Lakers Repeat, Celtics Deplete

A sloppy game 7 decided this epic series between storied rivals.  One thing I’m sure we’ll all recount is how gritty and unflashy this game was.  The “Green Machine” needed a little more oil, and the “Showtime”  Lakers looked more like “Slowtime”.  Who would come out victorious? Kobe and company! Not the team I was rooting for, but I’m not upset: I’m a Cubs fan, so I’m used to losing.

Image courtesy of Sydney Morning Herald

I want to talk about two players in particular.  So much can be said about the superstars of both teams, but i’m going to focus on two role players. Ray Allen first with his lack luster performance, and Ron Artest, jovial as can be and finally living up to his expectations.

One thing I must point out the abysmal shooting percentage of Ray Allen.  Wow, how can you be so good one series and then sink to the depts of your talent the next?  He missed way to many shots, not just 3 pointers either. “He don’t got game”. We got so used to seeing that beautifully crafted jumpshot go in 4-5 times per game. This game (not to mention that 0-13 game 3) was not vintage Ray Allen. Stop shooting 3s! 5-15 just isn’t going to cut it in the final game. Normally a very composed player, he seemed a bit tense tonight, as were many players on the floor.  Allen will be a free agent this summer.  There have been talks of him possibly joining the Chicago Bulls for a one year contract, thus a career wrap up for him. Can you imagine Ray Allen AND LeBron James on the same team.  Chicago is going to be burning with anticipation as the off-season hits.

Courtesy of sawxblog.com

It was very heartwarming to see Ron Artest celebrating the win he contributed to so greatly.  Without his rebounds, last minute 3-pointer, and hard-nosed defense, the Celtics might be hoisting that trophy up right now.  Remember the riot he cause in Detroit a few years back- it’s a thing of the past.  The legal issues he’s dealt with- not a problem.  Drinking Hennessy during halftime as a Chicago Bull- don’t mention it.  All these basketball sins seem to be washed away by a Lakers championship baptism.  After bouncing around from team to team, it’s nice to see him settle down and humble himself as a respectable player should.  Way to go Ron. We’re proud of you.

Courtesy of thelakersnation.com