James appeared tired of watching Rondo dash up and down the court, driving into the lane repeatedly for scoop shots or flip passes to open teammates. The Cavaliers were favored to win this series in either five or six games and their inconsistent effort — quite reminiscent of the Celtics in the regular season — is cause for concern.
Brown’s postgame comments following Game 2 had an effect on his team for one game. On Sunday, after taking a 7-0 lead, the Cavaliers were knocked on their heels by the Celtics, who controlled most of the next three quarters. And it’s not like the Celtics have received above-average contributions from their roster.
Paul Pierce has been shoddy at best. Kevin Garnett has been steady but not spectacular. Ray Allen is shooting 41 percent, 26 percent from the 3-point line. Rondo has been the catalyst and seemingly, the Cavaliers realize at least one of the Big Three is primed for a standout game.
Brown didn’t promise that James would check Rondo the entire game, but at this juncture, he is open to suggestions because one more loss puts the Celtics in control.
“We’ve got to keep trying to put different people on him,’’ Brown said yesterday. “[Anthony Parker] guarded him some, Mo [Williams] guarded him some, [Jamario] Moon guarded him a few plays. Delonte [West] guarded him some. We’re going to give LeBron an opportunity.’’
Although Pierce has hardly frightened the Cavaliers in the series — 11.8 points per game, 32 percent shooting, 22 percent 3-point shooting — Brown does not want to create another mismatch by using the 6-9 James against Rondo. The Cavaliers don’t have anybody to guard Pierce with the physicality James has. Pierce could post up West, Moon, or Parker and get off to a fast start.
The Celtics were 20-9 in the regular season when Pierce scored 20 or more points, 2-0 in the postseason. Brown is afraid trying to stop Rondo will simply spring Pierce.
