Conference Finals

After a combined 5-0 start for the Lakers and Celtics it was looking as though the NBA Conference Finals were nothing more than a formality in reuniting the 2007-08 Finals that went to the Celtics. The Suns' inability to stop the Lakers was matched only by Orlando's ineptitude on the offensive end against a stifling Boston defense. Now with the series at 2-2 in the West and 3-2 Boston in the East, it's looking like a whole new series.

Orlando has taken the last two from Boston and in the process of dominating Game 5, took some key Celtics' players out of the game. With a pair of technical fouls Kendrick Perkins was ejected from Game 5 and would have faced suspension in Game 6, but after one was rescinded today by the league, he is eligible to suit up. While we know Perkins will be in the lineup when the series resumes this weekend, the same can't be said for Glen "Big Baby" Davis and Marquis Daniels just yet. Both suffered concussions during Game 5 and along with Rasheed Wallace (back), could be limited in Game 6.

For the Suns tonight's game in Los Angeles will be the story of the series. The Lakers are 18-0 all time in Game 5s at home when tied 2-2 and coach Phil Jackson knows just how important this game will be. Kobe Bryant wasn't shy in calling out his teammates after a disappointing loss in Game 4 where the Lakers inexplicably forgot how to defend.

Despite a resurgence by both Orlando and Phoenix, I would be surprised if we don't see a rematch of the '08 finals. Look for Kobe and the Lakers to come out and make a statement in Game 5 tonight and Boston to buckle down and close things out in The Garden this weekend.