Abandon restraint

[Kenhov]

When you examine game one, one word you could use to sum up the Celtics was restrained.

The primary figure of restraint was Kendrick Perkins. The reason is simple. Fear of that 7th tech.

I believe that in game 2 Perkins should let it go. Its crucial because I really do not believe a Perkins less Celtics in a Game 3, tied 1-1, is going to lose. And his forcefulness is important in this game.

But what happens if he is suspended ?

Rasheed in the starting five will mean a Celtics starting group which can all score. Yes it extends the bench and will mean that Shelden would have to be activated, but the point remains that the Lakers really do not want to have Bynum pulled out of the paint guarding Sheed from tip off. The game then becomes a Rondo drive fest.

Pierce should also take Kobe. We have to remember that Pierce had a very diminished role in the Cleveland series yet the C's won.

It is better to sacrifice Pierce and let Ray have an increased role. For one it will encourage Rondo to drive more, having Ray on the perimeter along with Pierce to dish to. Once that starts to happen even Artest will start to collapse to help.

We shall see what gives.

[dark_lord]

Pierce should also take Kobe.

yes!

[Bahku]

Pierce should also take Kobe.

yes!

Absolutely! I've been saying this since the series began ... I find it hard to beieve that Doc hasn't done this yet, remembering how well Paul did on Kobe in 2008. He's really one of the only players who has ever given the Black Reptile fits on a consistent basis. (Just don't expect as much offense from Pierce as he might have otherwise).

[wiley]

When you examine game one, one word you could use to sum up the Celtics was restrained.

The primary figure of restraint was Kendrick Perkins. The reason is simple. Fear of that 7th tech.

I believe that in game 2 Perkins should let it go. Its crucial because I really do not believe a Perkins less Celtics in a Game 3, tied 1-1, is going to lose. And his forcefulness is important in this game.

But what happens if he is suspended ?

Rasheed in the starting five will mean a Celtics starting group which can all score. Yes it extends the bench and will mean that Shelden would have to be activated, but the point remains that the Lakers really do not want to have Bynum pulled out of the paint guarding Sheed from tip off. The game then becomes a Rondo drive fest.

Pierce should also take Kobe. We have to remember that Pierce had a very diminished role in the Cleveland series yet the C's won.

It is better to sacrifice Pierce and let Ray have an increased role. For one it will encourage Rondo to drive more, having Ray on the perimeter along with Pierce to dish to. Once that starts to happen even Artest will start to collapse to help.

We shall see what gives.

Nice post I agree.  I think Perk can play aggressive and smart too, though......he should keep some sort of mantra in his head:  how about "businessman"?  Something that implies hard work and a serious demeanor.  But if we do lose Perk, I think we can weather it.....Baby is good when he plays big minutes.  Sheed could rise up even further out of the dead.  And Sheldon, though I don't trust his hands and think he needs to see a hand strength specialist (if only to improve his focus on his hands and confidence in them), can come in and be an aggressive, hungry rebounder.....