Sunday, January 30, 2011

Celtics avenge Finals loss, blowout Lakers

The Boston Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 109-96 in their first meeting since last season’s NBA Finals.

Boston’s Paul Pierce had no problem putting up points in his hometown, scoring 32. Ron Artest was quick to give him credit after the game.

“He played really good,” Artest said. “He really gave it to me today.”

Defending Pierce didn’t fall entirely on Artest’s shoulders. Kobe Bryant and Luke Walton also tried to contain the former Finals MVP.

“He’s one of the best players in the league,” Walton said. “You got to give him credit.”

As bad as the Lakers were defensively, the offensive rut they had in the 3rd quarter didn’t help much. Sharing the ball was a key theme in the Lakers locker room after the game.

“We’re not playing very much team basketball,” Bynum said.

“It was a cause and balance, from offense and defense,” Odom said. “You should expect to lose to the Boston Celtics if you let them shoot 60 percent.”

The Lakers have another big test against an elite team on Thursday, as they host the San Antonio Spurs.

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