Let's just get it out of the way now. The Lakers shot 34 free throws; the Celtics 22. Neither team converted well though, each hitting less than 70%. In the meantime, the Lakers executed better in the fourth quarter to take their first win of the Finals, but all was not well with LA.First, the Lakers had to rely a little too much on The Machine, Sasha Vujacic. The Machine delivered with 20 points and a big three with 1:56 to go. Kobe at least finally find a groove, scoring 36 points on 12-20 shooting.
At the same time, both Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce struggled. KG finished with 13 points and shot 6-24, while Paul Pierce shot an atrocious 2-14 from the field. Ray Allen picked up some of the slack with 25 points. Despite the issues, the game was tight the whole way, and the Celtics even had the lead after three quarters. The Lakers took the lead for good with 6:54 to go on a three by, who else, Kobe Bryant. Kobe also made LA's last two field goals down the stretch that sealed the win.
It wasn't the cleanest of games (try to act surprised), but the Lakers got the win and now trail 2-1. Game 4 is Thursday night.
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