By: Dan Massar, YawkeyTalkies Staff Writer

The Celtics have known all along that Kobe Bryant would erupt for a huge game at some point during this series.  That eruption came in game 5 as Bryant poured in 38 points, half of them coming in the 3^rd Quarter.  But the Celtics delivered a brilliant team effort and took the lead in the NBA Finals 3 games to 2 with a 92-86 victory at the TD Garden.

While the contributions of the Celtics bench was the story of game 4, the starters were the key to game 5 as “The Big 3” and Rajon Rondo were all in double figures.  Paul Pierce led the way with a dazzling 27 points.  He shot 12-21 and hit two three’s. Pierce played like it was 2008 all over again and is now hoping his team can celebrate like it’s 2008 with one more win.

“We’re in a good spot. We have two games in L.A.,” said Pierce.  “Now we have to get one.”

Kevin Garnett was terrific scoring 18 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.  Garnett was dominant on defense with 5 steals and 2 blocks. Rajon Rondo chipped in with 18 points and 8 assists and Ray Allen worked hard for his 12 points.

One of the key plays of the game occurred in the final minute with the Celtics up 5.  Kevin Garnett inbounded into Pierce who made a tough catch and pass over to Rondo who made a difficult lay-up to put Boston up 7.  Pierce channeled his inner Patriot on the play.

“”I was just showing off my Randy Moss and my Brady,” Pierce said. “I was Randy when I caught it; then Brady on my pass to Rondo.”

So the series now shifts back to LA with the Lakers facing elimination.  Pau Gasol was quiet offensively in game 5 scoring only 12 points, though he did grab 12 rebounds.  When asked about having to motivate his team for game 6, Bryant brushed off any notion that he needed to work on a motivational speech between now and Tuesday night.

“Just man up and play.  What the hell is the big deal?” said Bryant.

This series has been must see TV whether you are a diehard basketball fan or just a casual or curious observer.  Rarely does the NBA Finals go 7 games.  It’s happened only 3 times since 1984.  One of those times was 1984, when the Celtics beat the Lakers.  If the Lakers hold serve at home Tuesday night then we will be treated to an epic game 7 on Thursday.  Just be happy there’s only 1 day off before this series resumes.  Tuesday night can’t come soon enough.

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