Rrrrr...

That was annoying. I know it was "assumed" that the Lakers would win this game, but I really thought they could end it tonight.

Much like game 3, the Celtics didn't play at their best, didn't get a ton of love from the officials, and always seemed to be grasping for a ball that eventually ended up in the hands of a Laker.

But they were right there, with a chance to take the wraps off the Larry O'Brien trophy. And they didn't get it done.

Some missed free throws here, careless turnovers there. Guys in foul trouble. It added up.

I think they get it done on Tuesday, but it's become frustrating to know that they're the better team in the series, but don't always play up to their potential.

First time in a while the Celtics have been outrebounded. Never has Perk's presence been missed so obviously. I didn't think Powe was playing that poorly to be left on the bench after playing the first 5 minutes, and they gave up too many key boards on both sides of the court.

I also thought Rondo was playing ok (his bizarre passing up of a layup notwithstanding), but it is true that Kobe plays free safety when they're matched up together, and that prevents the C's O from getting in rhythm.

But other than Pierce, who had a solid game (did he really need to go 48?) nobody stepped up to make the key plays when needed. I don't want to face Kobe in a game 7, so get it done on Tuesday, fellas.