Maybe we should ask Mick Jagger
Is time on their side?
We've been posting a lot of links previewing the '05-06 Lakers. Most cover the same issues. Can Kobe and Lamar learn to play together? The bench isn't all that deep. What's in store for Kwame? Can Phil make lemonade out of, if not lemons, a generic powdered mix? Even believers- and there aren't many- concede that it'll be a little while before the Lakers find their groove. It's understandable, considering how difficult it can be to integrate new faces into a new offense (even one some of the team has seen before). These things take time. But here's the question.
Do they have it?
The Suns were far and away the best team in the Pacific last season. But after losing Amare Stoudemire until the All-Star game (at least), the balance of the division could shift dramatically. Nash and Marion will cause fits, but 40+ games without their man-child drastically shrinks the gap between Phoenix and the rest of the field. And among the remaining teams, there's no runaway favorite. The Kings have a strong starting five and should fare best, but they hardly seem dominant, especially on the defensive end. The Warriors finished last season strong, and actually have some daring to think "playoffs." But they're just a Baron Davis injury (the safest bet in sports outside of a Ravens-Bears "under") away from the same team that's been summering early since '94. Until they prove otherwise, you have to assume the Clips will figure out a way to screw things up. That's what they do. So it's possible (we're dealing in hypotheticals, here) that with a fast start, the Lakers could build a cushion to soften the blow of a probable late season Phoenix run when Stoudamire returns. But given the time typically needed to for newbies to learn the triangle and a roster that's hardly overpowering, it's hard to imagine them coming out with both barrels blazing. For the sake of argument, though, let's assume everything goes "best case scenario" for the Purple and Gold, and the team is competitive.
Obviously, in any season, every win counts. But given the circumstances, is it imperative that the Lakers get off to a hot start, or has the face of the Pacific changed so much that they can afford some losses early on without it automatically relegating them to the lottery? Does Stoudamire's injury mean they have to get out quick to try and hold a lead, or does the Pacific's relative parity mean fans can relax those first three weeks, even if the team starts slow? How much can they realistically expect to improve over the course of the season?
Thoughts?
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I have to agree a fast start to the season can only help us at the end of the season. With Amare out for Phoenix, the playing field is level. But the key factor for the Lakers is staying healthy so they can finish the season atleast at lukewarm and not Iceberg cold like last season.
Posted by: KC | October 26, 2005 at 12:06 AM
Starting fast in the beginning of the Season is the key factor if we play Defense like we did with the Jazz we will be in good shape we need more productive Offence from Kwame and Odom. so far Parker has been a solid player hopefully it carries over in the Regular Season.
Phil Jackson has a huge challenge ahead of him he knows it we all know it and specialy the Laker players know it it's only up to them to play determined we will make the Playoffs there is no question about it you know why? 2 words " Phil Jackson ".
Posted by: Jack F | October 26, 2005 at 12:24 AM
A believer chiming in. Everyone seems to be be looking at the modest improvements to the team that won 34 games last year. But nobody it seems remembers that they were above .500 last year when Odom went down and then won only two more games the remainder of the season. So, basically they were an eight seed last year if he hadn't gotten hurt (and let's not forget that Kobe missed a bunch of games with that sprained ankle). And they were hugely in flux: not only did they lose Shaq, Payton got dealt, Malone got hurt, ditto Devean George, Fox retired and Fisher took the money and ran. Tell me right now, who would you rather have: Chucky "The Sieve" Atkins or Smush Parker? A legit PF in Brown (who looks like a potential rebounding horse although a bit limited on offense) or Odom playing out of position? (Okay, Odom's still out of position, I'll grant you that.) Speaking of Atkins, said last year that the Lakers NEVER worked on defense during practice the ENTIRE SEASON (one thing about Atkins, probably his only asset IMHO, he was pretty candid with the media, and gave Laker fans a decent idea of what was going on). If you have Mihm knowing how to play defense, maybe he doesn't pick up his third foul midway through the 2nd quarter every game this season. Kobe is going to be the MVP this year and we have Phil back who, compared to Rudy T and Hamblen--who were both very substandard IMHO--is an upgrade of at least four games.
Tonight's W proved little. Utah stinks and was without Boozer. But the Lakers are going to be a good team, a lock to make the playoffs whether they start hot or not. The Pacific is very soft at least until February and the Lakers could actually steal the division. At very least they'll finish 3rd behind Seattle and Phoenix. (I might think differently if Livingston was starting the season healthy, but that's the Clips for you in a nutshell.) Good night now!
Posted by: Eric Bauer | October 26, 2005 at 01:31 AM
I agree with you, I feel that the Pacific is fairly week this year. The Kings do have a seemingly nice team on paper, but lets not forget they are essentially brand new. We all are pretty aware that they are no longer the cohesive unit of old regardless. With Amare out the Suns are seriously hindered for some time now which leaves the door wide open.
The Clippers and Warriors love high expectations pre-season and then crushing all the hopefuls dreams. Its pretty much their job. So my question is as well, why not? I know it's the pre-season but every game I see, the purple and gold look better and better. Everyone is quick to count them out because they are no longer the dominating force of the league, but surely they can sneak in to win this hurting division.
Posted by: Ryan D. | October 26, 2005 at 02:04 AM
Though I agree that they need to get a fast start, I don't really think it will happen. The majority of these players are still learning the system, not to mention the roster isn't exactly grade A. It will take a while, but hopefully they can stay at .500 or above for the first month, and then we'll see what happens.
I totally agree with what was said about the Pacific Division, with Amare out, there really isn't anyone out there that the Lakers should fear...not one bit. I just think they should attempt to get a legit pg sometime soon and a 3pt. shooter to really get something going.
If there are no major injuries, then they should be pretty good...and we'll have to live with that for now.
Posted by: Edward | October 26, 2005 at 06:48 AM
I think the most important thing for these Lakers is execution. If they execute the system and lose. It's a serviceable loss. Even if they go 5-10 (hopefully, they don't do that) executing the system is what will save them in any kind of playoff run. The system must be mastered.
That being said, a 10-5 start would be worth noticing.
Posted by: 1979 | October 26, 2005 at 07:24 AM
The key to Laker sucess this season is Lamar Odom.
He has got to stay aggressive and stop melting into the background!
The secondary key is getting a starting point guard who can help us out NOW.
I'm jonesing for some exciting Laker basketball and have been counting the days all summer long......
Posted by: Kimmie | October 26, 2005 at 08:21 AM
I want to believe that the Lakers will do good this season but the reality is that their roster isn't that good. When you think about it it's kind of embarrasing what the roster looks like. We kinda of know what Kobe and Lamar can do but to put our hopes on George ,Brown,Mihms and who ever else wears a Laker uniform this days is just a sad. Laker fans don't hope for a spot in the playoffs. for a $400.00 seat(in a ok spot at staples) we expect to be a contender. Besides we have that Playoff hope reserve on a yearly basis all ready for Clppers.
Posted by: Rick Marr | October 26, 2005 at 08:31 AM
I guess everyone who commented drank the Kool-Aid. I am a die hard Laker fan and remain optimistic, but this roster is extremely thin. Let's present a hypothetical question here. As far-fetched as this might be, let's say Chris Mihm picks up his second foul 3 minutes into the game. Who is the first big off the bench? Anyone? Anyone? Correct me if I'm wrong, but wouldn't it be Slava? If that is the correct answer, we're in for a long year (unless Kobe averages 40, 15, and 12).
Posted by: Andrew | October 26, 2005 at 08:39 AM
The Suns are NOT looking strong. Q and JJ have the ability to shoot (and make ) quickly, which their new players do NOT. This means fewer points and fewer possessions during a game - which is what gave them rhythm and wins last year. Additionally, they have NO size without Amare. Look for Marion to score about 8 pts more per game w/ Amare out, though, since Nash is only going to find him in the places he wants a player.
So far, it seems like Phil has his most receptive players ever in the NBA. That is going to be worth a lot of wins down the stretch.
If Shareef's knee holds up, the Kings are going to be quite good, much better than expected.
Finally, the Oakland (yes, OAKLAND) Warriors will carry the torch of entertainment. Lets hope the TV stations readjust their schedule to get those guys on the national wavelength.
Posted by: pibor | October 26, 2005 at 09:00 AM
I CAN'T BELIVE THERE ARE SO MANY SO CALL FANS THAT DON'T HAVE A CLUE ABOUT BASKETBALL. WHEN THE LAKERS FINISH IN 1 OR 2 AND GO DEEP IN THE PLAYOFFS, EVERYONE WILL BE JUMPING AND WAVING FLAGS.IT'S ABOUT TIME PHIL GET UP AND DO SOME COACHING, HE WAS OUT COACHED BY BROWN. I DON'T KNOW IF HE WAS BURN OUT? IN GAME SITURATIONS YOU SHOULD REINFORCE WHAT YOU WORKED ON IN PRATICED.
Posted by: FRED CRESSEL | October 26, 2005 at 09:37 AM
I have to agree that a fast start will really help the team,but i really concern about Lamar Odom unability to scores, his averaging less than 10 shots a game and that`s puting a lot pressure on Kobe to scores points and I beleive he supose to be the second options, that will burn up Kobe around the end the regular season and that lead me to ask this question is he afraid of misses shot or just can take more than 10 a shots a game?
Posted by: Rock | October 26, 2005 at 10:03 AM
I just saw that the lakers trade Jones for a second round pick. Do you think they will trade the second round pick in a package deal for anthore guard or big man? Would be intersting to see if they do.
Posted by: Steve | October 26, 2005 at 03:59 PM
Andrew: Regarding drinking the Kool Aide. Duh, yes of course we are willing to buy into this Laker team. Laker Fans! On paper, this team isn't really that different than the Pistons who beat out the Bloated 04 Lakers. Billups, Prince and Wallace rose to the occasion Payton, Kobe and Shaq choked (Mailman was used up by the finals, thanks to KG). Which threesome looks better on paper? Times up. And they were only winners because the drank Larry Brown's Kool Aide. If you recall, Brown was schooled by the triangle in 2000 finals. This time he was ready for the triangle and the turmoil.
Posted by: 1979 | October 26, 2005 at 05:07 PM
Fred, Not sure what part is clueless. But, it's just a silly thing to say. When the Lakers had 4 hall of famers starting, everyone just waited for the playoffs to roll around. Now that they have only 1, they might have to actually play the season. But, you have to be realistic too. It could turn out bad. Lakers have some question marks. But, so did the 91 Bulls. John Paxson, Bill Wedman actually started on three championship teams. Before they won noone was praising their awesome talent. And noone is praising this Laker team. They will have to prove themselves...then we can all jump up and down waving our flags.
Posted by: 1979 | October 26, 2005 at 05:13 PM
Heads Up: When Amarie rejoins the suns it will not be easy for him jump in. He has the same injury that Webber is just now getting over.
Posted by: 1979 | October 26, 2005 at 05:17 PM
It's true that the Laker's roster is thin, but look at the rest of their division. They would have made the playoffs last year if it wasn't for injuries, and as long as they don't have any this year, they can make some serious noise. They might not win it all, but they'll beat some good teams before they go down
Posted by: Asaad Weaver | October 26, 2005 at 05:29 PM
It doesnt even matter whether the lakers starts slow. They will slowly improve and will reconize how the concept of the triangle works. Its all about team work and the triangle is best at doing that. Lakers need to improve their defense and execute down the stretch. With any luck without injuries, it should be an intresting season to watch. With Kobe and Phil's determination to win the lakers should be a playoff team. GARANTEED
Posted by: rayje | October 27, 2005 at 02:15 AM
I am having a hard time understanding some of the comments that I am reading on here. Most continue to say that the Lakers chances are slim, last years' roster was better, and this years' roster is very weak. I disagree with the assessment in all three areas. Unless things have changed, every team starts the season at the same starting point 0-0. That means that every team has the opportunity to have a solid season. It amazes me how everyone always looks at a season as championship or bust. I realize that the goal is always to win a championship, but realistically speaking, only 1 team can win each year.
My second disagreement has to do with last years' roster being better than this year. I fail to see how it could be in light of the clear weaknesses that it had, which are no longer present. Lamar Odom is not a power forward. He never has been. Kobe Bryant's best position is the 3-spot just like T-Mac. Kwame Brown is a power forward with the body of a center, just like Tim Duncan. He needs time to develop, however his development is just starting. For those who thought that having Chucky Atkins at point guard was good, should note the fact that he will be a frequent reserve at best on the Wizards. Having Devean George is always better than not having him. Rudy just did not put together the right system to compliment the players that he had.
Finally, my final disagreement has to do with the current roster being considered "weak at best". My argument can be summed up in 1 question....How strong were the rosters for the Chicago Bulls, really? I kow this sounds like a crazy question considering the multiple championships those rosters won, but lets be fair about this. The presence of Michael Jordan automatically overshadowed any weaknesses those rosters had. Luc Longley or Bill Cartwright, would never have been considered legitimate centers for a championship contending team if it were not for Michael. Plus, we all have the luxury of the end result for both 3-peats for the Bulls as argument that those rosters were championship potential.
I'll go one further, how impressive did we all consider Rick Fox, Brian Shaw, Robert Horry and AC Green to be, before that first championship? The staple for Phil Jackson down through the years is that he always seems to be able to get a greater result out of a collective group, than their individual parts would lead one to believe possible. He can and will do the same this year.
Posted by: James | October 27, 2005 at 06:14 AM
To those who jump on the media-bashing-bandwagon I say...I hope you stay on it.
The Lakers are a much better team than let's say seattle and so called experts have them rannked what 3rd or 4th in the west. What was seattle ranking 2 seasons ago? what was the suns 2 years ago with amare?...Thank you very much!
The lakers had everything that could go bad gone bad last year! They hung in there as much as they could with players that now that they have been traded can not even start on other teams!
"YOU HAVE TO RECOGNIZE THE FACT: IF THEY HAVE HAD ANY SYSTEM IN PLACE BESIDE CHAOS, THEY WOULD HAVE MADE THE PLAYOFFS!"
I'm predicting a trip to the conference Finals. Optimistic yes, realistic...prove me why not!
Why is Seattle better? Why is the ever under achieving Rocket better? Is yao Ming that much of a force to handle? Why is Phoenix better?The clippers...the Timberwolves!!
After struggling the first month or so at around .500 we will win at least 50 games this season. People have a tendancy of forgetting how good a player Kobe really is...Lost amidst the daily bashing is a basketball prodigy! He had what 27 6 and 6 last year and that was a horrible year!!!
Lebron gets 27 7 and 7 and he's the second coming !!!
Close your ears and look at the facts....this could be special!
Posted by: Stephan Bridon | October 27, 2005 at 08:53 AM
I'M GLAD TO HERE SOMEONE OUT THERE UNDERSTANDS THE GAME AND NOT LET SPORTS SO CALL EXPERTS TELL US WHAT WE KNOW IS A LOT OF JUNK. KEEP IT UP, STEVE,JAMES,RAVIE AND OTHERS. LET SOME OF THE SO CALL TOP TEAMS HAVE THE INJURIES THE LAKERS HAD LAST YEAR AND LOSE THEIR COACH AFTER A FEW GAMES, WE'LL SEE HOW GOOD THEY ARE.
Posted by: FRED CRESSEL | October 27, 2005 at 11:33 PM
Still think that the Lakers have a thin roster. It will take time to get the players they need. Yes, Phil will improve them very much from the fiasco of last year. He will coach, will one member of the team agree to listen the entire season? Chris Mihm at center will never bring you a trophy, sorry Chris.
You need a quick or overpowering big man. You notice that the only Laker Championships have come with dominant big men? I'm not saying that it also could not have been done without Mag, without him things never would have jelled the way they did. To me is is the greastest player that played. Not MJ. Does anyone remember when Phil switched MJ to point and he put up the numbers that Mag did but the Bulls only lost games. Mag made *everyone* around him better. That was makes him so special and unique. That and when he was older giving himself up on those drives right down the lane and smack into the defense to at least get freethrows to win a game.
Sorry off topic. What we need is the smart guys with experience that Phil picks up along the way, plus an excellent center to win. We will win I think a lot more this year but no rings. Remember the Spurs are still out there alive and kicking. And in the NBA Duncan is a God and you can't touch him. However if Phil can stick around and Kupcheck can finally pull off a great deal like West used to with his eyes closed, for somebody we really need and then we need someone to get us the big man, we shall win again in a few years. But it will take time men.
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