Los Angeles Lakers: Kobe Bryant’s 5 greatest games against the Boston Celtics
By Zain Danani
4: February 23, 2007 – Lakers dominate Celtics 122-96 at STAPLES Center
Less than a month after dropping 43 points, eight rebounds and eight assists, Kobe was ready to take on the Celtics again – this time in L.A.
Likewise, to last time, the matchup still had no significant outlook on the season as both teams were not playoff threats. This time, however, the Celtics did have Paul Pierce play.
The Celtics, even with Pierce, still posed no threat to the Lakers as they lost 122-96. Kobe defended Pierce well as the Truth finished with 15 points on 33 percent shooting, along with five turnovers. Moreover, Kobe dominated Pierce offensively as he scored 38 points on 56.5 percent shooting, and had nine assists.
Although the last performance may statistically rank higher to this one, Kobe only played 31 minutes in this game.
Besides, he was guarding and guarded by Paul Pierce this time – not Gerald Green. To hold a superstar to 15 points on 33 percent shooting, while dropping 38 points on 56.5 percent shooting in 31 minutes is remarkable.