< Previous Page
The Celtics had squandered a 15-point lead. As has been the case throughout the playoffs, the Heat found its groove in the third quarter, scoring 35 points on a multitude of blazing sprints triggered by equally spectacular defense.
"You let them make a run now answer with a run," Rivers told his team in a timeout huddle.
Rondo, 26, has nine postseason triple-doubles in his career. He’s a good bet to surpass the superstar of versatility, Magic Johnson, who had 30.
"I wish we had the book on how to do it," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said of the strategy for stopping Rondo. "It was obviously an abomination in the first half."
In the second half, the Heat used Mario Chalmers less on Rondo and tried to confound Rondo with different defenders and swarming double teams. James got the initial assignment - and that resulted in Pierce beating Shane Battier for a dunk. James had defended every position during the playoffs and he might have to guard Tony Parker down the road.
But the Heat’s adjustments took their toll on Rondo, who couldn’t attack the way he had earlier. He was forced into two sloppy turnovers and failed to calm the reeling Celtics as Miami’s lead grew to eight.
"What it speaks to is his competitiveness," Spoelstra said. "Whatever that team needs, he’s able to do. Somehow we were able to withstand his incredible game."
Does Rondo have another one in him? If Boston’s Pierce, Garnett and Allen are to win another title, Rondo will have to keep playing beautiful music.
-
Salt Lake airport: Man tried to fly with gun strapped to fake leg
Published May 24, 2013 07:54:32PM -
Utah veteran cemetery improvements include a scattering garden
Published May 24, 2013 07:52:26PM -
Judge: Arizona sheriff’s office profiled Latinos
Published May 24, 2013 07:37:32PM -
Utah gaming companies stay ahead by going mobile
Published May 24, 2013 07:30:14PM
Copyright 2013 The Salt Lake Tribune. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
