Andrew Bynum and Kendrick Perkins challenge for the opening tip at the start of Game 3 in Boston.

Kobe Bryant drives past Ray Allen early in the first quarter of Game 3. 

Bryant had 29 points from 29 shots, 7 rebounds and four assists.

Pau Gasol had 13 points, 4 assists & 10 rebounds which includes 2 offensive.

"We didn't doubt our ability to win here, even though we hadn't done it in the playoffs," Derek Fisher said. "We understand that in order to be the best, you have to win wherever, whenever."

Derek Fisher, criticized so often for his age and difficulties guarding younger, faster point guards. With a little leeway from the officials -- it was an ugly, physical, foul-ridden game throughout -- Fisher was able to put his body on Ray Allen's as he chased him through screens, riding his hip and taking out the shooter's legs. 

Allen, after setting an NBA record for threes in a Finals game with eight in Game 2, shot 0-for-13.

"Ray Allen's not going to miss all of his shots, Thursday night, that's not going to happen," Fisher made sure to mention.

Fisher's defense was terrific, but his offense saved the day, as he scored 11 of his 16 in the final quarter. With the Lakers' having apparently abandoned all ball movement, Fisher made a number of contested shots, including a coast-to-coast layup for a three-point play in the final minute that gave L.A. a seven-point lead and the game.

"Derek Fisher was the difference in the game," Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. "He's just a gutty, gritty player. Fisher basically took the game over."

 Rajon Rondo fires up the home crowd during the first-half of Game 3.

 Rondo had 11 points, 8 assists & 2 steals.

 Boston's Kevin Garnett smothers Kobe Bryant late in the third quarter.

Garnett had 11-16 for team-high 25 points, 3 assists & 6 rebounds which includes 2 offensive.

Paul Pierce drives past Ron Artest during Game 3 in the NBA Finals. 

Pierce had 15 points, 2 rebounds & two assists.

It's 2-1 Lakers now, but it doesn't quite feel like anyone has taken over. Each team has had its fair share of brilliant and boorish stretches, and Boston has been in this position before -- in these very playoffs.

In the second round, Boston split a pair in Cleveland before the Cavaliers handed the Celtics their worst home-playoff loss in franchise history in Game 3. The Celtics proceeded to win the next three games and advance.