Plane delay, Allen's issues add to weary Celtics woes ahead of NBA game

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

BOSTON, Massachusetts (AFP) — Airplane mechanical problems delayed the Boston Celtics' flight home for more than five hours Monday, adding to the worries as they prepared to play for a National Basketball Association title.

The Celtics, who lead the Los Angeles Lakers 3-2 in the best-of-seven NBA Finals entering game six here Tuesday, were stuck at Los Angeles International Airport until new planes could be secured for players and families.

The difficulties pushed back the team's cross-country flight and their arrival in Boston came less than 24 hours before players were to step on the court against the Lakers in the biggest game of their careers.

"It could come down to a game of mental toughness, who fights to fatigue mentally better than the other group,"...