Derrick Rose

Mostly everyone was determined that Derrick Rose would wilt under the immense pressure of playing in his first playoff game, especially against the defending champion Boston Celtics.  But Rose did just the opposite.  He defied all odds and led him team to the Game 1 upset, while tying Kareem Abdul Jabbar for most points by a rookie in their first playoff game with 36 points.  He also backed that up with 11 dimes.

The Boston Celtics

The Celtics are just the opposite of Rose.  They have been underachieving this postseason.  They have allowed the 7th seeded Bulls to win in Boston, while also being tied in the series, 2-2.  The main reason for Boston's struggles are their numerous injuries.  Leon Powe, and more importantly, Kevin Garnett are both said to be out for the entire playoffs.  Without their two best power fowards, the Celtics are lost.  Their once spectacular defense is now average.  Although they did blow out the Bulls in Game 3, 107-86, they are not playing like a #2 seed should.

Rajon Rondo

Rondo has been playing out of his mind this postseason.  He is averaging a triple-double through the first 4 games of this series.  It is safe to say that Rajon Rondo has been the Celtics best player this series, which is incredible considering that he is teammates with future hall of famers, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce.  Most likely Rondo won't be able to keep up this torrid pace, but he has already cemented himself has one of the elite point guards in the league.

To see the rest, please go to my website

http://thebasketballoracle.wordpress.com/2009/04/26/biggest-surprises-of-the-playoffs-so-far/