Kobe Bryant Boston Celtics Finale

With Boston’s defenders determined to make it difficult for their opponents in Lakers jerseys throughout the series, it was difficult for Los Angeles players to find a way to score against this mighty team. Bryant was surrounded by numerous Celtic defenders, including Rajon Rondo, Eddie House and, most importantly, the excellent defensive presence of Paul Pierce. Along with these star players, the entire Celtics team was known for its defense throughout its postseason run, shutting down the Lakers after defeating Atlanta, Cleveland, and Detroit.

In the six games, Bryant played 40 minutes or more, while taking between 19 and 26 shots in each of the games. Kobe scored an impressive 36 points in game three, which was the Lakers’ first win in the final series against the Celtics, and also added 25 in the game five win, which sent both the Lakers and Celtics back to Boston, where the series was finished. In that game three won by the Lakers, Kobe shot 12-for-20 from the field, adding 11-for-18 from the free throw line. He also grabbed 7 rebounds in that game.

Despite a 97-91 loss in Game 4, Kobe posted his fourth double-double of the postseason, dishing out 10 assists and scoring 17 points. In the six-game series, Bryant averaged 25.6 points per game, along with 4.5 rebounds and 5 assists per game. Due to Boston’s defense, which allowed 93.8 points per game in the six-game series, Kobe only shot 40.0% from the field, which was 6% lower than his season average.

Kobe made his best attempt at his fourth NBA title, but the Celtics’ defense, coupled with their three-headed scoring monster, was too much for the Lakers. Hopefully, with a productive preseason, the determined men of the Lakers Jerseys can put together a team that will put them in the finals and on top during the 2008-2009 season.