NBA Finals Game 2: First Quarter Thoughts

Coming in down 1-0 in the series, it would naturally be important for the Lakers to come out to a great start here in Game 2, but they did that in Game 1, the most important thing is how they do in the second half.

Lakers are off to a decent start, Gasol and Bryant are being agressive and getting their opportunities. They are a little slow right now on the fast break defense, however. And their bench has disappointed so far, as Ariza and Walton haven't played well on entry.

The Celtics are looking a little slow to start. A lot of turnovers, and a lot of confusion on offense. And, KG looks a little out of his element to start. Got beat by Gasol on a dunk defensively, and then was called for a moving screen and a subsequent technical foul. I'm surprised by his start.

Rajon Rondo is a little to passive on the offensive end. He's passed up some open shots, to the ire of the crowd in Boston. This tells me that he is not confident in his offensive game, and it needs to change as the game progresses, as the offense starts with him running the show.

A couple of fouls by Kobe Bryant within a span of a minute 2/3rds of the way thru the first. The second one was an offensive foul elobw to Ray Allen. I disagree with the guys on the ABC telecast. You shouldn't have to throw an elbow to get free on the offensive end. If you do, you should be charged with a foul. Simple as that.

22-20 Lakers after one, as Jordan Farmar hit a 3-pointer with under 4 ticks to go.

Kobe Bryant injury more important than you realize.

Kobe Bryant has a back problem. And it was evident on Sunday during Game 4 vs. the Utah Jazz, which the Jazz won in overtime. But, this is an important injury that may impact the rest of this series.

According to J.A. Adande of ESPN.com, Kobe Bryant says he will play in Game 5, but he obviously isn't the same player with the injury. The back is an important part of the body of an NBA player. He needs it as he explodes through the lane to score at the rim, or rise up on a jump shot. That is two big factors in Kobe's game.

Why else is it an issue? Phil Jackson called out his team for "bailing out" on Kobe Bryant toward the end of the game. I wouldn't say that they bailed out on him, but they were non-existent in the overtime period. At the same time, Odom and Fisher were especially present with their outside shooting to get back in the game after being down double digits late.

Don't count out Utah now. They've gotten back into the series with wins at home. They could just as easily surprise the Lakers in L.A.

I wonder if Kobe can carry his team on his back now?

Oh, I wonder if Kobe can do this now?