Celtics-Lakers Rivalry is on the rise again

Ok, I admit it may be a little premature to call this series a rivalry once again after only one game.

But hey, it's time for Boston sports fans to enjoy themselves once again.

The Celtics and the Lakers once had arguably the strongest rivalry in professional sports, which began in the 1960's and ended when Larry Bird and Magic Johnson left the league.

For non- basketball fans, if you only knew two teams in the league, it was these two. Even a famous video game of the early '90s was named after the prestigious rivalry.

I want to see those "I HATE L.A." signs back on Causeway Street equal the popularity of the "Yankees Suck" slogan that has gained recognition at different events ranging from a Sox-Devil Rays game to a Patriots Super Bowl rally.

The two-time defending champion Lakers are stacked with talent, but the Celtics two stars, Antoine Walker and Paul Pierce, are playing as well as anybody in the league. Expect the Celts, to make a run at the New Jersey Nets with the addition of Tony Delk and Rodney Rodgers from the Phoenix Suns.

If this series can develop into a rivalry, it would be the best thing for the league since Michael Jordan returned to the earlier this season.

The win must have been extra special for Pierce who hails from Inglewood, California. Pierce is turning into a scoring machine for Boston and often carries the team's offensive load.

The Celtics still have a very long way to go until they can match the Lakers' recent postseason brilliance. First of all, they need to qualify for the playoffs, which they should do for the first time in the Fleet Center.

Delk should add depth at point guard, while Rodgers will give Boston some with defense and rebounding. Giving up a first-round pick should not be a problem for Boston if the team continues its successful playoff run. Who is Phoenix going to select with the 24th pick in the draft? Some high school kid.

Boston sports fans witnessed a 16-year drought, then watched in awe as the Patriots stunned the football world in January.

What could be better than a Celtics-Lakers final in June to boost NBC's ratings and spark nostalgia for NBA fans who are hibernating all around the U.S.?

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go dust off my "I HATE L.A." sign from '86.