Boston fight off late challenge from the Lakers for 2-0 lead
June 9, 2008
The Boston Celtics almost let a 24 point lead slip in game two of the NBA finals. Playing at home with less than eight minutes to go you would have thought they were safe.
The Lakers thanks to a huge 41 point final quarter almost snatched what would have been a vital away win. What got the Lakers back in touch was a flood of three point baskets. They scored seven in the last quarter. With 38 seconds to play two Bryant free throws got the Lakers to within two points at 102-104.
Paul Pierce who fought off knee pain was key in the final seconds. He sank two free throws to extend the lead to four. On the next play he got a blocked shot as Vujacic attempted a three point shot.
Pierce played another big game for the Celtics as he scored 28 points for the night. He was backed by Powe who scored 21 for the Celtics. Kobe Bryant once again lead the scoring for the Lakers with 30.
The series now moves to Los Angeles for the next three games. It of course is vital that LA win the next game to get back into the series. They really need to win all three to go back to Boston with two shots at getting the away win that is required to win the series.
The Lakers are 8-0 at home in the playoffs for 2008 and are 14-0 at home since March 28. They will be keen to keep that streak alive. Game 3 is on Tuesday night at the Staples Center in LA.
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