more. His answer was that they're not going to let me get there, so he was going to get to the post. Which he did in Game 2. But since then, I thought his penetration was pretty good. Of the starters, his penetration has been the best. Odom has been inconsistent. Fisher bulls his way in but doesn't get to the basket. Farmar in Game 5 was good. They need that lift from the bench and he was the guy in Game 5. Kobe should look for it as well. If I'm coaching Kobe, I look to penetrate on each catch of the ball. If he can't look for his jumpshot or look to get it to open people.

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:40 PM)

He is a good passer and he gets it to his open teammates. But his teammates need to hit shots.

kyle (Boston)

what do you think doc has to do to be one step ahead of the zen master tonight?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:41 PM)

Well, I think Doc has done a very good job overall in the series. Depending on the availability of Perkins, if he can not play and he starts Powe again, I think he has to give him a chance. He only played just under 5 minutes in Game 5. He's a good rebounder. He has a low post game. All of those are positives. Doc has a tendency, if Powe is not doing it immediately, of keeping him on a short leash. Also, his use of Tony Allen in the first half of Game 5 was very good, but then only played him seconds in the second half. He was defending Kobe as well as anyone he had.

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:42 PM)

If Perkins can not play and KG starts off on Gasol, maybe doubleteam Gasol so that KG doesn't pick up early fouls. But the Celtics have outplayed the Lakers overall in this series. They have played with more intensity. Doc's adjustments have been better then Phil's.

Steve (New York)

How much does the Kendrick Perkins injury hurt the Celtics?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:44 PM)

Well, Perkins has been the first defender on Gasol and has done a reasonable job. Some of that has been because Pau has not been aggressive. He needs to go to the basket with his back to the basket in the post. I talked to him about that after the first early season game. He said he needs to be a passer, but I told him that he's not being selfish when he goes to the basket in the post. Pau needs to do that. That causes a problem for the Celtics defense. Perkins is strong, he can rebound. He's a decent free throw shooter and they need him to be at their best.

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:44 PM)

If he can't go, the Celtics need their bench to come up, which they have done so far.

lui (los angeles, ca)

Dr. jack The Boston Celtics plane didn?t arrive till late last night. Ray Allen personal issues, and Kendrick Perkins shoulder injury. Rondo?s injury and Paul Pierce ?knee injury?. What are the chances of a laker upset tonight?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:46 PM)

It can. I'm interested in seeing how the Lakers come out for Game 6. If they're tenative or get flustered by the crowd noise or the Celtics defensive pressure, I think they have no chance. But if they come out aggressively and play team ball. They outrebounded the Celtics in Game 5. They held their own on second chance points. They outscored the Celtics 13-2 in fast break points. If they can do those things, they have a chance. If the Celtics are less than at their best, the Lakers could certainly win this.

Kris (C-ville, PA)

The Lakers look real sloppy on inbounds defense and maintaining intensity- IN THE NBA FINALS~! Is there anything PJ can do to coach these kinds of intangibles?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:48 PM)

Well, those errors even though they've been rehearsed in practice. I don't think there's anything the coach can do at the moment, but the Lakers certainly have had some issues on inbounds plays where the Celtics have gotten layups. There seems to be some uncertainty on how they handle the inbounds pass. you can't do that in the NBA Finals and expect to win. I'm sure Phil has gone over those thigns and hopefully has rehearsed them on the practice floor. But they're very damaging. They can be game changers.

Mike (Avondale, AZ)

Dr Jack- If you were Doc Rivers, would you consider starting Eddie House tonight? He spreads the floor, and lets face it, the Celtics couldn't get off to a worse start if they tried in game 4 and 5...time for a change?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:50 PM)

Depending on Rondo's condition. I like Rondo. He's a defender, full-court, which Eddie House is not. He's a penetrator, which House is not. If Rondo can play, I start him. Saying that, Kobe Bryant has played Rondo and played off him, inviting him to shoot. Rondo has to take advantage of that. If he can get the ball inside the circle or in the foul line extended and get the ball to the hoop or take an open jumper, he has to take that. Last game, he wasn't looking to do that. He has to make himself more of a threat on the offensive end. House is great off the bench as a perimeter shooter, but he's not the all around PG you need.

Steve (Boston)

Given how many games that have been played by both teams this season, Does travel influence influence game play?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:52 PM)

It can be a factor. Veteran players usually handle travel better than younger players. If that holds up, then the Celtics will be better ready to handle Game 6 than the Lakers. I think Kobe will play strong, Fisher, Odom. I don't know who else I would count on. But the Celtics, who are playing mostly veteran players, they will all be game ready when the ball goes up.

Robbie (MA)

Is KG going to play inside tonight or hang around the three point line?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:53 PM)

KG has never been over his career a low post player, even when he gets the ball inside deep, he usually ends up with the fade away jump shot. His presence at the high screen level, works out well for the Celtics. That screen and roll that I described early has been dynamite for the Celtics. As long as that's happening, I would stay with that for a significant number of possessions.

David (Pasadena)

If Kobe doesn't win this Finals, how much does this hurt his legacy?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:54 PM)

I don't think at all. If Kobe should work up a couple of 40-45 point games and the Lakers come down from a 1-3 deficit to win it, that would be a huge step forward to solidify Kobe as one of the game's great players. But he'll have other chances. With this roster that the Lakers have, plus the addition of Bynum, this is a team with youth and flexibility that will be a contender for years. If the Lakers don't win this, Kobe will have more chances in the future.

BT (Los Angeles)

Dr. Jack, who do you think will win tonight?

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:55 PM)

I think the Celts. I think home crowd which is VERY vocal, you can't hear yourself think in that arena when the Celtics are going. Plus, KG will be pumped to the extreme in this game tonight. That is infectious. His teammates feed on that. I'm not sure the Lakers can respond to that.

Dr. Jack Ramsay

  (4:56 PM)

Thanks for your questions. It's been a great series. Let's wait and see how the Lakers can play this one on the road. They need a big game. Let's see if they have it in them.

Buzzmaster

  (4:57 PM)

Thanks Dr. Jack! Next up are our friends from NBA.com! Keep those questions coming!

John Schuhmann

  (4:58 PM)

Back in Boston and ready for Game 6! (Buzzmaster-inspired exclamation point)I've got my keys for the Celtics here: http://my.nba.com/thread.jspa?threadID=5800008410But there are obviously dozens of additional storylines tonight. Let's discuss.

Jenelle (NC)

Give me your best Celts pre-game speech going into tonight's battle. Are the keys to closing out the series tonight as follows: intensity, rebounding, cherishing each possession, ball movement (making the defense work) and FREE THROWS? Is there even anything in particular that Doc needs to tell them to get the team hyped up or does everyone finally realize what's at stake? And how much of an impact will the Beantown crowd have on the Lakers' do or die game?

John Schuhmann

  (5:00 PM)

If I'm Doc, I want my team to focus on the first quarter. The Lakers have killed them in the opening minutes in each of the last two games. And with the potential (because of the travel) for this one to be ugly, the Celtics can't wait until the second or third quarter to turn up the defensive intensity.And I expect the crowd to be nuts tonight. We'll see early on how the Lakers handle it.

Gary (CA)

The possibility that this could be the last chance at a title for Pierce, Garnett and Allen must be weighing on Boston's team psyche. Do you think Boston uses this as motivation to win tonight, or will it cause them to self-destruct?

John Schuhmann

  (5:02 PM)

I think they've used it as motivation since training camp and that's worked out pretty well so far.

Mike (Avondale, AZ)

Hey John, what's going on with the point guard roulette Doc rivers is currently using? Who is going to see playing time tonight? Do you think this is healthy for the Celtics to continue on this track?

John Schuhmann

  (5:04 PM)

Doc's in a tough situation. Rondo has been his guy all year, but he has been soooooo hesitant in this series. He has zero confidence in his jumper and the Lakers are playing off him, which allows them to help on Pierce and KG.House or Cassell gives them another shooter and forces Kobe to stay at home, but there are clear advantages to having Rondo on the floor as well.1. Defense2. When Kevin Garnett catches the ball in the low post, check the shot clock.If there are 15 seconds or more left to shoot, the Celtics are in good shape. When the double comes or if the angle he's looking for is blocked off, there's still plenty of time for him to kick it out and have the ball swung to the open man.If there's 10 seconds or less left to shoot, then it's much more likely that the Cs will need to rush their shot.Rondo, with his quickness and ball-handling allows the Celtics to get in their offense earlier. House doesn't have the handles and it takes him (or even Ray Allen) longer to get the ball up the floor, resulting in less time on the clock by the time the offense gets going.

Patrick(Hoboken,NJ)

What should we expect to see out of Perkins if he does play?

John Schuhmann

  (5:07 PM)

That may be the question of the day. They need Perk for the boards, to push Pau around a little, and to allow KG more freedom defensively.But I can't imagine his shoulder is feeling to good and one bump down low could put him in some serious pain. Keep an eye on him early.

Charlie (Portlsnd)

If you were the Celtics after the season what do you do about keeping Tom Thibodeau around?... fire Doc?

John Schuhmann

  (5:10 PM)

Fire Doc? Not gonna happen, especially if they win.Doc and Thibs are a great team. Doc's a great motivator and Thibs is a great tactician. But if Thibs gets a head coaching offer elsewhere (and he really should), there's not much the Celtics can do but wish him good luck.

Andy (LA)

Van Gundy went crazy over the busted inbounds defense of the Lakers. Is that youth or bad coaching? Or both?

John Schuhmann

  (5:12 PM)

I know that the first one was Farmar's fault, because his man set the back-screen and he didn't stay between T. Allen (I think) and the basket. Don't remember who's fault the second one was. But I certainly chalk the first one up to Farmar (youth) losing focus.

Jay (Boston)

What are the odds that Paul Pierce is the Finals MVP by the end of the night?

John Schuhmann

  (5:14 PM)

Larry David: Pre-tty good.

Kobe (Boston)

Why am I stuggling to score in this series? Is it that I CAN'T drive to the lane, or I WON'T drive into the lane?

John Schuhmann

  (5:15 PM)

The Celtics do a great job of containing Kobe off the high screen-and-roll, so that he's going toward the sideline instead of toward the basket.Check this great post from our friends at The Painted Area:http://thepaintedarea.blogspot.com/2008/06/kobe-pierce-tale-of-2-pick-and-rolls.html

James (LA)

Kobe Bryant still hasn't performed in the MVP level he had in the regular season. What can Phil Jackson do to give him better looks on the offensive end?

John Schuhmann

  (5:17 PM)

They've had success in playing him off the ball and getting him catches closer to the basket, rather than have him start his drive from beyond the arc.

Paul,Ray,Kevin (Boston)

We are terrifed of the posiibility of Kobe single handedly beating us tonight. Should we be at all worried?

John Schuhmann

  (5:19 PM)

I'd be more worried about Kobe's teammates. The Lakers are better when they share the ball.Kobe can get 40-45 and the Celtics could still win 90-85.

Vincent (Canada)

When the Celtics wents small in game five (KG, Pierce, Posey, Allen, and Cassell) Walton was guarding Pierce which Pierce abused big time. Why didn;t the Lakers place Odom on Pierce and let Walton cover posey?

John Schuhmann

  (5:21 PM)

I'm not sure Odom would have done a better job.

KG (shaking in Boston....)

IF we lose tonight, do you think I will be TOO nervous and jittery to perform in Game 7?!?

John Schuhmann

  (5:25 PM)

We talked about KG's 4th quarter offense (or lack thereof) here in the office today, and whether a "franchise player" can come up short like he has offensively late in games.Here's my take: Sure, Dwyane Wade will get you buckets down the stretch, but he's not even close to the defender that KG is.Since MJ retired the second time, there has been no perfect player. Kobe is close, but every player, and every franchise player, has their weakness.

Tyler ( powell river )

are you gonna post anything i write?

John Schuhmann

  (5:27 PM)

Done!

Mike (Avondale, AZ)

Would you blame Doc at all for Rondo's lack of confidence? Everytime he doesn't make a perfect play he is looking over his shoulder at the bench...

John Schuhmann

  (5:28 PM)

You're a professional basketball player. Shoot the *expletive* ball. Looking over at the bench after a play is what high schoolers do.

John Schuhmann

  (5:29 PM)

My time is up. Dave McMenamin is over at the arena (where I'm heading now) and is ready to take over.

Lucky (Ireland)

Ah it be me favo-rite Celtics fan Shamus McMenamin. Come to write more Lakers hate today have we?

Dave McMenamin

  (5:33 PM)

I just read that question outloud in my best leprechaun accent three times in a row and can't stop laughing. Nice one.

Mike Gregory (Fort Worth)

Who is the MVP of the Finals Right now?

Dave McMenamin

  (5:34 PM)

No brainer - Paul Pierce by a landslide.

Jesse (Taipei)

What's the drawing point of a live chat, if participation is not rewarded? I'm confident that I've submitted a sufficient number of questions to get noticed. I'm actually pointing this out for those who never get answered... I've been answered once a long time ago =)

Dave McMenamin

  (5:35 PM)

Did you go to the Phil Jackson school of whining? I bet you were there on scholarship. You're talented.

Andy: (Minneapolis, MN)

How big of a difference has the zone-defense made in the playoffs? Magic, Larry and MJ only had one guy on them--Kobe and Lebron are essentially box and 1'd, and seem much more reliant on teammates.

Dave McMenamin

  (5:37 PM)

Good point, but you could argue that Kobe, LeBron, etc have the benefit of strict no-hand checking rules that allow them to make their initial first step to the hoop uninhibited. Jordan had more hands on him than Madonna in the Vogue video.

Will (Portland, OR)

How well do you expect Ray Allen to play tonight?

Dave McMenamin

  (5:39 PM)

He could go the off-the-court distracted route like Vince Carter in the 2001 Eastern Conference Semis when he went to his UNC graduation on the same day as Game 7, or he could go the off-the-court inspired route like that legendary Brett Farve MNFer.I'm leaning towards the latter.

Dave (San Diego, CA)

Hey Dave,Would you agree that Kobe is getting exposed in these finals as being no better than Allen Iverson. AI was MVP taking his team to the finals too. If he had Shaq he'd have three rings too.

Dave McMenamin

  (5:42 PM)

You're forgetting about a key element to the game: defense.All Iverson does is foolishly play the passing lanes to boost his own steals and fastbreak point numbers. He's a horrible team defender, while Doc Rivers called Kobe's help D the best in the league.Also, Shaq and A.I. on the same team ... the press conferences would be the stuff of legend!

ALEX (lOS ANGELES, CA)

Seriously? can the lakers pull a major upset tonight? Or is boston too focused right now.

Dave McMenamin

  (5:45 PM)

Boston has Rondo's meltdown; Perkins will-he, won't-he play situation; KG's fourth quarter shrinkage like George Costanza in a pool; Pierce's knee; Ray Allen's family issues. Unless the Celtics team trainer is dropping Aderol into the team's Gatorade supply, focus might be hard to come by. Call it a 'mild' upset if LA pull this one off tonight.

Dave (San Diego, CA)

AI led the league in steals... and heart.

Dave McMenamin

  (5:46 PM)

And entourage size ...

Laker Fan (Crying under his bed)

What happened to DJ Mbenga?? He got cut from the roster after the SA series. Don't you think he would have been of some help against Boston's Bigs??

Dave McMenamin

  (5:47 PM)

Check that. Might want to call it a major upset. When Lakers fans are crying under their bed and coming up with last ditch solutions to play DJ Mbenga to turn things around, that's mbad news. DJ Mbenga?? Really?

Opie (Seattle)

Where would you say Kobe fall on the list of all-time swingmen? I'm thinking probably fourth or fifth, behind Dr. J, Jordan, West, and maybe Pippen...

Dave McMenamin

  (5:49 PM)

Behind Pippen? Hold up. Kobe would never sit out a play like Pip did in 94 vs. the Knicks. That's taking petulant to a whole nother level.

AI (Denver)

I work on my heart when not practicing

Josh (Santa, Clarita, CA)

Who is the best bench player in this series?

Dave McMenamin

  (5:54 PM)

James Posey. He hits daggers and defends with elbows and knees. He's been huge.

Maestro (Tuscany)

There's nothing to rent here

Dave McMenamin

  (5:55 PM)

Ha

Dave McMenamin

  (5:56 PM)

I'm going with Walton. He's been a no-show in this series but he was the Lakers' third best player in the Denver series after Kobe and Pau. He has the ability to come up with a big one.

Josh (L.A.)

How many minutes do you see Perkins playing?

Dave McMenamin

  (5:57 PM)

I'm with John Hollinger on this one. Perk will give it a try, but I don't see him playing much. That's a chronic injury he has there.

Mo(Cookeville)

Is it just me or is the main difference between Jordan and Kobe their athletic ability. Jordan seemed like he had the Kobe skill set with Lebron James athleticism whereas Kobe has the skills but can't seem to assert his will on this defense. My point is can you see any defender ie. Paul Pierce being able to "body" Jordan.

Dave McMenamin

  (5:58 PM)

I think the main difference is their hand size, actually. Phil Jackson has referenced it before. MJ held the ball like a grapefruit and it allowed him to finish crazy plays around the rim. Kobe can barely palm a ball and it hinders him when he takes it to the tin.

Paul (London, England)

Do you think the Lakers are realistically a repaired knee and a Ron Artest away from winning it all next year??

Dave McMenamin

  (5:59 PM)

This Lakers team with Artest and a healthy-playing-like-he-was-back-in-January Bynum would be scary. In actuality, they're a Kevin Garnett choke job and Kobe Bryant break-out game away from winning it all this year.

Dave McMenamin

  (6:01 PM)

OK. That's it for me. Hopefully we get to do this again on Thursday. I'm not ready for this Finals to end.I think we got Rick Kamla from NBA TV coming up next. Harass him about being a KG fan, will ya?

Buzzmaster

  (6:03 PM)

Actually, Rick is up at 6:30, so you've got me for the next 30 minutes. But at 6:30 feel free to harrass him, as Dave suggested.

Buzzmaster

  (6:03 PM)

So, how's everyone doing today? Who's pumped for Game 6?

Posey (Beantown)

I constantly foul players after the whistle is blown. Do i need to get my ears checked?

dan (boston)

I'm pretty confident that the celtics will wrap things up tonight. But the "what if" scenario really worries me. Game 7, all the pressure in the world, AND the Black Mamba? I want no part of that whatsoever.

Buzzmaster

  (6:04 PM)

Who doesn't see a potential scary situation in a Game 7 if Boston doesn't take care of business here in Game 6?

Josh (Santa Clarita, CA)

Why should I be pumped up when I know the Lakers will win?

Mike (PA)

Buzz are you a Georiga Tech fan?

Buzzmaster

  (6:05 PM)

No, but I'm a fan of the minor league South Carolina Buzz.

Kobe Bryant (The Garden)

See, this was the plan all along. We win the next two games and adds to my legacy. WHAT POSSIBLY COULD GO WRONG?!

Linda (Utah)

Why haven't we seen the return of short-shorts uni throwbacks this series? Can anyone really make a case how this wouldn't be good for the league??

Buzzmaster

  (6:05 PM)

I don't think anyone's ready for that. And I think any relics that remain should be burned. Burned Burned.

Steiny (NYC)

The firing of Willie Randolph has taken a toll on how much the NBA Finals are being talked about.

Randy S. (Tampa)

Buzzmaster, being a Celts fan i'm a little bit nervous about tonite. I think they have to get it done. Give me some confidence that the Celts can pull through.

Ben (Las Vegas)

Not saying it will happen - but what will be more devastating to Boston fans: Patriots losing the Super Bowl or the Celtics blowing a 3-1 lead?

Ian (Salt Lake)

Dinner chat! Tacos!

Kevin Garnett's Bed

Has anyone seen KG? I haven't seen him for the past 2 weeks, and I am starting to worry.

Buzzmaster

  (6:08 PM)

After Game 5, maybe he wet it as bad as Kobe said he did after Game 4.

Brian Scalabrini (Boston)

These are some great courtside seats!!! Being "injured" is the best!!!

Jamie (Denver)

I am really disappointed with ESPN for not focusing more on the 80's. Maybe taking pictures of all there writers from 1987 and using them in their articles.

Perkins (Beantown)

My shoulder is killing me. Should I play?

Buzzmaster

  (6:09 PM)

Ummm, I think the Celtics need you.

KG (Boston)

Everybody thinks I will have a huge game...When will they realize that I can't handle the pressure? I really think the Lakers will take us in 7.

Jesse (Taipei)

Is MJ's defense good enough to shut down Kobe if they were to go one-on-one in a long hard-fought game?ORIs Kobe's offense good enough to overpower Jordan's defense?

Buzzmaster

  (6:10 PM)

More importantly, could Kobe's defense hold Jordan to 40 or would he get 50?

David : (Phoenix, Arizona)

Its hot out here, but I cant wait to go out on and rooftops and scream once LA pulls it off tonight! Who's with me phoenicians?!?

Willie Randolph (New York)

I didn't think Phil would take me seriously when I told him to play Chris Mihm in game 5.

Tim (Highland, CA)

As a Lakers fan I don't know who to credit. I know the Lakers have had a great season, won the west in the season and in the playoffs, made it to game 6 in the finals.... this is a team that was originally predicted to miss the playoffs. I don't want to credit mostly Gasol because Bynum was doing well before he went down too. Kobe? Phil? How did they pull this season off? As a Lakers fan it just didn't look like THAT good of a team.

Vlad Radmonovic ((TJ Banknorth))

I can't wait to play effortless defense on Pierce and make dumb decisions on offense.

Paul Pierce

Due to the quick turn around, I want to let everyone know they can expect a performance similar to Game 3 from me.

Buzzmaster

  (6:12 PM)

Ya think so Paulie? You've been on fire lately. Your Game 5 performance was pretty good.

Tim Duncan (San Antonio)

I miss playing in June.

Paris Hilton (Hollywood)

This series is sooo last week. Seeya at the club!

scott (LA)

but could either of them stop ditka with a tank?

Buzzmaster

  (6:13 PM)

That's a giant negative.

Larry (Wherever)

In response to Jesse's question, here's a list of players who could definitely guard, and usually beat, Kobe, if they were to play one on one in their primes:Jordan, West, Erving, Allan Houston (only during May of 1999), and apparently Paul Pierce. Also, for some reason, Raja Bell seems to be able to not only guard Kobe, but amp up his own scoring whenever he plays him.

Jeremy

Shouldnt the phoenicians be more worried about their team not being able to defend anyone?

Phil Jackson ((TJ Banknorth))

Anyone have any ideas for sit down comedy at the pre game news conference.

Edward (CT)

Buzz, what's going on? don't you think all these guys should be preparing for tonights game instead of chatting online...?

PP(Boston)

Time for another performance....anyone seen my wheelchair?

Antoine Walker (Dunkin' Donuts)

In honor of the Celtics dramatic run towards the 17th banner, I've been eating 17 donuts a day....remember, once a Celtic...always a Celtic

Pau Gasol (Boston)

Since I'm so "soft" maybe I'll hold KG to another 17 points on 19 shots night.

Jason (Birmingham, AL)

Larry from Wherever - I stopped taking you seriously at Allan Houston

OJ Mayo

I'll be playing with Wade this time next year in the Finals!!

Buzzmaster

  (6:15 PM)

Huh. I didn't know the NBA had a CBI too.

Celtics Bandwagon

OUCH!!! I mean it...get off!!

Jamie (Denver)

Some questions about buzzmaster:1. Is it always the same person? (does he/she cover nba and golf chats)2. Since ESPN doesn't always have chats what else is part of the job description? (for some reason I imagine getting coffee and sending emails for the big wigs)

Buzzmaster

  (6:16 PM)

I don't know the answer to any of those questions. I just show up and chat. Not sure I'm even getting paid, or I might be. I think it's in popcorn and pop tarts, anything starting in pop, really.

MRI Clinic

Paging Paul Pierce...paging Paul Pierce...we still have no results from your non-test.

Long Beach, CA

What possessed Phil Jackson to substitute Chris Mihm? His ankle is done and he should start planning life after basketball. As a passionate Laker fan, Phil's coaching strategy is sure suspect.

Goodtymes (Raleigh, NC)

In my personal opinion... I believe we are witnessing some of the poorest coaching ever in an NBA Finals would you agree?

Buzzmaster

  (6:18 PM)

Couldn't disagree more. I think Doc is doing a great job. And while I don't think Phil has been at the top of his game, he hasn't been totally terrible.

Wolfman (Fullerton, CA)

The real difference between Jordan and Kobe: Jordan = Alpha-Wolf; Kobe = Lone Wolf. People follow Jordan and want to be around him. Kobe cannot match Jordan in that category.

Buzzmaster

  (6:18 PM)

Are you the Wolf from American Gladiators?

Jordan Farmar (Boston)

The only parade this town is going to see is me parading through the lane past whatever stiff they put on me.

Sean (Spokane)

The Evening BUZZ yes!!!

Shaq (phoenix AZ)

did somebody say pop tarts?

Buzzmaster

  (6:19 PM)

You stay away Shaq.

John (New Jersey)

Why did the refs not call those 2 huge calls at the end of game 5? Kobe's hand clearly fouled Paul (i don't even think he touched the ball) and when the celtics almost got the ball back after the 3, kobe's hand was out of bounds. Those 2 calls had a huge impact on that game in my opinion.

Buzzmaster

  (6:20 PM)

Dr. Jack said he didn't think it was a foul on Kobe originally, but after looking at tape, he thought it could have been a call. But if it takes a tape review to say there might have been a foul, how can you expect the ref to say for sure at full speed, especially on a 50-50 call?

Bryan (Boston)

Hey John, give me your address and I will send you a box of tissues. Stop whining!!

Nick (Boise)

Nice answers to those questions Buzz...like your job is top secret and confidential or something. Is this Stuart Scott? I knew ESPN had some budget cuts...

Buzzmaster

  (6:21 PM)

Who's being secret and confidential?

Doc

This game is for Ray and his family Theres no way we lose

Andrew Bynum

I'd be eating KG for lunch if I was playing. Wait 'till next year Lakerland - we shall reign SUPREME!

Buzzmaster

  (6:21 PM)

Suuuuuure.

Shaq (phoenix AZ)

Last person to tell me to stay away from pop tarts was D'antoni.....now i want my pop tarts!

Buzzmaster

  (6:22 PM)

Well, you can't have them, they're mine!

Scott (LA)

why is it that only you and bill simmons have funny chats?

Buzzmaster

  (6:23 PM)

Wow, I'm being compared to Bill Simmons. I think that's kind of cool. Now, if only I had his bank roll.

Rick Fox

Who is this Vujajic guy, I have better hair than him. Maybe I should make a comeback.

Jeff (Toronto, ON)

Do the refs read this? I'd like to see a game go into overtime.

Buzzmaster

  (6:24 PM)

We'll pass that along.

AI (Denver)

Practice?! Your talking 'bout practice?!Come on man! Your talking 'bout practice!

Rick Kamla( NBA City)

Almost my time keep up the good job Buzz

Buzzmaster

  (6:24 PM)

What up Rick? I've got another 2 or 3 mediocre minutes in me.

Charles Barkley (Las Vegas, NV)

trust me Shaq stay away from pop tarts and casinos. TRUST ME. Wanna buy my watch? i need 100k

Jack (Boston, MA)

WHY DIDN't YOU ANSWER MY QUESTION!!! ANSWER MY QUESTION PLEASE! AND SOMETIME TODAY.

Buzzmaster

  (6:25 PM)

WHAT'S YOUR QUESTION? AND HOW DARE YOU YELL AT ME!

Jamie (Denver)

Does anybody else get the feeling if the big-wigs at ESPN caught Buzzmaster actually chatting he might get called into the big office?

Buzzmaster

  (6:25 PM)

Shhhhhhhh.

Riley (Oceanside, CA)

You cant honestly tell me buzz that if the lakers had bynum playing this series would still be the same. Whats the two things bynum would have provided that killed the lakers in their losses. Rebounding, and what else, interior defense to stop some of those drives or at least put pierce on his rear. Bynum changes the forecast of the series 10 fold.

Buzzmaster

  (6:26 PM)

And if Perkins had been healthy in Game 5, defending against Pau Gasol and allowing KG to not get in foul trouble, we might not have Game 6. This is a fun game, isn't it?

Crawford (Boston)

How about instead of OT I pick a fight with someone a lot bigger than me. What? Is that Gasol laughing? YOU WANT SOME OF THIS PUNK?

Bynum (LA)

Yeah, but if the LAkers had me, that'd put Odom at the 3... and we suddenly become even WORSE at defending Pierce.

Ian (Salt Lake)

Riley, you said Bynum would change the forecast for this series. Wasn't the forecast overwhelmingly favoring the Lakers?

Buzzmaster

  (6:28 PM)

OK folks. Rick Kamla of NBA TV should be up next. Enjoy the chat!

Rob Peterson

  (6:31 PM)

Hey, everyone ... Rick is on his way. He's finishing up an NBA TV production meeting (which means he and Pete Vecsey are arm-wrestling, best of seven...)

Rob Peterson

  (6:31 PM)

I know I can never replace Kamla, though we are from the Midwest, he the Minny and me the 'Sconsin...But other than that, he's on TV and I have a face for radio.

Rob Peterson

  (6:32 PM)

But I'll take some quick questions until Rick arrives.

Jesse (Taipei)

Don't go Buzz... you're too much fun.. more fun than actually watching these games

Rob Peterson

  (6:33 PM)

Ow, that hurts ... these games have been entertaining and for the most part, well-played...

Bryan (NJ)

It's just criminal that the Lakers wore their white jerseys on Sunday. Stern should have stepped in and forced the team to go gold. Thoughts?

Rob Peterson

  (6:34 PM)

Bryan ...I disagree. I know the home Laker gold unis are iconic, but I actually think the Lakers' alternate Sunday jerseys are the best in the league.No joke.

Emma (Los Angeles CA)

Pau Gasol is a great player, but at times just gives up on defense. He lets KG just flash by him. He needs to sit down and defend. IF he does that and Kobe, Derick, Lamar, and the rest of the Lakers actually play, then they have a chance of winning tonight.

Rob Peterson

  (6:35 PM)

Emma, well said, though I don't think Pau gives up on D. I think KG is that quick and good on the block.As a matter of fact, that's been the criticism of KG. He hasn't been able to take advantage of his advantages...

Rob Peterson

  (6:35 PM)

Heyo, Rick's here... He'll take you 'til 7 p.m. ET.

Ryan (Mpls)

Honestly all the hating KG needs to stop, he has arguably performed better than Kobe in this series, and he has 2 other superstars to fall back on. His main focus is "D"

Rick Kamla

  (6:38 PM)

Ryan, the hating on KG is somewhat well founded based on the fact he has shot horribly for the series. But I do think KG brings it big time tonight. He rarely has back to back bad games and he proves that tonight.

Scott (San Diego, Ca)

Out of Trevor Ariza, Luke Walton, and Ronny Turiaf, who will mostly need a break out performance to help the Lakers win game 6?

Rick Kamla

  (6:39 PM)

To me, Turiaf is totally lost. Can't figure it out. I like Ronny, but he's played so badly that Phil had to dust off Chris Mihm in Game 5. Walton cannot guard Pierce, we all know that, so you'll see more of Ariza in tonight's game. Of the three, Ariza has the best chance to perform well.

Tyler(Memphis,TN)

Why is Doc Rivers not giving Rondo more of a chance to get into the flow of the game. He was very affective before he got hurt, but since then he hasn't gotten a chance.

Rick Kamla

  (6:41 PM)

Check my blog on NBA.com for more details on Rondo, but he has been night and day home and away in this series. He averaged 11.5 assists per game in the first two games. Then he got hurt, then he lost confidence, then he lost minutes to Eddie House. You will see Rondo play well tonight. I can feel it in my bones.

Donald (Phoenix)

Do you agree that the Lakers mindset coming into this is good? "Someone has to do it someday, why not us now?" and "it's the final four, win two games and get a trophy."

Rick Kamla

  (6:42 PM)

Donald, if the Celtics were 100 percent, I would say there is no chance of becoming the first team to rally from a 1-3 hole to win the Finals. However, with Pierce, Perk, and Rondo banged up, and with the illness to Ray Allen's son, this team has a lot on it's plate right now. That said, I still think the Celtics will make that history stand up.

CHUY(TX)

I know the lakers deseve no respect because of their performance. But remember, the Giants had no chance in the world against the the Packers, and a -zero against the Patriots, and what happened the no good team won. Game 6 or 7 anything can happen. Yes or no Mr. Buzzmaster.

Rick Kamla

  (6:44 PM)

Here's the deal. I still can't believe the Giants beat the Patriots, so anything is possible. Not likely, but possible. Lakers fans definitely should feel good about the fact they are still alive, as Pierce almost willed Boston to the chip in Game 5.

Richard Ontario CA

Paul had an excellent 47 min plus in game 5. Why doesn't Phil go for the gold and give kobe the same amount?

Rick Kamla

  (6:45 PM)

Phil is pretty rigid in his rotations, but if the Lakers are down, say 7, going into the fourth, I don't think he'll start the fourth with Kobe on the bench, per usual. In a death game, you let the time and score dictate how you coach.

Trevor Ariza

Any reason why I shouldn't be starting tonight?

Rick Kamla

  (6:47 PM)

Check my previous post regarding Ariza. Luke should get no run, and Ariza should play at least 20 minutes.

Sean (CA)

Why can't the Lakers get out and run in this series besides during the first quarters?

Rick Kamla

  (6:49 PM)

Sean, the Lakers running game is stuck in place because you have to control the glass ato run. You can't take the ball out of the hoop and beat the opponent down the floor. If the Lakers were a better rebounding team, their running game would be that much better. The less Perkins plays, the more the Lakers can run. His absence/presence is huge for both teams.

Steve (Houston)

Ok, I haven't seen any of the final games. I plan on watching the game tonight. What should I kept my eye on tonight? Kobe vs. Paul or KG vs Gasol? or is there an unknown that is known by you that I should look out for?

Rick Kamla

  (6:51 PM)

Steve, there are so many great matchups in this series. To me, Kobe and Ray have been ballin the hole series, but KG needs to step up. All eyes are on Big Ticket tonight. He has a rep for being a choker and he can at least partially silence the haters with a big game tonight, but only if the Celtics win. KG and Pau is the matchup to watch.

Ahmed Ali (Boston)

I think I have submitted 100 questions since the finals and guess how many got posted? Try ZERO! Is it my name?? I promise, I am very much patriotic! Answer this for me please...If KG goes for 40 points/20 rebounds/8 assists/6 blocks/4 steals/couple of charges..Would he suddenly qualify for finals MVP should the celtics win? How much does one GREAT game weigh on the MVP selection???

Rick Kamla

  (6:54 PM)

Ahmed, you finally made the big time, baby. KG could post Wilt Chamberlain numbers and hit the game winner at the buzzer to win the chip and still not win Finals MVP. You have to have a great series to win that award, and Pierce and Allen have been far better than KG to this point. Great question dude.

TC (Seattle, WA)

if i were doc i would come out firing and run it early. Let rondo push it on every possesion, tell the team to get up and down the court. They might get tired fast but so will the Lakers. It would also cause the lakers to commit some early fouls and get the crowd in the game early, and you know the crowd-energy won't fall like it did in LA

Rick Kamla

  (6:55 PM)

TC, I totally agree. It's key for the Celtics to get this crowd rocking early. If the Lakers have a third straight strong first quarter, the crowd will calm down, and that's exactly what the Lakers want. Plus, Rondo is at his best in the open court.

Rick Kamla

  (6:55 PM)

TC, I totally agree. It's key for the Celtics to get this crowd rocking early. If the Lakers have a third straight strong first quarter, the crowd will calm down, and that's exactly what the Lakers want. Plus, Rondo is at his best in the open court.

Brett (Altoona, PA)

I have to admit, I have absolutely nothing to do for the next couple hours, and an answer of my post would really make my day.... But anyway, do you think that Game 6, a potential clincher, in Boston, will finally be the day that all of the big 3 actually show up for the entire 48 minutes?

Rick Kamla

  (6:58 PM)

Great Q, dude. The Big Three hasn't landed on the same page yet on this series. They all shot pretty well in Game 4, but none scored more than 20 points. Close out games are when the leaders need to rise, and I think that will be the case tonight, for the first time in this series. The way I see it, there will not be a Game 7.

Rick Kamla

  (6:59 PM)

Peace, everybody, and enjoy Game 6.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:02 PM)

Good evening folks, unless you're on the West Coast. In that case, happy late afternoon. Lots to chat about: Finals, Team USA, refs. Let's roll ...

TC (Seattle, WA)

chris, how many minutes do you think cassell will see? i know he played decent on sunday, but why does he feel like he has to shoot everytime he touches the ball?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:07 PM)

His minutes, TC, will be dictated both by how well he shoots and good well/poorly Rondo is playing. He has really only had two decent games all postseason, and then only in brief spurts. There was one point during the second round when he had missed 20 consecutive shots. So it's a tough call, but I expect to see him get at least a little look at the start of the fourth quarter, his shooting to determine how long he stays out there. The dguy does have ice-water in his veins (ask Knicks fans who remember 1994) so it wouldn';t surprise me to see him come though in the clutch.

Jim (Boise)

Who is the Lakers MVP if they somehow come back and win the finals? One might assume Kobe, and he would be my choice, but he's had (by his illustrious standards) a fairly sub-par series. Could a Gasol or an Odom sneak in there?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:08 PM)

Was asking myself that very question on the ride over here, Jim. Honestly, it's probably too soon to say. and if they win 6 and 7, it'll be the guy that plays best in those two games.

Lebron (Cleveland)

It seems to me that Kobe has to step his game. He just doesn't look as if he is trying his best out there. If I were out there I would play every game as if it were my last.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:08 PM)

That's AI's line, LBJ.

Scott (Boston)

Any chance this playoff run has put Pierce in the conversation for the Beijing team? Would he even want it (instead of getting some rest)?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:11 PM)

It hasn't. coach K and Jerry C are down to 13 players now in their minds (with Chauncey pulling out), and the final spot will go to either Tyson Chandler or Tayshaun Prince. (I have a column up on the NBA page addressing the roster situation). Pierce has been in the program for two years but hasn't played, and he has been out of the Beijing mix since last summer. The only thing that could make him a last-second addition is if Kobe gets hurt tonight or Thursday to such a degree that he can't go to Beijing, or if one of the other players gets hurt between now and the end of the month.

JP (LA CA)

Chris, lakers knew they were gonna have to take one in Boston even before the game 4 meltdown. If they take this game, it becomes anyones series in game 7. Who do you like to win that game, given that mot people who picked the lakers in 7 would probably change their original pick to boston in 7?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:12 PM)

If it goes 7, I like the Lakers.

steve (l.a.)

Enough with the Celtics being banged up already. Especially Pierce's "knee problem." Everyone is banged up at this time of year. Kobe's been playing with a torn tendon in his shooting hand for half a season. Fisher has a torn ligament in his foot. Both will require offseason surgery. Everyone on both teams is banged up this time of year. Maybe the Celtics shouldn't have set the record for most playoff games played if they're so hurt. Really though, I don't think they'd even make that excuse, it's just media types that are making that excuse for them. And they're still ahead so what's with the pity party? Pierce's knee should always be "hurt" if he's gonna play this well...

Chris Sheridan

  (7:13 PM)

Quite a rant, Steve. I'll let it speak for itself.

brian (shelbyville in)

will pau gasol repeat his game 5 performance

Jason (PHX)

Word is Perkins is gonna give it a go....does that inspire the Celtics...or does it give the Lakers reason to attack the paint and get off to a good start?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:16 PM)

Gasol's effectiveness will be impacted in large part by Perkins' effectiveness. I expect the lakers to atteck the basket early _ not just with Gasol _ to try to get Perk in foul trouble. He's a key cog for them, cuz PJB and Powe have really struggled at times to defend Pau.

Steve (D.C.)

What do you think the chances are that the Pistons will actually trade one of the starting 4? Which trade is most likely?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:17 PM)

I continue to believe they will try to get Amare Stoudemire from the Suns in exchange for Sheed and a couple minor pieces.

JD (Texas)

Rondo, House, or CassellWhich gaurd do you play the most? They all got good abilities and bad ones?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:18 PM)

Rondo is a much better player at home, so I think he'll get the bulk of the p.t. But if he's horrid again as he was in Game 5, it'll be Cassell, not House, IMO.

Andy (vegas)

Who is playing more scared/nervous, KG or Pau?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:20 PM)

That may be the question of the night for later tonight. Right now, it's on KG to redeem himself for his fourth quarter no show two nights ago.

Josh (sacramento)

What odds to you give team USA to take gold in Bejing?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:22 PM)

Well, they're obviously a prohibitive favorite, but I'll like their chances a little less if they only bring three bigs to Beijing. That's under consideration now, with Boozer, Howard and Bosh the only locks. That's why I think it's critical that they bring Chandler over Prince. I think six teams have a chance to win gold: USA, Argentina, Spain, Russia, Lithuania and Greece.

Andy (vegas)

Interesting article on the Olympic team selection. In it you say that the international game is much tougher then the NBA. Why, then, does it seem that the influx of Euros coming into the league are thought of as super soft by NBA standards?

Chris Sheridan

  (7:24 PM)

Not tougher, just more physical. Much more physical, actually. The banginf that goes on under the basket is liked armed conflict compared to the level of physicality the NBA permits. To me, it's the No. 1 biggest difference beetween FIBA ball and NBA ball.

Tom (Phoenix, AZ)

Chris, Amare for Sheed and a couple of minor pieces? There's no way the Suns do that deal, I hope? I still think Amare is worth too much for that.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:27 PM)

If the throw-ins include Amir Johnson, Alex Acker and a couple No. 1 picks, that might be enough whipped cream on top to get that sundae done.

Andy (vegas)

So, if it is tougher underneath then what the NBA permits (which I agree with in watching some games), why are all these Euros soft when they get here to play in the NBA? My guess is the ruggid, tough guys who look like the main character in Grand Theft Auto IV, don't make it over b/c their skill set is substandard, and only the super talented get here--and those that are super talented tend to be a little soft.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:29 PM)

There is a lot of truth to what you say, Andy. The big bangers who thrive in Europe would be glued to the bench in the NBA - guys like the Lavrinovic brothers, Smodis, half the Greek team, etc.

Chris Sheridan

  (7:30 PM)

That's a wrap, gang. We'll chat again soon. Enjoy the game tonight.

Rob Peterson

  (7:32 PM)

Hey everyone ... Rob Peterson here for our 90-minute chat. (Sasha Vujacic isn't the only Machine in the building...)As for tonight's special guests, not sure if we're getting any, but as always, this is a Very Special Chat. Life lessons dispensed at the end of every episode...

Rob Peterson

  (7:32 PM)

I'm getting weepy just thinking about it ...

TC (Seattle, WA)

welcome rob...Do you think if Perk comes out and throws up 20/10 lakers fans will whine that he was not hurt like they continue to do with pierce??

Rob Peterson

  (7:33 PM)

TC ... If he throws up 20-10, I want whatever the Celtics athletic training staff has.Goodness, I think if you mean 20 minutes and any combination of 10 points and/or rebounds, the Celtics will be in good shape.They need him to take up space, bang and not get more hurt.

John Brockton,Mass

What do you think of these finals? Have the shown us the eastern conference has closed the gap on the west?

Rob Peterson

  (7:35 PM)

I don't know if that's the case, but so far, the Celtics have shown they're the superior team ...I don't know if Detroit, Cleveland or Atlanta -- the three teams the Cs kicked to the curb -- would have won three games against the Lakers.With all that blather, I think the East was better than people think.

Ryan (LA)

What is LA's answer for Posey? He has clearly been the X factor for Boston's success.

Rob Peterson

  (7:36 PM)

Ryan --Vujacic. That guy can shoot, and he can be a pest on defense. So far, he's had one solid game -- Game 3.Posey's pretty much been solid the whole series. Consistency is the key.

Thomas (Aarhus, Denmark)

Will Ray Allen and Kendrick Perkins play tonight - and how important are they for the game?

Rob Peterson

  (7:38 PM)

Thomas, they're both scheduled to play. I saw Ray shoot around and Perkins is supposedly ready to go.Here's what I wrote about Ray's shootaround.http://my.nba.com/thread.jspa?threadID=5800008466Henry saw something different.http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-32-330/Tuesday-Pre-Game-Bullets.html

Rob Peterson

  (7:39 PM)

Crap, did that blow out the width of the page?Sorry.

Rob Peterson

  (7:39 PM)

Hey, everyone, I'll show you how different the thinking is on the coasts...Watch.

Christine ( Los Angeles, CA)

Have faith...any true fan would never give up. KG has been soft, we can take them and make history.

Rob Peterson

  (7:39 PM)

That's LA. Now Boston.

steamer511 (RI)

Just remember, guys. KG still has not had a breakout game in the Finals. It will happen tonight at the Garden. Final score - Celtics 102, Lakers 87 Garnett 32 points, 14 rebounds

Rob Peterson

  (7:40 PM)

It's Mortal Kombat! Fight!

Leonardo (Brazil)

Hi Rob! Can the Lakers take advantage if they play big? Just thinking... Put Turiaf on 5 fighting with Perkins, Gasol on 4 (his original position) on Garnett, Odom on 3 against Pierce ('cause he's taller), with Bryant and Vujacic on the backcourt. What do you think?

Rob Peterson

  (7:41 PM)

Leonardo ... Interesting, but I don't think that many bigs work on the offensive end of the floor... Too crowded in the post.Plus, you don't want to tire all your bigs out at the same time.Balance is key, but the Lakers just need to play better defense overall. Simple as that.

Bill Walton (Los Angeles)

Your prediction is a disgrace to basketball fanatics around the world. As a true Celtic, Boston wins, but my boy Luke Walton will get 67 points and 34 rebounds.

Rob Peterson

  (7:42 PM)

Those would be ... records.

Emil Long Beach,Ca

Rob,Has Doc out coached Phil in this series? Whats your take.

Rob Peterson

  (7:45 PM)

Emil ... I think he has. Here's my take: What's Chris Mihm doing in the game?But, for every positive Laker action, Doc has had a great counter move.And sometimes, listening to your players (letting Pierce guard Kobe in Game 4) is as good as a master tactician.

Rob Peterson

  (7:46 PM)

Hey, everyone ... We're trying to get Dwyane Wade to chat. I repeat, TRYING ... so, send in questions just in case, and I'll queue 'em up.And please, keep it clean and relevant to the series or his offseason. Thanks.

Mark (LA)

I'm seriously tired of not feeling comfortable with a lead. A lot of us Laker fans have no fingernails left. If the Lakers do get off to a fast start again, any chance that Boston will be out of steam to the point where they can't come back and we can look ahead to game 7.

Rob Peterson

  (7:48 PM)

Mark --Good question. I think that's something the Celtics (and their fans) will try to prevent tonight.I think both teams will be tired. I know the teams fly on chartered planes and all, but it's not easy switchin' time zones.I know, I've hit a wall and I'm just copying and pasting answers that I typed out four hours ago.

Tiger Woods (Torrey Pines 91st Green)

Any chance this series goes eight or nine games... If so, can I play?

Rob Peterson

  (7:49 PM)

Tiger, sorry, we don't go nine. But you're more than welcome to be here, watch and chat any time.Invitation extended.

Brett (Los Angeles)

Don't you think there's more pressure on the Celtics to win tonight? Nobody expects the Lakers to win Gm 6, and there's very few that believe they can do it in gm 7 too. Kobe already has his three rings and now his MVP, while KG, Pierce, Allen, and others are still searching for their first title. Look for the pressure to mount and impact KG and Co. even more heavily tonight if the Lakers are hanging around by the end of the 4th. Kobe can let if fly with ease tonight, look for him to drop 40+!

Rob Peterson

  (7:51 PM)

Brett ... I think there's equal pressure on both teams. With the Lakers, there's the pressure of realizing that tonight could be the end of your season.With the Celtics, I think it's an internal pressure of not wanting to play a Game 7 and answer all the questions as to why you haven't won it yet ...So, both teams have pressure.If Kobe drops 40-plus tonight, we could be seeing a Game 7 sure. It's not Kobe Lakers fans should be worried about ... It's No. 7 and No. 16 -- Odom and Gasol. Those guys need to be Game 5 Odom and Gasol, not the first four game guys.

Phil Macrevis, San Diego, CA

In all honesty, do the Lakers have a shot at pulling this out, or should they just fold in the tent tonight?

Rob Peterson

  (7:52 PM)

Never, ever, ever fold the tent.Fight til you can't fight any more.No reason not to.

Corey (Fall River, MA)

Rajon Rondo is great at getting to the hoop, and is always open for a shot. Is there a reason why he is not shooting the ball?

Rob Peterson

  (7:53 PM)

Corey ... I think Rajon is a little hesitant... oh, all right, scared. He's not confident in his jump shot at all. He passes up a lot of open looks.As a matter of fact, the Lakers don't respect him by putting Kobe on him.You heard me ... By having Kobe guard him, Kobe sags and helps on defense instead of playing that pressure D that Kobe can play. It allows Kobe to roam, and it's been hurting the Celtics early in games.

Andy (Malden, MA)

How important is Kendrick Perkins for the Celtics? It seems like in Game 5, without The Beast, Pau and Odom were fresh throughout the game. Is the reason for their struggles in the earlier games due to Perk tiring them out early?

Rob Peterson

  (7:56 PM)

Andy, not having Perk hurt in Game 5. Having KG in foul trouble hurt too ...So, yeah, you can say Odom and Gasol were more aggressive in Game 5, but they should have been. The Celts had no one in the post to counter...So, Perk's important if not for him being a big body to occupy some space.

Eric Ong, Los Angeles

I just saw the Baby Buffalo's escape video online. If that poor thing can survive the African's Lions and Crocs, Lakers can do the impossible and win tonight game to force game 7!

Rob Peterson

  (7:57 PM)

Uh ... tatonka?(Dances With Wolves, anyone? Anyone?)

Albert (Stanton, CA)

Just a thought...should the Lakers implement a 7-seconds or less philosophy like the Suns for tonight's game? It works because even Doc has admitted and we all know that the Celtics are at their best on defense when they set their D...what's your take on this?

Rob Peterson

  (7:58 PM)

Albert --Interesting suggestion, but no. The triangle is about patience, spacing and screens. You do what you've done all year to get you here.Otherwise, it's just called isolating Kobe ...

Chris (NJ)

Do you think Kobe will be more aggressive in game 6?

Rob Peterson

  (8:00 PM)

Hmmm... Good question. I don't think he comes out firing, if that's what you mean.Though, if it's close late, I do see the Lakers going away from the offense and trying to isolate Kobe more.If that's more aggressive or just plain smart, I'm not sure ... Either way, good things usually happen when Kobe has the ball in his hands.

Dave (Boston)

When was the last time Kevin Garnett slept?

Rob Peterson

  (8:00 PM)

Probably last October.

Jon (Tampa)

Has Rajon Rondo played he way out of the game tonight?

Rob Peterson

  (8:01 PM)

Well, we haven't started yet, so not yet.But if you mean out of the starting lineup, I think he starts tonight.

Daniel (Anaheim)

Lakers by 10 tonight with the injuries to Rondo and Perkins and family issues with Allen....To many things for Boston to over come...What do you think?

Rob Peterson

  (8:02 PM)

Daniel -- I don't think either team wins by double-digits. I have a feeling tonight will be a close one.Then again, I've been wrong on every prediction I've ever made. I had Dewey in '48. Just an FYI.

Robert (Dallas, TX)

I apologize for the mundane question, however...Is ABC/ESPN broadcasting the game online anywhere? Im stuck at work with no TV!!

Rob Peterson

  (8:03 PM)

No, but you can follow online either at NBA.com or ESPN.com.(NBA.com! NBA.com! NBA.com!)Sorry, was that out loud?

Vijay (Astoria, NY)

Eric Ong was talking about "The Battle at Kruger." Check it out.Considering all the predictions before the series of Lakers winning... Why do you think the analysts were so "off" on their predictions? Neither team is playing their top game, but it seems, even if they were, LA would have no answer for them. Am I wrong?

Rob Peterson

  (8:05 PM)

Vijay ...I'll need to check that out.I don't think people were off. I think that sweeping Denver, taking care of a tough Jazz team in six, and kickin' the Spurs to the curb in five would make anyone go: "Dayyyyyyyyyyyymn. They're good."Add to that the Cs needed seven, seven and six to get through the "inferior" East, that's how people made their predictions.As for mine, I said Celtics in seven.Could happen.

Son Le Orange Ca

To break it down.. the Lakers best Defense is their Offense and the Celtics best Offense is their Defense!!

Rob Peterson

  (8:05 PM)

Whoa, deep...But correct.

Matt (Atlanta)

just off the wire.....Tiger signed by the Lakers, he's gonna come limping out tonight like Willis Reed....Karma's got ya Pierce!

Rob Peterson

  (8:06 PM)

Bwhahahaha... Good one.I don't think Tiger could run to the bathroom right now, let alone go 94 feet.But I'd like to see that.

Mike (Avondale, AZ)

Why is it that when KG struggles, its him 'disappearing' and when Kobe struggles its, 'tough Celtic defense'? Do you think that is fair?

Rob Peterson

  (8:08 PM)

Mike --History. That's why.Kobe has a history of being a bad mother (shut my mouth) at the end of games.KG has the rep of just being bad. I love KG, but it's been rare that I've ever heard: "KG scored 16 of the game's last 18 points ..."I'm just sayin'. But as John Schuhmann said about two hours ago, KG does so many things for the Cs, maybe scoring in the stretch isn't one that's needed.Pierce has been pretty good at that. So has Ray Allen.

Harry S. Truman (Washington D.C.)

I told you I was gonna win, I held up that newspaper for you.P.S. Kobe is not MJ.

Rob Peterson

  (8:09 PM)

And you were a hell of a piano player...

Alex (London, England)

Game 6 tonight, comes down to final shot with Lakers leading 90-89, and the Celtics have the final shot with 4.3 seconds left, who would you expect to see take that shot?

Rob Peterson

  (8:09 PM)

Alex ... Pierce or Allen (whatever one is open...)

irvine, ca

why can't the celtics get out on a good start on the 1st quarter. it seems they always have to claw their way back to game (except for game 2).

Rob Peterson

  (8:11 PM)

Because Rondo's killing them on the offensive end. He's not hitting shots and the Lakers don't need to respect his presence on the floor ...Essentially, the Lakers are playing five on four. The Celtics need to figure out a way to get Rondo in the flow, not as a shooter, but as a facilitator.Maybe push the pace.

Rob Peterson

  (8:12 PM)

Ahhhhhhhh, sweet, sweet diet Coke. Thank you for that boost of energy.

Rob (Miami, Florida)

Is this the Celtics only chance to win the title for the next couple years? With players like Ray Allen, KG, and Paul Pierce who aren't getting an younger?

Rob Peterson

  (8:14 PM)

Rob ... great, great name. You're parents are very smart.Anyway, this is probably their best chance. Probably ... which is why they may not let it slip away tonight.Wouldn't you hate to get this close and not get another chance? Right Dan Marino, Charles Barkley, Robin Yount and all the other ringless greats?

Mike (Avondale, AZ)

Diet Coke > Luke Walton

Rob Peterson

  (8:15 PM)

Right now, yes...

Rob Peterson

  (8:15 PM)

It's 45 minutes before the game, and the lower bowl is half full.Toto, I don't think we're in LA anymore.

Mike Jones (houston)

why did the celtics struggle in rounds 1 and 2?

Rob Peterson

  (8:17 PM)

Strange enough to say, but I think they needed to learn how to play playoff basketball together.Or maybe Atlanta and Cleveland were better than we gave them credit for (sorry for the dangling preposition...)Nah, I think it was the learning to play together. Plus Atlanta and Cleveland are good rebounding teams ... The Cs don't have too many monsters on the glass.

Ken (Chino Hills, California)

What can the Lakers do to help Kobe be more effective in the 4th quarter?

Rob Peterson

  (8:19 PM)

Ken --I think the other Lakers need to make shots. If they hit shots, the Celtics need to respect the shooters. That gives Kobe more room to work and more than likely, single coverage on the perimeter.That's how.

Mark, Orange County, CA

Breaking News!! Lakers win championship in Game 7!! That's what is gonna be in the papers after Thursday!!

Rob Peterson

  (8:19 PM)

I thought we did the Dewey Defeats Truman thing already...

STEVEN A SMITH

I AM NOT YELLING THIS IS THE WAY I TALK

Rob Peterson

  (8:19 PM)

WHAT?

DJ Mbenga (TD Banknorth)

Is Phil really going turn to me tonight in the biggest game of our season?

Rob Peterson

  (8:20 PM)

Sorry DJ, but I think your suit is really nice.

Kobe Bryant, LA

How do i stop Paul Pierce from killing me offensively and defensively Rob?How can i stop Ray Allen from hitting 7 3-pointers while im guarding Pierce?

Rob Peterson

  (8:21 PM)

Kob ... you can't be everywhere and your teammates can make better decisions on helping with pick and rolls. ESPN did a nice breakdown about how the Lakers have been awful on the pick and roll, specifically with Pierce.

Sadiq (Ottawa, Canada)

Lakers have this I think. Celtics better take it today or they are in BIG trouble. I think today is do or die for both teams.

Rob Peterson

  (8:22 PM)

Sadiq, that has been said, definitely.I have a Celtics fan friend in the company, and he said this town would be on a very thin edge if the Lakers won Game 6, especially after the Patriots getting the beat down in the Super Bowl.

justin, Indiana

i need a perentage of people who honestly think the lakers can pull this thing off!

Rob Peterson

  (8:23 PM)

How many Lakers fans are there?Maybe 25 percent.

Ryan (Mpls)

Granted the C's are hurt and might be thinking about other things (Allen) But they have 2 bonafide superstars that could probably carry a team to a championship together anyway (KG AND PIERCE) I say they finish it off tonight quite convincingly

Rob Peterson

  (8:26 PM)

Ryan, I wrote after Game 5 that two of the Big Three need to spectacular for the Cs to win ... if they have only one good night for them, it's lights out for Boston.

ira (utah)

so what is your pegame meal?

Rob Peterson

  (8:28 PM)

About six hours again, it was a salad and some chicken. I'll probably grab a dog before the game ... Gotta have a hot dog at a game.

kid ( LA)

if the lakers lose in these finals. will they make a big change next season?

Rob Peterson

  (8:28 PM)

No, not right away I don't think. I think they want to see what this team will be like with Bynum in the lineup...

New Hartford, NY

lakers can win if kobe drives to the basket more.

Rob Peterson

  (8:29 PM)

Blank from New Hartford, that's easier said than done in this series... The Cs are really good at protecting the paint.

ira (utah)

no beer?

Rob Peterson

  (8:29 PM)

Not on duty.

John, Miami, FL

What do you think about Simmons' article on the ESPN NBA front page... I used to think he was a humorous and talented writer, though not much of a sports journalist, and used to enjoy his sarcastic wit... But ever since the start of this series, he's turned into an infantile flip-flopping hater... blatantly looking for an opportunity to go on the attack without any regard for notions of objectivity

Rob Peterson

  (8:31 PM)

Or, he's been what you call a, what is it.... Oh, it'll come to me. What's the word for it?Oh, yes: fan.He's a Celtics fan, what do you expect?Also before the series, he said no one could match the Lakers, so ... he's been on the other side too.

Sadiq (Ottawa, Canada)

Rob, I just read your blog about Ray Allen. He is a great guy and a class act. As for his family issue, do you have more details on what it was exactly and is it going to bother him today? By the way, my prayers are with them and hopefully everything will be okay.

Rob Peterson

  (8:31 PM)

Sadiq, thanks ...No he hasn't commented on it, and the Celtics have asked us not to ask.Knowing Ray, I will respect that request.

Bryan (Flemington, NJ)

Does a championship ring for the Celtics guarantee a retired jersey number for KG? I think Pierce already has his sewn up.

Rob Peterson

  (8:32 PM)

Bryan ... Hmmm... Good question.Pierce, definitely. KG and Ray maybe. Most of the numbers in the rafters played for the Cs for a number of years ...

Rob Peterson

  (8:33 PM)

OK, it's a half hour before game time, and this place is already nuts... Loud, loud, loud.

ira (utah)

no beer and salad. dude you are killing me!

Rob Peterson

  (8:34 PM)

I told you I was having a hot dog. Do you know what's in those things?That's about as junky as you get... but oh so tasty.

brent philippines

lakers in seven what do you think?

Rob Peterson

  (8:34 PM)

Brent, I said Cs in seven before the series, and I'm sticking to it.

Eddie (Southern California)

Rob - that Bill Simmons article about no one being able to match the Lakers was Bill's attempt at a "reverse jinx". He didn't think any Boston fan who knew him would take him seriously. He said so in his subsequent mailbag.

Rob Peterson

  (8:35 PM)

Ah, I didn't read the mailbag. Serves me right ...Anyway, if that's the case, it's worked so far.

Soxfan24 (beantown)

Consider this... When the Bruins were good in the 70s, NHL was considered to be at its peak (in terms of fans, excitement, interest... Celts in the 80s, NBA was at its peak... Sox and Pats in recent years, the MLB and NFL nowadays. Why do you think that is? Can Boston/New England save the WNBA from obscurity?

Rob Peterson

  (8:36 PM)

Whoa, never thought of it that way ... Interesting. Boston has great fans and great teams, though I can't staaaaaaand the Patriots. And the Connecticut Sun are 9-2 ... So, don't sleep on the Sun (you could get burned...)Lame, I know. Sorry.

Ryan (Mpls)

What do you expect out of Paul Pierce tonight. No one is expecting an encore of game 5 but I see him getting about 24-28 points by getting to the line again

Rob Peterson

  (8:38 PM)

Ryan ... in the little Minny. I don't think he'll get to the line that often, but I think he needs to get to the line often. People can't discount how great it is to get easy points.Takes the pressure off you on offense...

Sigourney Weaver (LA)

Given some of the foes Ive defeated, I really like my chances in a head to head matchup with Sam-I-am, aka Precious, - any chances lakers can sign me to their backcourt for games 6 and 7?

Rob Peterson

  (8:38 PM)

Don't you live on the Upper East Side of Manhattan?

KB24 (Los Angeles, CA)

Ryan, what do I have to do drop 50 on these guys and still be considered a "team" player?

Rob Peterson

  (8:38 PM)

Have 10 assists as well... Heh.

Joe, Indiana

Ok, Say the Big Three, Lamar, and Pau suck tonight Kobe plays like he has been this whole series. Boston's bench Rondo and Perkins are Awesome say like three of them going onto the late teens early twenties in points rest in the early teens. The rest of LA plays the same as they have been. Who wins and why?

Rob Peterson

  (8:39 PM)

As you describe, Boston would.

Believe - (Dreamland)

Is there anyone outside of LA that's giving LA even a glimmer of hope? It seems like all the talk about Boston being the far superior team is a bit overly dramatic. Every game has been determined in the last minute of each contest. If Boston is so dominant, shouldn't they have won a couple of games by a larger margin?

Rob Peterson

  (8:40 PM)

Make Believe... I think the Lakers have hope, and I agree, the Celtics have hardly put the Lakers away.I don't see a wide margin of victory in either direction tonight. But if Boston wins, no one here will care if it's by one or 100.

Rob Peterson

  (8:41 PM)

As a matter of fact, 17 is the only number they'll care about.

Rob Peterson

  (8:41 PM)

Shhh... There Can Only Be One ad in arena.

Rob Peterson

  (8:42 PM)

Awesome commercial.

Mirko

Great work Rob!!! Here in Europe there are a lot of those who appreciate your work. I hope there is nothing serious with Ray but this might me my happiest NBA night as I'm with Ray for 10 years (ever since I actively watch NBA basketball). I really hope his son is doing well.Once again Rob, thank you for your huge contribution to the NBA basketball with writing blogs, giving us very valuable information and for sharing your expertise.Regards from Europe (Slovenia)

Rob Peterson

  (8:42 PM)

Wow! Thanks ... that's a first. It's much appreciated.

A Bulls Fan (Chi-town)

I know many people have finally killed off the Kobe/MJ comparison after the last 5 games, but if Lakers come back to win it all, does the comparison start up again?

Rob Peterson

  (8:43 PM)

You bet they do ... It'll be greatest comeback in Finals history. That you can't deny.Then again, MJ never needed seven.

Joe, Indiana

Kobe needs Magic and/or Kareem to come out of retirement in the next 45 minutes to win right.

Rob Peterson

  (8:44 PM)

Well, Kareem is here ...

Cavs fan with half-full glass

So, when the Lakers lose tonight, do you see the playoff ranking as:1. Celtics2. Cavs (lost in 7, competitive)3. Hawks (lost in 7 with blowouts)4. Pistons (lost in 6)5. Lakers (lost in 6)6. Everyone else

Rob Peterson

  (8:45 PM)

I just want to know what proof is in that glass... 80? 90?

Jesse, Los Angeles

Look...The Celtics are going to win. They have slowed down Kobe, and Pau Gasol is WEAK! He is no where near as good as Kevin Garnet. Secondly Paul Pierce is playing so good, much better than Kobe. The last thing to take into account is that The Lakers at home could not hold onto a lead, so how can you expect them to do so in Boston where the Celtics are 12 and 1. This series is over. Raise the banner at the Garden!!!!!!!

Rob Peterson

  (8:46 PM)

Is this Los Angeles CALIFORNIA or some other Los Angeles I've never heard of...But the Cs have slowed Kobe, that's for sure...

Mike (Avondale, AZ)

I thought you didn't drink on the job...

Rob Peterson

  (8:46 PM)

I don't, I thought the Cavs fan may have been imbibing though.

Khanh (Los Angeles)

A lot has been made about Kendrick being the reason why Boston lost in Game 5. I think because he got injured in Game 4, it forced Boston to go small and put more 3 point shooters out there and I thought that was the turning point in game 4. What do you think?

Rob Peterson

  (8:47 PM)

Khanh, I think that's correct.And KG was in foul trouble.

KG (Hopefully Boston)

So im undecided if i should turn up tonight. Think i get a ring even if dont?

Rob Peterson

  (8:47 PM)

Nope, gotta win, baby. Gotta win.Just like you say.

Nick, FL

Lakers win game 6 with Kobe hitting the free throws down the strecth!!! GO LA

Rob Peterson

  (8:47 PM)

That could happen ...

Rob Peterson

  (8:48 PM)

Hey, everyone ... I need to move to my seat ...

Rob Peterson

  (8:48 PM)

If it ends tonight, thanks for your time, your questions and your attention. It has been much appreciated.If the Lakers win, we'll see you before Game 7.And won't that be something.

Rob Peterson

  (8:48 PM)

Take care all, you've been great.

Buzzmaster

  (8:52 PM)

Thanks Rob. I'll be taking it from here, everyone. Aint you excited?

ryan (los angeles)

yes!!!!!!!!

A Bulls Fan (Chi-town)

I really want a great game...from both teams...with MJ...I mean Kobe hitting the game winning shot

Buzzmaster

  (8:54 PM)

Pregame introductions have started, everyone!

orange county, ca

before game 5, when kobe said..if he was told during summer camp that he was going to get 3 shots to win a championship, he would be very happy. I believe he took this statement from mark cuban (right before game 6) 2 years ago.

john (florida)

i want overtime!

Mark (Bangor, PA)

Hey Buzz, I think the key is Ray Ray getting off early. It'll spread out the already weak Laker D, then Paul and KG will have their way.

Josh, LA

Kobe will put up 40+ tonight ensuring a Lakers victory.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

That was an interesting anthem

Aaron (Albuquerque, NM)

I want the Lakers to come out and completely flop just because the frothing from the Lakers fans would be almost as entertaining as the game itself.

Randy (Shasta, AK)

Has Sasha Vujacic started complaining yet?

ryan (los angeles)

expect everyone to score top notch points

Josh, LA

The key is actually Ronnie throwing towels to make the Celtics miss there free throws.

vrl(la,ca)

I hope refs wont decide today's game

Buzzmaster

  (8:56 PM)

Kobe looks focused and intense.

Buzzmaster

  (8:57 PM)

That pregame intro on the jumbotron is pretty well done.

Mark (Bangor, PA)

MJ dropped more than 40 on the C's. Guess what, the Bulls lost the game. It's what Odom and Gasol do that'll matter.

Luke (Marina del Rey, CA)

As much as a I want and can see the Lakers winning, I have a gut feeling the Celtics put them away.

Casey, NC

Was it just me or was the Celtic crowd more energized about Paula Cole singing the national anthem than the Laker crowd was at any point during Games 3-5?

Joe(NJ)

Do you think these next two games will be Kobe's last chance to win a ring considering next year Portland might be a better version of Boston?Roy,Alridge,and Oden are going to make a great big three and they will play super defense.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

PERK IS A BEAST

Sean (Louisville)

Yeah, until Pau misses one of his fastball passes and he loses it

Brian

Why'd they put the basketball on a giant popcorn container?

Paul (Melbourne, Australia)

Is all the hating of the Lakers that goes on outside California due to a bit of an inferiority complex??

Buzzmaster

  (8:59 PM)

Same thing that happens with any winning team. It's not unique.

Matt (Austin, TX)

Sure would be great if someone from the Laker's would show up to play the entire game...

David, Phx Az

Its kobe-time. Sorry celtics, but its his time to shine and make his legacy...well even bigger.

Clint, Los Angeles

Did it just look like Garnett's head was going to explode simply from the drama of having his name announced?

Sean (Louisville)

You know what's sad? Seeing the Space needle in that graphic and wondering how much longer pro ball will be in Seattle.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

I wonder how much court sside tickets were on stub hub for this game

Matthew (Fairfield, CA)

I look for Ray Allen to off for 30-35 points tonight. How many do think he'll put up in Game 6?

Aaron (Albuquerque, NM)

I hope Curt Schilling is behind the Lakers bench again so we can read the blog about Kobe's petulant meltdown one more time.

Joe, Indiana

Buzz, I like the Sun's one the best the one when they first played Shaq

Mark (Bangor, PA)

Buzz, it goes back to Magic's showboating

Buzzmaster

  (9:01 PM)

I dunno. You could say "why do people outside of X city hate the Yankees/Cowboys/Red Wings/Manchester United/whatever". Ya know?

James Fresno Cali

No team has EVER come back from being down 3-1. I ensure all the fans out there that if all the great teams that have been around since the beginning of the nba have not comeback from that far down then the 1 star Laker team definetly wont! Celtics have too many players. The garden is too loud and Paul Pierce will have too many points and stops on Kobe to let that happen.

Jay (NY)

First time in a Buzz chat the word petulant was used, nice job Aaron.

Herman (LA)

by "gut feeling" do you mean common sense and predicting someting based on overwhelming odds? btw, has thorpe picked the home team for evey game of his predictions? me thinks so

Andy (Georgia)

Buzz Mark (Bangor, PA) has gotten in 3 comments you havent let in one of mine? RIDDLE ME THAT UP!!

Buzzmaster

  (9:02 PM)

Mostly your comments have been 'rarrrr the NBA is STOOPID but I will post here for three hours'. Not exactly witty repartee.

Clint, Los Angeles

Kobe is talking to Luke Walton, despite the terrible performance he has had this series. See? He is clearly the best teammate ever.

Jay (NY)

Van Gundy's got that hysterical look on his face where he looks like he's about to say something hysterically inappropriate. He's awesome.

Scot Los Angeles, CA

What? How could it be a bigger choke for the Celtics to lose two games compared to the Pats losing the Super Bowl? They were undefeated and the Lakers were favored coming into this series, with the MVP and a hall-of-fame coach. Way off there pal.

Bre, Olathe KS

Rock Chalk Jayhawk...Go KU, Boo Pierce! Go Lakers!

Jaime (San Bruno, CA)

No team has come back from 24 like the celtics did in the finals...so why can't the lakers come back from 3-1 again ???

A Bulls Fan (Chi-town)

Yea, but everyone liked the Bulls when they dominated...

scott (fresno)

If LA wins game 6, LA wins it all. KG, PP and Ray Ray will feel the pressure of their carreer ending without one in game 7.

Jay (NY)

Do they play to win the games? Should we get Herm Edwards on the phone?

scott (fresno)

I HATED the Bulls. I only knew 1 person who liked them. That is a ridiculous comment.

Brian (Philly)

I'm getting that strange vibe about this game. Isn't this how the movie Celtic Pride started?

Aaron (Hutch, KS)

Nobody had come back from 3-0 before and (much to my chagrin) Boston did it in 2004. There is a first time for everything, and this will be that time. Remember that Kobe lost two years ago after being up 3-1 to the Suns. It could happen. Kobe is the key.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Phil had to tell his players not to belly ache about getting fouled LOL

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

The playoffs always lose luster for me if Shaq isnt somehow involved

Brent (reno)

Why is a Jayhawk fan (Bre) booing former alum Paul Pierce?

Jaime (San Bruno, CA)

I'm confused. People keep calling this "The Garden".Um, isn't "The Garden" in New York ???

Jay (NY)

Did Doc just tell them that they should breathe? Do you need to coach that? I had no idea how complex coaching is.

Jay (NY)

Jamie, it's part of the east coast bias...we get all the Gardens.

David Phx, AZ

If I had KG RayRay and Pierce I could be coach of the year. If i had Kobe and Pau and Bynum w LO, Id have a championship next year. Go Lakers!

David, Phoenix AZ

Enough typing. Must go scream my lungs out. Once its over..you guys are still gonna keep comparing Kobe to MJ...I love it

Buzzmaster

  (9:07 PM)

And we're off!

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Niced to hear an actual crowd not a bunch of A list celebs that are just there because its the place to be

mitch compton utah

is the nba serious about the referees tonight? because i am certain it can't be real.

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

Doc is the worst motivational speaker of all time

Dave (Anarctica)

GAME ON!

Aaron (Hutch, KS)

I would love for Paul to get one. Represent KU. But, I don't want KG. He's an overrated son of a gun. I have always been a Lakers fan. I'd rather them win.

Sid (Texas)

Terrible shot selection by Allen

mat (NYC)

see this is what a home crowd should sound like in the finals. take note LA fans

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

Ive never had a pair of Air Kobe's, so I'll stick with MJ

ryan (los angeles)

FUMBLE!!!!!!!!!

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Are you kidding Jim? I would pay to listen to Doc.

David , Seal Beach , Ca

Do you think Kareem should teach the sky hook to Gasol

Jaime (San Bruno, CA)

Oh no !! Look at that FT discrepancy !!2-0 !!!

HC (MA)

Can't let the Lakers run out to an early lead!

Matt (Peabody, MA)

And the Los Angeles Salvatores take a 4-0 lead

Jay (NY)

Kareem should teach Gasol how to be a co-pilot.

Buzzmaster

  (9:10 PM)

You try dragging Walton and Lainier up and down the floor every night.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Allen for 3....GOOD

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Wow. I never knew people commented from Antarctica.

scott (fresno)

Actually, I have had lots of MJ's, but Kobe's first shoe was by far the most comfortable. Called the KB8's I believe. Just a side note.

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

pay to listen to doc??? He reminds me of my science teacher tellinf me about photosynthesis.

ks (chicago il)

This is it!! This is it!!

ryan (los angeles)

it was rondo

Aaron (Hutch, KS)

Allen is going to kill the Lakers! Put a body on him!!!

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

growing up I had 2 questions that boggled my mind. 1. why are girls evil. 2. why in god's name is there a team in LA named the Lakers

Buzzmaster

  (9:12 PM)

They used to be in Minnesota, the Land of a Thousand Lakes.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Love the Airplane! quote

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Jim-he has inspired the Celts to take the Series lead.

Rondo (Beantown)

THREE FOR KOBE

Jay (NY)

Jim still hasn't figured out the answer to number 1. Neither have I actually.

Reggie (Orlando)

Pretty sure it's 10,000 Lakes Buzzmaster . . .

Buzzmaster

  (9:13 PM)

I stand corrected, it is indeed Ten Thousand.

Aaron (Hutch, KS)

Uh-oh. 4-2 FT to Boston. CONSPIRACY!!!!

Joe, Indina

Kobe's on fire

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Odom with the belly aching and gets the TECHNICAL

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Has Kobe ever had a chat, Buzz?

Buzzmaster

  (9:15 PM)

I don't believe so. We'd love to have him, though.

john (florida)

kobe's lookin like he could get 50 tonight

juan (mexico)

that last three by kobe was nuts lol

scott (fresno)

Def 3 seconds... no tech

Buzzmaster

  (9:16 PM)

Lots of offensive rebounds by Boston tonight.

Sean (Louisville)

Why didn't Pau back down Pierce there?????????

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Pau looks as dazed and confused as Buzz after a night of partying.

Mike

Why am I watching this? I swore I was done with the NBA this year.

Brett (boston)

celtics are going 2-3 which is different than what they have done all series

RAV - AUSTRALIA

Awesome GAME.. Hopefully Gasol will play like a man.. That will make a difference..

David (Glendora, CA)

Awesome defense by the Celtics so far.

Todd (Fargo)

The black mamba can strike from any distance...

Aaron (Hutch, KS)

Kobe is frickin ridiculous. Some of the fouls are ticky tack.

scott (fresno)

Kobe is ridiculous!!!

James (MA)

Celtics could probably have more free throws. Garnetts been getting hit inside.

Steve(Memphis)

I feel kobe is going to have 50 and the rest of his team might put up 41.

rav (Sydney - AUS)

Good start for Boston.. Looks like they are into it..

Steiny (NYC)

Kobe will score more than 81 tonight.

Aaron (Hutch, KS)

Will Kobe have a Shrug Moment like MJ did? He's starting off hot. Boston can't guard him right now. If that one three wouldn't have spun out, it would just have been sick.

Herman (LA)

disagree, celts aren't playing good D, lakers look nervous other than Kobe. esp gasol

Brett (Boston)

I think the Lakers will win if Rondo takes it in more.

Ben, Canada

Thanks Van Gundy for recognizing Kobe's P.U.R.E. stroke. Forget 50...Kobe might get 81 in this one, especially if the rest of his team continues to do nothing.

Yamanda (Los Angeles)

Kobe's fadeaway 3 was insane!!!!!!!

Not James in (MA)

Garnett getting hit inside?!? He is bowling over Gasol.

Brian (Philly)

Celtics D is great, Kobe's just hitting difficult shots. What can you do?

CG (Waco)

He's hot now. Let's see if he can keep it up.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Kobe is going to get his pts its the rest of the Lakers that have to step up in order for them to make a game 7happen

Herman (LA)

Gasol is looking horrible right now. he catches at the elbow without even considering a shot. he needs to take and make those to get Perkins away from the basket.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Steven Tyler has been at a Celts game befor... Hes sung the Anthem before at a Celts game

CG (Waco)

Here come the Spygate jokes.

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Kobe=Best player ever.

David (LA)

The Celtics are playing their "agressive defense" and the refs are finally picking up on it, foulds on pierce, rondo, and KG.

Todd (Fargo)

worst. celebrities. ever...

James (MA)

If Odom didn't get called for a foul..Why did Perkins get called for one?

Rob (LA)

Kobe is not even the best Laker ever. That's Magic's title.

Herman (LA)

odom would score 6-8 more pts a game if he could use his right. moron...try using the hand not closest to the defender

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Allen to the locker room

scott (fresno)

That is sadly the best thing for LA Odom has done all series.

Aaron (Hutch, KS)

Interesting sidenote. The Lakers are 8-0 in the playoffs when Gasol has 5+ assists. If Kobe keeps hitting shots like that fadeaway, Gasol will get plenty more than that.

Steiny (NYC)

Allen has left the game. That was a lot better than when Pierce left the game. Nice calm and quick.

ks (chicago il)

Bummer, Ray Allen almost got his face ripped off, Doc Rivers wonders why no foul, meanwhile Lakers keep making FGs. ???? Oh well.

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Another fake injury.

Herman (LA)

not looking good for la. tied when the C's can't make a shot and kobe shooting lights out

David (LA)

LUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUKE

Aaron (Hutch, KS)

David you are exactly right. It's about time.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Allen didnt have a knee inury either Steiny

zenichi (malaysia)

rondo needs to finish!

Brian (Philly)

Pierce thought his ACL landed in the third row. I'd be nervous too.

David (Glendora, CA)

Why would you foul Walton? He's going to miss anyway.

Brian (Philly)

KG......feeling it.

Mark (Syracuse)

Gasol hasnt got a chance. Garnett is going off tonight

Scott (Manchester, England)

KG warming up.

Steve(Memphis)

KG is feeling it, the Lakers gonan need a big ticket back home.

CG (Waco)

KG is hot. Dude was triple teamed.

JC New York

If Luke walton is the answer the question must be frightening

Jimmy (RI)

Rondo is building a house with all of these bricks. Terrible. Time for Eddie House to spread the floor.

David (LA)

KG has to stop putting magnets on the ball. He just throws it in.

Steve (Ny)

When is Big Baby going to play. they could use him.

Pete (LA)

Garnett and Kobe will go cold, mark my words.

Steiny (NYC)

Vladimir Radmanovic has three fouls. Not a very good sign if you are a Lakers fan.

scott (fresno)

As a Laker fan, I love the way Boston is playing of offense. KG can keep shooting outside 10 feet, Rondo can keep shooting when he is open and PP can keep shooting those 3's. They are playing into LA's scheme.

Jay (NY)

If KG hits another then does he go on fire and is able to do flip dunks from the 3 point line?

Buzzmaster

  (9:28 PM)

Man, that game was awesome.

Steiny (NYC)

2 fouls. My bad.

David (Glendora, CA)

Couldn't agree with you more Herman.

Andrew (Japan)

Sick shot by KG.

Steve (Ny)

Boston fans are crazy that is why they have no respect.

Mark (Syracuse)

Rondo's defense and penetration are key though

Kevin McHale (MN)

I deserve the MVP trophy for letting you have KG for nothing!!

NBA JAM announcer (Midway)

BOOM-SHAKA-LAKA!!!!

Ernest (Vegas)

KG may have just put in the code for always on fire for NBA jam, Buzz.

jayroll34 (charlotte,nc)

right now LA.cant play the C's in a half court game the C's will beat them down later in the game

Rob (Ashburn, VA)

Kobe deferring too much. He's hot - he needs to shoot. If gets 80, so be it. Lakers need a win!

Robi (Skopje, Macedonia)

Ray Allen is MVP!!!Celtics will win tonight!!

Sid (Texas)

Seriously, KG is talking about PBandJ sandwiches.

JC New York

Does Pau mean soft in spanish?

Sean (Louisville)

There is a serious discussion of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches during the finals. Too much....

CG (Waco)

There nothing like some PBandJ sandwiches. I'm gonna make one now.

Scott (Manchester, England)

Pierce 0-5. Wasn't expecting that...or did he remember he's a Lakers man deep down?

Steve (Ny)

ugly dunk

James (MA)

Wow...Celtics are getting plenty of shots...Just not hitting them.

Steiny (NYC)

This croud is without a doubt a huge factor here tonight.

Brian (Philly)

A Leon Powe shirt? There's something you won't see in LA....someone with a Jordan Farmar shirt.

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

No, Pau means overrated in Spanish.

Mark (Syracuse)

KG is unstoppable by the lakers who are as soft as the bread on the PBJ's.

Jordan (London, England)

Defensive lapse by the Lakers. Nice 'oop to Garnett. Is it me or is this one of the ugliest Finals ever?

Jimmy (RI)

Imagine the lead the celts could have if they stopped shooting bricks?

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Beautiful foul.

Ross (Seattle)

Don't go make a PBandJ yet, wait til commercial, I'm going to

David (LA)

No Pau means Celtic killer.

Mark (Syracuse)

By the way shirt/jersey's are known as Shirseys

Buzzmaster

  (9:34 PM)

Pierce finally gets on the board.

drew (NY)

Garnett is going to dominate

Brian (Philly)

After seeing Pau in the finals, maybe Chris Wallace was onto something.

Ross (Seattle)

Pretty shot by Pierce

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

ITS PEANUT BUTTA JELLY TIME! PEANUT BUTTA JELLY TIME! PEANUT BUTTER JELLY WITH A BASEBALL BAT!

Steve (Ny)

Pau means you got owned

Scott (Manchester, England)

Celtics fans may be rude, they be classless, they may be idiotic...but man, they do make noise.

JC New York

the lakers soft D will doom them later in the game

nick

i think after watching pau charles barkley is gona come back, he packed on a few pounds so he would be unstoppable if pau held him

Chris(NJ)

25% from the floor, no calls and still up 4? not bad for c's.

Adam (FL)

I think Bill Simmons coined "J-Shirts" as the name for the shirt/jersey combo.

KJ Detroit Mi

LA Might Have a chance

Steiny (NYC)

Eddie House is showing a lot of hustle.

David (Glendora, CA)

Good first quarter for the Celtics compared to the other games, hopefully they keep it going.

Mark (Syracuse)

What do you mean? The Laker crowds were awesome, way louder than any funeral I have ever been to.

CG (Waco)

I knew someone was gonna do the peanut butter jelly song.

Mark (Syracuse)

Shirsey is better though. J-Shirt is not as catchy and I love Simmons

Rob (Ashburn, VA)

1st qtr summary... Kobe on tonight. Celtics hustling, advantage Boston.

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Jim-are you six years old?

Brian (NC)

Is Pau Gasol awake yet?

james (cambridge, UK)

I must admit im worried (LA fan) but the stage is set for the Kobe game that we will remember when he retires

Mark (Syracuse)

Man am I hungry all of a sudden

David (Glendora, CA)

David (LA): Celtic killer? Really?

jayroll34 (charlotte,nc)

the only thing boston was to do right now is play smart an LA. must play as a TEAM

Scott (Manchester, England)

Pau is on Madrid time. It's 3am over here.

Steve (Ny)

Ronny Turiaf to the rescue!

Buzzmaster

  (9:41 PM)

A Big Baby sighting!

Reggie (Orlando)

Big Baby's in shape . . . he's round.

Matt (Wynnewood, PA)

Big Baby!

Sid (Texas)

BIG BABY on the floor!!

CG (Waco)

Big Baby is in.

Mark (Syracuse)

Big Baby!

Sean (Louisville)

Big Baby!!!!!

Dan (Orlando, FL)

here is Big Baby for the 1st time this series

Brian (Philly)

Glen Davis?!?!?!

Buzzmaster

  (9:42 PM)

Hey, everyone loves Big Baby!

Steve (Ny)

Did the come out with Big Baby Jerseys?

Dach (Boston)

BIG BABY!!!!! Bout time!

Chris Mihm (The Bench)

Don't put me in! Don't put me in! PLEASE DON'T PUT ME IN!!

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Big Baby witht he block after the foul

Mark (Syracuse)

I want a Big Baby Shirsey!

Jimmy (RI)

I'm calling it now, NBA record for fouls will be called on the Celtics tonight.

Matt (Saskatoon, SK)

Wow, crowd is so loud I can't hear the commentators.....good. By the way, did I just hear "I'm happy with this substitution, Turiaf coming in the game" Excuse me?

Brian (Philly)

Not dissing Mr. Big Baby.....just strange timing. But hey, I'm not on any NBA team's short list for Head Coach.

jayroll34 (charlotte,nc)

DOC is playing the house to night

Marc (Malden, MA)

Phil Jackson is asking Gasol to be tougher? Why doesn't he just ask Farmer to be taller?

Brian (NC)

Let's see Pau try to backdown Big Baby. Not happening

Todd (Fargo)

TECH FOUL!

Joey Crawford

Hi, I just wanted everyone to know I'm officiating this game.

Steiny (NYC)

Doc is fired up.

Scott (Manchester, England)

Doc Rivers needs to shut up. As do all the NBA conspiracy fools.

Cee-Lo (NY)

I wish I was a little bit taller...

Dan (Orlando, FL)

2 technicals already

James (MA)

unreal

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Beat LA chant for the 1st time tonight

Jay (NY)

Doc needs to relax so he can breathe correctly. He should listen to his own advice.

Dach (Boston)

Celtics representing the city with their tough skin against these refs... Nice work boys.

Jordan (London, England)

Big Baby is fresh. Lakers' D is crap.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Joey Crawford's problem is he thinks everyone came to see him ref.

Mike (Washington)

Jimmy (RI): I'm calling it now, NBA record for fouls will be called on the Celtics tonight. Seconded.

scott (fresno)

LA in transition is close to unstoppable. Kobe and Odom in the open floor are tough stops.

Ross (Seattle)

It was Skee-lo that did I wish I was a little bit taller, Cee-lo was in goodie mob

Steiny (NYC)

I wonder what it is like for a man to have a nickname Big Baby?

Rendy

no chance for LA

Mark (Syracuse)

O Powe!

Jay (NY)

Nice pass by Pierce....

Steve (TX)

Boston's bench is so much better than LA's. KG and Allen on the bench and Boston is extending the lead.

Ernest (Vegas)

Oh, I see. Lamar Odom decides to play as if you think he is good and horrible in the same game.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Nice steal and bucket for the Celts

Brian (Philly)

Kobe's on Me First mode. Uh-oh for LA

Shawn(Brooklyn, NY)

someone please explain to me why kg isnt back in this game? and can we get a update on allen????

Mark (Syracuse)

Farmer has very large ears. Had anyone noticed this?

Jimmy (RI)

Scott...are you watching the same game as us? Why should Doc shut up when the Celts are getting hammered so far with no calls?

Todd (Fargo)

I wonder if Glen is giving his team the "remember what that guy from South Africa said" speech...that was real motivating...

Brian (Philly)

The fans are willing this team on despite typical bad officiating.

Brian (NC)

I think Kobe could be the next Clyde Drexler.

scott (fresno)

Kobe is passing to shooters... they just aren't shooting. What does Vujacic think he is out there for?

Ian (Salt Lake)

Mark, when the Lakers were in town for the Utah series, my friends wife said "I met the guy with big ears and the tall white guy." We made fun of her for meeting Farmar and Luke Walton.

Reggie (Orlando)

Why is that guy in the Taco Bell commercial sitting in the back seat? I don't get it . . .

Ernest (Vegas)

Unless their is a momentum changer like a laker player not named Kobe catches fire, the lakeshow is in big trouble.

ryan (milwaukee)

finally in HD!!!

Jesse (Texas)

Anybody know the name of the song from the Celtics Opening Highlight video?

Buzzmaster

  (9:53 PM)

I believe it's called "Lux Aeterna"

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

Ray Allen is over at my house right now playing NBA JAM, he'll be back after halftime

Nick (WA)

Pierce the only starter in and Boston extending the lead! I'm liking that!!!

Andrew (San Diego)

With Rondo and Perkins banged up and now Allen out, I'm getting the feeling that Boston better win tonight.

Rudy (san diego)

I wonder if Gasol has his vacations plans already made because he is playing like he has his bags packed!

brock(chicago)

come on if mj was on this team they would of won it already kobe needs to go crazy tonite

Steve (Ny)

Who does Kobe trust the most on the Lakers?

Steiny (NYC)

Kobe does not like to be compared to anybody. Kobe is Kobe and it should stay that way. Just like MJ is MJ. He is nobody else but himself.

Dach (Boston)

There is "lux aeterna" and the instrumental version of Ayo Technology by 50 Cent that plays during the Intro's.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

3rd Technical??? I thoght you got a warming first for illegal D

Ian (Salt Lake)

Rudy, I take offense. NO ONE plays with vacation plans quite like AK 47.

Doc Rivers (Boston)

Everyone gets a chance to play tonight. Everyone.

Buzzmaster

  (9:55 PM)

Again with the offensive rebounds.

Marc (Malden, MA)

At least when Ray Allen was poked in the eye, they called the foul...oh wait, they didn't.

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

lies steiny... Kobe is also BATMAN!

Scott (Manchester, England)

8-0 for Celtics on Offensive rebounds. Tells it's own story.

Jay (NY)

Holy offensive rebounding....and the 3!

jayroll34 (charlotte,nc)

Brain that is a good comparison for him

Brandon (Louisville)

I hate games that Salvatorre officiates. The calls 20 feet away from the basket get to be so ridiculous no matter who you are a fan of

Ian (Salt Lake)

I love little house's reaction to that 3 pointer.

Buzzmaster

  (9:56 PM)

Another big 3!

Nick (WA)

Wow! 4 offensive boards, then Posey for THREEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

Brian (Philly)

Posey's found the HOT SPOT.....and now so had House!!

Phil Jackson (The Bench)

Darnit! I forgot to tell my guys that getting the ball if it bounces off the rim is important.

Mark (Syracuse)

Tear the roof off!!!!

Mark (Syracuse)

Posey is money, why does he get left open?

James Posey

I guess LA missed the last 8 3 pointers I've made from the corner against them.

David (Glendora, CA)

Celtics are feeling it!

AJ (LosAngeles)

Im a lakers fan and i think its safe to say this game is over.

Steiny (NYC)

9 point lead.

Marc (Malden, MA)

When they changed the illegal defense rules, to somewhat allow a zone, they eliminated the warning.

Dach (Boston)

Where is sasha? is he in the locker room getting a new headband?

brendan (ct)

Kobe needs to realize the rest of his team just is too young and inexperienced to do anything and demand that if he passes to them they try to not turn it over and pass it back to him, they all look so soft out there.

Brian (NC)

Time for Kobe to go into ballhog mode.

jayroll34 (charlotte,nc)

LA. can say LIGHTS OUT now here come the KB show

Kobe

Watch me drop 50 on yall in the 2nd half

James (MA)

I'd like to know whats up with the free throw disparity. The Celtics have taken it inside plenty.

staceyecks (Brooklyn, NY)

Kobe is Batman?

luke (NOVA)

memphis knew pau was too soft to be the guy.

Andrew (Iowa City)

Eddie House and James Posey want this as bad as anyone else, they are playing out of their minds on both sides

Scott (Manchester, England)

9 points is never safe in this series - but the Lakers look finished.

Ethan (Chicago)

Do you think the Lakers can come back?

justin (pdx)

James Posey is the most under rated player in the NBA.

sandra georgia

its there any way i can watch the game online?

David (Glendora, CA)

Reggie: So that he's closer to the microphone . . . I think.

Buzzmaster

  (10:01 PM)

Ray Allen coming back out.

CG (Waco)

Hit the music. Allen is back.

Mark (Syracuse)

Here comes Allen!

Jay (NY)

What is he having Lasix surgery?

Ross (Seattle)

Nice to see Ray back, the classiest man in the NBA

John (Cloquet, MN)

Allen gets a Pierce-like ovation after coming back from the lockerroom.

Scott (Manchester, England)

Boston player makes recovery! Shocker!

James (MA)

Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome back Ray Allen.

Ian (Salt Lake)

It's good to hear a real NBA crowd again. The Staples center had me checking my speakers this last week.

James (Temple, AZ)

Should the Celtics injure a player and have them rush out uninjured later every home game?

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

I just whipped up on Ray Allen in NBA JAM, he threw the controller and went back to Boston.

Steve (Ny)

Isn't Pau suppose to be a good shooter?

Buzzmaster

  (10:03 PM)

Posey with another 3, and the lead goes to 14 points.

Andrew (San Diego)

With the way this series has gone, I'm almost more nervous (as a Celts fan) that they are up 14. Keep up the energy.

Mark (Syracuse)

Posey has been aweseom tonight. Great defense on Kobe and man does he knock down the open shot.

Fat Lady

So..do I go on now? Or just keep warming up?

HC (MA)

C's just need to keep on stepping on the accelerator and barrel over the Lakers

Brandon (Omaha)

If Posey is the most under rated...I think Pau Gasol is one of the more over rated players in the league

Paul Perice

Yo is there any way I will not win MVP????

Brian (Philly)

Warm up Fat Lady....still 29 min. to go.

Mike (Nova

The Lakers are just lazy. That is what it comes down to. And one-dimensional

Brian (Philly)

Yes, when Ray Allen gets it.

JC New York

Pau having his way with the rookie!

Dach (Boston)

Might have a short leash on Ray Ray here? Maybe?

Brian (NC)

How many more points does Gasol have to score before we bring back Perk?

Zach Rastall (Marinette, WI)

Posey is making his career in this series.

Brian (Philly)

Time to sit Davis, his energy helped....he did his part.

Jay (NY)

How do you get to Game 6 of the NBA finals when you're lazy?

Daniel (Dallas, TX)

It's big that Boston has taken control in the first half. Both games that the Lakers have won, they commanded the first half.

CG (Waco)

KG will hit that shot every time. Someone needs to look out for him.

Ryan (milwaukee)

Rad has to be the dumbest player on this team.

Ernest (Vegas)

The thing that I will take away from this series. Radmanovic is utterly useless.

Ian (Salt Lake)

gotta love Radman. It seems like every time he fouls the announcer follows up with "not a smart foul"

Scott (Manchester, England)

Radmanovic hasn't got a clue.

Ben (Portland)

Kobe can't win without Bynum just like he can't win without Shaq

Brandon (Omaha)

Slow sharp shooters like Radmonovic are also overrated!! They are always a liability on defense

Tyler (MA)

How does Radmonovic start for the Western conference champions? What does he do well exactly?

Mike (nova)

Lakers are all about one-dimensional one-on-one (or 1-on-5 when it comes to Kobe) offense. The Celtics are all about sharing the ball, drawing the defense and dishing...

Todd (Fargo)

*Nothing's working for you huh Vladimir?* *Not at the moment*

Mark (Bangor, PA)

Amazing what happens when they don't spot the Lakers 20 in the 1st quarter.

Brian (Philly)

Another Tech.

Ian (Salt Lake)

How can the Lakers not win with a bench that includes Radman and Luke Walton? The mind boggles.

Reggie (Orlando)

Correction: KG will hit that shot every time . . . as long as it's not in the 4th quarter of a tight game.

James (MA)

Pierce may be shooting 2-9, but he has 7 assists already.

Jason (Washington, DC)

I agree with Brian from Philly. Take Davis out. Either way, Boston will win tonight. They are playing with more heart, and they have basically proven this series that they are the better team than the Lakers, especially with D. You don't have to claw, scrape, and fight to win your home games (oh, and lose one to boot).

Tom Yu (PA)

Wow what's with the T's?

FM, Abbeville SC

I love that T-shirt

lublin - poland

Boooooostoooooon !!! it's great pitty but it is last stage ;-)))greetings for all from Poland

Brian (Philly)

Davis sits, Perk forces the bad shot.

Rob (Austin, Texas)

great line from the Boston radio guys: Radman. gets a couple days per deim for making the trip. The Lakers aren't getting anything back for it.

Dach (Boston)

What is the appeal to European players???? I don't get it. It will be interesting how the Euro Lakers will affect this years draft

Reggie (Orlando)

How exactly did the Hawks take this team to a 7th game?

Buzzmaster

  (10:11 PM)

Man, that seems like a million years ago, doesn't it?

Jimmy (RI)

Rondo has got to make those shots!

Mike (Nova)

Why is Luke Walton allowed to shoot?

Ram (Delhi, India)

When will people stop the nonsense of comparing Kobe to MJ??

John (Dallas)

Ray Ray's eye does not look good at all..

James (MA)

Hawks had players playing over their head..i.e Josh Smith. Then there was also the athleticism.

Ben (Mobile, AL)

Man this series is now OFFICIALLY over. Celtics win 17th championship. Pierce is the MVP. Enough said!

Jack (TX)

I still cannot figure out for the life of me if Doc Rivers is a legitimate X's and O's coach or if he just has the luck of the Irish on his side.

Mark (Bangor, PA)

The Cod's (sharks) are circling. Pierce doesn't need to score to be effective a la Larry Legend.

CG (Waco)

The Hawks are going to the surprise team next year (in terms of improvement anyway).

Andrew (San Diego)

Wouldn't it make sense for Phil to give Ariza some extended run. The guy must either really be in the dog-house or way less than 100% because he's definitely a lot better than Luke or Radman.

zooch (boston)

is radmanovic slavic for "dead weight"? how us this guy a starter in the league?

Troy (Gilbert, AZ)

Paul Pierce has 7 assists already. It's game over.

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

I don't want to see Odom,Walton,Vlad and Phil back next year. They are the reason LA losing.

Jim (Lancaster Ohio)

Time to dismantle the Celtics like the Marlins usually do

Brandon (Omaha)

No one on the Lakers is ever read to shoot when Kobe passes to them. They are totally useless!!

jayroll34 (charlotte,nc)

HAWKS played with more heart an fire

Ben (Mobile, AL)

Boston seems to pass up open shots just to make another pass!

Brian (NC)

Not a single Laker went after that loose ball. Celtics outhustling the Lakers big time.

Jay (NY)

That was an overly unselfish possession there for the Celts.

Tom Yu (PA)

Why is Luke Walton still in the game?

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Nice steal by the Celts they are playing great D

Monty (Nashville)

Annnnnnd another 12-pass, 5-feet-from-the-hoop turnover from the Celtics. A thing of beauty.

Ernest (Vegas)

Any doubt Kobe plays all 48 minutes?

justin (pdx)

Kobe could light a brush fire in Orange County and Laker fans would find someone else to blame.

Ian (Salt Lake)

Yeah Paul, it's almost like there was one bad teammate laying into them everytime they made mistakes and blowing their confidence.

Kobe B (Los Angeles, CA)

Does anyone notice that James Posey is destroying me?

Jimmy (RI)

Why didn't Perk dunk that? What's with all the passing?

Steiny (NYC)

It ain't over till it is over. Come on all of you Laker fans. You gotta believe!!!

mike (lakeland Fl)

When will the NBA officials quit bailing out players that fall down because they are out of control

chris, CT

how long did the lakers go in the second quarter without a fg? haha

Ryan (Milwaukee)

Garnett vs. Gasol = Pit Bull vs. Kitten

Randy (Michigan)

Tom - Because Vladimir is the alternative.

Jack (TX)

Somewhere in San Antonio Greg Poppovich has to be slamming his head against a brick wall

Brandon (Omaha)

I think we can now see why KG has been struggling so much. He is dominating when he is not double teamed every possesion!

Andrew (San Diego)

I just get the feeling that the Celts are going to score every time down the court right now. I don't know if it is more Celts offense or lack of LA defense.

Buzzmaster

  (10:18 PM)

Big And-1 for Garnett.

Ross (Seattle)

Last one out turn off the lights and sweep up the confetti

rob (Austin, Texas)

Boston radio color guy on that Garnett shot: "Would somebody please give me a napkin so i can wipe my mouth?" classic.

Bob(PA)

What a finish by KG

Scott (Manchester, England)

Lakers have given up, evidently.

CG (Waco)

REJECTED!!!

Zach Rastall (Marinette, WI)

Somewhere in the USA Willie Randolph, Avery Johnson, and Flip Saunders are playing unemployment poker.

Jay (Wahiawa, HI)

Odom has quit already.

Ben (Mobile, AL)

Steiny, it is over. Give it up man. CELTICS WIN CHAMPIONSHIP!

Buzzmaster

  (10:19 PM)

And that's the Half! Scoop Jackson will be your halftime chatter.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

okay Scoop if you are Phil what do you tell the Lakers

Scoop Jackson

  (10:23 PM)

If im Phil I tell them to not panic, and remind them that the last time they were hear they closed a 24 point lead to 2.

Troy (Gilbert, AZ)

Paul Pierce: 2-9 shooting yet 10 points, 9 assists and 3 rebounds at halftime. Is he the Finals MVP?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:24 PM)

So far. But KG is the MVP of this game so far.

Paul (ATL)

do u think the lakers will do a comeback like game 2?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:24 PM)

Only if Kobe stops taking jump shots and gets to the line.

Brian (NC)

Question Scoop.... Who's going to stop Boston from coming out and doing the same thing next year? This is a new team and we're actually playing better than we did at the beginning of the season. Also wouldn't you agree that San Antonio or New Orleans would have given us a better match?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:27 PM)

I think the Lakers might be the team to challenge them next year. With Bynum in the lineup and this experience under their belt, they should be back. And NOLA od SA wouldn't have given a better Finals. The atmosphere wouldn'ta been the same,

Drew (Chicago, IL)

If this holds up how does this play out for Kobe? Will fans and media let it slide or will there start to be talk about him having weaknesses with two straight subpar finals performances?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:27 PM)

The weakness convo will begin. At least until the Olympics start.

matt (boston ma)

scoop is my man rondo redeeming himself with his defensive effort so far?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:29 PM)

Yeah. He's playing healthy and unshook. But he still needs to finish in the lane more often.

Mark (Dry Fork, Va)

Finals MVP (Most Valuable Person)...... Tom Thibaudeau

Scoop Jackson

  (10:29 PM)

Duh... yeah!!!!

Cedric (Memphis, TN)

Does you think that the Lakers can or will come back

Scoop Jackson

  (10:30 PM)

Down almost 25... I doubt it. I think it's a wrap.

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

Scoop,shouldn't the story of the series be Phil's terrible coach. I mean his timeouts and subs were terrible.

Scoop Jackson

  (10:32 PM)

I think he's gotten outcoached in this series. But I wouldn't go so far as to say he's terrible. He - like the rest of his players - is just having a bad series.

JohnD

How long before Thibodeau is an NBA head coach?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:32 PM)

2 years.

Rob (Boston, MA)

If the Pats could have prevented that "miracle" (lucky) catch we would be 3 for 3!

Scoop Jackson

  (10:33 PM)

Scary ain't it????

Cedric (Memphis, TN)

Scoop I disagree, the Spurs and Hornet wouldve given a better series. Maybe not ratings wise with your atmosphere but at least they play Defense! Oh and both of those teams have multiple guys that can take over the game, whereas Kobe is the only guy each night for the Lakers. Did you think about that?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:35 PM)

I agree. I just know being at the games, esp the ones here in Boston, because they are playing the Lakers, it took the series to another emotional level that i don't thgink the Spurs or NOLA could have.

Shane (Boston, MA)

Scoop... is it too early for us to start celebrating ?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:36 PM)

maybe, but i'd have the chandon on soooooo much ice right now....

Joel (Plymouth, MA)

Scoop, this is a bad series it is a bad match up all around for the Lakers. Jackson can't coach when players are able to deliver, agree?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:36 PM)

I think the series didn't/ hasn't lived up to expectaions. I wouldn't say it's bad, but it could have been a helluva lot better.

Pat (MA)

Kobe ain't even ready for the Olympics at all, here's to another bronze! Now Pierce on the other hand...

Scoop Jackson

  (10:37 PM)

Aiight, now you gettin' a little caught up! :-)

Jarrett (Columbus, OH)

NO CELEBRATING UNTIL THE GAME IS OVER OR WE ARE UP BY 20 WITH 15 SECONDS TO GO!!!!!!We don't need bad karma screwing things up. Stay humble Celtic fans until the final buzzer.

Scoop Jackson

  (10:38 PM)

that's smart. my bad...

bryan (des moines)

Scoop, is the story of the finals Pierce's redemption after the bad years or Kobe's inability to win without the Big Cactus?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:39 PM)

I think it's PP and how he emerged as the player most important to the Celtics maybe getting another ring.

Mark (Boca Raton, FL)

This may be a dupe - but haven't seen my post come up from 5 minutes ago. So Scoop here it goes again. Is Atlanta as good as they looked at the end of the year . . or just a bad matchup for the C's . . physically . . .and maybe mentally in overconfidence.

Scoop Jackson

  (10:41 PM)

Both. But still, to me, ther's no way they should have pushed this team to seven.

KG (Locker Room)

Will Skip Bayless stop calling me "Kevin GarNOT" after i win tonight?

Scoop Jackson

  (10:41 PM)

I'll ask him on Friday!

Buzzmaster

  (10:42 PM)

And we're back!

Mike (MA)

Yeah, it could potentially be the worst choke in the history of sports. It's not like we have any proven winners. Hold your horses.

patrick peabody mass

right now this game is totally dominated by the celtics I don't see anyway that the Celtics lose tonight's game.

CELTICS

lakers gave up

Jack (TX)

Does a win tonight validate Doc Rivers as a legitimate X's and O's coach?

Damien (Newfoundland, Canada)

So does anyone know what exactly is the dirt that Radmonovic has on Phil Jackson? I can't think of any reason at all for him to get more than minutes playing time in these finals. The only thing that makes sense is blackmail.

Scoop Jackson

  (10:43 PM)

They just jumped it off. Let's see if they are for real-real or not. Gotta bounce. Thanks you all!!!!

Paul (NYC)

I love all the monday morning quarterbacks calling Jackson a terrible coach and that SA or NO would have been a better matchup. Congrats to Boston (and Pierce), they earned it this year. Here's also to a great Lakers season and betting that with Bynum, they'll be back next year and hoisting the O'Brien.

Randy (Michigan)

The only way the lakers will win this game is if Phil sits radmonivic the rest of the way.

Mark (Syracuse)

The Celtics arent losing this game. If you are talking yourself into staying away for anything other than watching the celebration, go to bed.

matt, ca

What redemption for pierce?

Marc (Malden, MA)

Half of the crowd is still getting food/drinks and they're still louder than any Laker crowd.

JC (Winston Salem, NC)

Kobe is still cold...how much longer does this last???

Adam (LA, CA)

if kobe doesn't show up soon, I'd say we're finished (but i can't say I didn't see it coming). I mean who else could really step up?

Jay (Wahiawa, HI)

Kobe cant do it alone guys

Christian (High Point, NC)

The reason NOLA was a harder matchup for the Celtics is because Doc Rivers wouldn't have been able to scheme to stop Chris Paul. Unlike Kobe, CP3 elevates his teammates.

Gasol (locker room (5 mins ago))

Alright now it's time for me to show up. Watch everybody because Pau Pippen is back.

Jordan (Fayetteville, AR)

Could anything have lived up to expectations for this final? This was the year that was supposed to catapult the NBA back into the forefront of everyone's mind, etc.

Andrew (San Diego)

Kobe is no Tiger.

bryan (des moines)

The redemption for Pierce is everyone thinking that he was the problem rather than the solution

Brian (Philly)

Pierce should be dead Matt. Survived 11 stab wounds and many years of terrible teams.

Blake (TX)

The Lakers as a whole just don't seem to be hungry - Celtics are playing championship calibur ball and the Lakers seem to be acting as if its the Pre-Season or something.

Jimmy (RI)

Rondo couldn't throw it into the ocean. Keep passing buddy.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Bynum may be a very good player, but if Laker fans think he's the only change LA needs, they're dreaming.

matt, ca

He's not the problem, but not the solution either, great team around him.

Brian (Philly)

Let there be no misunderstanding....KG has done more for Boston than Kobe for LA. Forget comparing Kobe to MJ. Kobe's not higher than KG on my list.

Lebron (AK-Rowdy)

Will people/media stop saying Kobe is better than I am?

Christian (High Point, NC)

So does McHale get a ring when the Celtics win the championship?

Tom (NY)

These are the two worst teams in the finals I can remember.

Jack (TX)

Can Kobe even be considered for second or third best behind MJ now after his lackluster performance in this series?

Jay (Wahiawa, HI)

Marc your right on the money with that one.

Dave (richmond, va)

is this a video game im watching

Brian (NC)

Doesn't matter if Kobe heats up. LA is still losing. He's had one good game the entire series. Even if he scores 50. Boston will still win by 20+ points.

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

As a Laker fan I never been more embrassed in my team in the last 10 years or more. This is the worse display of basketball ever.

Brian (Philly)

That's an insult to Detroit-Spurs Tom (NY)

Dan (Orlando, FL)

MJ had some really bad playoffs in his early years

Randy (Michigan)

Your right Marc, getting rid of radmonivic, walton and possibly odom (if you get value) are all neccesary for us.

Lou NY

I think its funny how all the experts were predicting the Lakers (the best passing and offensive team in the NBA) to win this series. Don't you???

EDGE OF 17 (Dedham, MA)

Has anyone ever seen a bead of sweat appear anywhere on PJ brown? Is he made of ice?

Shawn (Las Vegas)

That's falling for Rondo? This is OVER!

Christian (High Point, NC)

Dan: Like the 63 point game?

Duncan(St. Croix)

Scoop, when KG gets his ring tonight will that put him in the same convo as the Mailman and myself?

bryan (des moines)

Ever seen any superstar making 20 mil like KG always be the first one to help a teammate up?

Jay (Wahiawa, HI)

Dan Kobe is in like his 12th season not really early years.

Bill (Dallas)

Can someone please give me an example of an illegal defense?

john(CA)

impossible is nothing guys loll

Brian (Philly)

Malone never won a ring, KG's higher.

David (Glendora, CA)

Lakers have no hustle.

Lakers

we decided not to rebound tonight

Scott (Manchester, England)

I'm with you, Paul. Never seen a Laker team with so little heart. Credit to Boston though, they deserve the title this year.

Jack (TX)

Dan, you're right but that was when MJ was fresh out of Chapel Hill..........Kobe is a primed and ready veteran you really can't compare that to MJ as a young face in the NBA

The 1985 Boston Massacre

DEJA-VU

Brian (NC)

This is Kobe's first time past the first round without Shaq and he had much more talent than King James. Kobe is overrated and does not make his teammates better.

Damien (Newfoundland, Canada)

LA needs to acquire some tougher players for next season. They have been bullied constantly all series inside as well as for loose balls. As a result, their defense is like watching a 6th grade team try to defend a high school team.

Lakers

And we decided to not guard Ray Allen on wide open threes.

ks (chicago il)

Yay, I am so shocked at the Celts tonight!!

mike (austin, tx)

Kobe shouldn't be dissed too hard. When the Celtics defense comes together, it's brutal.Celtics > Kobe, and when KG shows up it's game over.

Jamila (Boston)

When you see a rebound by a Celtic when surrounded by 4 Lakers you know they have no heart in it.

Nick (Spokane)

Big Three are out of their collective mind right now. Unstoppable!

Blake

Ray-Ray just stuck that dagger in a bit deeper - good night LA!

JohnD

Rondo hit a lay-up! Rondo hit a lay-up!

Dach (Boston)

I can't see a more deserving group of guys to win a championship... KG, Ray Ray, Paul, PJ, Perk, Pollard, House, a great group of champions.

LAKER_FAN

Im not a band wagon fan, but when the team im rooting for isnt trying whatso ever, nor pulling for themselves... how do I continue to root for them?

Marc (Malden, MA)

I think the only illegal defense that exists now is when a defensive player is in the paint for 3 secs and there isn't an offensive player within an arm's length from him.

Brian (Chicago)

I just turned this crap on. Kobe is a joke. How he could allow this to happen with him on the court is a shame.

Steve (Ny)

If the celtics came back after being behind 24 points what makes you silly boston fans think that the lakers cant do that.

Brian (Philly)

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

Dan (Orlando, FL)

The Celts are just toying witht he Lakers its going to be interesting to hear what Phil and or Kobe has to say after this game

Dan (Boston)

Why are the Celtics dominating so much off the boards? I mean we've been good before but it seems every single rebound is in green hands?

Shaq

Sweet... I told you Kobe... you cant do it all yourself

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

Jay,Kobe only 29. He still got years left. As bad as Kobe been playing. He's not the main reason were losing. It's Phil. He just isn't a good coach any more. To beat Boston you have to run,but Phil would rather play that old tired scheme the trinagle.

Ryan (LA, CA)

Has a Finals team ever had a worse top 2 small forwards in NBA history than the Lakers with Vlad and Luke?

Mark (Syracuse)

Steve, The Celtics are the better team and they are up by 29

Matt (Austin, TX)

the Laker's are just embarrassing themselves now... What a joke... I as a Laker fan for 20 years now (I'm only 26) can't believe what i am seeing and I am embarrassed. Absolutely no heart. Grats and much respect to Boston fans this series, you earned it.

Tom (Chicago)

It has always been said that scoring requires talent, but defense and rebounding require effort. The C's are just putting more effort out there than the Lakers.

Dan (MA)

And can we please hear it for Posey? He has been huge for the Celtics.

Jim (Boise)

I'm a Laker fan, but the announcers just summed up the entire series with a single sentence: "Rondo takes it away from Gasol!"

David (Glendora, CA)

I can't believe it, they're already playing trash ball and it's only the third.

Troy (Gilbert, AZ)

Phil, time to bench your starters. They don't deserve to play. Mihm does. Play him.

Matt (Austin, TX)

Oh and for my fellow Laker fans... Phil might be having a bad series, but stop blaming him for our lack of heart on the court. This team has absolutely no hustle this series.

Jimmy (RI)

Kobe is a fraud. Way to show up in Boston, buddy.

CG (Waco)

That's what I've been saying Paul. I thought the Lakers would win this series because I thought that they would use their youth to their advantage and pick up the pace but they decide to just take it slow. They had no chance.

bryan (des moines)

shouldn't lebron play defense before playing a defense attorney?

LAKER_FAN

The Paul Pierce interview before the half said it all. He had fire in his eyes and fire in his heart...

EDGE OF 17 (Dedham, MA)

Anyone know when do the 'We Beat LA" t-shirts go on sale?

Tunde ( Chicago)

The C's Are playing like they are the one's down by 30. If they can sustain this , it's corks and bubbles time.

ks (chicago il)

Paul, wasn't it the same triangle that screwed up the Bulls in the post-championship era?

Paul (Lancaster,CA)

Congrats to Boston. This was your year. We will see you next year unless your just a one hit wonder like the Heat.

Steve (Ny)

Imagine if the Lakers get Agent Zero! Gilbert,kobe,Odom,Pau,Bynum. How does that sound?

Anthony (Portland, OR):

Somewhere, Shaquille O'Neal is smiling.

Tom (Chicago)

KS, it wasn't the triangle that screwed up the Bulls, it was the awful management. TEnjoy Vinny Del Negro.

Danny (Beantown)

Nah, Nah, Nah, NahNah, Nah, Nah, NahHey ey Goodbye.

Halbery (New York)

L.A. Lakers, three words: defense wins championships.

jack (cleveland)

soo maybe memphis isnt as stupid as we thought cause gasol sure doesnt look like the steal they said he was for the lakers

Buzzmaster

  (10:59 PM)

And that's a thirty-point lead.

DSP (Adelaide Australia)

Kobe 0 assists. Says it all really

John (Raleigh, NC)

The Ainge gamble has paid off...for now. I have a feeling it will have the same result as the gamble Pat Riley made in Miami with Shaq though...one ring.

Jon(Mass)

The crowd is still amazingly into it considering the score...

Garnett

Lemme get a flop in. I'm strong but I can sell a flop

LAKER_FAN (Los Angeles)

This is going to be a painful 4th quarter... Lakers might claw back to under 20, but this is like pulling teeth with out the novacaine...

Brian (Philly)

Where's Cassell? I want to see this game get close.

ks (chicago il)

You got that right; I still remember at the time being embarrased to be in the same city as that stupid team. Strangely I felt the same way in 2007-08.

Shaq (Arizona)

I'm doing more than smiling, I'm laughing. Ha Ha Ha.

Tom (Chicago)

I wish the Lakers would have won tonight. It would have at least given me two days of enjoying a real sport before the long suffering until football season.

Shane (florida)

Will Phil Jackson please make a change.

Owen (NC)

When does garbage time start?

Marc (Malden, MA)

On the Garnett/Gasol tie-up. Gasol needed 2 hands, KG only 1.

Brian (Philly)

They're about to win a title Jon, not surprising.

al (DC)

What was teh Aigne gamble? what did he give up really? anyone who is proven?

Randy (Michigan)

Yeh, what would a game 6 clincher be without a few celtic flops?

Bustah, Portland Maine

Hmm... Red Sox, Pats, Celts ... WE ARE THE SPORTS CENTER! No dis to ESPN ... LOL

Jon (Titletown x 2)

Yes what a year eh Boston fans?

David (Glendora, CA)

I don't think Kobe cares about the win anymore, he's just going to try to get in his 30-35 points now.

Aaron (Boston, MA)

The riot squad is outside the Garden

John (Raleigh, NC)

Jon in Mass. I wonder how many of these fans were in the house last year? When you go 22 years between titles, then get two future HOF players handed to you for nothing, then win the NBA finals, if you aren't excited, you aren't a bandwagon fan...

Andy, Fl

I hope Boston wins by 50

Ricky D (Albany, NY)

Steve - how does that sound??? You haven't learned a thing from this series have you? Gilbert will just add another offensive minded player who's unwilling to give for the greater good. You don't get it.

Todd (Rochester, NY)

I'll take one ring any day, you never know when you'll have a chance to watch you team win another

John(denver)

3 minutes into the first quarter I said Kobe would go cold and celtics would win, but you ignored me. Do you hear me now?? BOSTON RULES!!

EDGE OF 17 (Dedham, MA)

Lead is cut to 30!

Christian (High Point, NC)

Someone remind Bustah that Maine is no longer a part of Massachusetts.

Shawn (Las Vegas)

What is the largest margin of victory in the clinch game? This has to be at the top right?

Iverson (China)

What a disappointing game it is!

Riot Squad (Boston, MA)

Ummm.....We're ready to Party!!

Andy, Fl

This team is geared to win at least one more ring

Brian (Philly)

Time for me to watch class acts win a title. Thanks Buzz.

Dave, Italy

Celts gave up a 20 pt 10 reb player in Jefferson for KG. There are only 5 20-10 players in the NBA.

al (DC)

so when does a casual sports fan who hates both teams turn the game off?

Kobe

Coach I'm gonna start taking shots early tonight.

Ken (Venice Beach, CA)

For the love of God Lakers, At least get beat with some dignity by putting up a fight.

Kevin (Atlanta, Ga)

Paul Pierce is one of the most under rated players. It's good to see him get some love!

George(Atlanta)

One and done, LA will be back next year.

David (Glendora, CA)

SO DOES ANYONE THINK KOBE WILL DEMAND TO BE TRADED AGAIN?

Tom (PA)

Can the Lakers really come back from a 30 point deficit in 15 minutes? NAAAAAAAA

SDPaddlefish (South Dakota)

Gasol looks like lost big boy amongst bball players.

Phil Jackson

Might as well lets go for 40 tonight though 20s not enough

Steiny (NYC)

If they come back now, it would be the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history.

JoshyR, Boston, MA

At least the college students are away so there may be less idiocy tonight

Lael (Attleboro, MA)

Red Auerbach. Sixth man award.

Ozy(Exeter,CA)

How can people even compare Kobe to Jordan after this?

Matt (Peabody, MA)

If I'm Doc, I'm going into the final quarter with one message for my team: "12 minutes left. Leave. No. Doubt."

Glenn (Longmeadow Ma)

John in Raleigh-In fact, the Garden still sold out even through the 18-game losing streak.

Tim (Durham, CT)

Time for Brian Scalabrine to come in and seal this game!

Nick (Atlanta, GA)

I almost feel bad for the Lakers...nah

Odom & Gasol

Where are we?

al (DC)

How did people compare Kobe to MJ before this?

Blake (TX)

This Final is pretty much in the books which begs the question: Can Boston do it again next year?

Zach Rastall (Marinette, WI)

I may not be a fan of either team, but it's a good enough excuse to throw a party!

Rondo

im stealin everything

Erick (Titusville,Florida)

I thought the West was so much better than the East.....thoughts??

Troy (Gilbert, AZ)

Steiny (NYC): If they come back now, it would be the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history. It would, but it's not happening. The Lakers have simply given up. The Boston are just a quarter and 3 minutes away from a championship... The lakers are done.

Dave (VA)

Simmons may be a homer but he was right, jordan NEVER wouldve let this happen, he woulodve scored 70 and broken paul pierce's arm by now

Tunde ( Chicago)

Before this series began, people totaly underestimated Paul Pierce. I think he is letting the world know how good he is.

L.A. Lakers

Where are we going and why are we in this handbasket?

John (Boston)

This has to be the worst game ever. Has any team ever played worse than LA is playing in this close out game?

Aaron (Boston, MA)

The turning point for the C's was Game 7 against Cleveland

Josh (Los Angeles, Ca)

Im glad to see Kobe acting with a level of maturity and not whining and pouting or yelling at his as I would expect him to in this situation.

Josh (Texas)

No more stupid MJ Kobe comparsions. It was stupid then, it's be stupid now, and it'll be stupid in the future.

Matt. Az way of Boston

I have left in 2001 to come to AZ. Pats won 3, Sox 2 and now Celts. lol

P Pierce (Boston, MA)

Do I get a car or anything with my MVP award?

Randy (Michigan)

Again, Pierce is only as good as Garnett and Allen have made him. Before they came he was a good scorer on a bad team, for a long time. Kobe wins this championship tens time over with Garnett and Allen.

Surrey BC

The celtics are a young team and they will be in running for a championship for years to come....

Cris Mihm

I ready to come in if you need me Phil!

Jon (Titletown x 2)

Hey the Lakers cut into the lead. Never mind.

Jaime (San Bruno, CA)

I love how "escited" the fans are. this game is over. what need for chanting is there again?oh yeah, they paid for the tickets. lol chant away...

rob (Austin, Texas)

speaking of Simmons, can someone go into the crowd to make sure his head hasn't exploded?

Buzzmaster

  (11:13 PM)

That's the end of the third quarter!

Randy (Michigan)

I forget to throw Doc Rivers in the "We owe Garnett and Ray Everything" club with pierce.

Confuzzled

The Celtics are a young team? Since when?

Chris(NJ)

Kobe getting shut down! No more MJ comparison, heck no more top 15 player comparisons

Myles (Irvine)

Clearly it was your fault we weren't winning, Matt. Don't move back here.

Christian (High Point, NC)

Serious question for the Boston fans: does a Celtics championship erase the bad taste of the Super Bowl, or does it still linger?

Bob (Falmouth, ME)

So, when do we play the lakers? Is this a pre-final high school exhibition?

James (MA)

You think Kobe would give up that many shots for Allen and KG? Are you insane?

Lon (Pasig City, Philippines)

If the Celtics clinch the series today, Paul Pierce deserves to be named MVP. He has 9 assists so far.

Dave, San Diego

Kobe is no Kurt Rambis

dan, dallas

I'm sorry but KG is terribly overrated. He always contributes nothing and he can't carry a team. Its clear Pierce and Allen were the better players in this trio.

Buzzmaster

  (11:18 PM)

Yes. Kevin Garnett does not contribute anything. This is a trenchant observation.

Boston Fan

To Christian, NO, it's not that they lost the super bowl, it that they lost the perfect season that we will never see again

Steiny (NYC)

I feel good for Paul Pierce. He had been through so many loosing seasons, and it is nice to see him win one. I am also happy that this series is over so Ray Allen can go and spend as much time as possibly with his child.

Sammy (La)

I cannot believe that no broadcaster has mentioned that gasol is really a 4 not a 5.

Taipan (Surrey,BC)

Pierce will be the MVP.....

Aaron (Boston, MA)

Who cares about the super bowl right now!

Doc Rivers (Boston)

I just screwed around against Atlanta and Cleveland to give these guys some more time to gel. The more games they play together, the better prepared they are for this serious. Now do you understand?

Julian (Vegas Baby!!)

Not a Laker fan, actually im a Jazz fan . . But I think the Lakers will be the hands down favorite next year!!

tim (Worcester, MA)

congrats Celtics! but next year is the odd year for Duncan to win again

CG (Waco)

Big Baby is going to get a ring. Start of a legend.

Brian Scalabrine, Boston

I can't wait to get my ring!

Mark (Syracuse)

Right dan, KG is worthless. I forgoet about all those titles they won the last 20 years without him.

Dave, va

mike breen said "lakers need to play like its november 1st" apparently so, theyre acting like they have 82 games to make this up

EDGE OF 17 (Dedham, MA)

Get pierce, and KG back in there! And I'm serious! Unless they're resting for the parade Thursday.

Jamila (Boston)

The Boston crowd was just chanting 'Guess you can't, Kobe!'

Shawn (Las Vegas)

Dan in Dallas are you drunk???28 min, 22 pts, 11 reb, 4 ast and 1 steal.Yeah that guy didn't contribute anything this game!

Dan (Orlando, FL)

Rondo has played out of his mind this game

Brandon (Omaha)

It is ridiculous to say that KG is overrated...he is a first ballot hall of famer!!

Dan (MA)

I don't understand the "[insert player] wouldn't have been anything without [insert other player(s)]" argument. You don't get to choose your teammates. And if Pierce imprvoed by learning from KG shouldn't you give him credit for swallowing his pride and letting Garnett help him?

Randy (Michigan)

Celtics still flopping.

Sam Cassell

OK I admit it. I'm the Mole

bryan (des moines)

Just looking at rondo and the defense in the playoffs, you have to think having homefield has been a huge advantage for the celtics

Jerry (New York, NY)

Flagrant foul and makes the basket!?? First time I've seen that...

Monty (Nashville)

Holy hell, some stats @ the beginning of the 4th quarter:Rebounds: 37-23 (B)Assists: 22-9 (B)Steals: 15-3 (B)Turnovers: 16-3 (LA - oops)...Ladies and gentlemen, your Game5 winners!

Jaime (San Bruno, CA)

Aaron, i care about the superbowl. It's the only thing that's keeping my wound from killing me tonight. :)

Ozy(Exeter,CA)

Looks like Rondo finally decided to start playing some basketball.

Shane (florida)

Not one player showed up for the final game of the Lakers season.

Randy (Michigan)

Rando has played another good game when there is no pressure on him....if it was close he would be riding the pine.

Tiger Woods

Man at least Rocco put a fight... Lakers are tanking it

Randy (Michigan)

I am a bitter Pistons fan. Pay no attention to me.

Jaime (San Bruno, CA)

Mark... um, correction. 21 years WITHOUT a championship... KG or not.

Biff (future)

It's going to be the Celtics vs the Hornets in the 2009 Finals. It says so in my 2010 sports almanac.

Dave, San Diego

Will Kobe demand a trade before or after the game ends?

EDGE OF 17 (Dedham, MA)

Big baby hit the floor and I felt the tremor....20 miles from the Garden!

PETEY (denver)

is scott pollard still on the celtics?

Lakers Team

The LA media may be a little soft, but they are going to kill us after this effort.

bryan (des moines)

JESUS SHUTTLEWORTH!!!

bryan (des moines)

AGAIN!!!

Brandon (Omaha)

"Where is Kobe?" SOOOO Funny!!

Doy (College park, MD)

I'm with you Randy!A bitter pistons fan here too! We should be here right now!

Josh (L.A.)

its going to be L.A. vs Boston in 09...this is gonna be like the end of the 80's LA vs Boston 3 outta 4 years

Christian (High Point, NC)

So here's another question: is this Phil Jackson's last game?

Ray Allen (Boston)

I'm sure being left wide open alot. Does anyone on LA know that I'm the best shooter in the NBA?

Buzzmaster

  (11:25 PM)

The best? Really?

Andrew (San Diego)

Good news for the Celts! The first team to 100 usually wins. Let's see if they can hang on.

Red Auerbach (Basketball Heaven)

Where is my cigar? It's time to light up!

Mark (Kansas)

Where is Kobe? I guess this ends the Jordan comparison. Rock Chalk Jayhawk, Paul Pierce!

Shawn (Las Vegas)

Memo to the Lakers - That Ray Allen guy, he can shoot. Might want to stop him from getting the ball. Or atleast but a hand up...

Christian (High Point, NC)

Next year will be Bobcats-Spurs.

Randy (Michigan)

First team to 100????? Lakes are just trying to break the 75 point barrier.

Lael (Attleboro, Ma)

Already called my boss to take the day off for the parade. Chyea!

Ben (Cali.)

Hey Christian im pretty sure Phil signed a 2 year extension so no its not

Troy (Gilbert, AZ)

Now that it's a 31 point lead again, BRING HOUSE IN!

Myles (Boston)

Somwehere, Red's lighting up a huge cigar.

mike (long island)

glad to see jesus shuttlesworth got his game back...can we start calling rondo 'booger'

Danny Ainge (from courtside)

I would like to thank God and oh yeah, Kevin McHale because without him none of this would be possible...

CG (Waco)

I wonder how dangerous Portland is gonna be next year.

Ray Allen (stratosphere)

Yeah, I can fly.

Keegan, Boston-Massachusetts

Rondo MVP for game 6, but Paul Pierce MVP for Finals!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am starting to hear the fat lady sing. Celts all the way

Brandon (Omaha)

Do you think Ainge will send McHale a ring??

Adam (Riverside CA)

RAY ALLEN for finals MVP!!! 20 ppg and tremendous 3 point shooting...

usc trojans (L.A. CA)

ok but BC football still stinketh ..congrats Beans

Buzzmaster

  (11:29 PM)

Allen with another 3. My word, he's on fire.

Brandon (Omaha)

ALLEN IS SICK!!!!!!!!!!

Joe

I don't know Andrew, it may be tough. There only up by 31...

John (Cloquet, MN)

This is painful to watch....and I hate the Lakers.

CG (Waco)

Geez they can't miss. They might as well shoot blindfolded.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

THe Celts are on fire

ks (chicago il)

All I can say is: Wow.

Christian (High Point, NC)

Ok, the soccer game on ESPN2 -- which I already know the outcome of -- has become more interesting.

Eric (SB, CA)

Kwame Brown played pretty solid D and crittendon has a bright future. Wallace ripped us off

Brandon (Omaha)

Has anyone noticed that the Lakers are not running an offense anymore. Funny because that is one reason they scored so much this year!

Jon (Lexington, KY)

Didnt someone say that Ray Allen was washed up a couple series ago? Thought I heard that somewhere.

Mike

Allen can't be an MVP for scoring garbage points against the Lakers second string who don't know how to switch on screens

Brandon (Omaha)

I think most college teams could put up a better fight at this point!!

Rich(Weymouth)

Dont know why y'all keep bringing up McHale, at least he got a future all star in Jefferson. wha texactly did the Lakers trade away for Gasol?

James (Richmond)

So, are the celts trying to kill the scoreboard operator?

angel st paul mn

Just wanna say that I really never watched the Timber Wolves. Allways loved KG tho! When he got traded and put on that green for the first time I told my husband "he look good in green" now look were he is. He has proved that he is a great player but can not do it alone. Pierce, Alan, Rondo everyone has played excellent and they deserve this ring. You go KG get that ring!!! YEA now thats what im talkin bout.

Joe (Dayon, OH)

How can Ray Allen keep getting that wide open. How many 3's does he have to make before LA decides to guard him?

Myles (Boston)

Hahahaha, Garnett ripping off Odom's tongue-wag. I doubt Lamar will ever recover from that.

Shawn (Las Vegas)

Ok this is getting sick....PLEASE guard Ray Allen. He can shoot.

Josh (Chicago)

We want SCALABRINE!

Mike C. (New Jersey)

Lakers - 19 TOsCeltics - 18 StealsThat says it all.

B. Belichick (Boston)

I approve of this Boston scoring here late in the 4th quarter.

Randy (Michigan)

I swear any of us in this chat room could score 20 on the lakers tonight. Buzz you might be to put in 40.

Hakatri (NYC)

Brutal. Absolutely brutal. Knicks games are less ugly.

Don (Boston, MA)

There are so many amzing players on this Boston squad, I don't knwo WHO to call MVP!! GO GREEN! BEAT LA!

CG (Waco)

LA quit. Allen being that wide open over and over.

John (Pensacola Fl)

Hmmm, take note, LA...Defense does win championships

Troy (Gilbert, AZ)

Ray Allen for three. Assist: Paul Pierce. Paul Pierce: Double-Double (14 points 10 assists).

Aaron (Boston, MA)

The Celtics will soon have no numbers available in the 30's

Kev (Virgnia)

Kobe's been off his game. He's still upset Dwayne Wade won't put him in his Fave Five.

EdGE OF 17 (Dedham, MA)

Remember, every team makes at least one run in a game.

k-wash (baltimore, md)

at this rate Eddie House is going to run up the score. He never passes up a shot... ever!

Monty (Nashville)

Speaking of Knicks games.... remember when the C's beat them by 50 points earlier this season? *kicks back, self-satisfied*

Don (Boston, MA)

Have you ever seen a slaughter like this in the NBA finals!?

Gman (Boston)

Nothing sweeter than being a Boston sports fan!!!!

Doc Rivers

Why would anyone ever have doubted me?

Scoreboard, Boston

I'm a little one-sided right now.

Tony (LA, CA)

Really, Edge of 17? Every team makes at least one run per game? Lakes haven't even put up a jog in this game.

Harold (Los Angeles, Ca)

boston 148 lakers 118 and that was game 1

Shawn (Las Vegas)

5 mins left? Boston should be able to get this lead up to 50 or more.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Has anyone ever heard a "nah-nah-nah" cheer with 5 min to go?

Blake (TX)

Wow Boston has to have one of the most passionate crowds in the NBA - they just keep getting louder!

Brad (Wisconsin)

I love the chant

Bob, MAINE

PIERCE FOR 3 - OMG!! Celts touched by the hand of greateness

Monty (Nashville)

Good grief, they're chanting "Hey hey hey good bye" *with five minutes left*. Now that's just funny.

Jaime: (Santa Barbara, CA.)

...These will be the most painful 4 minutes of Kobe's life.

Phil (Chicago)

Singing "Na Na Hey Hey" is so High-Schoolish...

Stubby (CT)

The Pats, er, I mean the Celts are running up the score!!

James (Richmond)

I want to see Sam Cassell out there. Not because I'm a Cassell fan, but with his recent shooting the scoring will stop.

bryan (des moines)

listen to that crowd. only thing i've heard like that is at lambeau

Matt (parana, argentina)

my god, this is a torture. what is kobe doing on the court? take him out! it's not funny!

Brad (Wisconsin)

Finally the Lakers score

Josh

C'mon Scalabrine, bring him out

Steiny (NYC)

Ray Allen has 26 points. Not too shabby considering the fact that he was out for most of the first half.

Steiny (NYC)

Garnett has 13 rebounds.

Buzzmaster

  (11:41 PM)

Garnett high-fiving some fans in the stands.

Jeremey (Nap Town)

There's even more pressure no own the Bruins. If they don't bring home a championship they may get kicked out of beantown.

Rich (weymouth)

Scalabrine is in street clothes. wonder if they can put him in anyway and take the tech

Brad (Wisconsin)

When you make 7 3's...its hard to not make 26 points

Joe

Up by 34, 3 mins to go, and the crowd is still into it. Now those are true fans.

Matt (parana, argentina)

phil is letting the players on the court as a punishment. i'm sure.

Brandon (Omaha)

This has to be the longest celebration in NBA Finals history!!

Josh (L.A.)

seriously..are shooting threes still needed?...you earned the ship boston but lets have some respect and run the clock out

Dan (Orlando, FL)

I thought the ppl he was high fiving were staff like equipment ppl

Shawn (Las Vegas)

Percentage of empty office's in Boston tomorrow due to hangovers? 85

Melissa (Houston)

How many NBA records has boston beat tonight? I know of at least 2...

Myles (City of Champions)

If this doesn't cement Pierce's spot in the hall of fame, I dunno what will.

Tunde ( Chicago)

Dammm the C's Got 120 Dammm I have ben watching basketball for 23 yrs and have never saw anything like this.

bryan (des moines)

I would give a month's salary if doc pulls out a cigar at the press conference

Fabio (NYC)

I hate to say it but it looks like another dynasty in Boston.

Joe (South Boston)

From worst to the NBA CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!!!

Coach Reeves (The White Shadow)

I think it's time for Goldstein to enter the game...

James (MA)

Celtics are running the clock out...The 3s are wide open. Why not take them? ARe they supposed to take 30 shot clock violations?

David (Glendora, CA)

Josh: It's the last game of the finals, let them shoot.

Hank (getting ready)

Are you ready for some FOOTBALL???

danny (boston)

the players are paid millions, they can handle a few chants and 3s

Kala (Honolulu)

Josh (L.A.) what do you want the C's to do, stop playing just because the Lakers stopped playing in the third quarter?

Mike (Rancho Cucamonga, CA)

Lakers didn't have a chance in that arena. They barely could play well at home. Just sad. They now have the largest comeback loss against them and now the largest loss. Just sad

Rich (Weymouth)

im mistaken, Scal actually dressed this game

Matthew (Springfield, MA)

Odom looks like he might kill someone.

Rondo

Feel free to riot Boston. I stole all the BPD's riot gear today as well.

James (Richmond)

Anybody know what the biggest spread in a game was this season?

Brad (Wisconsin)

17 17 17 17 another great chant

Bill (Omaha)

Of course the crowd is into it, they're going to be celebrating all night.

Dan (Orlando, FL)

I really hope someone lights a cigar

Chris (Rochester, NY)

I think its kind of funny that Scalabrine is wearing warmups tonight instead of street clothes. Whatever helps you fit it in buddy.

Matt (Peabody)

Rich, he went into the locker room and changed for the celebration. Pollard too

bryan (des moines)

what's the over-under on number of minutes KG is too emoitional to talk? for that matter, what's the over-inder on the number of exclamation points the sports guy uses tomorrow?

CG (Waco)

What a blowout. This is madness.

Jon - Florida

Bring on Jackie Moon for mop-up duty!!

Buzzmaster

  (11:49 PM)

Wow, 40 points. This is ridiculous.

Jason (New Mex)

Celtics ending it with style!!!!!!

Zach Rastall (Marinette, WI)

Doc is getting emotional.

Kevin ( Miami)

The Boston Celtics are going to be the Miami Heat of 2006.

Wladimir (Miami)

this is what i am talking about when i say the half court offense is going to take over the nba, with teams trying to emulate kevin garnett's greatness.

Tim (Foothill Ranch, CA)

See you next year Boston, and the Lakers will have someone other than Gasoft in the middle. Congrats you deserve it.

Christian (High Point, NC)

42 is the record ...

matt, ca

congrats, see ya next year though.

Matt (Redlands CA)

Can the Lakers recover from this to be contending next year? this one will sting for a looong time

Bill (Omaha)

This is sad, the Lakers may as well head to the locker now.

Jeff (Lawrence, KS)

Rock Chalk Championship Mr. Pierce.

Shane (florida)

You can get mad at the celtics for running the score up or you can get mad at the Lakers for not having the pride to stop them.

Buzzmaster

  (11:51 PM)

And Rivers gets the Gatorade bath.

ks

OMG the Celts have cracked 130!!!!

Kevin (Boston)

Watch Paul Pierce in the locker room...He was close to Red and I bet he will dedicate the win to him.

Bev (L.A. but soon to be "Back East Bev")

I've been going to Celtics games since the early 60's. I've been in L.A. for 7 years. I saw one game at the Staples Center in 2006 when the Celtics beat the Lakers and I'm moving back to NH this Friday. Could it be any sweeter than to return on the heels of the Celtics Championship? I think not! Warm up that Lakers plane now! :-)

Buzzmaster

  (11:53 PM)

It's going to be interesting to see if they can keep the fans off the court.

Jon (Titletown x 2)

Party time. Oh it's party time having a party...

Steiny (NYC)

Camera man got the Gatorade bath as well.

Ted (westfield, ma)

for you, dad!

Jason (Atlanta)

Did the Lakers know that game 6 was being played tonight? How embarassing.

Matthew (Springfield, MA)

No way, that place is going to be a mob scene.

Brian (Plymouth, MA)

Hope someone cleans up that gatorade before someone breaks an ankle.

Buzzmaster

  (11:54 PM)

And that's it! The Celtics are the 2007-2008 NBA Champions!

Aaron (Albuquerque, NM)

Oh man, KG. Nobody everybody likes you more than Kobe.

Don (Boston, MA)

Crackin one for THEE Almighty GREEEEN TEAM!

Deron (Colorado)

Celts played great.. well deserved... Congrats

Matt (Peabody)

Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen... Congratulations on finally getting what you deserve. Class acts, all of you.

Bob MAINE

WOW - I am in ecstacy! Congrats Celts!!

Scuilli (Washington Township, NJ)

The emotion on Garnett's face says it all man. Good for them.

ks

Michelle Tafoya is interviewing KG and he's bawling like a baby . . . "ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!!!!!"

Brandon (Omaha)

I am glad that KG gave a shout out to Minny!!

Dan (Orlando, FL)

KG with Russell got to love that

Christian (High Point, NC)

It just isn't the same without Jimmy Fallon celebrating on the court.

Harold (Los Angeles)

I'm waiting for KG to faint

Mitchell (LaFayette, GA)

Kevin scares me. Is he going to break Bill Russell?

Scuilli (TWP, NJ)

Seeing Garnett celebrate and interview like that reminds me why I love sports.

manny (Oxnard, CA)

yeah, its all about the Celtics!!!!!!

Scott

Big Three for MVP!

Kyle (Canton, NY)

Red's lighting one up with DJ, Reggie Lewis, and hell, Len too.

John (Cloquet, MN)

This is why I love KG!! Congrats KG!!

Buzzmaster

  (12:08 AM)

And that's a wrap, everyone! Thanks for participating!