Rajon Rondo's performance in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Cavaliers was exactly what the Celtics needed... and then some. He led all players with 29 points, 18 rebounds and 13 assists, and led the Celtics to a 97-87 victory in what everyone acknowledges was a must-win game.
Paul Pierce hasn't really gotten things started yet this series, only averaging 11.8 points per game. A lot of people are attributing that to fatigue, since he's defending LeBron James, arguably the best player on the planet. Also, James is guarding Pierce, and that might have something to do with it.
That's where Rondo's performance might really be the turning point in this series. After Rondo's epic performance, the whispers are that James might guard Rondo in Game 5.
“I would love to [guard Rondo]. It’s something that we maybe should explore, because Rondo is definitely dominating this series at the point guard position. For me, I don’t have a problem taking Rondo or guarding Rondo throughout the course of the game. If the coaching staff or the guys want me to do it, I will.”While that might put a damper on Rondo's numbers, it would do wonders for guys like Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett, who would no longer have to worry about Rondo guarding them, and/or patrolling the paint picking up rebounds and blocking shots.
Pierce has shown an ability to run the point in the past, and realistically the Celtics could take LeBron out of the game altogether by virtually removing Rondo from the offense. A rejuvenated Pierce would more than make up for it.
No matter what happens from this point, the fact is clear: Rajon Rondo is an elite point guard who steps up in big games.
Rondo in the regular season: 10.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 6.8 apg
Rondo in the playoffs: 13.5 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 8.4 apg
Playoff numbers AFTER his rookie season: 17.3 ppg, 8.7 rpg, 10.4 apg
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