Kobe's Lakers Return to NBA Finals

San Antonio fought the LA and the LA won. The Lakers are headed back to the NBA Finals for their first appearance since 2004. On Thursday night, Kobe put in 39 points to help lead the squad to the promised land. The reigning MVP was all smiles as Jerry West praised the team and especially Kobe for his work ethic. The Lakers were up 5 points with about a minute to go. Despite a Radmonovic missed 3 pointer, Pau Gasol pulled down a huge offensive rebound. Kobe drove and was fouled, and then the MVP cooly knocked down both free throws to push it back to 7. A last second 3 was hit by the Lakers, which isn't always in good taste, but gave them the 100-92 win. Tim Duncan had a near triple double in the loss. Now 2008 will see a new NBA champion, as the defending Spurs have been eliminated.

There is of course that non-call two games ago that looms over the heads of the NBA and both teams, but take nothing away from the Lakers who've been on a roll this postseason. The addition of Gasol is definitely paying dividends, as they've continued to excel despite Andrew Bynum's injury. TNT analyst Doug Collins added that bringing Fisher back to the point guard spot, and moving Odom to the #3 scorer also helped this Lakers team excel. You could see the jubilation in the Staples Center as Showtime is set to return to the NBA Finals. Should the Celtics make the Finals as well, it will make for one nostalgic rivalry reborn, something great for the NBA and its fans.

In another quick note, TNT analyst Doug Collins will most likely leave his broadcast spot to become the head coach of the Chicago Bulls for his second time. Best of luck to Doug who's always done a great job calling the games for TNT.