Leon Powe underlined his dramatic turn around in fortunes by coming off the bench to inspire the Boston Celtics to a 108-102 victory over the LA Lakers in the second match of the NBA Finals on Sunday.

The 24-year-old reserve forward looked to be on his way out of the league only a few months ago, however he landed 21 points - including a spectacular slam dunk in the final minutes - to help the Celts open up a 2-0 lead in the series.

NBA Most Valuable Player Kobe Bryant also scored 30 points, but Powe hit 6-of-7 shots from the field and 9-of-13 from the free throw line to complete a memorable night.

"It has been an unbelievable experience. I really can't explain it," Powe said.

"Three or four months ago I was close to being out of this league and shutting the door for good.

"I'm just happy to be part of this whole experience because it has been a long journey for me."

While Powe could celebrate, Lakers coach Phil Jackson was left fuming with the performance of the referees in Massachusetts.

Jackson, a nine-time NBA champion, was angered by the fact Boston were awarded 38 free throws to only 10 for the Lakers.

"I'm more struck at the fact that Leon Powe gets more foul shots in 14 minutes of play than our whole team does," Jackson said.

"That's ridiculous. You can't play from a deficit like that, 19-2 in the first half.

"I've never seen a game like that in all these years I've coached in the finals - unbelievable.

"My guys got fouled but didn't get to the line."

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