2010 NBA Playoffs: The Magic Formula for a Happy Ending

With a 3-1 series deficit, the Orlando Magic are out to accomplish something only eight teams in NBA history have done. The odds against them are high but not insurmountable.

The Celtics have regained the form that won them an NBA championship two years ago. With the “Big Three” now the “The Big Four," their chances of adding another banner to the TD Garden rafters look pretty promising.

The formula the Orlando Magic used to win game four in Boston will need to be duplicated three more times in order to make this series comeback a reality.

It is pretty simple actually: stop Rajon Rondo.

The Boston Celtics go as their point guard goes. Paul Pierce has officially become the truth again, and he looks sprightly, too. Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett are doing what they're supposed to do, but holding Rajon Rondo to under double digits in points and assists is essential to the formula.

Vince Carter was absent in Boston, with 1-of-9 shooting from the floor, yet the Magic managed to win because they held Rondo in check. If they stick to the formula and inject a little more Vince into the Petri dish, it should equal joy and happiness in the Land of Disney.

If Rondo comes out focused, however, it could be a long night at Amway Arena.