I often wonder what opposing teams, their beat reporters and
bloggers
are saying about the Celtics after playing the Celtics. Here's a dose
of 'enemy chatter' from Los Angeles.
Especially impressive to these eyes was Ron Artest – especially on defense. Sure, Paul Pierce ended the night with 24 points on only 13 shots (making 12 of 13 from the FT line). But he never found a rhythm on offense and never really threatened to change the tenor of the game with his ability to score the ball. Ron just did an excellent job of deny Pierce his sweet spots and making him work to even catch the ball. But Ron was also solid on offense, going 5-10 from the field for 15 points and making 3 of his 5 three pointers.
Over the course of the evening the Lakers proved that they’re ready for this match up. Ready to exorcise their green demons. Ready to compete from the opening tip of the opening game and land the first punch.
Forum Blue and Gold - 1 down, 3 to go
Silver Screen and Roll - Who's Soft Now?
The Lakers rebounded 36% of their own misses? That has to be some sort of league record, right?
On Page 2, the LA Times Bill Plaschke talks smack.
Shhh, it's OK, the coast is clear. You can come out now. Those bullies in gold shorts and grimaces are gone. I promise.
Nobody is waiting to wrestle you back to the floor. Nobody is going to bump you back into the marina. Those guys who tossed you around like vacant headbands have the left the building.
It's OK, Celtics, you went into hiding early, but it's fine now, you can come on out from underneath your frayed reputation and dented mystique, it's only one game.
LA Times - Lakers push Celtics into submission
We'll have to tolerate garbage like this until the Celtics stop playing like children.