This Day in Lakers History: Paul Pierce’s Wheelchair Return Headlines 2008 NBA Finals Opener
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Los Angeles, June 5, 2008 — A dramatic scene unfolded at TD Garden when Boston Celtics forward Paul Pierce left Game 1 of the 2008 NBA Finals in a wheelchair, only to return less than two minutes later and spark a victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Celtics and Lakers were meeting in the championship round for the first time since the 1980s. Boston, owner of the league’s best regular-season record, opened the series at home with its newly formed “Big Three” of Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. Los Angeles entered the Finals after a midseason trade for Pau Gasol propelled the club to the top of the Western Conference.
Injury Scare Turns Into Heroic Return
With 6:49 remaining in the third quarter, Pierce collided with teammate Kendrick Perkins and grabbed his right knee while lying on the court. He was lifted into a wheelchair and taken to the locker room, casting immediate doubt on Boston’s title hopes.
Moments later, Pierce re-emerged wearing a protective sleeve on the knee. The 10-time All-Star electrified the crowd by sinking back-to-back three-pointers in a 22-second span, helping Boston secure a 98-88 win and a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Celtics Capture 17th Championship
Boston went on to defeat Los Angeles in six games, claiming the franchise’s 17th NBA championship. Pierce averaged 21.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 6.3 assists across the series, earning NBA Finals MVP honors.
Legacy of the Wheelchair Moment
Pierce later said he heard a “pop” in his knee, yet he showed no lingering effects during the remainder of the Finals. The incident remained a talking point around the league; former Lakers head athletic trainer Gary Vitti recently recalled Kobe Bryant referencing Pierce’s wheelchair exit after Bryant ruptured his Achilles in 2013. Bryant, who stayed on the floor to make two free throws before walking off unaided, reminded observers, “I’m not Paul Pierce.”
The 2008 opener endures as one of the most memorable chapters in the storied Celtics-Lakers rivalry, defined by Pierce’s brief but unforgettable trip to the locker room and his rapid, game-changing comeback.
Source: LakersNation.com
