As I noted in my column today, in my opinion, Ray Allen has changed everything.
The Celtics have limped throught the playoffs, basically winning at home, because Allen hasn’t been that good.
I believe it bodes well for tomorrow night in Detroit. Here are my five reasons why I think the Celtics will win in 6, surprising many people:
1. Ray Allen. The C’s sharp-shooter has his confidence back and he will force the Pistons to double him. That opens up Rajon Rondo to do what he did last night.
2. Paul Pierce. Remember him? He played OK last night. Well, tonight will be his night. I expect him to score 30, which means he will shoot well and get Tayshaun Prince in foul trouble. Pierce is one of the few players on the Celtics who is oblivious to opposing fans.
3. Pistons are tired. Last night was their night. They knew it. They threw everything at the Celtics, appearing to take control of the game in the second quarter. But they couldn’t keep up with the Celts when it mattered most in the beginning of the fourth quarter. The Pistons needed to win in Boston last night to win this series.
4. Injuries. With Chauncey Billups telling people he wouldn’t be playing if this was the regular season and now the injury to Richard Hamilton, that should be too much to overcome. These are the Pistons go-to players. They are not 100 percent, maybe not even close. Expect both to be fouled hard Friday night.
5. Inside game to C’s. The Celtics became an inside-out team, which means they usually looked inside first before taking the outside shot. In big games, that usually dictates the pace. With Perkins role increasing — he’s played three good games in a row — it means his defender has to stay with him longer than expected. It opens up the floor.
Would I be surprised if Detroit won? No, but I don’t expect it. The Celtics are due for a dominating performance on the road. I predict it happens Friday night.
Any thoughts?
