The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers have advanced to the second round in the NBA's championship tournament. Both teams were favorites to win this year's NBA crown. As of today, the Lakers have been humiliated by the Dallas Mavericks in 4 quick games, the last 2 via blowout. The Celtics seem heading down a similar path. Why have two of the most storied NBA franchises looked so meek?
After watching the Celtics lose in overtime to the Miami Heat- now leading the series 3-1, it seems like the Celtics reign as Eastern conference champions is drawing to a close. What's staggering is that the Heat are imposing their will, youth and fury on these aging Celtics. Last night Lebron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh combined for 83 points. Most of them coming by slashing to the basket for easy jumpers and layups. The Celtics looked soft. The Kendrick Perkins deal has left a gaping hole in the middle with Shaquille O'Neal unable to fill in the void. Shaq hasn't been much of a contributer this post season and with no bruising big man in the middle, the Heat will likely end the Celtics run tomorrow.
The Lakers, uncharacteristically left this year's playoffs in complete turmoil. They were thoroughly outplayed by the Mavericks on both ends of the court who showed the poise and relentlessness as past championship Laker teams. Kobe Bryant, who usually carries this team and single handedly wins games by himself, looked listless and old. The Lakers lacked veteran leadership that became their staple the last 2 seasons with Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum throwing cheap dirty fouls during their game 4 blowout.
Looking forward, both teams will be going through transition periods. The Celtics aging Big 3 will be intact for next season, but will need a different supporting cast to contend next year. The Lakers more than likely will have a new coach, but will keep their core of Bryant, Bynum, and Pau Gasol intact. Both teams will be good next year, but judging by these playoffs their days of winning titles are over.
