Boston Celtics and Game 7 Have Become Synonymous: Fan’s Take

Few things rival the intensity, excitement and uncertainty of a Game 7 in professional sports. Players all dream as children for that pinnacle moment in sports, where the stakes are highest, and the slightest misstep can result in a season ending.

Whether it is the MLB, NHL, or NBA, as the playoffs progress to their respective championship round; the anticipation and pressure increases. As has become customary with the Boston Celtics, there seems to never be a time where playoff basketball comes easy. For the past five seasons, Boston has played in more playoff games than any other team. The Celtics had several dramatic moments in their march towards a 17^th, and now 18^th NBA title; beginning with the 2008 championship season, where Boston had to survive two Game 7s on their way to the championship.

The following season, the Celtics played perhaps one of the most closely contested opening rounds in playoff history, defeating the Chicago Bulls in seven games; highlighted more so by four overtime contests. Boston would be eliminated in the next round to the Orlando Magic; in seven games no less.

In 2010, a healthy Celtics team advanced back to the NBA Finals; eventually losing to hated rival Los Angeles Lakers in Game 7. The game held significant painful memories as Boston let a double-digit lead whither in the final minutes of play, losing out on a second title in three seasons. This season is no different, as Boston always seems destined to grind out each playoff series; this time playing in their second consecutive Game 7 in Miami Saturday night.

For a team that prides itself on its ability to rise to the occasion, there is no more fitting setting than Game 7 on the road. After letting a golden opportunity to advance to the NBA Finals slip through their fingers at home Thursday night, the Celtics again are faced with a do-or-die moment; this time though the end of an era may be on the line as the Big Three of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen prepare to play in perhaps their final game together.

Despite the outcome of Saturday night's contest, fans will again be treated to great drama as it unfolds; with the more senior Celtics looking to put together one final stand, vanquish the Heat, and make one final grasp for the brass ring.

As a lifelong fan of the Celtics, I always am of the belief that this team has it within themselves to pull out a win, as they did in Miami just two games prior. For whatever inexplicable reason, the intensity and stakes have to be elevated for Boston's band of brothers to play at their peak level. Game 7 is when the lights are hottest and the stakes are highest and if that is what is needed to get Boston's optimal performance, Celtics fans will be in for a treat as Saturday night approaches.

Scott Duhaime is a passionate fan of the Boston Celtics and avid follower of the NBA for over 30 years; witnessing five of Boston's 17 championships. His professional career includes a solid foundation of analytics that contributes to a better appreciation of player and team contributions.