Can This Man Keep Up with Rondo?

Meet 34-year old Anthony Johnson, Magic starting point guard for tonight's pivotal Game 3. I think it's safe to say Rajon Rondo poses a major match-up problem.

Rondo is coming off an 18 assist performance in which he got into the paint at will with Rafer Alston covering him. What are the chances Johnson can stay in front of Rondo?

On defense, Rondo should harass Johnson the moment he takes the ball. Make those 34-year old legs work every possession.

Please Rajon, no spicy food before tonight's game. You have the chance to have a(nother) career night.

It looks as though Courtney Lee (fractured sinus cavity) will return for the Magic. Why is this a good thing? Because he'll take minutes from J.J. Redick who has played damn well on both sides of the ball in this series.

Steve Bulpett examines the Dwight Howard vs Kendrick Perkins matchup:

If you want to get personal, Howard is averaging 14 points and 17 rebounds and shooting 44 percent. Perkins is averaging 11 points and 12.5 rebounds and is hitting 52.6 percent from the floor. And if the board discrepancy bugs you, know that the Celts have 14 more in the series (seven each game).

Also, it should be pointed out that the NBA’s regular-season leader in blocked shots has three swats in the series. Perkins has five.

Marc Spears writes about Adam Jones, a kid who fell on tough times and found a new life with Doc Rivers' family.

Today's Links: Globe - Alston Out, Lee Could Return | Managing More with Lot Less | Herald - Alston Hits Street for Game 3 | Foes Find Pest in Eddie House | Orl. Sentinel - Magic Tall Task Even Tougher | Cavs Destroy Hawks, Joe Johnson Hurt | Pitino Wants to Cripple Another NBA Franchise