Rondo, KG lead the way: Celtics 97, Heat 81

Posted by Mike Salvucci on May 7, 2011 2025460 commentshttp%3A%2F%2Fcelticshub.com%2F2011%2F05%2F07%2Frondo-kg-lead-the-way-celtics-97-heat-81%2FRondo%2C+KG+lead+the+way%3A+Celtics+97%2C+Heat+812011-05-08+03%3A35%3A53Mike+Salvuccihttp%3A%2F%2Fcelticshub.com%2F%3Fp%3D20254

ESPN Box Score

If there was ever a single game to define Rajon Rondo, I think tonight was that game.

As a Celtics’ fan, you couldn’t help but be frustrated with Rondo during the first half. The Heat continued to expose the weaknesses in his game, and he seemed to be invisible for certain stretches of play.

But then Rondo reminded us all why we love him. Sure, common sense would tell you to sit a player with a dislocated elbow for the last few minutes of a blow-out victory. Heck, you could have made a legitimate argument that Delonte West, who had a very solid game for the C’s, should have played over the one-armed Rondo for the entire 4th quarter.

But Rondo wasn’t coming out of that game. His teammates were energized by him. The crowd was energized by him. And now the Celtics are feeling much better about themselves.

However, as inspiring as Rondo’s effort was, let’s not overlook the true star of Game 3. That would be Kevin Garnett, who was absolutely sensational on both ends of the floor.

Not only did KG put up 28 points and 18 rebounds, but he completely owned Chris Bosh in every possible way. He also poured in 14 points in the 3rd quarter, when the C’s outscored Miami 28-15 and never looked back.

Other quick notes:

• Paul Pierce: 27 points on 5-7 3-point shooting, including 8 points in the first few minutes of the game that really jump-started the C’s tonight
• Only 11 minutes for Glen Davis, but 21 for Jeff Green. Has Doc finally seen enough?
• Jermaine O’Neal had 2 points and 4 rebounds, while counterpart Joel Anthony had 12 points and 11 boards off the bench. But I still love the way JO is making his presence known on defense.