Extra! Extra! (1.18)
Approximately 36 hours have passed, but the basketball world is still buzzing over the Southern Californian Peace Talks. The handshakes and hugs shared by Kobe and Shaq puts to bed one of the biggest personal feuds in recent sports history. The two were able to share their recent good fortunes (both are expecting new children) and can now just concentrate on leading their teams. Of course, it ain't all peaches and cream, as the NBA will now need new ways to pump up Christmas Day games (Ray Allen v. Keyon Dooling, anyone?).
Or maybe next year's game will still be Miami-L.A., just saturated with a whole buncha Bynum-Shaq hype. Bynum may not be ready for full time minutes against the Big Fence Mender, but he walked away from Monday's game with the respect of his teammates. And The Captain, too.
What a difference six months makes. In July, Ronny Turiaf was laying in a hospital bed post-heart surgery and frightened about the future. Now he's slipping on a Lakers jersey. Medicine's come a long way since leeches and bloodletting.
That story about the Captain and Wilt Chamberlein was great (from Daily News).
Man, I'm glad to be a Lakers fan. We always get to watch history unfold.
I am high on a profound optimism regarding the future of the Lakers over the next five years.
We're on the verge of being back. Maybe not this year, but next year, we're a contender.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 18, 2006 at 09:35 AM
Regarding Christmas Day, what are the REAL rivalries that exist presently in the NBA?
A lot of the classic and recent rivalries seem to have simmered down (Laker/Celtics, Lakers/Kings, Pistons/Pacers, Knicks/Heat, Lakers/Heat, etc.).
What are the most intense rivalries presently in the NBA?
Are there any?
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 18, 2006 at 09:54 AM
Who's the leading MVP candidate right now?
Kobe Bryant: Probably playing the best basketball of his career right now as a leader and an individual player - and has the Lakers actually competing for a playoff spot.
Or is it Steve Nash: Playing without Amare, and still has Phoenix hovering at #2 in the West, and is the SOLE reason why the Suns have six players (that's right, SIX!!!) averaging career highs. Is there any doubt left that Steve deserved the MVP last year...I think not.
I've bled purple and gold since I was 5 years old, and Kobe is god reincarnated...but I don't know who deserves the MVP more. All in all, there ain't two other ballers in the league right now that deserve the MVP nod more than these two.
Posted by: Imanuel Ilao | January 18, 2006 at 09:59 AM
Hey Shaq,
Can you imagine, Me versus Wade, You versus Bynum, Phil versus Pat, playing for the NBA Title....If you beat them Pistons and I squeeze through the Suns and Spurs, we will make it happen. If I lose I will go to your parade, If lose....Can you dig it?
Posted by: kobe2shaq | January 18, 2006 at 10:14 AM
Give the MVP to Nash...
KO8E will get the NBA Finals MVP.
Posted by: kobe2shaq | January 18, 2006 at 10:21 AM
Shaq deserved MVP last year.
Kobe deserves it this year.
Steve Nash is a phenomenal player, though. I'll give you that.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 18, 2006 at 10:27 AM
I can't disagree with you Imanuel, both Nash and Bryant have had great years up to this point. If I had to pick one, I would give it a split MVP season. I believed the NBA has done that before. But it really all comes down to the end of the season. Who gets where! In Nash's situation, his team is expected to be in the Western Conference Finals...anything less should be unacceptable. Earlier in the year, critics counted the Lakers not even making it to the playoffs. So if it's between Nash and Bryant getting the MVP nod, it would have to be decided on where each candidate took their perspective team.
Posted by: Ron | January 18, 2006 at 10:41 AM
shaq did not deserve the mvp last year. 2004-05 was the year of the nash. i remember back in the day when shaq were both busy cancelling each other out in th emvp race allowing guys like duncan and iveson to get theirs. the argument was that shaq couldnt be mvp because they still had kobe. kobe couldnt be mvp cuz they still had shaq. and the mvp was supposed to be the player MOST valuable to their respective team. so i acknowledged iverson getting the mvp. i acknowledged duncan collecting his mvps. but this year, no player is more important to their team than kobe.
Posted by: Lefty | January 18, 2006 at 10:54 AM
kobe for m.v.p.!!!!!no doubt coming to you from north carolina im glad to say the laker fanclub goes from coast to coast cant wait till feb.3 got my tickets for kob&company! As a long time lakers fan i can say honestly that showtime is on the rise again.I mean we have the next mj on our team mj's old coach and last time I checked 1+2=3 so chalk up three more rings for phil and kobe, u do the math.Now check out how i got my answer:It took micheal one year to master phil's system before he brought a championship to chicago it also took scottie that long also(lamar)the shooters got more comfortable i.e. paxson,hodges(smush,shasa)we have a way better frontcourt than those guys with kwame looking more and more like an nba'er everyday and Chris is way better than Cartwright.Plus we have the common denominator in oh zen master himself.Now this may seem disrespectful to all those bull fans but to hell with ya!Kobe is almost there just got to improve field goal % and quit taking so many damn threes its killing your overall%Its time for the world to reconize Mr. Bryants greatness and stop hatin' (Woody paige and the gang)get off the Lebron train and jump on over here were we already shut everyones mouth in front of the nation last week and I stayed up until 2 watching all of it only to hear Charles Barkley run his fat lip saying what Mr. Bryant needs to do with his game, when before he got hurt he was on fire and nobodys talking about that are they?.Lebron is great dont get me wrong,but he's no Kobe Bryant!No one is even close.No one says any thing about Allen Iverson taking 30 shots a game for 30 points and he has Chris Webber on his team the second highest paid player in the league,plus a stud in igudala.Shooting about 40% he's even won a mvp with all that horrible shooting so go figure not to mention his gun charge, or his weed charge! he's a hero but kobe's a villian.Speaking of Chris Webber no one is critizing him for splitting up one of the better teams in the league(Sac.)no he's a miracle for even playing on that bum knee.(take out knee in that statement and you really have what Mr. Webber is a bum!)Last time I checked the only thing Kobe did wrong is cheat on his beautiful wife not rape he was AQUITTED of that!I just dont get it even the great mj had to pay a mistress 5 mil to keep her mouth shut but he's the greatest gambler oh my bad basketball player of all time wtf! The sole reason mj is considered the greatest is because of his play on the court the same reason kobe should be judged so what he's a loner so what he takes some ill-advised shots some time, the bottom line is he's getting the job done peroid.In historic fashion need I mind you!Its really an injustice to the fans of basketball the way they downplay and stike this man down every chance they get! Anyways Kobe you ARE THE GREATEST EVER!Only time will tell
Posted by: smmoth d | January 18, 2006 at 10:55 AM
If the Lakers win at least 50 games this season or win the Pacific Division Title, KO8E should get high recognition for the MVP (at least 2nd place).
It doesn't matter what we expected from the Lakers beginning of the season. The rate and the progress they've made so far, I expect them to face the Spurs in the Western Conf Finals. Am I dreaming, HELL NO!!! Let's see, #1 Spurs, #2 Dallas #3 Suns # 4 Memphis......they've beaten the Griz and killed the Mavs twice...They will beat the Suns....Against the Spurs adn Suns remains unseen, they almost did- but that was in November. This is a different Laker team now....and they are still improving. They have beaten a lot of winning team this season. Clippers ain't got nuttin on our Lakers!!!!
Posted by: kobe2shaq | January 18, 2006 at 10:56 AM
Yes, but I believe that the MVP voting is done at the end of the regular season, so how deep one's team goes into the playoffs is a non-factor. I could be wrong though...
GO LAKES!!!
Posted by: SantaMonica4Ever | January 18, 2006 at 11:08 AM
Only thing that concerns me is Bynum looks like A giant version of Tracy Morgan.
Posted by: The Fav | January 18, 2006 at 11:22 AM
When is the last time someone won MVP when their team didn't even win their division? I'm willing to bet never. So I think the key is for the Lakers is to win the Pacific
Posted by: Zen | January 18, 2006 at 11:27 AM
I expect the Lakers to be a 5th or 6th seed in the playoffs. I expect them to make it to the second round, but my expectations end there.
Phil and the 8th Wonder will step up in the playoffs, so anything is possible (and I am hopeful), however, one has to be realistic.
For us to go deeper into the playoffs, Kwame and Smush need to move up to the next level and Lamar needs to MASTER the triangle. I don't see that happening until next year.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 18, 2006 at 11:29 AM
The bulls didn't have the talent competing against them that our current laker team does IMO. Comparing us to the old Bulls is pointless.
Posted by: frank Rizzo | January 18, 2006 at 11:37 AM
Here are the past MVP winners (not including Nash)
http://www.insidehoops.com/nba-mvp-history.shtml
GO LAKES!!!
Posted by: SantaMonica4Ever | January 18, 2006 at 11:47 AM
The Fav,
Haha!!!:()Bynum is a 7 footer Tracy Morgan. That's hilarious....& Tracy impersonates Shaq's quite well. Maybe, the 7 footer can impersonate what Shaq did for LA...Win tiltes with KO8E and Phil...Hmmm...Now it's coming together...
Posted by: 2getherAgain | January 18, 2006 at 11:49 AM
I think Karl Malone won MVP in '99 when Utah was second behind San Antonio in their division. And Jordan won the MVP in '88 when his team finished behind Detroit in the Central division.
And that Tracy Morgan comparison was on the money. But since we're on the topic of celeb/NBA lookalikes, taking from Todd Donoho, here are some that I have thought about off top that I remember (or at least I can see):
Kenyon Martin/Method Man
Antonio McDyess/Brian McKnight
Lebron James/R. Kelly
Kyle Korver/Ashton Kutcher
Sam Cassell/Alien from the movie "Alien"
Mike Bibby/Alfalfa (if you take away the hair)
Tayshawn Prince/Curious George
Have mercy on me fellow bloggers, I'm bored in class right now.
Posted by: Rich1906 | January 18, 2006 at 12:00 PM
Zen
I can't be bothered to do it, but here is a list of division winners so now you can cross reference MVP winners with division winners.
http://www.sportsrecords.co.uk/basketball/basketball3x.htm
GO LAKES!!!
Posted by: SantaMonica4Ever | January 18, 2006 at 12:01 PM
It surprises me that Shaq is going to retire with only one league MVP. Most Dominant Ever he clearly isn't in that regard.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 18, 2006 at 12:02 PM
Jon,
Just bcuz the guy says it and repeats it and repeats it....does not mean it's true. Shaq is and always will be TMT (the most talk!)
I guess Kobe should go around claiming B.E....B.E! (Best Ever!) hahahaha
Posted by: Zucko | January 18, 2006 at 12:38 PM
more lookalikes
Robert Horry/Will Smith
GO LAKES!!!
Posted by: SantaMonica4Ever | January 18, 2006 at 12:44 PM
I really want Kobe to win the MVP this year, but there are other players having good years too. Nash is up there for what he is doing for the Suns, and Elton Brand should be taken into consideration (he's really underrated). Still I think after you look at all the best players on the best teams you see there is no player more important to his team than Kobe. If not for Kobe there is no way we would have the 7th spot right now, let alone be in the playoffs. All Kobe has to do to win the MVP in my opinion is keep doing what he's doing now in the second half of the season.
Posted by: Asaad Weaver | January 18, 2006 at 12:44 PM
first of all..it was a great win for the lakers against Heat. no question about it. Great performance by Kobe as usual in the 4th quarter. Good performance by Lamar Odom. Honestly, I don't think Lakers would have won this game, if it wasn't the last game of a 7 game road trip.
As far as Lakers chances this year, they are not going to be in Conference finals. Trust me. They will be seeded 7 or 8 in the Western conference and they will lose to Spurs or Suns in the first round.
As far as the Heat chances go, I don't think they will get to the conference finals either, they are just too old.
As far as the Laker's chances in the next 2 years go, a lot depends on the following.
1) Kobe's improvement. He is shooting approx. 48% in the last 6 games. Before that, he was shooting an abysmal 41 or 42%. Just to compare, MJ had a shooting % of nearly 52% for 4 years between 1987 and 1992 and had better assists and rebound per game, when they were very successful. So, there is some truth to what Barkley, Phil and others say. Kobe has to take good shots and involve teammates to give them a chance to succeed( goto conference finals etc). A person, who takes so many shots has to shoot a high percentage, for them to be successful. But still, Kobe is great to watch and I only hope he improves and wins atleast one championship like MJ.
2) Lamar Odom has to be the next Scottie Pippen for them to succeed. Quite frankly, I don't expect that to happen both offensively and defensively. Laker's better get Ron Artest type of player(not Ron Artest) to contend for a championship. Even Danny Granger would do well. I think he has immense potential. Lakers should trade for him.
3) Better play from the big men. Mainly defensively and the 4 and 5 spots together need to get atleast 20-25 touches in a game for them to be successful. This is the same figure Phil had in mind, while coaching the Bulls.
As far as Shaq goes, it is sad that he is on a decline. But don't forget, we got the 3 championships, because of Shaq. Kobe was important, but I strongly believe Lakers would have won the championship say with a Jason Kidd, instead of Kobe. Someone, who has the guts to take the big shot like Kidd or Iverson( he is a ballhog, but he can take big shots). Also, Kobe was not that great an outside shooter between 2000 and 2002, he used to get to the lane because Shaq will have 2-3 people on him all the time. So, DONT FORGET AS TO WHAT SHAQ HAS DONE FOR THE LAKERS. Don't you remember, Shaq dunking on Scot Pollard and C-WEbb with both hanging on to his shoulders. Thats how dominant he was. Teams used to be scared to play Lakers, not b'cos of Kobe. We all know it was b'cos of Shaq.
As far as the best SG in the league at this time, Kobe stands out because of his ability to defend, hit clutch shots and take 3s.
The other 2, Wade and Lebron have a lot to improve. But they are only 3 years into the league. Remember, Kobe was not good in defense and 3s in his first 5 years in the league. So, we should compare them only after they complete their 6 years and see what they are made of. If you compare their first 3 years, Wade and Lebron have done better in all aspects of the game than Kobe, including shooting percentage and Wade gets a higher grade cos he led them to the conference semi-finals in his first year and has made clutch shots. Lebron obviously has improved his game in 3s, but he doesn't make the big shots. So, i feel it is crazy to compare Kobe with Lebron and Wade at this time. As Kobe used to say, age doesn't matter mileage matters. So, the jury is still out on whether Wade and Lebron can improve their other aspects of the game like defense and 3s. Lebron can hit 3s, but he has to show that he can make clutch shots and I feel Wade has proven that.
Posted by: kobe-shaq-lakers-fan | January 18, 2006 at 01:05 PM
If lakers go in playof inthe second round KOBe is going to get MVP if he keeps playing this type of games or better...why not
Love you Lakers...I think you lakers fans are crazy...love yo
Posted by: alban | January 18, 2006 at 01:07 PM
kobe-shaq-lakers-fan
I feel you typing with clenched teeth. It most have hurt to have to say those Semi nice things about Kobe.
Posted by: The Fear | January 18, 2006 at 01:21 PM
Celeb look-alikes
LeBron/ Check-out Sammy Sosa...R-Kelly is questionable.
Chris Mihm/Freddie Pince Jr with those sideburns?
Posted by: 2getherAgain | January 18, 2006 at 01:33 PM
Playoff Positioning will be the key to succeeding in the playoffs this season. The ONLY team that does not have to be concerned about playoff positioning and matchups is the Detroit Pistons. EVERY other team must take that into account when playing games in the second half of the season. Here are a couple examples of what I mean.
#1) The Miami Heat will most likely finish with the best record in the Southwest barring a meltdown. However, with the way they are playing and the way New Jersey is playing, they may end up in the 3rd position by playoff time. That would not be a wise position for them to end. Outside of the Pistons, the Pacers pose the strongest threat to the Heat in the East. They are right now sitting in the 5th spot. With a little improvement by the Bucks combined with a little letdown by the Pacers, we could find a first round matchup of Miami and Indiana. In that matchup, I would pick the Pacers based on past games over the past 2 seasons. Right there the Heat could be out of the playoffs before they ever hit their stride.
#2) The Lakers have an interesting team which surprisingly matches up very well with most teams in the league. Or at least, they cause mtachup problems for most teams on most nights, as long as they play their game. With the right positioning, the Lakers could be looking at the conference finals or better. Here is what I see. I see the Lakers ending the season in the 6th spot. I also see the rest of the teams ending this way...(1-Spurs, 2-Suns, 3-Jazz or Nuggets, 4-Mavs, 5-Grizzlies, 7-Clippers, 8-Wolves). In this scenario, the breakdown of mtachups would favor the Lakers. They would be looking at the Jazz or Nuggets in round 1....both highly beatable for the Lakers. Round 2 would be between the Clippers or Suns. I'm hoping that the Clippers pull off the upset which is possible if Magette comes back. At the same time, the Spurs would most likely work through the T-Wolves and then face the Grizzlies or Mavs. I'm actually picking the Mavs in this scenario. I believe that they would beat the Grizzlies and then beat the Spurs. However, if the Lakers were to then face the Mavs in the conference finals, I see the Lakers having the advantage. Now, this is all contingent on the seeding, but it is very possible at this point.
Posted by: JJ | January 18, 2006 at 01:40 PM
The Fear
There is no clenching of teeth on my side. You should just accept the facts, instead of being biased. I don't have problem saying something bad about Kobe, if that were true. So, I give credit, where it is due.
Is he a good player? YES Is he a great player? YES. Can he make clutch shots than anyone else in the league? YES. He is definitely the best allround player in the league at this time.
But can his current performance help them get to the conference finals or conference semis? A BIG NO. I would love to be proved wrong, but thats the fact(look at my previous post on what i think needs to be done) So, be objective about your remarks and prove it with facts, if I'm wrong in any of my statements. Don't be emotional and make crass remarks.
Don't praise someone for the sake of doing it, even if you are a fan cos as a Laker fan, I feel we should look at the end product, which is championships.
thats it from my side. Stop clenching :-)
Posted by: kobe-shaq-lakers-fan | January 18, 2006 at 01:42 PM
Nah man Sam I am looks more like that little green dude from Lord of the Rings.
Posted by: The Fav | January 18, 2006 at 01:47 PM
Did you, Lakers fans, really think I would come back to coach the Lakers if I knew I can't win another ring or title with this roster? Haha think again.....
Posted by: zenmaster | January 18, 2006 at 01:53 PM
First off the MVP vote is before the playoffs. They don't announce it for a while. They slowly give ot awards to give media some talking points. Give out most improved, coach of the year, the MVP. So it doesn't matter how far anyone goes in the playoffs.
Second the leading candidate for MVP is Billups in Detroit. With Detroit killing the whole league someone on that team s going to get a look and Billups is the one everyone is talking about. Kobe will get more votes than Nash, becuase they hate to vote someone in the next year unless it is clear. But i don't know if anyone can catch Billps bcuase Detroit will have the most wins.
My opinion the voting should be up till the finals and Kobe should get he MVP. To bad I'm not the commish.
Posted by: rambis | January 18, 2006 at 02:13 PM
The Fear
No clenching of teeth here, but it does hurt that he is not in the same level as MJ was when the bulls won championships. But I'm optimistic he will get there with better support and improvement from his side in 3 years time. So until, such time don't compare him with MJ, Magic or Bird.
Just be objective, instead of making crass remarks. If you have facts to refute my statements, please respond. I'm not interested in hearing u'r emotional statements. I have been a fan of Kobe since his high-school days, so I don't need u to tell me nice things about Kobe.
Thats it....stop clenching :-)
Posted by: kobe-shaq-lakers-fan | January 18, 2006 at 02:15 PM
alban,
I agree with you. If the Lakers could go into the 2nd round, Kobe will get the MVP award and Phil will get coach of the year.
Posted by: crazylife123 | January 18, 2006 at 02:31 PM
kobe-shaq-lakers-fan,
i have to disagree with you. yea shaq was very instrumental in the lakers 3-peat. but how can you say the lakers would have still won with a jason kidd or an allen iverson replacing no.8? you dont compare jason kidd to kobe. jason kidd would need runners with him. jason kidd would need...kobe to be jason kidd. yes i remember how good shaq used to be. but i also remember how good he was in the first 3 qtrs, and how he disappeared in the 4th. when shaq would take a backseat, who took over in the 4th? kobe. and you need to get it right. teams were afraid of the lakers not because of shaq. not because of kobe. but because of SHAKOBE! you couldnt focus all your defense on shaq or kobe would go off on you. you couldnt straddle kobe or shaq would get single coverage. and then you couldnt double both of them leaving 1 defender for the other 3 lakers. kobe was every bit as responsible for bringing the 3 titles to LA as shaq was. you remember shaq dunking on sacramento or indiana....who got him the ball? i recall kobe driving into the lane drawing defenders to himself and then dishing to a wide open shaq many times. leading up to the finals it was always 50/50 with shaq and kobe. the one exception would be the finals sweep against the nets. shaq dominated, and kobe took a backseat because he wasnt needed.
Posted by: Lefty | January 18, 2006 at 02:52 PM
Just saw on SI.com that the Wizards have bought out Chucky Atkins' contract, making him a free agent for the rest of the season.
The Lakers would be in a lot better shape if they could re-add him via the remainder of thier mid-level exception.
I think we should BLOG the hell out of this site until we get him back!! I know he's no Marbury, but he can hit 3's and he "kind of" knows the triangle from last year.
Come on back Chucky!!
Posted by: Dave | January 18, 2006 at 04:11 PM
kobe-shaq-lakers-fan
props to your post but, i don't agree w/ everything you said.
1. yes, it was the last game of a 7 game road trip for the heat but, it's not like they were playing on a 2nd of a back to back. the heat is vastly overrated and the LAKERS underrated. the heat has a sub-500 record against the west and i would bet that most of us agree that the Lakers gave away the Xmas day game. the heat has plenty of pieces but, none of them fit the puzzle.
2. re: kobe's improvement. his shooting % is in the low 40s for several reasons. first, a number of his shots come as the shot clock is winding down - usually due to the fact that nobody is willing to shoot, the offense has completely broken down, or it is the end of the quarter w/ only a few ticks left. in other words, KB8 is the only Laker that will shoot regardless of circumstance. more importantly, i think it's his psyche. it's who he is. he shoots because he believes every shot he takes will go in. this is what i love about him and what makes him "clutch." indirectly, what would help his shooting % would be if the rest of the players hit theirs. how many times have you seen kobe pass the ball to mihm, brown, george, etc. and they blow a wide open look? it happens every game. if they were to hit there shots, it follows that kobe would average more assists, take less shots, and shooting % would go up. it's cause and effect. as a side note, Tex Winter has said that KB8 shoots a lot because this is the only way the Lakers can presently win. once we get another legit weapon to go along with KB8 and LO7, the sky's the limit for this team. let's appreciate "8th wonder" in all his purple and gold glory.
3. i despise the LO7/pippen comparisons just like i hate the KB8/jordan comparisons. LO7 is his own player. the guy averages 15/9/5. i don't understand what all the fuss is about. he produces and he's a worker. remember...he's learning a new role in a new offense with new teammates. it's his 3rd offense in just as many years. i think he's done a great job as a facilitator and can only get better.
4. jason kidd does not = KB8. how many game winners has kidd had in his career? does he put fear into the opponent's mind? i don't think so. the "8th wonder" has 23 game winners, including the last Cleveland game. for his career, mj had 27. i think this puts KB8's greatness in perspective. you're right when you say shaq put fear into the opponent but, so did KB8 during their championship runs. i'm sure the Spurms, the Queens, and the JailBlazers can all attest to that. the dominance the Lakers had was because of both of them. shaq dominated the lane and KB8 the perimeter. if it was all because of Shaq, why didn't he win in Orlando when he had penny? don't say because of jordan because they beat him to get to the finals. and why didn't he get past detroit last year w/ wade? injuries...every team suffers injuries. without KB8, shaq has zero rings.
5. KB8 > lebron. lebron has said this countless times. lebron admits KB8 is the best because of everything he does and his killer instinct.
6. KB8 > wade. wade can't shoot the 3 ball, doesn't defend, and is suspect at the free throw line. granted, wade is better in his 1st 3 years when compared to Kobe but, Kobe also didn't have the luxury of upgrading his game in college and coming into the NBA as a man, not a teenager like Kobe. KB8 has perfected his game in the nba due to his work ethic and determination. i have never heard of one story on how wade works on his game in the offseason.
Posted by: MAGIC=GOAT | January 18, 2006 at 04:12 PM
Rich,
Sam Cassell looks more like E.T and Bibby looks
more like mini-me from austin powers.. i'm bored too...
GO KOBE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Francis | January 18, 2006 at 04:24 PM
kobe-shaq-lakers-fan is making the same mistake most people make when they talk about the Kobe/Shaq championship teams. He sees all the dominating Shaq did in the Finals and in the first 3 quarters of games, but forgets that throughout the playoffs, and in the 4th quarter of games Kobe was the one leading us.
I've always thought they should have a playoff MVP, and a finals MVP because there were many times when Kobe was the reason we were winning series, but in the Finals Shaq would take over and get all the credit. If you're gonna talk about the championship teams you have to give love to Shaq and to Kobe.
There's no way they would have won 3 chips with Jason Kidd, and Shaq running things. Jason Kidd is a great point guard, but he can't score and isn't as clutch as Kobe (how many game winning shots has he made or even taken?)
Posted by: Asaad Weaver | January 18, 2006 at 04:31 PM
i already said this but it's creepy how Mitch Kupchak looks like John Malkovich... even over andy garcia/manu ginobili... mitch and john = separated after birth.
on the topic of MVPs, (but kinda off topic) i don't think shaq will continue as "average" as he is now once the playoffs start. the man is one year removed from an MVP candidacy, i just feel the heat are gonna give detroit all it can handle in the eastern conf. finals, b/c shaq will be unstoppable.
but i digress. can you believe that sacramento beat phoenix last night?! the lake show better look out
Posted by: CBuck | January 18, 2006 at 04:40 PM
How come nobody is talking about suspending Shaq for intentionally striking Bynum. I am sure it was similar to the blow struck by Kobe which earned 2 game suspension. Bynum definitely elbowed Shaq(a foul should have been called) but Shaq slugged Bynum and should be suspended. I am glad Shaq was not kicked out of the game because Heat are better with Mourning against Lakers
Posted by: irwin l jasper | January 18, 2006 at 04:59 PM
yes it is a known fact that Kobe Bean Bryant is the most important player in the nba to his team. The lakers live an die with his jump shoot.
Posted by: steve | January 18, 2006 at 05:00 PM
How come nobody is talking about suspending Shaq for intentionally striking Bynum. I am sure it was similar to the blow struck by Kobe which earned 2 game suspension. Bynum definitely elbowed Shaq(a foul should have been called) but Shaq slugged Bynum and should be suspended. I am glad Shaq was not kicked out of the game because Heat are better with Mourning against Lakers
Posted by: irwin l jasper | January 18, 2006 at 05:03 PM
Kobe-Shaq-Lakers-Fan,
To say it in a polite manner, I disagree with about everything you said. The Lakers didn't win that game against Miami because Team Heat was tired! That's an excuse I expect J.A. Adonde to use. The Lakers won that game because the Lakers as a team, outplayed the Heat. The game was in L.A., the fans were behind the Lakers, Phil Jackson was on the bench, and the team played with a passion, so please don't take that away from the Lakers victory.
Lets say that if the Lakers continue on their mission they are on throughout the rest of the season, they will be on track for a 3-5 seed. I do agree however that San Antonio and Phoenix will be the top two seeds, no doubt about it however, they won't be playing L.A. in the first round.
The Heat will make the Eastern Conference Finals against Detroit and that's as far as they will go! Think about it, who else in the east will compete with Miami or Detroit. Maybe Phili...Maybe not!
Now I won't say that L.A. is going to the finals this year, but you never know...this is the NBA and anything can happen.
You mentioned about Kobe needing to improve as one of the things for the Lakers to make it to the promise land. WHAT! What else can you expect from Kobe. The guys pratically carrying the team on his back. I remember AK or BK mentioning something a while back regarding Michael Jordan's shooting percentage. You have to remember that the defense Michael was against was more on a one-on-one basis. These days, teams can double/triple team a player which is the case for Kobe. You can't expect for Kobe to shoot over 50% from the Field when the defensive pressure applied today verses pressure applied from the Jordan era.
Lamar Odom DOES NOT and I repeat DOES NOT have to be the next Scottie Pippen. Why? Scotty was a unique player in his own ways. So is Odom. Odom has enough talent and knowledge of the game to create his own-self image and be successful. The guy is still young and now has the right coach to get him on track.
Apparently, if you were watching the Miami/Laker game, you can see improvement in Andrew Bynum thanks to the Captain. Bynum is a work in progress and I'm willing to bet a million to one, he will be a future all-star player. The Lakers can hope for Kwame to continually improve as the year goes on. Ronny Turiaf may be over-hyped at the present time, but what I do know is that he is a hustler. Maybe, he'll be similar to an A.C. Green or Dennis Rodman and chase down some boards to help in the rebounding department. Bynum (18), Kwame (21-22), Turiaf (21) and the leadership of Odom and Bryant does look pretty promising for the near future.
I understand that L.A. wouldn't have won those championships without Shaq, but lets get an understanding here, and I said this before. Shaq wouldn't have won those championships without Kobe either. NO QUESTIONS ASKED!
Teams feared the Lakers because of the dual of Shaq and Kobe, but lets not also forget Robert Horry, Rick Fox, Derek Fisher and that's just to name a few. Those were valuable roleplayers in the Lakers run for a championship. Not just Shaq, not just Kobe, but the Lakers as a team with Shaq and Kobe as their leaders.
LaBron is special however Wade went to college and played a couple years. LaBron is natually big so therefore, he immediately fit in with the big guys. Kobe was a bit small when he joined the league. LaBron plays Small Forward, Wade is more of a driving point guard. Kobe is a Shooting Guard, so you can't really compare any of the guys. Might as well compare Spud Webb to Shaquille O'Neal. Well, I hope you know what I mean?
Lakers 4-Life
Posted by: Ron | January 18, 2006 at 05:23 PM
SantaMonica4Ever ,
I followed your two lists and I was almost right. Every MVP in the NBA was a division winner except.... Charles Barkley in 1992. That's amazing!
Posted by: Zen | January 18, 2006 at 06:12 PM
this is the look alike right here:
lebron-sammy sossa
elvin johnson-beetle juice
sam cassell-golum
avery johnson-geico's gecko
vince carter-tiki barber
mike bibby-mini me
stan van gundy-ron jeremy
this is the starting five, nba all ugly
center elvin johnson
forward-tyrone hill
forward-eric williams
guard-mike dunleavy
guard-sam cassell
all ears nba team
ilunga mbenga
reggie evans
popeye jones
boniface ndong
sam cassell
Posted by: emman | January 18, 2006 at 06:36 PM
Sam Cassell is definatelty an Alien look alike.
On a different note I always thought Jerry Stackhouse was one of the ugliest players in the NBA. Those ears just sticking out...ugh
Posted by: flyl03 | January 18, 2006 at 06:38 PM
Billups is a great player and the definitely an MVP candidate. But, too many good players around him.
Posted by: hardcorelaker | January 18, 2006 at 07:00 PM
Chucky Atkins got cut. A starter for the Lakers last year couldn't even stay on the wizards roster at the 15 player this year. I think it says a lot about kobe making his teammates better.
Posted by: Huxtel | January 18, 2006 at 07:05 PM
I think Mike Bibby = Mini Me (Vern Troyer)
Posted by: samGR8NO8 | January 18, 2006 at 07:11 PM
If the Lakers could somehow manage to MAKE the playoffs and BE in the 6TH SEED they have a GOOD chance of making it to the next round.
-Opponents:
It's either
Utah
Minnesota
or Denver
Posted by: Crazy8 | January 18, 2006 at 07:13 PM
LOL EMAN! hAHA!
Posted by: Crazy8 | January 18, 2006 at 07:15 PM
Lefty
okay..I didn't mean Jason Kidd is the only one who could have replaced Kobe. Kobe of 2005-2006 is far better than the Kobe between 2000-03. Between 00-03, there were many guards, who demanded double teams like T-MAc, VC in Toronto, AI(his MVP year) and Kidd as well. All of these guys, could have done the 3-peat with Shaq. All of these guys pairing with Kobe couldn't have done the same. Again,I'm talking about the Kobe of old, not the 05-06 version. If you heard what the players from those times said about Shaq and Kobe and Lakers, you will understand what I'm talking about. I'm not saying that Kobe doesn't deserve any credit, I'm just saying that we as Laker fans shouldn't forget about Shaq's contribution and I don't think it is 50:50 on Shaq and Kobe as far as the championships.
Forget about Shaq of 2000-03, Shaq of 04-05 would have won a championship with a novice like Wade, if they were healthy. Their only obstacle was Detroit and I felt they had Detroit right where they wanted before Wade got injured. We all know how bad TD is, whenever he plays against Shaq. The reason I'm pointing this out is, Wade is no way better than Kobe was in 2002-03 or for that matter 01-02 and all the other parts in the Heat team were bad, when compared to the Lakers team between 00-03.
Posted by: kobe-shaq-lakers-fan | January 18, 2006 at 07:16 PM
since we are talking about looks,
I'm truly sick of playings shaving their heads!
It's so UGLY!
probably 95 percent of the NBA players these days are either
Bald,
or shaved wearing a headband
or just Bald with a headband
I wanna see some faces with different styles!
Posted by: Crazy8 | January 18, 2006 at 07:17 PM
BTW,
Who thinks the Lakers can win against Phoenix. I'm kinda scared lol
Posted by: Crazy8 | January 18, 2006 at 07:18 PM
for some odd reason, i have a negative feeling about playing against the kings...
Posted by: Crazy8 | January 18, 2006 at 07:19 PM
Just for argument sake.
1) Yes, the defensive rules while MJ played were different. Remember, Detroit used to beat the crap out of MJ, literally. So, don't say the defensive rules are tough these years. It can't be tough, when they don't allow to touch the offensive players and u can go into the lane as much as u can.
2)I'm not comparing Jason Kidd with Kobe. See my previous post.
3) I'm not asking LO to be Pippen. LO better be LO, but be consistent and he should improve his defense.
4) Kobe's killer instinct. I don't know why u'r saying that to me. Like I said, I have followed him, since he was 15.
5) As far as Shaq winning all champs with Kobe, you made the point for me. They played together for nine seasons and won in 3 seasons. So, u have to factor in Phil and the other role players u pointed out.
As far as the argument on injuries happen to every team, guess what would have happened if Shaq or Kobe were injured in one of those championship years.
6) Ron - u giving Kobe's size and lack of collegiate experience as the reason for his not so great performance in the first 5-6 years is just an excuse. Thats all I have to say.
This is what I have to say,
Kobe is great b'cos he has improved every year cos he is dedicated, driven and works hard in the summer. You guys are preaching the choir as far as giving props to Kobe.
I agree that we haven't heard the same about Wade. Thats the reason I say the jury is out. We will see, if he improves his game or becomes another Vince Carter.
Lebron is definitely working on his game, but I don't think he will reach the same level as Kobe as he himself admitted that he lacks killer instinct. You don't develop killer instinct, it has to come naturally.
Thats it from my side.
Posted by: kobe-shaq-lakers-fan | January 18, 2006 at 07:38 PM
I have to acknowledge that b'cos of Shaq's problems at the FT line, he was not effective in the 4th quarter and that was a huge headache and thats the reason we needed a slashing scorer/shooter like Kobe or any of the other guys I mentioned.
Posted by: kobe-shaq-lakers-fan | January 18, 2006 at 07:56 PM
yeah crazy8
seeds 4-6...those are our sweet spots.
4 is unlikely, but i feel if we can land right along there, we'll have a GOOD chance of advancing
Posted by: CBuck | January 18, 2006 at 07:57 PM
as long as the lakers have 10 games above .500, kobe will win the MVP
Posted by: edodgreat | January 18, 2006 at 08:04 PM
Grant Hill has those Will Smith/Alien ears too
Posted by: t_sensei | January 18, 2006 at 08:04 PM
shaq is great.....the league changed the rule because of him....blame the nba, they don't want shaq to succeed........right now, the rule is not favoring shaq.......for kobe, he is so great....the only player in history that you have to double or triple team all the time.....do itto other stars, they can't score points.....for kobe, he still has 34 points a game......if one defender, maybe 40 or 50 a game.....
Posted by: edodgreat | January 18, 2006 at 08:09 PM
kobe-shaq-lakers-fan
Question:
Does you think Kobe and Tim Duncan would have won some of those three Rings? Or Maybe Kobe and Kevin Garnnett or Even Kobe and Chris Webber?
You casually pair BriQ (sorry i meant ShaQ) with great guards and sandal Kobe with a short line up at the same time.
Dude i know you think you are being fair but you bias is shining thru. Accept it for what it is, you are happy for the Lakers but you wish anyone else but Kobe was responsible.
Posted by: The In-House Crowd | January 18, 2006 at 08:30 PM
I think Chucky Atkin's is the worst pointguard ever. He has no defense and he thinks he's THAT valuable to a team. he can't stop anyone. he has the worst attitude ever. his face is annoying to watch! I think the wizards should I mean THE NBA should just waive his ass permanently.
Posted by: Crazy8 | January 18, 2006 at 08:45 PM
Clippers getting spanked by Phoenix guys I'm telling you It's gonna be tough for the Lakers this coming Friday dam it's @ Phoenix too the clippers are getting spanked lol!
Clippers record after tonight
20-15
Lakers:
21-17 (LAKERS ARE CATCHING UP!)
Posted by: Crazy8 | January 18, 2006 at 08:46 PM
An interesting stat...Lebron James is only 2 and 15 in hitting game winning shots. Tonight versus Denver, he missed a freethrow in .06 seconds left that would have tied the game for Cleveland. Cleveland has lost 5 games in a row.
And these idiots continue to compare him to Kobe. Just another example of facts versus foolishness.
Posted by: troy | January 18, 2006 at 08:57 PM
yo
anybody watching the cleveland/denver game?
ya'll see the final 21.9 seconds? and before anybody blames me for being a 'hater' (AK, i'm paranoid, not a hater, remember?) let me just say this
final seconds:
melo makes his shot
lebron doesn't, denver wins. but that's not even the half of it... lebron PASSES up the OPEN 3-pointer to win the game then MISSES a free throw to tie it.
interesting sequence. quite interesting
btw, which idea came first: the 'lebrons' commericial or the 'kevins' commericial?
Posted by: CBuck | January 18, 2006 at 08:58 PM
CBuck what's that suppose to mean? "The Kevins commercial"?
Posted by: Crazy8 (Kevin Nguyen) | January 18, 2006 at 09:27 PM
kobe-shaq-lakers fan,
how can u compare what they have done 6 years on.Kobe was 18 when he came into the league.so six years on he was 24.that's the age u have to compare them all.Wade hit clutch shots as a rookie when he was 21.When kobe was 21 he led the lakers back agianst blazers(Gm7 2000) and played amazingly well versus indy.So u have to compare wade and kobe now(wade is 24)and lebron and kobe in six years.
Posted by: The kb8 fan | January 18, 2006 at 09:45 PM
lol someone here tried to send me a virus on my e-mail how sad. too bad my e-mail has protection on it. get a life you computer geeks.
Low life losers
Posted by: Crazy8 (Kevin Nguyen) | January 18, 2006 at 09:54 PM
lol someone here tried to send me a cruise missile how sad. too bad my palace has protection on it. get a life. i will hide in my spider hole.
Posted by: Saddam | January 18, 2006 at 10:12 PM
more celeb look-alkes:
Cal Ripken/Steve the bouncer from Jerry Springer
Posted by: Adam | January 18, 2006 at 10:17 PM
what's up with lebron?
is he the player we thought? Is this shrinking in the clutch something thats commonplace for Bron?
Hey, I dont kno if you can teach killer instinct. And the man said himself he doesnt have it...
wow,i'm kind of dumbfounded. What if he cant be the game-winner type player? ...
Posted by: Korey | January 18, 2006 at 10:32 PM
Kevin Ngyuen aka Crazy8 aka Steven aka Whoeveryouare..
you honestly haven't seen the 5 Kevins commericial?
he's a soldier, a super hero, a child, a gladiator and a comedian ... then he's just Kevin the balla
it's along the same vein as the "Lebrons" spot
Posted by: CBuck | January 18, 2006 at 10:49 PM
kobe-shaq-lakers-fan (I will hence forth refer to you as kslf, it's just easier).
I think you make some interesting arguments. However, here are some areas where I believe you are lacking.
1. I don't think we can really compare what Kobe did his first years in the League with many other players. You say that's bull. Here's why it's not- his first year, he started in 6 games, and played only fifteen minutes a game. His second year, while his minutes went up, game starts were down to 1. His third year, he finally started 50 games. My point is, in the first few years, the times Kobe got in was often when he was playing with other bench players, or in garbage minutes in order to rest the starters. I am sorry, but not many players get good stats, or as much out of playing with bench guys as they do with starters. Therefore, it is not offbase to 'excuse' his first few years. (The parentheses are because I do not believe it is an excuse, just making that clear). In addition, I don't believe Del Haris, as evidence of their record, was a very good head coach. That also plays into how well a player coming out of high school develops, and how he plays in the limited time he gets.
2. If you think that Shaq and blank (insert other good player here) would win, you are wrong. I hate to just dismiss your opinion like that, but honestly,you do not make a good argument. Did Shaq go all the way with Penny? He got close, but close doesn't count- as you said, it's about rings. For sure Kobe could not have done it without Shaq, but that goes two ways. Kobe, as the best clutch player in the league right now, and making a case for all-time, is often the only one who could make as many game savers in the championship runs as he has. You may say "with Shaq on their team, other players could do that too," well, I don't think they could (at least no one has proven to be as clutch), and as there has not been any evidence to the contrary, I don't know why any of us should give them that type of credit. Without Kobe, they don't get to the Finals, so- give the guy due credit.
3. This is the last point, cont. Kind of. It most certainly was 50-50. Shaq hasn't won without Kobe. And, I don't think he will. Miami does not look like the team to get by either Detroit, San Antonio, or the Suns. Heck, the Lakers almost beat them twice. BUT, I would bet Kobe will win without Shaq. What will you say, if Shaq can't do it without Wade? Maybe that means you can't just subsitute names. I know Shaq is no longer at his peak, but who is the one making excuses now, if that is your argument? Shaq is still a force to be rekoned with, and if he doesn't win, that cannot be dismissed.
4. Phil disagrees with you on the point about whether Kobe has played this well before- check out his quote about how well he played the second half of 2002 and through the play-offs. He thinks that is comparable to now, and who are we to disagree?
5. On the issue of comparisons, I think it is fine to compare Kobe to MJ, Magic, The King of Egypt, my uncle Joe, Tom Arnold. Hey, if you can find similarities, go for it. That's what sports pundits do. They would all be out of work if their job was strictly 'report the facts'. But it is their comparisons, their opinions, their outlandish statements that we love. We want to hear Person X say why Kobe is better than MJ, and then we want to hear Person Y disagree. THEN, you get to choose what you think. Maybe you think, "Person X is really out to lunch on this one" or you think "wow, I had never heard anyone compare that aspect of their games the way that person Y did...interesting". Or mabe you just think "That Charley Rosen really is a Jerk". So, keep the comparisons coming, they are interesting. For example, if this stat is true, I think it is very interesting that Kobe has already hit 23 game winners, and MJ has 27. When you consider how many more games Kobe is going to play, I think that comparison is quite interesting. And you know what, maybe you think I am out to lunch.
Posted by: Elyse | January 18, 2006 at 10:55 PM
did anyone even look at the laker's schedule for the remainder of the season? if they can just beat the team they should beat, they win at least 30 of the reamining games. teams like golden state, toronto, boston, seattle and such.
only thing that can stop the lakers from winning 50 games this year is injury.
Posted by: vicious | January 18, 2006 at 10:58 PM
Kobe and TD, Kobe and Garnett, Kobe and C-Webb against Shaq and T-Mac...no way...Kobe would have won a championship between 00-03. SHAQ the BRIQ was so freaking dominant.
I see u guys refer to his game in Game 7 in 2000 against Portland. Go look at Phil's memoirs on what happened, instead of stating things blindly.
and KB-8..u'r math sucks. the way u add 24 and say u have to compare with Kobe(Kobe is 27, if u don't know). Kobe himself mentioned that it is not the age, its the mileage. If u'r fan of Kobe, u better know these things. I'm fan of his and i know it. enuf said...thats it.
U keep arguing, without giving credence to my statement that Kobe is the best player now, not then.
Talk about what needs to be improved for us to win a championship. Shaq - he is gone. Why worry about him? u can get a laundry list of things, that he can o cannot do, even in his prime. Thats not important, what is important is what r we going to do forward. That was the crux of my statements.
Posted by: kobe-shaq-lakers-fan | January 18, 2006 at 10:59 PM
just got something to say.. .. ..
remember when espn2 "somebody" metion that LeBron got winner's instinct?
Well, guess what! James miss the last sec free throw and lost the game again while melo made the winning basket before that.
so how about that winner's inst? lol
but on espn's page they write: LeBron outscored'Melo, but the Nuggets got the win.. ..how about some detail? image if kobe did what LeBron did today what espn would put there><
Posted by: cc | January 18, 2006 at 11:13 PM
Elyse -
screw all that Person X and Y stuff... I just think Charley Rosen really is a jerk
kidding!
interesting logic ya'll dropping over there. g'night.
Posted by: CBuck | January 18, 2006 at 11:23 PM
That is true 'cc'. People would be saying about how Kobe is all about his points and thats why he lost in the end.
But I am okay with giving LeBron a pass on screwing up the end of games. What is he, 19 years old (20?). Maybe these losing experiences help LeBron evolve and start to hate losing that much more. He might develop into the I'm going to make it happen mode.
It's not a stretch to see LeBron try new things to win a game at the end instead of his constant pass it to the non-superstar at the end of games that we have seen of late. The funny thing is that LeBron did make some plays down the stretch at that game, but in the end he choked.
Wasnt Kobe in the same situation in DENVER this year? Teammate Rebounds miss kicks to Kobe, baaam!!!, gametime.
I thought it was deja vu.
Teammate misses, LeBron open for game, he passes?!
Good thing LeBron looks up to Kobe. I dont want to bash the man. I am in favor of seeing greatness. Hopefully LeBron can learn from Kobe and start stepping up.
Posted by: Korey | January 18, 2006 at 11:30 PM
@Crazy8
Chucky Atkins is not a bad player.
Chucky Atkins was a starting point guard on a 50-win Detroit team that went to the playoffs under Ric Carlisle. This was before they got Chauncey Billups. His play defensively and offensively was good enough to get his team to a second round playoff spot.
He wasn't the player that Chauncey was, but he wasn't bad either.
I do think that he is definitely undervalued considering his veteran experience and playoff experience. And since the Wizards aren't exactly playing well right now, I'm amazed that they haven't given him a shot.
Posted by: Revgen | January 18, 2006 at 11:48 PM
I don' know if you need to register to read this, but it is a really good article about Kobe by a writer at the OCregister. Read it if you have time. Here's a link, but as I said, it may not work.
http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/sports/abox/article_952156.php
if that doesn't work, register at
www.ocregister.com
and read the article by Steve B. (don't know the last name). It's about how Kobe has become a leader this year.
Posted by: Elyse | January 18, 2006 at 11:51 PM
Adam and others,
more athlete resemblances:
kobe-kerry kittles
bynum-the world's greatest, muhammad ali
carmelo anthony-dwight howard
me-kyle korver haha!
*KOBE FOR MVP!
*GO LAKERS!
Posted by: shaq_hater | January 19, 2006 at 12:24 AM
more lookalike...
Devin Brown = Usher
Hornacek = Shaggy of Scooby Doo
Posted by: Digtaz | January 19, 2006 at 12:52 AM
Check this site..Kobe Interview
http://www.suntimes.com/output/banks/cst-spt-banx18.html
Posted by: Digtaz | January 19, 2006 at 12:55 AM
chauncey bubububillups is the cover athlete for nba ballers phenom...
Posted by: shaq_hater | January 19, 2006 at 12:56 AM
Hello everyone, just wanted to say that Sam Cassel looks like the alien in Enemy mine. He's an ugly guy. Okay bye now and have a good day everyone.
Posted by: johnny | January 19, 2006 at 01:11 AM
Tyron Lue looks like and ugly girl nuff said.
Posted by: johnny | January 19, 2006 at 01:14 AM
More celeb lookalikes:
Ricky Davis - Andre "Icecold" 3000 (Outkast)
Posted by: Nigel | January 19, 2006 at 01:43 AM
Chris Kaman:
Looks like the ogre or orc from the Lord of the Rings...well at least a clean one...
Posted by: jin kang | January 19, 2006 at 01:58 AM
Chris Mihm looks like the dude from Lost
Posted by: LA#8 | January 19, 2006 at 05:46 AM
On look alikes:
Troy Hudson - Booker T
Larry Hughes - Chris Rock
Von wafer - Alonzo Mourning
Carmelo Anthony? still looking for a WNBA player. who d ya think? hahaha.
GO LAKERS. GET 'EM KINGS.
Posted by: JimGladLaker | January 19, 2006 at 05:55 AM
Lokk alike:
Luke Walton - Bill Walton
Posted by: JimGladLaker | January 19, 2006 at 06:01 AM
Kobe must be considered the MVP for the first half of the season. The only other person that you can possible consider is Nash. Billups plays for a really good team that has the best record in the league. Put him on another team and they still do not have the best record. He is not a candidate.
The only way though that Kobe is going to win this award is a strong Laker showing in the 2nd half. Thats not going to happen unless all the Lakers really step up. I think Lamar will hold his own but some of the other guys really play like women.
Mihm is tall strong and athletic with good hops. Why does he play like a girl 4 nights out of 5?
George - We all know about him. If he plays well the Lakers usually win. Its such a boost for the team to get good production out of him. Unfortunately, its few and far between and God forgot to give him a full brain. Like Mihm, he can be really good so its really frustrating to watch these to morons waste their full potential.
Too bad cause the other role players are decent (smush and cook) but really Mihm, George, and Brown is the key. Can these gutless wonders grow some balls for the second half of this season?
Doubtful, but if they do, the Lakers are deep in the playoffs and Kobe is MVP.
Posted by: frontrow | January 19, 2006 at 07:00 AM
Hey, I want to rescind my statement about Shaq deserving the MVP last year. I watched the Clippers game last night. Man, Nash was unbelieveable. I've never seen a player consistently make such incredible passes. The guy had almost 20 fricken assists! Insane.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 19, 2006 at 07:54 AM
Revgen..Dave....Crazy8
Revgen.... I normally think you are on the money on this board.
Dave.....I am not sure who you are but I know you are High.
Crazy8.. Keven.... in norammaly think your comments are pretty off the mark but today you have hit your stride.
Chucky Atkins sucks! I suggest retirement or D-Leauge. I think some of your are burning the hippie lettuce before you sit down to watch the game. Seriously..Revegen...sorry but Chuck could not D up on 90% of the guards in the league, thanks for the Detroit history lesson, but suffice to say that in 2006......he sucks! I have never seen a crappier shooter fall so in love with the 3. Not to mention his several insults of Kobe while on the team. Dave......to suggest we bring him back? You are nutz.....Who would you loose for him to clear space? Silly....some of you are just silly.
Really other than the Artest trade, which I for one do not support, trade talks on this board are kinda crazy. The team is starting to gel and win games lets not mess that up.
Posted by: todd | January 19, 2006 at 08:10 AM
sam cassell's face looks like its always swelled up from beatings ;)
Posted by: cloudq | January 19, 2006 at 08:13 AM
Going off the subject, Antonio Davis went into the stands in Chicago lastnight to insure his wife's safety. According to NBA rules, any player or coach who leaves the court during the game is automatically ejected. Now sports news are talking about Antonio Davis possibly facing suspension for his actions.
What is your take? Should he be suspended for what he did? Should he be fined? Or, should the NBA understand his situation for what he did let him play without any further penalties?
Posted by: Ron | January 19, 2006 at 08:30 AM
Todd,
Chucky Atkins can't be sent to the Development League. He's been in the NBA for too many years. Why are you talking about Chucky Atkins? Who cares?
Ron,
I think he should receive a small fine and a one game suspension. He broke the rule, but he was looking after his wife, which is honorable. I wouldn't have even suggested a a suspension if it were not for that lunatic Artest's actions last year. The NBA has to keep a tight leash on such activity or it'll become a fricken fashion statement to run into the stands for whatever reason.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 19, 2006 at 08:55 AM
Johnny ..-Ty Lue- Girl.
hahaha!..Uh. I see it, only because I knew a girl I used to think resembled him. Hahahaaaa...as a girl though..Ty Lue would not be ugly. But as a man, he looks like an ugly girl. hahaha.
Ron. I think we need clarification on the reason for A. Davis moving into the stands to judge it. It still seems to be under wraps and that makes it odd, especially since it didn't seem like there was any problems occurring when he got there.
Chucky Atkins? He is a lame player. He would be a decent playground baller during your elementary school recess breaks, but no way should we pick him up. He kind of sucks..oh yes and he smeared Kobe last year when Kobe had enough smearing to deal with outside of his own team. Maybe if Chuck had more talent he could mouth off..but he doesn't. So he gets cut on a bad team.
Posted by: S.Tan | January 19, 2006 at 08:58 AM