In a rematch of last season's NBA Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics 92-83, ending the Celtics' 19 game win streak. The game was close until 2:48 left in the fourth quarter when Pau Gasol scored back to back baskets to give the Lakers a lead for good. Gasol was particularly strong down the stretch, scoring 9 points in the fourth quarter and making all his free throws. This game had the feel of a playoff game. The Celtics had their win streak on the line and the Lakers gave us a glimpse of what a series might be like with a healthy Andrew Bynum. It looks like the Lakers have figured out that they need to focus on their defense to be competitive with the Celtics in the Finals. Paul Pierce scored zero points in the fourth quarter, Rondo shot a 3-11 from the field, and Ray Allen made his first three shots then went 2-11 the rest of the way. The Lakers did force 17 turnovers, including 5 by Pierce. Kobe Bryant led the Lakers with 27 points on 13-23 shooting with 9 boards and 5 assists. Kevin Garnett led the Celtics with 22 points on 11-14 shooting with 9 rebounds and 2 assists.
