The Lakers lost to the Celtics in the NBA Finals two seasons ago, something that is undoubtedly fresh on the mind of superstar Kobe Bryant.

Right after Los Angeles eliminated Phoenix to stamp their ticket to the Finals, and another matchup with Boston, Bryant said that the opponent didn't matter.

Regardless, the future Hall of Famer is looking forward to the challenge.

"Just looking forward to the challenge of it," Bryant said.

"Last time we played them, it was a great learning experience for us. It taught us what it takes to be a champion. With the defensive intensity they play with, the tenacity they play with, we learned a great deal in that series."