(NECN: Boston, Mass.) - The Boston Celtics took its first lead of the NBA Finals with a 92-86 Game 5 win over the Los Angeles Lakers.
Leading the series 3-2, Boston must win one game on the road to claim its second NBA Championship in three years.
In Boston's previous wins, Ray Allen and the bench were the story behind the victories, respectively. But team play on both end of the court proved the successful theme in Game 5.
Paul Pierce led the Celtics with 27 points, but was helped by a balanced attack from most of the starting five. Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo added 18 points apiece, with Ray Allen chipping in 12.
This team-oriented attack proved too much for L.A.'s offense, of which Kobe Bryant was the focal point. He scored a game-high 38 points, but has a 3-2 series deficit to show for it.
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Game 6 is scheduled for Tuesday night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
