Game Six, a possible elimination game in the Celtic-Lakers series, will be played in Boston. The key Lakers player may be Lamar Odom. Over the last two games, the Celtics have been able to contain Kobe Bryant. The Celtics have limited him to an average of twenty one points over Games Four and Five. The Lakers simply need scoring and rebounding from Lamar Odom.

This may be the defining game for Lamar Odom. His performance over these playoffs have been characterized by inconsistence and foul problems. A poor performance tonight from Lamar Odom may mean the end of the Lakers season.

Being the primary option for the Lakers has not been a comfortable role for Lamar Odom. It seems that he would rather rebound and make assists than be a primary scorer. However, the Celtics defense has been focused on keeping Kobe Bryant on the perimeter and away from the basket. The inside presence of Pau Gasol has the attention of Kevin Garnett. So the offensive responsibilities and pressure fall on Lamar Odom.

It is not a matter of physical ability with Lamar Odom. There have been stretches during this post-season where Lamar Odom has been the dominant player on the court. There have also been segments where Lamar Odom seems to disappear. Can the Lakers solve the mystery and coax out the dominant Lamar Odom? If that Lamar Odom does not show up for Game Six, the Lakers may have the rest of the summer to ponder what might have been.

Catherine Forsythe