Magic 113, Celtics 92 (Celtics lead 3-2)

To be totally honest, I am not surprised that the Magic, at home, came out focused to take Game 5 of this series. Dwight Howard looked ready to go as he scored 21 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and blocked 5 shots.  The real key to this game was Jameer Nelson.  Nelson gave the Celtics a dose of their own medicine as he did his best impression of Rajon Rondo.  He cut his way into the defense finding his teammates for wide open threes.  Nelson led the Magic with 24 points while hitting four of his five shots from three.

The Celtics were led by Rasheed Wallace (21 points), and we all know when that happens it is not a good sign for the Celtics.  Now normally I would say that this game does not mean anything because the series is going back to Boston.  Boston is still up three games to two and have all the advantage playing at home.  

During this game however, Kendrick Perkins picked up two technical fouls, giving him seven for the playoffs.  This means he will have to sit out Game 6, which would be a huge momentum shift for the Orlando Magic.  The NBA says they are going to look at both technicals before issuing a suspension and I feel they will rescind one which would allow Perkins to play.  Along with Perkins’ troubles, Glenn Davis received a concussion during the game.  Davis tried to get up after getting hit in the face, but could not keep his balance.  He blacked out and depending on what the doctors say Davis may not be available Game 6.  All of a sudden this series has become very interesting.

If you missed this game here is what you need to know after Game 5:

1.  If no Perkins or Davis, the C’s are in trouble. The Celtics season may depend on the NBA’s ruling for Kenrick Perkins.  If he cannot play Game 6, who is going to attempt to stop Dwight Howard.  Also if Davis is unable to go (concussion), their bench will be shortened big time.

2. Dwight Howard is focused. This dude is on a mission.  I’m telling you this now, if this goes seven games Dwight Howard will find a way to win it.

3. Like I said Jameer Nelson is the key. Nelson is Rondo’ing the Celtics except that also has a lethal shot.  In the Magic’s two wins Nelson has scored over twenty points both times and is shooting over 60% from three.  If the Celtics cannot stop him from driving and finding people wide open from three they are in trouble.

-JB