Re: Lakers starters versus Celts, I think it is a wash. As for the center, I will take Bynum over Perk. Regarding Gasol and Garnett, I do not think he is as important to the Lakers as KG is to the Celts. However, I to think it is pretty impressive that he has missed 15 or more games this year and the Lakers are still 32-9.
I think a part of that is because of their schedule...Let's see how LA does over the next few weeks, since they are finally going on the road.
As for the thread - KG is more important to us than Gasol to LA.
They are both similar in their games..LA runs their offense through Gasol, just like we include KG in ours.
But KG took Minnesota a LOT farther than Gasol took Memphis. And both of their rosters had nearly the same level of talent, back in the day.
As just about every Celtic fan can agree - KG brings it, every night. The presence is most important.
Gasol is a very talented, top 5 PF, but you need more than that.