Lakers & Celtics: The Series That Means More Than Everything

Through this single series legacies will be cemented or destroyed, a rivalry may or may not still be considered much of a rivalry, and one man may or may not be one step closer to his goal of becoming the best player to ever lace up his sneakers. Just take a moment to consider everything that is on the line between over the next two weeks.

First, the ultimate championship trophy count. If Boston is able to win again and push their total to 18 the Lakers are still at least five years from catching or surpassing them. However, if Los Angeles hangs up banner 16 they are only a year away from tying up a Celtics team that never thought their titles would be matched. This is clearly the main storyline entering the series, as both players and fans alike brace themselves for the ultimate bragging rights showdown.

Next, the rubber match factor. These are the two championship teams from the past two years. One team will be on the fast track to a dynasty while the other is left wondering why they could only sneak one trophy out of three championship-caliber years. The fact that the teams played each other in 2008 brings even more drama to the table, as the Celtics have the confidence of knowing they have done it before and the Lakers are looking to extract a thick measure of revenge.

Next: More than just the best team…