Quick Bytes
- Lamar Odom expresses mixed feelings about Celtics’ potential 18th NBA Championship win.
- Odom harbors resentment towards Boston from the Lakers’ 2008 NBA Finals loss.
- LeBron James praises the 2024 Celtics’ offensive skills and teamwork.
Lamar Odom’s Bittersweet Sentiments on Celtics’ Success
Lamar Odom, former Los Angeles Lakers star, grapples with conflicting emotions as the Boston Celtics stand on the brink of clinching their 18th NBA Championship. Despite his respect for Celtics players Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Odom’s loyalty to the Lakers and bitter memories from the 2008 NBA Finals loss to Boston stir up feelings of disdain, particularly towards the Celtics’ fans and Paul Pierce.
Odom recalls the intense rivalry that peaked in 2010 when the Lakers, led by Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, and himself, defeated the Celtics in a seven-game series. The animosity has lingered, especially after an incident where Celtics fans blocked the Lakers’ bus, fueling Odom’s “F— Boston” vengeance. His personal aversion to Paul Pierce is evident as he finds Pierce’s joy in the Celtics’ current success unsettling.
Meanwhile, Lakers’ LeBron James has acknowledged the strength of the 2024 Celtics, attributing their success to excellent ball movement and proficient three-point shooting. James’ analysis points to a well-rounded team that has dominated the NBA season. Despite the slim chances of a Mavericks comeback, Lakers fans, including Odom, hold onto hope for a historic turnaround.