Game One Notes: Second Half

C’s up a point at the half: Doc wants more free throws and agressive takes to the hoop, Flip wants better rebounding and a quick start: I guess I noticed similar things as the coaches in the first half: mad props to Celticscast. My key is the bench, can Lindsey Hunter make an impact or Stuckey, if they can watch out.

52-46 Boston, 7:56 Left 3rd qtr.: C’s trading hoops with Richard Hamilton and then tack on a couple for good measure. I like the unselfish possessions by the Celtics - maybe too many passes but that’s better than none (hear that Cassell?). On another note, you know that sign that counts down from 16 to 1 to win the championship. Shouldn’t the Celtics have a sign with 1-16 crossed out and 17 waiting?

60-52 Boston, 2:39 left 3rd qtr: Boy this is a grinding game. Free throws really matter and Celts reached bonus with five minutes left in third quarter thanks to Pierce driving. I like the timing on taking Garnett out with an 8 point lead with 4:30 to go in the third and PJ Brown some minutes - get KG ready to play the last 8 or 9 of the game. Pierce still has the team on his shoulders with 14 pts and 5 dimes.

69-57 Celts, End of 3rd qtr.: The way Pierce is playing, he deserves to have Tommy Heinsohn ranting and raving. A great fallaway bucket and then good take that set up a Powe offensive board and foul. Eddie House finishes off the quarter in style. Play this guy!!

73-65 Boston: 8 mins to go: Doc says keep the pace. I agree - I saw Syracuse lose enough games this year trying to milk clock with less than time this left to know don’t quit your game yet.

It’s all over: 88-79 Celtics and the C’s are now 9-0 at home in the playoffs. KG had 26 but when this game was really taking its turn in the third quarter, Paul Pierce was guiding this team and he finished with 22. 27 assists on the game while the Pistons had only 15. Not bad team not bad. Have a good night everyone and we look forward to your emails at hosts@celticscast.com

Cheers!