A classic matchup that the NBA, ABC, and the rest of the world wanted: 
vs. 
. And once again, you came here for the preview, as I break down all the position battles.
Point Guards: Derek Fisher vs. Rajon Rondo
Derek Fisher, like Chauncey Billups in the Eastern Conference Finals, is a veteran that should control the game when things may get out of hand, and is a proven clutch player if the Lakers need him. Rondo, meanwhile, struggled through the Eastern Conference bracket, and was outplayed by his opposition (Mike Bibby, Delonte West, Chauncey Billups). He needs to establish himself offensively in this series, or the Lakers will just ignore him and load up on the big three.
Edge: Lakers
Shooting Guards: Kobe Bryant vs. Ray Allen
The NBA MVP has played like one through the Western Conference bracket, averaging 31.9 PPG, and single-handedly carrying the Lakers in many games when they were down. Ray Allen has struggled to himself, and has frankly looked washed up these playoffs for the Celtics. He needs to step it up and rediscover his shot for Boston to have a chance in this series.
Edge: Lakers
Small Forwards: Vladimir Radmanovic vs. Paul Pierce
Radmanovic is a great three point shooter and should be key when the Celtics double team Kobe Bryant. He needs to knock down open three pointers and play smart basketball for the Lakers. Paul Pierce established himself as the leader of this team during their Eastern Conference run. He was the guy the put his team on his shoulders and carried them down the stretch in many games when KG and Ray Allen weren’t hitting their shots. He needs to have that same closer mentality for the Celtics, and not depend on others to score if he’s got the hot hand
Edge: Celtics
Power Forwards: Lamar Odom vs. Kevin Garnett
Lamar Odom has had probably the best season of his career, taking a number three role to Kobe and Gasol. He plays tough and strong, but can also score if needed to down the stretch. He needs to do the little things (grab rebounds, help on defense) for the Lakers to equalize the big men on the Celtics. Kevin Garnett has been the X-factor for Boston this year, bringing toughness as well as a defensive-minded attitude about how to win. At times, he can feel reluctant to post up and settles for jump shots. He can’t do this against the Lakers. He needs to attack Pau Gasol and look to score whenever he has the ball. Because when he does that, usually good things happen.
Edge: Celtics
Centers: Pau Gasol vs. Kendrick Perkins
Gasol was the best move made during the many blockbuster trade deadline moves and has fit in nicely as Kobe’s new center. He can score in the post consistently and also is a good defender. Kendrick Perkins had a nice break-out season, joining the starting lineup with the big-3. He provides rebounding, strength, and defense. The Celtics won’t ask more of him, as his offense is inconsistent.
Edge: Lakers
Sixth Men: Luke Walton vs. James Posey
Walton is a prototype bench player. He brings many skills to the table. A decent three-point shooter, a good defender, and a great rebounder, he can help the Lakers in many ways that don’t always show up on the box score. Posey brings finals leadership to the Celtics and has been a key player off the bench in the Eastern Conference playoffs. He can shoot the three, and will also play a big role in guarding Kobe Bryant.
Edge: Celtics
Coaches: Phil Jackson vs. Doc Rivers
Phil Jackson is going for his record breaking 10th ring as a coach and is a hall of famer. Doc Rivers has had a great run coaching the big three, and led them to a league best 66-16 during the regular season.
Edge: Lakers
My prediction: win series in seven games, 4-3
Finals MVP: Kobe Bryant
Last round’s record: 1-1
Playoff record: 8-6
