Vs. Boston Celtics – Game 6, 2010 NBA Finals
Considering the historic rivalry between the Lakers and Boston Celtics, it’s wholly unsurprising that Kobe has had some monstrous performances against Boston. And while it may not be the most impressive statistical performance of his career, his performance against Boston in the 2010 NBA Finals helped carry the Lakers to their second consecutive title and Game 6 was undoubtedly Bryant’s opus from that series.
Kobe only put up 26 points in Game 6 of the 2010 NBA Finals, which is far from his highest output against the Celtics over the course of his career and his continuation of the rivalry against Boston. However, it’s the fact that he added three assists, four steals and an impressive 11 rebounds on the night. While he was huge offensively, what’s more impressive is how dominant he was defensively in leading the charge in the Lakers’ best defensive performance of the Finals series.
Bryant and Los Angeles held the Celtics to only 67 points in Game 6 and Kobe was at the forefront of that defensive effort while also carrying the offense. Though it may not have been the most overwhelming offensive performance that Kobe has had even just against the Celtics, it was his overall performance in a big moment that lands it on this list.
Next: Vs. Nets