Extra! Extra! (1.23)
When Brian Cook and Kobe Bryant combine for 83 points, there's not much the opposition can do.
Down 14 at the half, Kobe took a potentially season crushing loss at home to the Raptors and turned it into a 122-104 win... and history. 81 points, the second highest total in NBA history behind only Wilt Chamberlain's 100 in '62. 55 in the second half, before leaving to a standing ovation and a hug for Phil Jackson with 4.2 seconds left, capping a performance that even he couldn't have dreamed up. And unlike 62 (you remember 62, right?), this time Kobe wasn't coming out of the game. Sam Mitchell tried every defense he could think of, but none of them helped as Kobe took a game the Raptors had in hand and made it his. The explosion took (some) of the sting away from the ending of his consecutive free throw streak at 62. To cap off the evening? How about a call from Magic?
There may be critics of 81 (don't know who yet), but they're misguided, says Dan Wetzel of Yahoo! Sports. Kobe is rewriting the rules of what's possible, even if it means overshadowing NFL championship Sunday- no easy feat. Exact comparisons to Chamberlain are tough to make, but it's very possible Kobe's feat was more impressive.
Either way, save the box score. It's a keeper.
In other news (seriously), Phil Jackson would like to see more production from the post, and it's looking like Aaron McKie (remember him?) won't be back until sometime in February.
(Photo by Chris Pizzello/Reuters)
A historic performance...
Kobe's average is now 35.9 PPG. No player has averaged 35 PPG since Jordan, and his highest was 37.1 PPG.
I think 81 points pretty much wraps up the MVP now, assuming the Lakers make the playoffs.
Posted by: Jova | January 23, 2006 at 08:58 AM
All I can say is Dam Kobe!! I know everybody is trying to come up with their own ideas of who the Lakers should trade for,but has the team said they where intrested in anybody. And what they are willing to offer as a package? Once again I'm sad that I didn't see the game. (I KNEW I SHOULD HAVE BOUGHT THE NBA GAME PACKAGE!!!)
Posted by: Laker Junkie | January 23, 2006 at 09:05 AM
For us out of state Laker fans, does anyone have a link to a tivo of this game? Or just the 4th quarter? Any assistance will be appreciated!
Posted by: Lone Star Laker Fan | January 23, 2006 at 09:08 AM
Yea, because I live in Arizona, I couldn't watch the game either. It's unfortunate that I missed history in the making with Kobe's 81 point performance. I hope the NBA puts this game on DVD. It would be a great seller!
Posted by: Ron | January 23, 2006 at 09:11 AM
I'm still buzzing from lastnight's game. 81! Thanks Mr. Bryant (Kobe, Sir). Thanks for the win, thanks for giving the haters something to talk about with their morning coffee. The most dominate force in the NBA is not in Miami.(and we've known that for a couple years) L.A. how do we spell relief? K-O-B-E! THE NBA's M.V.P! (I think even the players wanna cast a vote for him)
Posted by: LAKER | January 23, 2006 at 09:15 AM
TRADE KOBE FOR RON ARTEST!
Seriously though... wow. So, where do we go from here now that Kobe-Haterism is officially dead. I mean, I thought it would take one, maybe two championships to kill Kobe-Haterism, but I'm pretty sure its dead.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 23, 2006 at 09:17 AM
KOBE IS THE BEST PLAYER IN THE LEAGUE HANDS DOWN.COULD ANY BODY ELSE GET MAD AND GET 81! NOW IF EVERYONE ELSE COULD JUST START PLAYING TO THE LEVEL THEY ARE CAPABLE OF. THE PLAYOFFS ARE EASY, AND WHO IS GOING TO STOP KOBE IN THE PLAYOFFS.PHX,,SA,AND DET! THATS IT! AND PHX WILL JUST OUTSCORE THEM. WAY TO GO KOBE! YOU ARE THE G.O.A.T.!
Posted by: KOOLBREEZE | January 23, 2006 at 09:18 AM
Message from Kobe to critics:
Take that!
Kobe has gone and set himself a new a standard. Er, I mean set the NBA a new standard.
I think this game changes a few things.
It's gonna be a lot harder to criticize Kobe This particular game was uncriticizeable, even for some of Kobe's biggest haters. A comeback win with high scoring by Kobe in the natural flow of the game, low shooting percentages by teammmates, high shooting percentages by himself, and a W at the end? And what does Kobe stress at the end, the W. Priceless.
Kobe can say hello to more endorsements and has singlehandedly increased both The Lakers and his own worth by a ton.
Kobe has changed to more than a man, even though he's the same Kobe.
Last, but not least, WHO'S MAKING THE PLAYOFFS NOW?
I'm very disappointed in Kobe for one thing, he broke his streak of free throws.
Hahaha
Posted by: Benjamin | January 23, 2006 at 09:19 AM
I remember when Kobe once confidently asserted that the Lakers would win 10 championships with him on their roster and that he would become the greatest player in the history of the game.
I now think this young man could do it all, including the championships.
Last night's performance will almost certainly win him the MVP award. I'd be surprised if he didn't get it after the season he's having.
Posted by: Biff Tannen | January 23, 2006 at 09:20 AM
darn..i wish i would have tivo-ed it too! but i was recording "malibus most wanted" last night on comedy central! haha! that's hilarious dude!
I NEVER WOULD HAVE IMAGINED A PLAYER SCORING THAT LITTLE! 81 POINTS! WHOOAH! WOW! SO INTENSE!
As Nike says..."Just Do It"...well KOBE DID!
As Adidas says..."Impossible is Nothing"...well Kobe did the impossible!
The downside of this game is that Kobe should have passed the ball more. Period. But that ends it! I wouldnt like to criticize or comment such an historic event.
May the good Lord shower Kobe and the Lakers with more blessings throughout the 2nd half of the season and for the rest of their lives.
*KOBE FOR MVP!
*GO LAKERS!
Posted by: shaq_hater | January 23, 2006 at 09:27 AM
Historic performance! Unfortunately I don't think any man should score 81 points in the game! That is just rediculous. His teammates need to get better.
Posted by: Zen | January 23, 2006 at 09:27 AM
Greatness!
When we see it we seldom can fully grasp its magnitude. I have been saying it for a while now, Kobe is not going after MJ, Kobe is going after History. Do you really think that it's a coincidence that Phil came back for 3 years (Kobe's prime)?
Do you really think Jerry Buss was wrong picking Kobe over shaq?
Did you really think he (Kobe) couldn't WOW you even more?
FACE IT, Kobe has not been destrOyed by Colorado, Kobe has not been destroyed by the break-up of the Dynasty! Kobe has not been destryed by all the critics!
Make no mistakes ladies and gentlemen, you are witnessing the flight of the phoenix! You are watching the man who will be known when it's all said and done as "The greatest of all time!"
No more comparisons to MJ, please....For the first time in my life, mentioning MJ in the same breath as Kobe doesn't sound right! It ain't right! Kobe is going after WIlt and all time greatness...WHO DO YOU THINK CAN STOP HIM NOW!?
I hope your hatred doesn't rob you of the most magnifiscent NBA feat of our life time!
Posted by: Chosen#23 | January 23, 2006 at 09:33 AM
It's so hard to be an east coast Laker fan. I sit everyday at my computer to follow the Laker's season, to see their playoff standing, to see what other teams schedule looks like and compare them to ours, I stay up to 2:00 in the morning everytime they play a nationally televised game just to have the joy of watching my team, and then I miss a performance like that. I love the Lakers and Kobe Bryant, and it kills me everytime I have to sit at my computer, or watch NBA TV to see what's going on.
Well I've whined enough. I don't understand it, but I know Kobe will be criticized today, after having perhaps the greatest scoring game in NBA history. Why can't people just enjoy what the man does, and understand that he has to do what he does for us to win games. Instead of hating on Kobe, everyone in the sports world should celebrate what he did last night.
Posted by: Asaad Weaver | January 23, 2006 at 09:34 AM
The NBA offers games for purchase through Google Video. They have the Lakers/Blazers game from January 11th on sale for $3.95. So I'm sure this game will be offered within a week or two.
Just go to video.google.com
Posted by: Jova | January 23, 2006 at 09:41 AM
Kobe is unstoppable now.
What, you already knew that?
He's got a greenlight from Magic to ignore the critics. As of last night.
That's it, it's over, a new era has begun.
Kobe has effected a new brand of basketball. It's like in a movie. It's Kobe's unfathomable will versus the other team.
And I don't like the other team's chances.
Posted by: Benjamin | January 23, 2006 at 09:46 AM
Kobe's going after Wilt. Wow. Unbelievable.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 23, 2006 at 09:49 AM
You know what's sad though....J.A ADANDE, PLASCHKE ...Those names my friends are from your hometown paper! Everybody has written about it...except them! They are propably trying to come up with negative remarks about the unbelievable performance!
To J.A ADANDE and PLASCHKE I SAY: PITY!
I pity you! for your heart is forever darkened by your blinding hatred!
Posted by: chosen#23 | January 23, 2006 at 09:51 AM
"CAN YOU DIG IT." 3 years ago in the LALA LAND ALLSTAR game SHAQ shouted regarding to his game MVP honors. Then my brother who is the worst KOBE HATER I know, who was watchin KOBE, LIVE, for the first time after winning a CHAMPIONSHIP replied: "Hey I can dig KOBE making you the MVP in this game." HEY HATERS, instead of just following the media and come up with UNEDUCATED BS, atleast watch and decide for yourself.
Posted by: RayRay | January 23, 2006 at 09:52 AM
Hey, there is a poll on when Kobe will break Wilt's record of 100 points. To vote, go to http://lakers.topbuzz.com and then come back here and let's all talk about when we might think it could happen. Keep those video recorders handy. Wilt's record was untelevised. We can all record Kobe's 102.
Posted by: DA | January 23, 2006 at 09:56 AM
For the next home game, I want to hear chants of 101!!!!
Which team do you guys/gals think he can score ONE HUNDRED AND ONE POINT on?
Posted by: LakersOaf | January 23, 2006 at 09:59 AM
ASSAD - move to L.A.! It's sunny today, a little bit windy, but it's 60 degress!
Posted by: KB8 Fan | January 23, 2006 at 10:12 AM
Last night's record-setting 81-point scoring performance by Kobe was spectacular. Kobe has continued to elevate his game to supernatural heights.
What's so amazing this time around versus the last offensive explosing against Dallas was that the game was very competitive scoreboard-wise. The remarkable aspect of Kobe's achievement last night was his mental fortitude in that he imposed his will on the opposing team. His single-minded "refuse to lose" resolve enabled the Lakers to overcome the first-half deficit and, more importantly, brought the team a victory.
This performance has to rank higher than the 100-point by Wilt, given that the degree of difficulty was greater in Kobe's cause than Wilt's. Look at Kobe's shots from behind the arc and the perimeter shooting versus Wilt's high-percentage, low-post layups. Most of all, the 81-point event was achieved by a 6' 7" swingman versus a 7" 1' center.
Folks, we are in the midst of greatness that is Kobe Bryant. Bow down the Ocho and, once and for all, let's stop casting aspersion and other toxic thoughts toward this man.
All I can say is thanking you Jerry West for trading Kobe back in the mid-nineties for the man himself, Kobe Bryant.
Posted by: 12th Night | January 23, 2006 at 10:14 AM
That was the single greatest individual sports achievement I have ever seen. Thanks Kobe for the incredible memory.
That being said, I don’t think Kobe wins the MVP award on that game alone. From what I have seen this year, either Chauncey Billups or Steve Nash get my vote for MVP, with me leading towards Nash. For him to be putting up his numbers and his teams record with the team he plays with night in and night out (no Amare) you have to figure this guy is as important as any in the league. The Pistons are 33-5 and Billups has been nothing but phenomenal. Now, if the Lakers make a second half surge and get to the 47-50 win level and Kobe keeps this up, then yes, I would think he will get a bunch of votes. You also have to remember, the media votes and we all know that across the board the media is not pro-Kobe.
On another note, how can a man jack up 46 shots and only get TWO assists? He needs to make his teammates better, it would be no fun to play with him.
(…and scene. That’s my audition for the studio crew of TNT).
Posted by: Buffalo Wings | January 23, 2006 at 10:25 AM
Shooting Guards are paid to shoot.....shoot well.....shoot often.....shoot consistently.
I have been saying since before this season ever began that Kobe Bryant's main responsibility as a shooting guard is to shoot the ball. I don't care what the analyst say about assist and getting the others involved, that's not Kobe's first responsibility. When the Bulls won those championships while playing "team basketball" it wasn't simply because of Jordan distributing the ball.....it was because of Scottie Pippen and others distributing the ball as well. Jordan's main distribution came out of double team's as a result of necessity. If you recall, Jordan was more of a player like Dwayne Wade, in that he played inside the 3-point line, driving/slashing often, and only developing a decent 3-point shot in latter years. Kobe, on the other hand, has a very dependable perimeter game that only suffers when he becomes tired and his legs can't support his jump shot.
The bottomline is that Kobe must do what he did last night, if the Lakers are to be successful. He must continue to shoot the ball well and often. That isn't to say that he needs to score 40 points a night. That simply means that he needs to score!!!
Lamar, Smush, Sasha, Devean, Luke, and the others must become better distributors of the ball.
Finally, when the Lakers were winning with Shaq and Kobe, Kobe was not the main distributor of the ball then either.....Ron Harper, Brian Shaw and Derek Fisher controlled that area. Kobe got his when slashing and dishing or the occassional double-team (wasn't double-teamed much during the early years).
By the way, how many assist does Ray Allen, Michael Redd, and Vince Carter get a night? Let the shooter shoot!
Posted by: JJ | January 23, 2006 at 10:28 AM
I feel lucky to have watched the game after reading all these posts. I have most of the games on 2 different channels so I don't have to listen to stupid commentators.
Great performance. I can't believe he didn't collapse afterward! Kobe is really strutting his stuff right now.
Posted by: frank rizzo | January 23, 2006 at 10:33 AM
Bill,
10 championships? That's a pretty tall order. I'll be satisfied with four more from Kobe. If he plays to 37.
It was real nice watching Kobe put up 81 against the Toronto Barney the Dinosaur. I hate that team. Hopefully he just broken their back as an organization.
It was also nice hearing about the phone call between Magic and Kobe after the game.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 23, 2006 at 10:34 AM
Go Lakers!!
You all are right to the point.
Just check out the article on MSNBC by Michael Venture... The dude still finds some flaws.. even with history being made. The guy just does not hate Kobe. It is even more than hate. He seems to have some kind of inner hurt feelings....
Also, Magic was on air this morning and he said that he called MJ when Kobe had 69 and told him that Kobe is breaking his record. He went further to say that he called the Bald Headed A$$$$ to tell him to catch history in the making. Wonder what He had to say.
If only we can get a second scorer, maybe Webber, we will win the ring!!!
Posted by: Jay | January 23, 2006 at 10:37 AM
Anyone who says Kobe should have passed more, either wasn't watching the game, or doesn't know what they are talking about.
As I and others have asked before, what good is passing when your teammates are wide open and still chucking bricks?
I'd bet Charles Barkeley will have nothing nice to say about Kobe - you can count on it. ("he needs to get his teammates involved more, etc., ad infinitum") That's what you get when you make a bitter no-championship ex-player a commentator. Barkeley is entertaining but there is no hiding the jealousy he (and probably most other players) feels towards Kobe.
I'm sure Kobe's teammates are going to be sick of getting asked about Kobe by every single damned reporter. Well my answer to them is, start hitting your open shots, or just smile and appreciate the fact that you are blessed to play on a team with the greatest ever.
Posted by: newJtimes | January 23, 2006 at 10:41 AM
Kobe Haters Can't Hold Back!!!
At least they are subdued a little bit.
Here's Michael Ventre's article, suggesting that Kobe had a great game but all the MVP talk should wait until he proves better judgement in more situations:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10983893/
What?! Dude, don't you realize that this game signifies what Kobe is? The Game Saver. The Game Changer. The Never Quit, Win no matter what attitude. Why must he continually prove himself?
Hmmm, maybe I am the one overreacting!
Regardless, everyone should enjoy the Kobe show while it lasts this year. I think that Kobe's recent string of performances will have better players geeked up to play with him because the Lakers are truly one very good player away from contending ..
Posted by: Korey | January 23, 2006 at 10:41 AM
Asaad - I feel your pain! Unfortunately, for me I don't even get NBA TV! Our cable provider doesn't carry it. I'm by my computer every Laker game listening to NBA audio league pass.
Damn Kobe!!!!!!! Thank you for topping my day! My Steelers go to the Superbowl and Kobe drops 81!!! Ahh, let me just let it just soak it all it again lol.
I was disappointed at halftime! The whole team sucked! But for Kobe to put the whole team on his back and bring them back from 17 down is MVP worthy in my book!
We definately have to give the rest of the team credit though. The defense picked up in the second half and allowed Kobe do his thing. And about not passing the ball? Who cares! (at least for last night) I mean, seriously, did anyone really want to see anyone else shoot the ball once Kobe reached 60+? I sure didn't!! I wanted him to shoot everytime he touched the ball!
And after Kobe got on a roll did anyone notice how confident the rest of the team got? Smush and Lamar made some good shots and the defense stepped up! Love you Kobe! See you in Cleveland!!!
Posted by: Katie | January 23, 2006 at 10:42 AM
Just cause Kobe doesn't get the assist added to the stat sheet doesn't mean he's not getting his teammates shots and passing the ball. He does a good job of trying to get the team involved.
Posted by: Katie | January 23, 2006 at 10:46 AM
yikes !!!! 81 points on 60% shooting.....60% !!!!
yes ..thats why all the writers are mum....for a permiter player to shoot 60% ...on 46 shots is flat out ridiculous !!!
btw...this just proves that kobe helped make shaq better.... i mean he cudve gone off for one of these nights when shaq was around too...but he always deferred to shaq...which means he passed the ball enough and let the big man have enough touches to be mvp for the finals 3 times...but no writer will ever touch upon that
alls i can say is stop hatin now....what kobe is doing is nothing short of a miracle
Steve Nash is still MVP...and has a healthy lead over Kobe !!!!
Posted by: kida | January 23, 2006 at 10:51 AM
Anybody that spends more time noticing Kobe's assist total last night than anything else, doesn't understand the game. The game of basketball is about scoring points and stopping the other team from doing the same. It's that simple...score, but don't be scored on. However, you choose to accomplish that is up to each team......the outcome is what's most important.
Kobe saw his team playing a sluggish, slow-paced, lack-luster filled game on their way to either a close victory or a potential blow-out loss. He had 2 choices....either let it happen, or do something about it. He chose the latter, and the rest is HIS-STORY!!!
Posted by: JJ | January 23, 2006 at 10:52 AM
to Buffalo Wings,
sounds like you didn't watch the game. the Lakers were having a tough time early on and were down at the half. Kobe tried distributing early on but no-one was making any shots. after the half, he just took it all on himself and took over the offense. the lakers picked up their defense and turned the game around. but having Kobe pick up the offense allowed the rest of the team to save more energy for defense. in addition to Kobe's performance, team defense won this game and allowed Kobe to have more possessions.
Posted by: Ben | January 23, 2006 at 10:55 AM
I have done some research and a little math, and come up with an interesting fact. In Wilt's 100 point game, he had 62.9% of the total 159 points. Bryant's 81 point effort was 66.4% of his team's 122 points. Does this mean his contribution to this game was greater than Wilt's? I think it does, I also think that no one will break Wilt's record in a single 48 minutegame without overtime. This is where we need to consider a break in the record books like MLB where there is a Modern Era. The game has changed too much to really compare the statistics accurately.
I have the game on my DVR(tivo) and unlike his game against the Mavs, I will not be deleting this one. Unfortunately, I do not have a DVD burner, so I am of no help to those who did not see or record it.
MVP!
Posted by: dustin burr | January 23, 2006 at 10:58 AM
FoxSportsWest will be doing their usually replay of the previous night's game at 12:00 noon today. If you missed any of it last night or want to tape/tivo it for prosperity, there's your chance.
Kobe is MVP so far. Nash and Billups have 10x the talent around them as Kobe does, if one of them goes down their team would not go into the kind of tailspin the Lakers would w/o Kobe. I think Marion is Phoenix's MVP to tell you the truth by just a smidgen - Nash is amazing, but they're nowhere without Marion there too. Kobe is easily the Most Valuable Player to his team (it's not about making your teammates better, it's about making your team better), PHX, DET & SAN would all still be decent w/o their starts, the Lakers would not.
Posted by: Kevin McK | January 23, 2006 at 11:01 AM
what i am worried about:
people say kobe is at his prime, and it may be true. But im wondering about his mentality now. He's achieved something that no one will come close to for a while. He proven himself (if he hadnt already, then this game did it for sure) but im talking about his work ethic. and his strive to improve... u think hes gona kick back a little now and let it sink in that hes the greatest? or is he going to still work and becoming a better player? How can he become a better player after scoring 81?
amazing performance. i think he envisions the rings now and thats all... i dont think hes trying to break wilts record.
Posted by: sylvain peltzer | January 23, 2006 at 11:07 AM
Let's play a game. Kobe is a _______. 7 letter word.
First syllable of the word: Rhymes with Hall
Second syllable of the word: Rhymes with Bog
Posted by: msb212 | January 23, 2006 at 11:08 AM
buffalo wings,
lets think about what you're saying. yes the suns have a great record, but look at their team compared to kobes team. and then compare their records...lakers only like 4 or 5 games behind or something. and lakers are young and still improving.
if youre going to complain about kobe's assist total, you've gota be joking.. im not even going to comment on that.
the pistons have put together an amazing team, but its just as much the rest of the team as chauncey billups. i mean wallace is (to me) the best center in the league, at least defensively, rasheed is an amazing athlete, and the depth they have on the bench is amazing, they have a great coach, its no wonder theyre 33-5, Theyre a great team, so i dont believe billups should get MVP.
if you watch kobe enough,(night in nightout for me throughout his career... every single game) you would realize that he is the greatest player to ever play the game. period... (i didnt need a game like this to convince me.. ive known all along.. same with the true fans that know what theyre talking about)
Posted by: sylvain peltzer | January 23, 2006 at 11:16 AM
msb212 you are funny!!!
It's obvious from your recent posts throughout this blog, that you are writing your unfathomable jargon in order to conjure up many angry responses.
Then you laugh at how people act and resond you!! lol.
Kobe's crazy game is undeniably beyond reproach. Dude, you are supposed to wait for something bad to happen to rag on Kobe! Oh well, at least you are consistent...
Posted by: Korey | January 23, 2006 at 11:20 AM
haha kobe's 81 were siiiiiiick!
but arent we asking for a little too much waiting for him to break wilt's record? personally, i doubt that record will ever be broken. its just not happening. especially with how the teams today play defense. yes, the raptors actually played a little defense last night. otherwise kobe would have gotten 101. but if i were a betting man, (and i am) i wouldnt bet on kobe or anyone else breaking wilt's 100. 100 just seems lik eth eperfect number. i think wilt stopped at 100 on purpose. it would be a shame for the highest single game scoring record to be 101 or 102. lets just enjoy this ride and milk kobe the rest of the way. aint nobody touching kobe's 81 for a while.
but to be honest, if i had a choice between watching kobe hit for 81 or having a balanced laker team, i would go with the team. i would much rather mihm miraculously develop soft hands to catch with. i would much rather kwame develop a sense of dignity and pride and play with some passion. i woul dmuch rather odom play to his potential and get his 18,10,8 a game on a consistant basis. i would much rather have the laker shooters make their shots. because as much as i want kobe to win that mvp award up over his head, we all know he's going to have to carry the lakers to at least the 2nd round of the playoffs or the western conference finals to get it; regardless of everything hes done this 1st half of the season.
Posted by: Lefty | January 23, 2006 at 11:23 AM
TOP TEN WAYS TO HATE ON KOBE (After the 81 point game)
10) He's a ball hog
9) He still doesn't make his team better
8) He doesn't play good defense
7) He's one dimensional
6) Put McGrady or Wade on this team in this system, they'll do the same
5)He can't do that against Detroit or San Antonio
4)He's still a snitch
3)He's not about winning, otherwise he would not have run Shaq off
2)Cite some random Hollinger stat that shows what a loser Kobe is
and the number one way to hate on Kobe now is
1) The new rules favor perimeter players, it's easy to score 81 now!
Posted by: KB8 Fan | January 23, 2006 at 11:25 AM
On the MVP debate: This season will reinvigorate the debate over what standard should be used to determine the MVP.
Is it the best player on the best team (e.g. Shaq 2000), the player with the most profound impact on his team (Nash, 2005), or is it the player with the most impressive season (Jordan, 1988)?
I'd argue that the league alternates between all three over time, and my comment above only suggests that Kobe's season is too spectacular to be ignored.
Posted by: Biff Tannen | January 23, 2006 at 11:28 AM
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060123/COLUMNISTS01/601230389/1088/SPORTS04
I found an interesting article involing Jermaine O'Neal and the Indiana Pacers on one of their newspaper websites today. Apparently, some people are entertaining the idea of trading Jermaine before the trade deadline. I would have thought that he was a mainstay. however, maybe he is a trade option. I wonder if the Lakers could get in on some of this action. Jermaine to LA could be the piece to put the Lakers right back in serious contention.
I would imagine that for the Lakers to even be a factor in a trade like this, it would require that a third team be included. No player, the caliber of Jermain could be traded away for less than an All-Star player or 2 players, making up an All-Star player. However, with a third team....the possibilities are open. Here's my thought about the situation.
The Lakers could give up Chris Mihm, Slava Medvedenko and Brian Cook. Indiana could give up Jermaine O'Neal and Ron Artest. Sacramento could give up Peja and a draft pick. Sacramento would get Ron Artest and Chris Mihm. Indiana would get Peja, Brian Cook and Slava Medvedenko. The Lakers would get Jermaine O'Neal. I don't know how that works out money-wise, but it appears that each team gets something good.
Indiana is the only team that might have a problem with this trade considering them losing 2 All-Stars. However, Ron isn't going to be a part of the team anyway, so at least they get something (Brian Cook and Slava Medvedenko) for him. Plus, Slava's contract is coming up, so they would have salary cap room next year.
Kobe, Jermaine and Lamar, would be the 3-some the Lakers need in order to be a contender. Smush and Kwame, would be solid players to fill the other 2 spots.
I know it sounds a little crazy and all, but I didn't have much time to think of a better scenario. In a little while, I'll have an even better one.
Posted by: JJ | January 23, 2006 at 11:28 AM
awwww cmon msb212, dont be mad cuz your sparks suck.
its ok, im sure your upcoming wnba season will be much more entertaining than watching grown men play ball.
or maybe you should go to the neighborhood parks and watch little boys and girls play in their pee wee leagues.
Posted by: Lefty | January 23, 2006 at 11:35 AM
msb212:
If you think Kobe is a ball hog, why don't you shoot 81 points a game. I and the rest of the Laker Fans would like to see you do it in the NBA. You got some balls calling him a ball hog when you do not play in the NBA yourself. Why don't you be in the NBA and try that? You are saying that you can score 81? Well good luck and if you do remember that it won't be Kobe who is a ball hog, it is YOU.
On another topic....
KOBE BRYANT MVP. I don't care what you guys think. Nash is good but when you have a guy like Kobe, cmon. Nash's time as an MVP is done so let Kobe have one for a change. Hopefully those fools in the media will allow for once Kobe slack and be the greatest player there is. Detriot is good but that's because they have some of the other good talent in this league AKA Billups, the Wallaces. Phoenix is the same story since they have Marion, Nash and others. Kobe is the one who is getting the Lakers into the playoffs. And no one can argue about that. He even had a couple of assits this time.
And everyone plz remember that Khan:
KHAN- THE WORST IDIOT IN THIS WORLD
KHAN- WHO WANTED TO TRADE KOBE FOR NENNE AND WATSON
KHAN- THE CLIPPER FAN
KHAN- WHEN HE RESPONDS TO THIS THING, WILL NOT KNOW WTF HE IS TALKING ABOUT
KHAN- WHOSE IDEAS WILL MAKE THE LAKERS INTO THE WORST TEAM IN THE NBA, EVEN WITH THE GREAT KOBE BRYANT TRYING TO WIN IT FOR US TRUE LAKERS FAN
KHAN- WHAT MORE CAN I SAY?
Go Lakers and Kobe!!!
Posted by: arthas (Tom Brady) | January 23, 2006 at 11:38 AM
I just want to notice that Kobe made this unbelievable performance in his game number 666
Posted by: Pablete | January 23, 2006 at 11:42 AM
Let's play a game. Kobe is a _______. 7 letter word.
First syllable of the word: Rhymes with Hall
Second syllable of the word: Rhymes with Bog
Answer: All-Blog
That was a good game Msb212. And the Answer makes sense. With Kobe scoring a historic 81 points in a game, he deserves to have is own blog. Lets play another one.
Kobe is a _______. 7 letter word.
First syllable of the word: Rhymes with Hall
Second syllable of the word: Rhymes with Jar
I tell you what, I'll give you the answer: ALL STAR
Posted by: Ron | January 23, 2006 at 11:42 AM
KOBE , THE "8(th)1"DER OF THE WORLD !
Posted by: Thomas Shum | January 23, 2006 at 11:42 AM
Add to top ten ways to hate on Kobe:
- He had three pointers, Wilt didn't (even though he only got 7 extra points from threes)
Posted by: KB8 Fan | January 23, 2006 at 11:45 AM
Remember T-Mac's "been there, done that" after witnessing Kobe's 62 point night? I'm interested in hearing what he's got to say now.
For those people that criticize Kobe's 2 assist performance/ball hogging: GET A LIFE!
If MJ takes 75% of the shots in a game, he's cherished because he's Jordan. Kobe needed to take most of those shots because there's no way in hell the other guys would step up and prevented a loss to the Raptors.
Posted by: FH | January 23, 2006 at 11:45 AM
Another way to look at this game: Nash's 28 pt, 16 ast game, Double OT game vs. Kobe's 81 pt, 2 ast, regulation game. Nash played a part in ONLY 60 points scored in that game. Kobe eclipsed him by being responsible for 85 points. WOW.
Ballhog all you want - its games like this that'll surely take some pressure off of the other guys. Look for Kobe to not score as much in the next game, and for the teammates to be fully involved.
Posted by: epventura | January 23, 2006 at 11:46 AM
"Ballhog" is a word you use for *regular* players who shoot too much. Kobe is in a class by himself. You can't stick that word to a guy who can produce 81 points on 60% shooting in today's NBA. If you have a weapon like that on your team, you damn well use it.
There hasn't been a weapon like Kobe in decades. If he can somehow singlehandedly drag that team into the playoffs, it will be a remarkable achievement.
(BTW, I love basketball "experts" who pick up a buzzword or two from the superficial ESPN-type articles they've been scanning and use them to bash a guy they've just never liked. "81 points? See? See? 'Ballhog.' I said he had no talent when he came into the league, and I can't change my mind now even if all evidence is against me. Bring back Shaq, blah, blah, blah. My position on this is utterly indefensible, but I can parrot some stuff my buddies said the other night over umbrella drinks as we desperately tried to convince each other that we knew stuff about sports." Dude, go back to watching ice dancing. Yeah, we're talking to you, guy who thought it was remotely cool to name yourself after your expensive car.)
Posted by: Nah | January 23, 2006 at 11:47 AM
That was a unbelievable from the 8 WONDER OF THE WORLD.Did anyone know if Charles Barkley was watching the game?.What do he has to say?WHAT Charles,maybe now you can say that Kobe DESERVE TO BE AN MVP PERIOD!!!!!!!!!!!.Thank you for that.GO LAKERS AND GO KOBE>
Posted by: bonzi | January 23, 2006 at 11:49 AM
I can't believe how Kobe scores 81 points, leads his team back from 18 down in the 2nd half and he's still criticized.
He shot 61% and his teammates shot 33%, yet people are going to bitch about the fact that he took 46 shots and only had 2 assists.
In the minds of many Kobe-haters, there's no way he can win.
(1) When he scores tons of points and his team wins, he's not a "team player".
(2) When he dials down his shooting, tries to get teammates involved and they lose, he's not good enough to carry a team on his back and win. He doesn't "make his teammates better".
The failing of the Lakers is not so much Kobe but the talent, or lack thereof, that he's surrounded with. Until his teammates improve and develop a higher level of understanding of the triangle offense (which they will, eventually), or until a higher level of talent is somehow otherwise acquired, you can't complain about him choosing (1) on nights when his teammates just don't have it (which right now is more often than not).
It'd be stupid to think that Kobe is unaware the Lakers will never win the championship using this methodology. Just take his performance last night for what it was: he did what he had to do bring his team back from 18 down to win the game.
If anyone else but Kobe scored 81 points in a game, I have a hard time believing that the reaction would be anything but unanimous beatification. Objectively speaking, filtering out all biases and subjective influences, think about it: a single player scored 81 points in an NBA game (and his team won).
Posted by: EK | January 23, 2006 at 11:49 AM
81 points! 46 shots only!
Wow wow wow is all I can say wow!
I am a laker fan from detroit and I do have league pss just to watch kobe but f@#$ I missed the single best performance in nba history forget wilt like seriously wilt shot 68 times 22 more then kobe and had like 20 something offensive rebounds and played against undersized players, please its nowhere near kobes performance. I can't wait for kobe to score like 60 points on the pistons so I can rub it in all my freinds faces their all haters and the funny thing is none of them are ansewring their phones. Hahahahahahahahahaha kobe for mvp forsure as for billups please he would never be that good without that team. KOBE MVP MVP MVP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Take that kobe haters!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The cockaroches hide once again hahahahahahahaha cockaroches I love that one.
Posted by: kobe jordan | January 23, 2006 at 11:50 AM
damm that colorado bitch
but u know wat a guy said it its ubfair to compare kobe(the master of the rings as he was called in a and1 movie)kobe is a better player that anybody else he s not the second coming of mj but the first kobe
no more squiky clean image
he isn as marketabble as MJ or King James but a better ball player
and everybody has to admit that kobe hater or no
all hail to the greatness of the N"8
kobe for MVP no for all time best
and i hope he keeps his promise and wins 7 more title or at least 4(get one over MJ)and he should rule the league for the next couple of years
Posted by: 7}{}{}{7 | January 23, 2006 at 11:52 AM
arthas, you dont understant. It's not Khan's fault he's a moron... he was born that way. even now at age 37, he still have a hard time talking in complete sentences, I'm sure you noticed that. he acts like a whine baby because he still is a baby at heart. dont be too hard on him. one day he might realize that everyone's laughing at him, not with him.
Posted by: Khan's mom | January 23, 2006 at 12:02 PM
Here's a topic for conversation. What else can Kobe do this year?
1) Get his FG% up to 50% for the season and keep it there (that'll shut up a LOT of more people)
2) Get the Lake Show to the 2nd round (shut up even more folks)
3) Get us to the Conf. Finals (shut up folks for..ever!!!)
What else?
Posted by: Korey | January 23, 2006 at 12:03 PM
Now that he's got 81 points in a game. Kobe solidified his spot in history. Let's talk about how great the Laker's would be if they surround Kobe with some Talent. I like Lamar and he is a keeper. I wish they play Bynum 5-6 minutes a game. It would be something if Bryant wins a championship with this team but it is probably not likely until Kobe gets some help. Sign a shooter. Get some other scorers on the lakers.
Posted by: Cliff Jumper | January 23, 2006 at 12:05 PM
I have to say that I have never felt anything like it for any other event. It was soaringly good. Kone....YOU`RE THE MAN!!!! I hope that we all will be celebrating this for a long time and that Kobe can rest assure that we are all here backing him up for even greater things to come (If that ever would happen I can only see this formidable athlete as a architect behind such a happening) Go Kobe GOOOOO!!!!!
Louige D. A Lakers FAN deep to the soul even from here, Brazil or while in Sweden...ALLWAYS!
Posted by: Louige Damion Do Santos Lövgren | January 23, 2006 at 12:10 PM
“Ben” and “sylvain peltzer”,
In regards to Kobe’s assist total, I was totally joking, relax. As for the MVP, when was the last time an MVP was on a team slightly over .500 that would be a 6-8th seed in the playoffs? I’m not saying Kobe doesn’t deserve it, I think he’s the best basketball player in the world, but the media tends to weigh the voting on those whose team wins. Now, this 81 point outburst definitely has to open some eyes, but lets calm down with this single-handedly willing his team to win. I watched every second of the game and what I felt made the biggest impact on the score and subsequent win was the team defense and trapping pressure the Lakers put on in the second half. Just look at how their defense did a 180 and shut the Raptors down.
I mean c’mon, 81 points isn’t that big of a deal, the Warriors scored more than that in Staples earlier in the day. Sheesh.
Posted by: Buffalo Wings | January 23, 2006 at 12:11 PM
I was watching the game, or should I say Kobe's game, at the bar last night with my fiance. This old man next to me decided to leave at halftime. I can tell that he was very disappointed. He kept saying how pathetic the Lakers are playing. Then I sarcatically told him, "Why are you leaving already, the Lakers can still win the game. But is Kobe is gonna have to score 80 points for them to win." He replied, "I've seen enough. Kobe will have to score more than 80 to win this game. And It ain't gonna happen." My fiance also believed the Lakers were done and she wanted to leave. Luckily, I still had some beer left. After witnessing the brilliance of KO8E's 81 point game. I thank her over and over again for staying to finish the game. She said,"poor old man missed the best game ever played by KO8E. And you asked him to say. I wanna the look on his face when he sees the news."
Posted by: hardcoreLaker | January 23, 2006 at 12:15 PM
Simply put, KOBE!
As for T-MAC's "been there, done that" comment on KOBE'S 62 point game. That's 62 in 3 quarters? Are you sure you've been there and done that? I should have said it before hand but I knew it was coming. After 62 in 3 quarters...what did you "not" expect? I expected it and it was great! But he was mad, trailing the Raptors by 18-19 points (I was mad)...The team was playing flat...perfect time to take over the game and then get rewarded by being allowed to stay in the game to get his BIG 81! Thank you PJ for thinking about us LAKER fans and not the strict "purity" of the game on this occassion, we can always go back to the purity of game in the next game, but as for last night, simply put KOBE! = THE BIG WOW!
Mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | January 23, 2006 at 12:20 PM
Hua huauauahahahahahah! I do not know who the H this (gottobe a knitt twitt red neck who come up with those thangs) who posted that (ten ways to hate????) Look "Dude" or should I call you a "pal"? what ever. After this historical "81 P.O.I.N.T.S" man, you can say or write all the hate you wanna, it aint mean a thang seebloke, It do no longer rub off. yo ain´t gettin none yo ho...still it out with some of yor lovers B. I guess that a real man could plug off all that hate from pouring out. ohter then that = Do not consume air if not with intelligance. `aight "dude"..now go see detroit loose! LMAO!!!
Posted by: Louige Damion Do Santos Lövgren | January 23, 2006 at 12:23 PM
in the first place...the lakers weren't playing DEFENSE until KOBE TOOK OFF...
making your teammates better? isn't inspiring them to play better defense...by showing them how..giving out energy---> making them better?
kobe for mvp
81!
Posted by: Faith | January 23, 2006 at 12:58 PM
Hey kobe jordan,
Thanks for the stat! So Wilt (in getting his 100) shot 68 times huh? Too bad, the word "ballhog" may not have been invented by some sportswriter back then. Whatever other people say, scoring 81 considering today's NBA defense is not just phenomenal, it's downright other-worldly.
Just out of curiosity, i did some extrapolations on what Kobe would have scored if he took the same number of shots as Wilt. Kobe hit 7-13 3-pointers (53.8%) and 21-33 2-pointers (63.6%). Assuming the same ratio of 2's and 3's for the additional 22 shots (to total 68) and further assuming the same percentage of makes, he would have shot 3-6 3's and 10-16 2's. Thus, assuming that Kobe took the same number of shots as Wilt (68), Kobe would have scored --- a minimum 110 points on 41-68 shooting (10-19 on 3's).
When i told my wife that Kobe scored 81, she goes, "He's selfish." When i told her that they were down 18 points IN THE THIRD QUARTER when he decided to take matters in his own hands, she agreed that what Kobe did was impressive.
I look forward to watching the Lake Show next year, when Bynum has had one year of tutelage under Kareem, and LO has had his own one-year course with Scottie Pippen.
Posted by: Raymond42n | January 23, 2006 at 01:11 PM
Kobe for MVP, and this is why.
You should poll every team in the NBA with the following scenario. Your team is going to play in the first round of the playoffs, and you get to choose your opponent.
1. The Suns w/o Nash
2. The Lakers w/o Kobe.
How many votes would you get for 1 ...? NONE. Any team would jump at the chance for #2, but most teams would worry about playing the Lakers with a healthy #8 ready to drop another 81 bomb on them.
How is it difficult to see? Kobe is more valuable to the Lakers than Nash is to the suns.
Posted by: frank rizzo | January 23, 2006 at 01:12 PM
Louige Damion Do Santos Lövgren
when he put up the ten ways to hate i dont think he was hating, i think he was just saying the ways that we should expect the haters to come, and if you read this and other blogs he is right i have seen all 10 of those posted by haters
Posted by: ose | January 23, 2006 at 01:26 PM
Louige Damion Do Santos Lövgren,
Are you a mouth-breather and do you drool sometimes when you talk?
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 23, 2006 at 01:30 PM
JOVA, Thanks for the tip about google sports, I'll definitely look into that.
KB8, Thanks for the advice, but easier said than done (and my name is spelled ASAAD)
Katie, It sucks that you don't at least have NBA TV, is there some way you could request your cable company to get it?
Oh yeah, this one performance won't win Kobe MVP, but it should go a long way in helping. There's no player more important to his team than Kobe.
Posted by: Asaad Weaver | January 23, 2006 at 01:32 PM
I just saw jim rome atlking about kobe jacking up 60 shots, i havent heard him every say anything positive about the lakers, i guess he is really burning, burning with hatred that is.
Posted by: ose | January 23, 2006 at 01:39 PM
For all you people that say "Kobe needs more assists"... If Kobe was playing in a fast-break type team like Phoenix, then he would garner more assists, but the Lakers run the triangle. I don't think anyone that has played in the triangle has ever been in the top 5 or maybe even top 10 in assists. The nature of the offense allows for all players to make plays, not just one person. But when Kobe has the hot hand like he did last night, I don't see the need for him to pass the ball, when all his shots seemed to bottom out with a swish. It's a close race for the MVP, and Kobe is definitely a top candidate for it.
Posted by: Chris | January 23, 2006 at 01:58 PM
Oh I heard another great one -
"The NBA is diluted. Nobody plays defense anymore, there is less talent"
Can't wait for Chuck to use some of these on TNT, and maybe reiterate his "It's no fun playing with Kobe" spiel.
Well, it's fun listening to you Chuck, bc you are wrong so much of time!
Posted by: KB8 Fan | January 23, 2006 at 02:07 PM
KB8FAN- Wilt wouldn't have attempted a 3 pointer even if he did have it available back then.
Posted by: SHAQ | January 23, 2006 at 02:07 PM
The fact of the matter with Kobe post-81 is that we all need to shut the hell up.
His 81 point game and 62 point three-quarter performance prove that he understands basketball better than any of us ever will.
We just need to accept the game he plays and root for him to reach that place in Greatness that he wants to reach.
Go Kobe!
Go Lakers!
Go Team.
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 23, 2006 at 02:15 PM
What a performance!! Terrific. The important thing is he willed the LAkers to win from them being 18 down.
Haters can give reasons on why dropping 81 isn't great like - it was against the Raptors, defensive rules are different etc. I will give the reasons why he was not a ball hog.
3 Reasons why Kobe was not a ball hog in this game
1) He shot 62%
2) Teammates were not playing with energy
3) Lakers were trailing by 18
Now, anyone who plays the Lakers will be scared just cos of Kobe, including the Pistons. Refs will be calling fouls as soon as Kobe is touched. Which is good, cos last year he didn't get the respect he deserved from the refs. Mitch Kupchak needs to get him some help to get the Lakers rolling.
If Lakers end up as the 5th seed, Kobe my man will be the MVP. Mitch, please get him some help.
Posted by: kslf | January 23, 2006 at 02:17 PM
While we, true basketball fans, wear #8 jersey. The others, like Charles Barkley, will wear H8 jersey.
"Don't H8 the 8, Congratul8."
KO8E is one of the Gr8est Player Ever.
Posted by: hardcoreLaker | January 23, 2006 at 02:17 PM
Dont you guys see? It doesnt matter if kobe wins the mvp or not. He has had the highest scoring game in video recorded hisory. Kobe is beyond the question of whether he will get an mvp now. Also, kobe has surpassed all the criticism of "making your teamates better" because everybody in previous history(except wilt) could not win by scoring alone. Kobe is the only one who could do that; therefore, everyone else in the league(in this world) cannot criticize him. The only thing that tops this is a 100+ game or a string of championships. GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: anon | January 23, 2006 at 02:32 PM
Give me a break. Everyone including the sports writers are convenently forgetting the 3 point shot while they grovel at Bryant's feet and some saying better the Wilt. If you take away the 7 points Bryant got tacked onto the three pointers, instead of making them two point shots he ends up at 74 points not 81. Barely in 3rd place in history. Wilt on the otherhand has 5 games in the 70 points or more scorecard and he didn't have the luxury of 3 pointers in his day. Besides, Bryant certainly can't beat Steve Nash now can he?
Posted by: reality check | January 23, 2006 at 02:36 PM
WOW... To bad i can't see the game, since i'm in Indonesia.. but Kobe is W.O.W. marvelous. MVP MVP MVP..............................................
eat that shaq, u could have more rings if u stayed..LOL
Posted by: k0be#1 | January 23, 2006 at 02:40 PM
Fellow Laker/Kobe Lovers,
I've read many of you were unable to watch the game. I have it on tivo and will be recording to CD. If any of you would like me to send you a copy I will do so at no charge. I spend everyday reading these blogs and verbally fighting Kobe/Laker haters. I live in Orange County right off the 405. Last night after the game I was planning on standing on the side of the 405 freeway here in Irvine with a sign thanking Kobe as he drives right by my exit on his way home to Newport Coast. Anyhow, if any of you want a copy email me at tucker@ecxsc.com!
Kobe! Kobe! Kobe!
Posted by: Orange Kobe County | January 23, 2006 at 02:46 PM
Reality Check,
You're a great example how hate never dies it just creates another rationalization of why it's important to go on hating.
Put in perspective of different rules of the game between Wilt's time and Kobe's time, different over point averages, Kobe's reduced minutes, etc.. I think it is fair to say that Kobe's performance may exceed Wilt's in stature, but at least is comparable to it.
Now, about your complaint that Kobe has only had a couple of Wilterific performances, you're right, but what the hell makes you think that Kobe's through? He's got a good five years to repeat these types of performances. Do you honestly think he won't?
If you do, then your hate has truly blinded you. The only thing that can stop Kobe is himself and right now Kobe's inner voice is screaming, "GO!" and shows no sign of shutting up.
Isn't it great to watch history unfold?
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 23, 2006 at 02:50 PM
@reality check,
It's difficult to compare eras, but you only mention things that make Kobe's efforts look less impressive. You fail to mention that players during Wilt's era were less athletic, players were shorter, and that Kobe is a guard, and for the most part, his shots have a higher degree of difficulty.
Instead of trying to discredit his effort, enjoy the history...
Posted by: Jova | January 23, 2006 at 02:51 PM
Reality Check, here is your own reality check.
Wilt was 7'2" playing against centers who were an average of 6'6". They did not play D back then (Lowest scoring average was 110+).
Wilts points came from him standing under the baset getting a pass, and dropping it in against opponents who could not do anything about it. It took little skill, only the physical size of Wilt.
Im not trying to bash Wilt, but anyone who will not admit that Kobe's performance outshadows Wilts as far as impressivness (just made that word up, lol), and skill is a hater and is just ignorant!
Posted by: frank Rizzo | January 23, 2006 at 02:55 PM
Reality Check,
Our bad. Kobe had a lousy game.
Give me a break!
Wilt was a giant among boys. Wilt didn't have to chase guards all over the court on defense either. He is the first GUARD in NBA history to score that many points. Give credit where credit is due.
Posted by: Zen | January 23, 2006 at 03:01 PM
Wilt would benefited from having 3 pointers? Are you implying that he would be shooting from long distance? Are you sure your name should be "reality check"?
Nash v. Kobe??
Steve Nash in a close 2 OT game was responsible for or took part in 60 pts scored by the suns (28 points, 16 assists). The Suns lost.
Kobe Bryant in a regulation game in which they were DOWN 18 in the 3rd, was responsible for 85 points (81 points, 2 assists). The Lakers won.
Posted by: epventura | January 23, 2006 at 03:04 PM
thank God for the NBA League audio pass! truly my out-of-state laker fans, i sware by it. spero dedes and the other guy did a fantastic job, now i just hope ESPN turns this into a classic and airs the game.
i too stayed up way too late to read the AP story, see the first-run of SportsCenter and just bask in the greatness of 81. i remember calling my buddy, and i had an hysterical fit. i could not stop giggling. 81 is so goofy. so unbelievable. so ignorant. so... inconcievable, that i spent about five minutes straight just laughing maniacally on the phone. i couldn't find the appropiate words to express what just happenened and how i felt.
and like kobe said, we're going to the bottom to the top and we're doing it together. i love this journey! the tough losses make this even more sweet. i'm so glad we're sticking with this team, and this player. b/c truly, history can happen every night.
chosen23...hindsight, son. there are no Plaschke or adande columns b/c they weren't there, bill dwyre wouldn't send a columnist out to cover the lakers take on the lowly raptors. come on! even jack nicholson wasn't there. who could predict THIS was gonna happen? let's not jump the 'hateration' gun before it's time.
and K8Fan, keep adding to the list!
Posted by: CBuck | January 23, 2006 at 03:09 PM
FYI - They are replaying the game again tonight on Fox Sports Net West at 8pm. They are going out on a limb cancelling the Wranger Pro Tour. Sorry to hear that.
Posted by: Maleke | January 23, 2006 at 03:12 PM
Kobe has 81 points, but my Clippers are still seeded above your Lakers. Kobe will be worn down by the end of the season. He won't last all season. If he gets tickedo off after one lost, how would he react towards his teammates after they get bumped the playoffs.
Posted by: Fakers | January 23, 2006 at 03:16 PM
I want to officially apologize to Kobe Bryant.
A few weeks ago AK asked who we honestly thought would be better for the Lakers to have on their team, Kobe or LeBron James.
I said LeBron James, not because I think he's a better player, but because I thought he was younger and had more time to expand his game. So, I felt we'd have more years with a phenomenal player on our roster than Kobe had ahead of him.
I didn't realize how far Kobe would expand his game. I should have had faith.
Kobe, I'm sorry.
You've made LakerNation proud.
We won't forget.
Keep it up!
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | January 23, 2006 at 03:24 PM
Nitpicky tidbit on Kobe v. Nash in this last game:
Nobody has mentioned Kobe's 4 rebounds and 3 steals (one of which he took for a two-handed dunk to break the tie and give the Lakers either their first lead or their first lead in at least 2 quarters).
And one blocked shot. If you look at turnovers and relative rebounds (which were heavily favored early keeping the game close(r) and 2:1 at the end) you can prorate Kobe's steals, rebounds and blocked shot and probably tack on a few more points.
I don't feel like doing the math, but I think it would be close but just shy of 100 points of contribution.
Maybe you just include rebounds, steals, and blocks as being within the flow of the game and ignore it just like you do with Steve Nash's. Or maybe it's more appropriate to make them into negative points for the other team. Kobe involved in 85 for the Lakers, -16 for the purple dinosaurs, something like that...
Posted by: Benjamin | January 23, 2006 at 03:25 PM
I am a longtime Laker fan presently exiled in Florida. I call the Lakers "Kobe and the FOG" (four other guys). Fun to see the performance, but no championship until this entertainment package becomes something more. So far, Kobe doesn't seem to make the "other guys" better. He is, however, spectacular!
Posted by: Bruce Scrogin | January 23, 2006 at 04:13 PM
No matter how much you praise the spectacular 81 point game performance by Kobe Bryant, it will only count on that game. Please stop encouraging him to beat Wilt's record. In contrary, I believe, after showing his greatness, better things will happen for the Lakers. He achieved an individual record in the history of NBA. I know every player in NBA wants to do what he did. After the Shakobe era, Kobe has been trying to show and prove to us his unbelievable greatness in all angles of the game. Even though he only care for the win (politically speaking), he's been wanting to do that for a very long time. This guy loves Fame like Jordan. Once he grasps it, he will work with the team to win a ring. I hope my Clippers and your Clippers will meet in the 2nd round of the playoffs. That will be Awesome!!!
Now, Shaq realizes how he won championship rings with the Lakers and None with Penny and DWade.
Posted by: Fakers | January 23, 2006 at 04:43 PM
Since you guys mentioned Charles Barkley a Kobe H8er, I think Reggie Miller is another H8er that idolizes MJ game like Barkley. Another very good player, like Barkley that is ringless. Of course, they got beaten badly by MJ. Oh yeah, Reggie got beaten by Shaq Kobe too.
I really like to hear what Jordan has to say about Kobe's performance. I like it how Kobe seperates himself from MJ. He realizes that MJ's greatness is unreachable and uncomparable to him.
Posted by: hardcoreLaker | January 23, 2006 at 05:01 PM
Since we all listen to the KO8E H8ers out there:
Let's list some of the KO8E H8ers:
No columnist.
1. Charles Barkley (Jordan lover)
2. Shaq (Many reasons)
3. Reggie Miller (Jordan lover)
4. T-Mac (close to Shaq)
5. George Carl (believes Carmelo is better than Kobe cuz he passes the ball
6. Keith Van Horn (didn't he play for 5 team b4 Dallas?)
7. Dirk Nowitzki (Kobe dropped too many bombs on them)
8. DWade ?
9. Ray Allen?
10.Mike Williams?
Posted by: hardcoreLaker | January 23, 2006 at 05:09 PM
When Michael Jordan had high scoring games, he couldn't get near a championship. Even when Kobe won championships, he wasn't happy because he said he couldn't show his "true game."
Well, he's showing his true game and he won't get near another championship scoring in this way. I love the game more than I like any other player. Enjoy the scoring output,cause L.A. won't be anywhere near a championship in the foreseeable future.
Posted by: Shag Wilburn | January 23, 2006 at 06:00 PM
What amazes me the most about Kobe is his overwhelming and intimidating confidence. Make no mistake that its his CONFIDENCE and not really ABILITY that makes him such a great player.
Alrite, he has the ability to make incredible shots as well, but do you really think that he shoots better than players like Ray Allen? Kobe got a majority of his 81 from long and mid-range shots. No doubt Kobe has improved to be a great shooter, but do you think players like Ray, Rip Hamilton and Reggie Miller couldn't make those shots?
Ray and Rip no doubt have the ability to MAKE those shots, but they don't have the confidence to take over the game and take (and MAKE) as many shots as Kobe. Kobe's confidence wills those shots into the basket. Kobe's confidence is SO incredible that he makes defenders think that he is unstoppable. Anybody defending Kobe will be pumped up before the game, but once Kobe makes an incredible shot, they start feeling intimidated and think to themselves "OK, he really IS unstoppable".
Kobe's 81 points is utterly the most incredible performance in NBA history, bar none. Kobe will no doubt be already forever be remembered as one of, if not THE greatest player of all time. I see alot of people posting in this blog saying Kobe should try for the ultimate now and go for 101. However, I don't really see the need for Kobe to do that. Last night's performance was already good enough. His performance last night WILL be remembered for YEARS to come. There's no need to overdo it now and force his way to getting 100, especially if it is done out of the flow of the game.
Kobe Bryant. 81 points. nuff said.
Posted by: Nigel | January 23, 2006 at 06:03 PM
JJ - Nice post re: the 3-way trade possibilities. Surely the Lakers brass must be thinking along the same lines. It would be a terrible shame to let Kobe's prime pass without a more capable supporting cast.
Posted by: garythain | January 23, 2006 at 06:08 PM
For all you fans not in LA, and who have NBA TV, they will be re-airing the game on NBA TV tommorrow (Tuesday) at 3:00 pm, and on Wednesday, and Thursday. I don't know about the rest of y'all but there's no way in hell i'm gonna miss this game again.
Posted by: Asaad Weaver | January 23, 2006 at 06:18 PM