Los Angeles Lakers: Kobe Bryant’s 5 greatest games against the Boston Celtics

LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 23: Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the hoop against Paul Pierce #34 of the Boston Celtics on February 23, 2007 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2007 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)

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.