Celts in 7 still stands
May 28th, 2008 by Bill Burt
Nothing has changed, other than the fact the Celtics probably have to win tonight in Game 5.
You could tell when these two teams met this regular season that they both knew it would probably come to a seventh game.
As for Game 5, I expect both teams to be fast-paced and very aggressive in the early going, which means lots of fouls called. Then the game will get back to a grind-it-out mode.
Here are five things to look for tonight:
1. Ray Allen: Just watch him. See if he gets open. He is a poor man’s Richard Hamilton. The problem is he can’t create his own shot off the dribble, like Hamilton can. The Celtics will be tough to beat if Allen hits two or more 3-pointers.
2. Eddie House or Sam Cassell: It appears coach Doc Rivers has a tough decision here. Cassell was basically a mess in Game 4. His ball-handling is subpar. And when he isn’t hitting his shot, he kills the team. House on the other hand has had some inspirational minutes at home. My guess is House gets the call first over Cassell.
3. Kevin Garnett on the post: He has been spending too much time on top of the key. Rivers has professed the need to get the ball down low for easier hoops, which will open up the wide open shots that KG loves to take from 18 to 20 feet away.
4. Kendrick Perkins to score more: I believe this could be his breakout game. Perkins man has left him often this series to help and the Pistons really haven’t paid for it. I think the Celts look for Perkins for some easy dunks and 10 footers.
5. Rajon Rondo to create more offense: When he plays well, the Celtics win. By well, I mean few if any turnovers, about 8 assists and going to the basket. If he can score about 15 points, that will open up things for Allen and Posey.
Talk to you later.
