It is also the anniversary of three playoff wins since the season of Boston’s last title in 2007-08. The first was a 76-72 Game 1 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2008, LeBron James’ first postseason run-in with the Celtics far from a success from his perspective.
Though Paul Pierce and Ray Allen had subpar games with a combined total of 4 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists, they still managed to contain a young James to 12 points, 9 boards and as many assists to secure the victory.
Boston was led by 28 points and 8 rebounds from Kevin Garnett, and point guard Rajon Rondo added 15 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists, and guard Sam Cassell chipped in 13 from the bench.
“This was two heavyweights, just body-punching,” said Garnett via ESPN. “There was no finesse, no jabs, just an all-out, beat-down, defensive fight.”