Big Baby to Big Time: What Boston’s Glen Davis achieved winning game five

Breaking news mixed with analysis …

Their News: "Glen Davis’ jumper from the left wing as the clock ran out in the fourth was the difference, as the Boston Celtics edged the Orlando Magic, 95-94, in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference semifinal matchup." (The Sports Network)

Our Very Quick Analysis: What would Kevin Garnett say?

In a game earlier this season, Garnett yelled at Glen Davis for ‘slacking’ and allowing the opposition to close the lead. Davis, who for years has had the nickname ‘Big Baby’, burst into tears.

Tonight, there are perhaps tears of joy. The second-year man nailed two clutch jump shots, including the game winner to give Boston a game four victory and even their playoff series with Orlando 2-2.

With his fine play on Sunday evening, Davis accomplished three things.

First, the green-and-white has momentum heading into game five. Instead of being down 3-1 against a strong Magic side, the Celtics are feeling good about their chances in what is now a best of three series. As defending champs, they have experience in pressure-packed situations.

Second, Davis has again solidified his status as a legit NBA player. Since filling in for the injured Garnett, the LSU grad has posted double-figure points and six rebounds. Through 11 playoff games, Davis has bumped his scoring average to 16, while collecting a respectable six boards per night.

Third, game five showed Davis has considerable upside, which will fetch him a significant raise in the free agent market this July. As a second round pick in the 2007 Draft, he inked a two-year deal for the league minimum. The forward’s silky stroke, footwork, and basketball IQ has surely peaked the interest of several teams.

Who knows what Garnett said after watching Davis win game four? The sidelined superstar likely realized one thing: Big Baby is suddenly big time. 

What are your thoughts on Davis’ play? Is the Big Baby now big time? Get at us in the comment box below and return to HoopsVibe The Blog for more NBA tidbits. Photo courtesy of juanc.paulino.