The Legendary Showdown: Lakers vs Celtics NBA Finals of 1984

The 1984 NBA Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics is considered one of the most epic showdowns in basketball history. This seven-game series was a constant battle between two of the greatest basketball teams of all time. The Celtics had the home court advantage and had won six championships in the prior decade. The Lakers, who had a stacked lineup featuring Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, were eager to take home the championship trophy.

Game 4 was a pivotal game in the series. The Lakers led the series 2-1, and the Celtics were looking to tie it up. The game was played at the Boston Garden, packed to the rafters with screaming fans. The tension was palpable from the start.

The game was a thriller from start to finish, with both teams trading baskets and matching each other point for point. The lead changed numerous times throughout the game, with neither team able to pull away. Magic Johnson was putting on a masterclass, dancing through the Celtics defense and finishing with incredible layups, while Larry Bird was hitting his signature long-range shots.

With seconds left in the game, the Lakers were down by one point. Magic drove to the basket and kicked the ball out to Michael Cooper, who hit an incredible three-pointer to give the Lakers a two-point lead. The Celtics had one last chance to tie it up, but Bird missed the shot, and the Lakers won the game.

That game was a timeless classic and a testament to the grit and skill of both teams. The rivalry between the Lakers and Celtics continues to this day, with new generations of players stepping up to carry the torch. But for fans of basketball history, that Game 4 of the 1984 NBA Finals will forever be etched in our memories as one of the greatest games ever played.