Kobe's Finest 2 Hours, 24 Minutes
In Kobe Bryant's entire 10-year career, I don't think I've ever enjoyed three consecutive games of his more than this opening trio against Phoenix. But even if a back-to-back-to-back I dug more is simply escaping me at the moment, this I know for sure: In Kobe's entire 2005-2006 season, the Lakers have never looked more like a true team than during these same three games.
Coincidence?
No way in hell.
Kobe seems like an entirely different player right now. He's focused, but also relaxed. He's hard nosed, but approachable. He's completely aware of the stakes at hand, but giving up more control than he's ever willingly relinquished. And doing it with a vibe that feels unconditional. He either trusts his teammates to the nth degree right now or he's the greatest actor this side of DeNiro in his prime. I'm personally leaning towards "trust." But even if this whole thing's a sham, don't matter one bit. His teammates buy it, which is taking their play to a whole other level. His coaches buy it, which allows them to design a varied game plan. And most importantly, the Suns buy it, which is making them rather nervous. Now that Kobe's dictating tempo, but letting his fellow starters and the bench do damage as well, the Suns seem at a loss for answers. Kobe's empowered his teammates. They're playing with power. Funny how that happens sometimes.
It's kind of interesting. A Kobe vs. Nash match up (even though they're not truly going head to head) has naturally sparked more "who's the real MVP?" jabber. Makes sense, even though I'm sick of it. But as the series progresses and (in my mind) Kobe outplays Nash, I'm feeling more confident I was right not giving Kobe my "MVP vote that doesn't actually count for squat." These playoffs have validated my opinion that there's so much more Kobe can bring to the Lakers besides being the league's best pure talent. The benefits of Kobe's silly ridiculous skills were sometimes offset by a tendency to keep his teammates at bay. Not the case right now. And in my opinion, he's now proving how truly lethal he is. These three games are the potential beginning of a irrefutably MVP career.
There's a common phrase the "experts" use when separating elite players from the merely outstanding: "He makes his teammates better." And while Lakers fans tend to shoot the notion down (since it's often used as a slag against Kobe), I happen to think it's a real quality. But I also think it's often misused, or at the very least, misrepresented by analysts. They often make it sound like Nash says "presto" and suddenly Eddie House becomes a more consistent shooter. I agree, that's a load of b.s. Nash doesn't have some magic power to "make teammates better." Nash does, however, have a special ability to make teammates think they're better. He feeds teammates the rock with complete confidence. Confidence is contagious. And more importantly, he continually puts them in position to succeed. He lets teammates know that if they come up short, another chance is coming quickly. That's where I think Kobe often held his team back.
Back in February, I wrote a post (And a Mamba Shall Lead them... Hopefully), where I talked about Kobe's obligation to create similar confidence. Some of you criticized it as "Kobe hating," but I honestly think this series proves much of what I said. And before you ask, I am taking into account that early on, there were definitely times where Kobe needed to bail the team out ("81" comes to mind). And Kobe's teammates also started out shaky with the offense, which led to inconsistency. But it's very chicken and egg, because with inconsistent touches and chances, they're not likely to improve in the first place. Could Kobe showing too much faith early on have potentially cost the team a few wins? Perhaps. But you could also argue that if Kobe actively involved his teammates from the outset at the risk of a loss, they might have jelled quicker. I don't deny that what Kobe's asked to do is difficult (although with being a truly great player comes truly tough tasks). And this isn't about figuring out "blame," anyway. That gets spread around too easily and often incorrectly.
Any writer/analyst who penalizes Kobe because Sasha Vujacic didn't sink more regular season shots is definitely off-base. For that matter, Kobe can't just "make" Brian Cook, Luke Walton or anyone else better. But what Kobe can (and often didn't) do is provide teammates consistent chances to succeed or fail, and without strings attached. It often felt like with every mistake, an imaginary leash tightened. But nowadays, it wouldn't even do justice to say that the leash has loosened. Kobe's teammates have nothing around their necks, period. And from LO to Smush,they're all playing wonderfully. Kobe's respect means everything to his squad. Trust me on this one, people. These guys need Kobe's validation, and not just because they value his endorsement (what baller wouldn't want Kobe's seal of approval?). It's because you can't succeed if you're constantly looking over your shoulder. Thankfully, they don't have to now. Kobe's going out of his way (and gladly, I might add) to let the supporting cast carry their own weight. He's made it clear that he knows they'll succeed. Miss a shot, be ready to take another. If he keep this up, the Lakers will remain a handful for years to come (not to mention, guys will flock to play with Bryant). Opponents don't expect to stop Kobe. You can't. But if Kobe helps creates situations where they also can't stop Kwame? Game, set, match.
I know some fans feel less geeked unless Kobe destroys a team on his own. I'm pretty sure a few people left live blog comments last night wondering what happened to "The Mamba?" And yeah, if you define "mamba" as a 40-50 point/one man gang thing, Kobe's played pretty "mamba-free" ball. Does this trend signal the death of "The Mamba?" To a degree, I really hope so. In part, because I always found the whole "mamba" persona, while undoubtedly original (and fantastic magazine cover material), a little silly. But mostly, I didn't like "mamba" because it struck me as part of a "me against the world" attitude. And I understand where that mentality comes from, by the way. Kobe's been the target of a lot of criticism. Some is deserved. Some is absurdly personal. But either way, a thick skin is necessary.
There's one problem with declaring "me against the world," though. The slogan inherently removes teammates from the equation, whether intentionally or not. It also makes Kobe's insatiable quest to win seem purely personal (which isn't "selfish," mind you, but singular nonetheless). I just think Kobe has more to offer than that. Right now, he's playing "Us against the world" basketball. That there's some damn good stuff. Clearly, he's good enough to beat a team on his own from time to time. And no doubt, situations will arise where he needs to. Don't get me wrong. I don't want Kobe to stop taking over games altogether. That's part of his greatness and I wouldn't deny him. I just want to see him stop feeling so quickly obligated to do it.
Finally, for those obsessed with Kobe winning MVP, I'll take this statement to the bank right now: If Kobe makes a steady habit of playing like this from here on out, he'll finish his career with multiple trophies. Done deal. Forget about it. There won't be anything left to criticize. Yes, there may be a few voters who carry a grudge. So be it. Some people will argue all day that the sky is green. But at the same time, most won't want to come off like complete idiots arguing against him, either. If he's obviously not dominating the ball 24/7, it becomes harder to say while maintaining credibility. And beyond that, they'll simply enjoy Kobe's game more. Look how much it's been praised the last week. Overwhelmingly, the accolades are flowing. Maybe I'm naive, but I agree with BK that this series could be the start of something huge for Kobe's legacy.
I'm looking forward to watching it.
AK
Great post AK. Obviously you guys don't remember Kobe in previous playoffs. Kobe was a team player then too! Kobe did everything to win back then as well! The only difference is the Lakers had even better players around him back then so you didn't really see how lethal he REALLY was. Phil knew. He didn't come back just for Jeannie Buss. He knew that with Kobe he had a great chance at success.
People are just in shock right now because he didn't really do that all season. Well, that really wasn't his job. Phil told him to score while his team learned the triangle. This is the new season - the playoffs. Kobe has done this before! He just had a 350-pound monster helping him. Kobe is in the spotlight now, so you can really see him shine.
Kobe also has improved his game with conditioning and better shooting accuracy from previous playoff years.
You just now have the opportunity to see it more often than you did before.
Posted by: zen | April 29, 2006 at 08:48 PM
Please let me re-iterate how BORING this Denver/Clipper series is! oh man! It's so boring, all they do is talk about the other games in the playoffs! The announcer must have mentioned the Lakers 8 times by halftime! He even announced the Laker/Phoenix series game 4 tomorrow right at halftime (As everyone was heading to the locker room). LOL! That is how boring this series is!
Posted by: zen | April 29, 2006 at 08:51 PM
Kobe knows that in order to win a championship that they will need everybody. Teams will learn how to contain Kobe (to a certain extent) in a 7 game series, take the 2004 Finals as an example. However, when he uses the triangle to the fullest extent, and trust his teammates, well, 2000, 2001, and 2002 are the best examples.
One reason that he had to score so much, and in the end, do so much just to make the playoffs was not just that they didn't know the offense, but that their players were inexperienced as true role players who need to be prepared every night. The only two people that have had consistent extended minutes in their careers is Kobe and LO. Every one else has not played as many minutes as they have before, so they needed to learn how to do that and be consistent. You can see that in the last 15-20 games the "suppporting" cast has stepped up their games to match the intensity of Kobe. You can see this clearly at the defensive end night after night. The Lakers have only suffered a few blowout losses this season, but have lost 10 games with the lead or tied int he final minute. Now, all of the hard work and trust that Kobe has had to have had all season (in order for them to be playing like this now) is paying off in a great way.
I am happy to see the Lakers play to their abilities, and you can see the difference on offense especially...it is only a matter of time before everyone is in double digits AND Kobe is scoring 30-40 because the triangle offense is that good.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: David Gago | April 29, 2006 at 08:51 PM
Zen,
If by "you guys," you mean "me and BK," trust me, we saw every game of the 2000-2004 playoffs (However, if you mean, "the general readership," I'll let them speak for themselves. haha)
And you're right, for the most part, Kobe did stay within the system come postseason. But for much of this season with him as the focal point, the fact remains that he didn't really seem to "give his blessing" to his teammates, so to speak. He's doing it now and it's a beautiful thing to watch.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | April 29, 2006 at 08:56 PM
It was awesome seeing Kobe dishing out to players like Odom and Brown, although I know that there are fans out there that would like to see him take over the series with his usual swashbuckling antics.
I must admit though, Kobe the playmaker is definitely more exciting to watch than Kobe the scoring machine.
Rest of the world, let us introduce you to Showtime!
Posted by: okule1912 | April 29, 2006 at 09:02 PM
AK,
Great writing!
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | April 29, 2006 at 09:11 PM
With the team concept, eventually teams are going to have to double down on Kwame and Lamar. When that happens I would be surprised to see Kobe average 40 points a game.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | April 29, 2006 at 09:14 PM
Now that the supporting casts are playing good, the other teams can no longer just triple-team Kobe. Now they have to pick their own poison. Mamba is still the most poisonous though.
Posted by: PJ2 | April 29, 2006 at 09:16 PM
CORRECTION:
I wouldn't be surprised to see Kobe average 40 points a game. This kis is greater than Jordan!
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | April 29, 2006 at 09:18 PM
I hope Lamar, Kwame and others weren't taking it personally when people said they suck and Kobe should be MVP.
People merely meant that they weren't playing to their full potential like they do now.
Posted by: PJ2 | April 29, 2006 at 09:35 PM
It's great to see the Lakers playing the way they are and living up to the team they should be. We shouldn't be surprised that they are this good, considering that during the season they lost about 19 games by 6 points or less as they were learning the triangle. If they won half of those games, they would have been fighting with the Suns for the Pacific Division title. Speaking of the Suns, they played the first 3 games against them this season on the second night of back-to-backs. With the final game when the Suns sat out Nash, how can we know that our guys would have been this good?
I hope Mihm comes back soon because we are going to need him. Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: Lakers#1 | April 29, 2006 at 09:44 PM
AK
This has been said before and I will say it again with emphasis, most of the Lakers players didn't know the offense well enough for this to happen for most of the season! Most on the bloggers have seen the games through out the season. How many times have we seen guys out of postion or not moving or not cutting in the triangle offense the Lakers run? Kobe knows it so well; he has a great knowledge of this offense. I think the playoffs have shown that he put this team on his back throughout the season in order for the team to learn the offense and develope with time. If Phil and Kobe tried this early in the season, getting everyone involved, knowing that the offense wasn't running smoothly I'm sure they wouldn't have made the playoffs. It's funny, Nash the NBA MVP has gotten little offensive help throughout this series. That is something Kobe has experienced many times this season. The Lakers have the real MVP; or what I and others call the PEOPLE'S MVP. Phil allowed Kobe to be a dominate part of the offense which Phil Jackson got a lot of critizism for because it was smart for what we had to work with at the time. This series should show who the real MVP is. The Suns have a more talented team but obviously don't know how to make that talent translate into wins against the Lakers, even with Nash.
KOBE BRYANT
2006 PEOPLE'S MVP!
DAN DA MAN
Posted by: dan_da_man | April 29, 2006 at 09:44 PM
zen,
I agree with AK. What he's saying is that if Kobe plays the regular season the way he plays during the playoffs, he becomes the hands-down favorite for MVP. At that point, there's pretty much nothing you can argue against.
He's still going to be the game's most lethal scorer, and he's still going to be an assassin in the clutch, and on top of that he'll get maybe 7 or 8 assists (as it is, he averages 4.5).
There will always be people biased against him due to his off-court issues, but the majority of voters would reward that kind of commitment to team play.
And I think he'll enjoy it too. These last couple games it's looked like his smile was going to consume his face and turn it inside out. He'll still be the undisputed leader of this young team ... he'll still be called upon to save the day at times ... and he'll still be -- The Ocho!
... oh, wait. :-)
Posted by: AM | April 29, 2006 at 09:51 PM
Wow. This Clipper/Nugget game is so dull, the announcers flat out stopped calling it and started talking about Barry Bonds. I bet ESPN would kill to have tomorrow's Lakers/Suns game back from ABC
Posted by: Hunter | April 29, 2006 at 09:56 PM
Oops, here's the picture, pretty funny :)
http://66.49.253.253/r/jpg/kobeball.jpg
Posted by: Brandon | April 29, 2006 at 10:08 PM
Heheh, ESPN and ABC are the same company so it's no biggie. I betcha NBC/TNT wishes they had that game :)
Posted by: Brandon | April 29, 2006 at 10:10 PM
AK,
I second that.
When you named Brand, I mentioned you could run for office with that pick. Of course it was tempered by the reckless choice your brother made. Any pick that wasn't that pick would have been tolerated by the majority of the blog.
That was then and that was nothing compared to this post. You have a gift. Have you considered a career in politics? We could use good writing in the Capitol. It's the same game, but the players don't have numbers.
You're right, of course. Nothing like a few wins eh? The "best deoderant" as Liz Taylor said, and who would know better?
It is a joy to watch. A couple more shots dropping would season his performance to perfection, but overall, yes, it is the confident ease with which he's achieving this. It's a pleasure to watch a virtuoso peak, with his heart and mind wired tight, cookin' full tilt boogie. It's palpable even from outside his circle. He's a happy man; balanced and generous in his approach to his team and the game. I like this Kobe too. He can be any number he wants.
Posted by: Vman | April 29, 2006 at 10:20 PM
I'm one of those fans who do not find anything wrong with Kobe hogging the ball and being selfish.
But, I also have no problem seeing Kobe play like he did in the last two games for the rest of his life, as long he's got enough good teammates and they can win the championship.
Kobe wrote on Dime magazine that his biggest fear is not winning any more championship.
I want him to win more championships.
Kobe so far has done whatever it takes to achieve his goals. I think right now, he is placing his best bet on Phil Jackson's plan to work.
Posted by: PJ2 | April 29, 2006 at 10:27 PM
AK-
I respectfully disagree- this Suns matchup represents a special situation. If you go back and watch the games, Kobe is playing the facilitator role for three quarters and then goes back on the wing for the fourth. This is for two reasons: even after the 2 year layoff, Kobe still knows the "point" in the triangle batter than Lamar. And secondly, Lamar has a matchup and size advantage over Marion closer to the basket, tieing in with the "inside man" strategy.
In other series, assuming they get past the Suns and face the Clippers (who the Lakers have won against with Kobe doing the bulk of the scoring), those inside matchup advantages won't be there against the monsters Brand and Kaman. So look for Kobe back on the wing, and the return of the "Mamba", which is not necessarily a bad thing.
Tex Winter has said that the Lakers are currently at around 50% when it comes to triangle execution. It is when Lamar fully picks up the initiator role, the other guys remember their spacing and cuts, and Kobe can freely play the "Jordan role" on the wing, that this team becomes truely dangerous. If the team can get all five guys, executing properly, the "sharing the ball" and "shoot at will" arguments will be moot, as there will be a proper thing to do in each situation.
Posted by: C | April 29, 2006 at 10:32 PM
LOL LOVE that picture, brandon!
i have neither the motivation nor the stamina to go back and read my posts about team balance. i'm sure i mocked the idea after the utah collapses but at the same time agreed that we need such an illusion to ever be a successful team ... hey, i'm LOVING it b/c it = wins... i feel like that this team is actually a team ... so what was up with the regular season? would phil jackson honestly sit idly and watch kobe take over the playbook, throw the triangle in the trash and cast teammates as his personal on-court cheerleaders? i doubt it ... i just think the man is following orders and now the orders call for a different kobe. hooray for obedience.
i don't want to use the "young, inexperienced teammates" argument as everyone else surely will, but i just can't fathom kobe doing what he did w/o prior encourgment from ol' phil. that just doesn't make sense to me.
re: the mamba = "me against the world"... wow, long-held perception really goes a long way doesn't it? kobe could've nicknamed himself "The Punky Brewster" and ppl still would've intreprated that as lonely kobe back up to his old isolation ego trip again... for crying out loud, AK, it's a snake. not a methaphor or a glimpse into kobe's deep, dark psyche. it's just a cool snake.
btw, cards won again! PUJOLS hit his 14th HR! screw the dodgers, it's all about the BIG RED!
Posted by: CBuck | April 29, 2006 at 10:33 PM
I agree with C,
Kobe must play this agains the Suns, because the gun and run must not be allowed to get started. My thinking is that if we get to the next round, which I anticipate, I think we will go back to how we were playing at the end of the season.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | April 29, 2006 at 10:37 PM
The can of worms has already been opened. It's too late to go back to 40 point Kobe every night. The team and Kobe have learned that the team can make some shots too.
Kobe will have some big nights but I think gone are the days of trying to shoot over 3 guys. He'll pick his spots, average around 22 shots and still get the team wins.
This is working quite well, no need to change it much even up against the Clippers. Kwame can take Kaman and Odom is quicker, longer and taller than Brand. But let's get the first round finished first :)
Posted by: Brandon | April 29, 2006 at 10:41 PM
and since it's already Sunday where i live... i have this overwhelming urge to atone for my sins.
Sorry Lakers, for personally underestimating you in the playoffs. previously, i was harsh, unforgiving and too quik to expect the worst.
i totally pulled a steve nash.
Posted by: CBuck | April 29, 2006 at 10:41 PM
Kobe's getting a huge nod for changing his game to fit the situation. He does what's necessary, and he does what the coaching staff wants. It ain't flashy but coupled with the hi wire act of the regular season, it's MVP ish.
Chauncey played this kind of game all year but everyone had other reasons it wasn't good enough for the trophy. Not enough flash?
These days you do have to sprinkle in a little somthin somethin every once in a while or they just don't notice. 8 always said, the triangle wins in June but it's boring as hell in January.
Posted by: Vman | April 29, 2006 at 10:42 PM
I'm going to have to politely disagree with your viewpoint (surprised? lol).
First with the chicken--egg statement. We don't know had he passed earlier/gave more leeway for mistakes, if we'd have made it to the playoffs...though I'd bet my savings (and as a college student, measly savings) we wouldn't have (cause it didn't happen). What we do know is that the triangle is a hard offense to understand, heck I'm not sure all of us know it yet (especially for those that it was simplified, like Kwame). And a lost LO, a bumbling Kwame, an undisciplined Smush and an unsecure defense (all prominent during the regular season) would not only have started us on such a bad roll that I'm not sure we'd have recovered soon enough to get to the post-season (again speculation on my part), but would have put a damper on the confidence of our especially confident-reliant team.
The fact of the matter is we really don't know what would have happened if he'd have played different...what we do know is our age has cost us a lot of games, our immaturity (and yes Kobe is included into that too, most recent one is that foul he committed on Paul Pierce back in the regular season) has cost us a lot of games. You don't play 30+ games with 6 points or less and lose most of them if you weren't young, and for lack of a better word immature. What we do know is, with Kobe's "system" of play (the proverbial score 20) we made it to the playoffs.
Finally the "There won't be anything left to criticize."---will never happen. Geez, he's playing great right now (barring the individual offensive side)...and others still view it as a Phoenix problem. They are completely blind to the effect that the Lakers have on their "problems." Like the commercial said...people will always either hate him or love him...I agree with that. I believe if he wins 9 championships, they will still find something to criticize him. They'd probably point out the fact that he wasn't defensive player of the year like Jordan was, they'd point out that he had Lamar Odom (or whomever), they'd point out that he's not great because he had that colorado thing, they'd harp on the fact that he wasn't as good as Lebron when he came into the game, they'd overlook his accomplishments and they'd find something to point out to denegrate his game and his impact....just the way it is. Let's face it, the man won 3 championships and it's overlooked. He was Pippen to Shaq...but you don't hear the same criticisms for Pippen the way you did, still, will always hear with Kobe. I don't recall anybody undervaluing Pippen's impact the way they did, and still do to Kobe. (Is this something he brought on on his own...yes, most likely, that doesn't make it right or fair). My point on this diatribe (the criticism diatribe) is that you can keep on fighting for respect...but at times it will just never happen (though Kobe fans can hope ;-)
Ok...I lied...this is the finally...lol I do agree that if he has never played better than in his entire career (both mentally and physically)...and I hope to see more of "Kobe's finest" hours.
P.S. sorry for the long post ;-)
Posted by: Faith | April 29, 2006 at 10:43 PM
man...you know I love you guys...but you need to post these "thinking" great posts during 2 day lay offs where we're dying for stimulation (only to be driven to reacting to hatred). We could really used the constructive argumentative posts on such days...not on day where we're still hyped about the previous game and looking forward to the next game. (Just a constructive criticism I hope hehe)
Posted by: Faith | April 29, 2006 at 10:50 PM
Heheh, thanks Cbuck.
A few of you have already mentioned how boring the Clips/Nuggets series is. I also find the Memphis/Dallas, Pacers/Nets to be boring series.
When I watch the Laker/Suns series, I'm at the edge of my seat. I wonder if it's due to my being a Laker fan or is it because the game is really that good. I also enjoy watching Kings/Spurs, Miami/Chicago.
Posted by: Brandon | April 29, 2006 at 10:50 PM
I agree with C and Mike T that the triangle hasn't peaked. Kobe's scoring should have a bit more epmhasis and will in later roudns, but I think AK's point about his support, confidence and acccessibility is a huge move that's having immediate and will have lasting positive effects.
Posted by: Vman | April 29, 2006 at 10:51 PM
Yup with the threat of all the 5 starters double and triple teams on Kobe has decreased (though not entirely, which is kinda good since they force Kobe to pass and get burned). When they do double, Kobe passes it and they get burned by LO, Kwame, Smush, and even Luke. We can do this.
Next year if it is like this even more, Kobe will burn them and force the double team, pass and then have a winning record. We may not have a Shaq of the old days but LO and Kwame more than make up for it.
Posted by: arthas (Tom Brady) | April 29, 2006 at 11:05 PM
I agree that Kobe would be a better candidate for MVP if he had played like this during the regular season. However, there are just a few things that I want to nitpick. Number one: he needs to NOT telegraph his behind the back passes. The greatest deception is when he does not look like he is about to pass it. Number two: I wish Kwame would work out with some wide receivers from the NFL or something and learn how to catch the ball! It is frustrating to see someone drive to the basket, attract the D's attention, only to see him pathetically fumble the ball out of bounds. PJ mentioned it in the PC for Game 3. In this way, you have to give respect to Kobe for continuing to trust him and encourage him to play up to the competition and up to his level.
In all other respects, I am thrilled with the way they have been playing lately. I like to see the little skirmishes because it at least shows that they are fighting to win this series. It means that they care about this series as much as I do
Posted by: Andy Y | April 29, 2006 at 11:05 PM
you mean there are other games than the Lakers/Suns? :-0 lol
Posted by: Faith | April 29, 2006 at 11:32 PM
I now declare you all seriously WACK!! This applies to anyone that has the attitude that kobe has been holding the lakers back with his scoring. Like you weren't there when my boiz ( whom i luv so dearly ) lamar was all tentative and kwame was all butter fingers.
Kobe is the heart of this team...81 point kobe or 17 point kobe...don't try and pit one against the other....rather marvel at how one man can motivate his team to a victory in 2 very different ways.
Posted by: Taliq | April 29, 2006 at 11:48 PM
can't wait for game tomorrow
Posted by: Keven | April 29, 2006 at 11:50 PM
I really like what AK said about the way some critics abuse the cliche of "making your teammates better." After hearing all those debates on who is the MVP, I can't help but think the award is losing its value. While the standards for any award is partly subjective, there comes a point when the award is meaningless if it loses all of its objectivity. Literally every kind of statistics is thrown out to make a case, and soon enough, any argument seems justifiable. Unless there are actual parameters and stardards for judging, I don't think the MVP award will ever be worth what its name implies and the supposed honor it carries.
So, no matter who wins the MVP, the honor is mostly a nod of acceptance rather than a recognition of merit.
Posted by: JJ | April 29, 2006 at 11:50 PM
AK
I was curious what you think would be different RIGHT NOW (I mean, going into Game 4 of the first round) if the team had "jelled" earlier. Up 3-0? What is the really the importance of having jelled earlier if they are playing like this right now? Phoenix jelled earlier, but it's not doing ANY good.
If we're really looking at a basketball season as a journey, what would you change about the Lakers season right now? What would be the benefit?
Dogboy
Posted by: dogboychi | April 30, 2006 at 12:01 AM
Let's end this inane "makes his teammates better" argument once and for all.
AK questions whether Kobe can "just make Brian Cook or Luke Walton better..." Well, Luke's only been in the league for a few years, but he has per-game highs in points, assists and rebounds. (Of course, like Diaw and Barbosa on the Suns, young players are supposed to get better over the course of the first few years... aren't they?) And Cook, like Lamar, has career highs in shooting and 3-point averages. Judging by these statistics -- and they are indisputable -- it sounds to me like Kobe is making plenty of his teammaters better. Anybody who thinks different is just drinking the pro-Nash Kool-Aid. Or else they're high on Dwayne Wade for MVP. And I do mean high. (Can anybody on this blog without the last name Kamenetzky honestly picture Dwayne Wade holding aloft the 2005-2006 MVP award?)
AK was right about one thing: The whole "makes his teammates better" argument is overrated. If as much emphasis was put on this quality every other year as it has been this year (no doubt in an attempt to marginalize Number 8), pretty much no one but point guards would ever win it. But it hasn't always been this important. Otherwise, Jason Kidd would have at least one MVP trophy sitting in little PJ's room. And John Stockton would be the one with hardware, not Karl Malone.
One year it's a Lifetime Achievement award, the next year it's a Favorite Guy in the League award, and the year after that it's a Best Player Who Never Beat His Wife award. I say we stop this silly MVP argument -- in all its various forms -- and move on to something more important: the playoffs.
Anybody want to give odds on the Lakers chances of making the Western Conference Finals? Or, while we're getting cocky about it (and we are), the finals?
Posted by: greenpaz | April 30, 2006 at 12:02 AM
if lakers win tomorrow the deal might be sealed.
3-1 lead over Phoenix? wow if the Lakers could do that we have a very good chance of doing something everyone though wasn't possible.
Posted by: Keven | April 30, 2006 at 12:15 AM
C and Mike T.,
I agree, certain things be change if/when the Lakers advance. But whatever adjustments they make, I'm feeling more confident that the sidekicks will be heavier in the mix. Which I like seeing. And I give Kobe much credit for that, both in it's execution and theoretical success. it's not a question of Kobe never going into takeover mode. It's a question of it being too automatic a reflex, as I often think it had been in the past.
Cbuck,
Given that Kobe just filmed a commercial daring people to "love me or hate me," and reveling in the idea that many may choose "hate," I don't find my mamba-interpretation completely far fetched. Kobe's also a very smart guy who makes most decisions very carefully, I doubt he just chose a snake for the heck of it. Combined with the fact that Kobe's mostly spent his career as a loner and it's hardly a baseless theory. If I'm wrong, I'm wrong. Whatever. I've been wrong before. But there's a difference between being wrong and being wrong out of left field.
But I must give you a shout out. It's nice seeing a fellow Cards/Lakers fan. There aren't too many of us with that particular allegiance pattern.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | April 30, 2006 at 12:19 AM
Hahah, no Keven, you were one of the guys who thought it wasn't possible, some of the bloggers here have been scratching down since 15 :)
Taliq, I'm not saying Kobe's 81 and 35 average held back the Lakers. It has a time and a place. Every game of the playoffs isn't the time nor the place. Kobe has learned where he's needed. If his team is shooting bricks, he'll take over and score 50. But most of the time, he'll do what he does best ... draw double and triple teams. Kobe's secret weapon that he worked on all season is his 81 point threat. He can go off at any time and he just keeps that in his pocket until it's needed. It's ingenious.
And yah Faith, gotta scope out next round's competition aka tha Clippers and hopefully Kings in the WCFinal :)
Posted by: Brandon | April 30, 2006 at 12:40 AM
Faith,
I agree. Some of the sidekicks weren't playing well in the beginning. But they're only getting better if they're continually given a certain freedom to screw up in game time situations. And I'm talking mental freedom as much as playing freedom. That's only going to happen if everyone (especially Kobe) is willing to roll through the rough stuff without it feeling conditional.
I also disagree that the media is blind to effects that the Lakers are having on the Suns. It's getting written up in every report. But you guys are looking for them to simply declare the Suns dead and buried and that's just not going to happen. You can't expect the Suns to get no credit whatsoever for potentially being able to adjust or fix what isn't working. They're a very good team that won 50+ games this season. And with all due respect to the Lakers, who've definitely outplayed the Suns thus far, they also haven't beaten them by more than 7 points this series. And during both wins, the Suns had their opportunities. Go back over everyone's game thread comments if you don't believe me. Y'all were sweating bullets. So obviously, Phoenix isn't getting beaten in a way that suggests all is lost, as opposed to Clips-Denver, where the Nuggets might as well forfeit game 5. They're beyond done. It's only a matter of picking the proper fork (salad, dinner or seafood) to stick in them. So I do think you have to expect Phoenix to be given some benefit of the doubt during all this. Anything else is unrealistic.
Geez, Faith. I can't even win when I compliment Kobe. What's a guy gotta do around here to make friends? haha
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | April 30, 2006 at 12:40 AM
AK, good article! Props to you, man.
Seeing how this Lakers team is playing in the triangle, I now understand Kobe's frustration with Shaq. It's not so much about being "The Man" but it's Shaq's not being disciplined enough to commit himself to conditioning and improving his play in the off-season. The triangle is a thing of beauty when it's played as it should be. If Shaq improved his range and came into the season in great shape, the offense in the last 2 years when he was here wouldn't have been so predictable and who knows, maybe we could have picked up a couple more championships. Shaq couldn't hold a candle to Kareem when it comes to being in great shape. It's a shame that he'll never reach true greatness. But I digress.
I agree with AK that this could be the start of something truly special with Kobe. I can't wait to see the day when the critics will be left with nothing else to say. Their play has also been a joy to watch and it's so good to see Kobe lead them. I am not an expert but I think the triangle was designed to have players with interchangeable roles and it's great to see that nobody seems to be uncomfortable if pushed to an area that is not their usual spot. Kwame guarding Nash in the high post... Smush and Luke shooting from just about anywhere in the court. I now understand why Phil likes big guards. It's so that it wouldn't really be a big mismatch if they switch on defense. I have never been so proud of our Lakers than in these past 3 games. I hope and pray that they will continue to improve and flourish as a team.
Go Lakers! Dream... Believe... Succeed!
Posted by: SamII | April 30, 2006 at 12:54 AM
Dogboy,
Well, for starters, if they had jelled earlier, Kobe may very well have won MVP (or at the very least, come closer), which would have made a lot of people on this blog very happy.
Greenpaz,
Hey, I wouldn't have voted for Nash or Wade, so whatever Kool Aid you're speaking of, I wasn't drinking it. Unless you consider just saying those guys are great players as "drinking the Kool Aid," but c'mon now. Let's be reasonable.
And I do agree, people often overlook the idea that players simply improve. But since you brought it up, I think Cook's 3's are actually a very disputable stat because a) he didn't even shoot them his rookie season, so 2 years worth of stats doesn't necessarily make a trend and b)Yes, his percentage went up this year, but he's also taking three times LESS than last season. So I don't think it's quite the achievment you're making it out to be.
But since you bring up stat examples as "indisputable," look over the Phoenix guys. I'm pretty sure more of them have significantly bigger jumps in their career highs than the Lakers' in theirs. Which is why the stat-happy may lean towards Nash. Like I said, that isn't how I evaluate things, I wouldn't have voted for Nash, and I do think that some of that entire concept is misused. But if the stats do in fact mean a lot to you, the numbers will likely come out on Nash's side.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | April 30, 2006 at 01:00 AM
Brandon,
"I'm not saying Kobe's 81 and 35 average held back the Lakers. It has a time and a place. Every game of the playoffs isn't the time nor the place."
Very well put.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | April 30, 2006 at 01:04 AM
Thanks for the shout out, Vman. Although I'd never run for office. I'll leave that for the qualified, like the dude who used to play "Gopher" on the "The Love Boat." And Jesse Ventura.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | April 30, 2006 at 01:45 AM
Yo SamII, Shaq bled as much purple and gold as any other Laker ever, which is why his Jersey will be retired in Staples.
Having said that much love to the new Laker squad, y'all understand I got fight for Shaq cuz if n when u all leave the lakers we'll still appreciate y'all for the great run y'all are about to make
Posted by: Taliq | April 30, 2006 at 01:53 AM
I totally agree with you AK. What we're witnessing today is not an ordinary NBA phenomenon. Throughout the year, we have witnessed a spectacular court performance, a record breaking performance that we have not witnessed before, going back to the time of Wilt and Elgin. Suddenly in this playoffs, there was a 180 degree shift that confused the opposing team as well as the league experts including the world famous and authority, Bill Plascke of LA Times. It is like General Sherman marching to the Southern Territory that completely shocked the enemy (mighty Suns). How can a scrappy team win a game?
On Game 1, D'Antoni prepared a double and triple defense of Kobe & the Lakers would likely to collapse. The Lakers lost the game but showed another brand of offense, hmmn... going inside what a ploy? No way, it' still Kobe. On Game 2, D'Antoni was not fully convinced of that inside game, so they still focused on Kobe, well this Lamar and Kwame got loose pummeled them on the interior and his much vaunted three point shooters were taken aback in complete submission to hustling Lakers, they checked the unorthodox shooter, Marion. On Game 3, D'Antoni showed signs of exhaustion in second guessing the Zen, "is this an inside/outside game or just two-man operations?" so he put double team on Kobe & Lamar, unfortunately the ball went to unguarded Luke all night, and Smush was gliding happily as though he is in Central Park without D and firing with his creative sorties at the delight of staple crowd. What makes the situation aggravating even the one-dimensional shooter, Cookie found his way to get his shot and contested for rebounds too. "What's going on, we got our running games going, our usual threes and they won the game just because 19 more rebounds. No way!" D'Antoni no longer smiles as though PJ saw what he was thinking before and after, so he himself is becoming a believer of the Zen's power. After the practice game on Saturday, He's saying to himself: "Ahhh, we have to win on Sunday, I don't care about that inside game or what not? we will play the Suns brand of game slash and burn but what new strategies shall I order to my Suns team? They have been hynoptized and completely controlled by this glamour boys as well this AK/BK blogs. Whatever we are planning have been discussed, analysed, debated, cross-analysed with bios, there are no more new ideas, very soon coaches could be outsourced too by these blogs - I'll order pour more points but How?...Why? Why can't they handle this underachieving pseudo-center, Kwame who could not even shoot straight but find ways to get to the basket. And this smooze, he's making a lot of Smushing shots at pace with my skilled MVP, no way he is unknown, undrafted. How about this Luke Walton, don't tell me he's better than my Barbosa? my Diaw? or my Jones? this guy has the nerve to start the game with a flying tackle - Man, I'm mad at this Walton! And this guy Sasha where did this guy come from? Slovenia, where is that place? Unknown too, but he's annoying court general he is also a trigger happy three point shooter. Gosh, I don't know my next move, why don't I just go back to the traditional man-to-man and see what how we'll handle these thugs. If that does not work, I will go to a floating zone and go for broke from there. If nothing happens then this black mamba with the force of ZEN is really a poison that may spoil our future. No way, I can't believe losing to this underachieving scrappy team!"
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | April 30, 2006 at 02:00 AM
Brandon, AK
All I'm saying is all this talk of wow the new improved kobe is uncalled for. The man has a track record of doing whatever it takes to win. He's not doing anything now that he hasn't done before. Go back to the championship days, I'm sure you'll find a game he scored 17. He had a great regular season and he's having a great post season. If anything has changed this post season it's that his teammates have made a concerted effort to step up to the plate.
If the game plan had turned out to be wack, you can be sure Kobe would have been jacking up shots and I would have loved him for it. Watching Starbury in NY, I can tell you there's nothing worse than a player that doesn't try. Nobody hates taking a L more than Kobe in the league.
But enough. All this negative talk is bad karma. Can't y'all just love the lakers for playing great without trying to blame someone for them not playing great earlier. Why can't we just call it what it is...a young team that's growing into it's own at the right time.
Phoenix is going down ( amen ). Go LAKERS. Love Y'ALL.
Posted by: Taliq | April 30, 2006 at 02:03 AM
The point isn't that Kobe has to play like this forever, just that he's apparently willing to do it when asked. Many people are surprised he's been so willing and able to stay within a game plan that doesn't let him dominate offensively. If you had told me this is how everything would go down in this series in terms of Kobe's scoring and shooting output, I'd have been pretty surprised.
Like I had mentioned, going forward if he can continue to be this flexible- playing "Beat the Suns" style when required, "Score Lots of Points" style at others- and lead the team in the way he has, it'll have a bigger and better impact on his perception around the sports world than the MVP would have. It's that willingness that's important. Most people would concede that Kobe is capable of doing anything he wants on a basketball court, but in this series he's shown a willingness to play within a framework that is surprising to people.
As for the whole "making your teammates better" thing, it's tricky. It is possible, I think, because certain players deliver the rock to guys when they are in the optimal situatino to succeed. They hit them in the hands, in stride, promote cutting, screening, etc. There are psychology issues at work as well (especially in the situation with Kobe), but I think from a pure basketball standpoint, it is possible for a guy to make his teammates better.
That said, it's one of the most overused cliches in the game, no question, often tossed around as "evidence" to back up an arguement people want to make anyway.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | April 30, 2006 at 02:14 AM
Great post AK, keep them coming. Great title as well. Are you gonna be giving us another live blog from staples on sunday? Do you ever travel to any of the Laker games outside staples?
-doc
Posted by: doc | April 30, 2006 at 02:35 AM
Tariq-
As for Kobe's drive to win, nobody (should, at least) doubt that. You're absolutely right, he wants to win as bad as anyone in the league. The point is that need to win often motivates him to take control of that outcome himself. His belief that he can make every shot, that he can overcome any deficit for his team, etc. is what makes him great, but also means he's inclined to keep control of a game.
This game plan takes some of that control Kobe has away, and it's something he's not always been willing to do. There have been times this year and in year's past where PJ has gotten on him for playing outside the offense. It's not that Kobe has shown a new desire to win, just that he's shown it in a way that is surprising to many.
BK
PS- my sympathies on having to watch the Knicks all year.
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | April 30, 2006 at 02:40 AM