NBA Playoffs 2012: Paul Pierce Must Improve for Celtics to Win Game Three

The Boston Celtics cannot rely on another virtuoso performance from Rajon Rondo, especially as a 44-point night from their point guard isn't enough to beat the Miami Heat. 

If they're to get back into this Eastern Conference Finals, they need Paul Pierce, their steadiest scorer during the regular season, to elevate his game to new heights. 

The Celtics need Game 3, and playing at home could give them a much-needed boost after a draining overtime loss in Game 2. 

Pierce scored 21 on Wednesday night, but he fouled out late and was therefore unavailable for the deciding extra session. He was even more ineffective in Game 1, shooting 5-of-18 for 12 points. 

He has to be better. 

Rondo was spectacular for Boston, pouring in a career-high 44-points along with ten assists and eight rebounds. 

While scoring improvement from their point guard will certainly be welcomed by the C's, Pierce needs to be the primary scorer taking the most shots and getting to the free-throw line on a more frequent basis.

The Heat's size and athletic talents present a challenge for the laterally slower Pierce, but in the past he's found a way to be the unquestioned leader on the offensive end and put the the ball in the hoop.  

Nothing against his stunning Game 2 effort, but Rondo best serves the team as the offensive catalyst, finding open players in half-court sets and in the open floor, with Pierce being one of his favorite targets. 

A more balanced attack from Boston, with Pierce leading the way and Rondo handing out more than 10 assists will lead to the Celtics being more competitive and will give them a much better shot to emerge victorious in a Game 3 they absolutely must have. 

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