The Triumphant Return of Dudes Who've Actually Played for the Lakers
I didn't actually attend yesterday's SPL opening fiesta, but the general consensus seems to be that most guys looked somewhere between average and nondescript. Even more troubling (for those who like to press the panic button after one SPL game) was that Jordan Farmar aside, the cats whom you actually know and love (Andrew Bynum, Von Wafer, Devin Green) were especially unimpressive. Well, going off said sentiment, I imagine today's game, a 97-69 smoking of the "Dallas Mavericks," was a decided improvement. In particular, last year's rooks (who are this actually squad's vets, relatively speaking) made their presence felt.
Before I get into the game itself, a brief side note. The Mavs squad features a guy named DeAngelo Collins from Inglewood High. I had completely forgotten about this kid, but once I saw the name, I instantly remembered the articles about him getting into all sorts of trouble (not to mention going undrafted out of high school). I had no idea what had become of him, but all kidding aside, I'm relieved to see he's actually alive. Best of luck in what appears to be a life on track.
Anyway, your rundown, mostly focusing on last year's holdovers...
Andrew Bynum - I know BK already pointed it out, but it bears a second mention. Kid done swole up (and played with his socks pulled up)! He's starting to fill out and look like a man. I asked him what he's clocking in at these days and he estimated around 280. And judging by his play today, he's comfortable carrying the added bulk around. He pretty much had his way in the paint, as evidenced by the 14 points, 15 rebounds and 5 blocks in 31 minutes (most of which came in the first half, since he didn't even play in the fourth). Offensively, he hit a couple baby hooks, a half layup/half jumper-looking thing (ugly but effective) and threw down a serious dunk off a Devin Green alley-oop. Socks also stayed out of foul trouble, which he said wasn't so much from making adjustments from yesterday as the refs calling things differently. That must have been the case, because he actually drew "and one's" today instead of giving them away (free throws that he made the most of by sinking four of five). All in all, a very good day. But not revolutionary. Again, Bynum's not even a year into voting privileges and the best player he went against today was probably Jelani McCoy, so don't expect these numbers everyday. As Kurt Rambis reminded us, "when we first got him, he was a project. He's still a project." If Bynum's playing 10 to 15 mpg next season, consider the experiment moving along nicely. Be patient.
Von Wafer - The Lakers Blog favorite had a rough first half, going 1-6 with his only bucket coming after a complete mental lapse. With a little over eight seconds left in the first, the Mavs scored and the ball was inbounded to Wafer. Inexplicably, Wafer was way nonchalant taking the ball upcourt, even slapping a low five to a teammate under the basket (I think he was trying to keep the guy's spirits up after allowing the Dallas score, but "time and place," Von!). Kid was actually risking an eight-second violation with basically only eight seconds on the clock. Finally, Rambis starting screaming about the clock and Wafer quickly chucked, drilling it from behind the arc. Nice recovery, but probably not how the coaching staff would have drawn things up. But the second half basically belonged to Wafer. He went 7-9, spending much more time taking the ball strong to the rack and under control (sorry, BK). He also had a nice couple of defensive sequences (three steals, all in the second half). Wafer said he's being asked to run the offense and read situations a little more, a switch from last season's summer league days (and 2006 in general) when he came in "wild and raw, just doing what I had been doing my whole life, shooting the ball." Rambis said today's game was an improvement and truth be told, Wafer actually seems a little more mature. (Again, my condolences to BK.)
Devin Green - Another guy who didn't do much in the first half (unless missing all five shot attempts was part of their set plays), but seriously came alive in the second, where he went 6-7 and played aggressively from minute one. Aside from a lazy inbound that resulted in a turnover, Green didn't do a whole lot wrong to close his day out. He and Jordan Farmar had a nice two man going for a few possessions, executing some smooth ball movement. "He's a pure point guard and I can always get along with people like that," joked Green. Rambis said they're counting on defensive intensity from Green and an increased ability to find players when they're open, much of which was on display. "He had a nice little thing in the second half where he was making shots and making the right passes and the right reads.... We just gotta go from there." I still think Green has a shot at making the team, but he's gotta keep working.
Jordan Farmar - After the game, your No. 26 pick said that he understands what he's been taught about the triangle thus far. Judging by his performance, I believe him. He looked absolutely comfortable calling out instructions, pointing people in various directions and generally being a leader. On the offensive side of the rock, he's got a lot going for him. He hit everything from treys to 8-foot floaters. He also had some terrific passes, including a behind the back dime leading to a Pinnock layup and a sweet dish as Green cut to the basket. Not surprisingly, Rambis complimented his instincts. Defensively, he got beat a couple times, but also came up with four steals, so that's certainly nice compensation. Now before getting all excited and ahead of yourself, yesterday and today are no indication that he's ready to take Smush's job. Remember, it's a lot different being guarded by Jason Kidd than whoever Ben Hunt is. While it's obviously not inconceivable, let's keep some perspective. But I do think he could get some minutes during the regular season.
Danilo "J.R." Pinnock - First time I've ever seen him play. Solid outing. Very athletic, very active and played very under control (nada turnovers). 11 points, four boards, a dime and a block. He even went coast to to coast for a layup after his swat. Can he make the team? Obviously, now's too early for speculation, but it'll be a tough road, regardless of his success. It's a guard heavy roster that doesn't appear to be getting guard-light anytime soon. (Say hey, Shammond???) But I would think he's making a case for himself.
Marcus Douthit - Another day in a row of hitting the boards. Ten in all, plus four dimes. A lot of energy and plays with mucho vigor. He didn't display any offense to speak of, but that's not where he's focusing himself unless called upon. "The Lakers don't need anybody who can score," Douthit noted. "They got Kobe and Lamar...I don't really worry about it as long as I rebound the ball." Like Pinnock, Douthit could fall prey to a numbers game, but he's worth keeping an eye on (especially if you're another team with an open spot and looking for a rebounder).
Nile Murray - Very quick kid. Got a couple of really nice steals (four total) and was active whenever he was on the floor. Needs to do better than 3-11 on the floor, though.
Other observations:
Laker Girls, rest easy. I don't see the SPL dancers replacing you come October, although the odds would dramatically increase if they took it upon themselves to make every boogie session an organized routine. A few times, there were all sorta just out there, bopping around and doing their own thing. I can tell you right now: the woman who instructs the Lakers Girls wouldn't tolerate such nonsense for a second.
The Pyramid's music system may be the same brand Staples uses. Unfortunately, those in charge of it apparently think the Pyramid is actually the size of Staples, because both are played at the same volume. I'm actually writing this post while newly and permanently deaf.
If Japanese point guard Yuta Tabuse (who played limited minutes for Dallas today) could stay in the league, he'd be a huge crowd favorite. Lightning quick. Sorta-dyed floppy-banged hair. Upon first glance, looks too unathletic to handle a game of air hockey. Who wouldn't cheer seeing that guy on the court?
Jelani McCoy is still not a very good basketball player.
—AK
By the way, can I pay for admission at the door in Long Beach?
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 09, 2006 at 08:02 PM
Mike T,
I want to say yes, but I'd call first and check.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | July 09, 2006 at 08:04 PM
AK:
Thanks for the feedback. I've come to trust you more than most of the writers who follow the Lakers. I love what I am hearing about Farmar. As I keep saying, he will show everyone by the start of the season that the team plays better when he is at the point.
Smush isn't really a point guard and I think all the stuff about not needing a true point guard in the triangle are just excuses for not having a player who can play the point the way it is supposed to be played. Farmar will get us easy baskets in transition and from the triangle.
Good to see Andrew showing progress. And really nice to hear about the blocks. Now that is something that could really help our team defense. And I'm really glad to see that Pinnock might be a real steal. He is on my 15 man roster. All we have to do is trade Cook for a future second rounder and buy McKie out of his contract.
Thanks for a great update. Go, Lakers.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | July 09, 2006 at 08:07 PM
Question: Is it Danillo Pinnock, or Daniel Pinnock?
Posted by: Faith | July 09, 2006 at 08:22 PM
I thought so. I'm going on Wed. I want to see Douthit for myself. Thanks.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 09, 2006 at 08:31 PM
I read on espn.com that the signing of Vladamir Radmanovic will hurt our cap room next year. Why would it - I thought he was taking the MLE? I'm also sorry to hear that we may be close to signing another "garage sale" point guard in Shammond Williams. That makes no sense to me.
Bob in Lincoln
Posted by: bob everitt | July 09, 2006 at 08:47 PM
Mike T:
Yeah, you can pay at the door. You might want to get there early though, because i saw a long line. Best thing, i think, is buy your tix online and pick them up at will call. No wait at all.
Everyone:
i guess drew had a better game today. that's a relief.
Posted by: MAGIC=GOAT | July 09, 2006 at 08:48 PM
Since we're all confused about the NBDL rules regarding NBA players, and Laker ownership of one...I did a little bit of research about it.
"But the Lakers will still be bound by the same rules as the other 29 NBA teams when it comes to assigning players to their D-League affiliate. Only players in their first and second years are eligible, and no more than two players can be sent at one time to a D-League assignment. Also, the D-League's central office assigns players to their teams, preventing the Lakers from using their minor-league team as a place to stock prospects."
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2414330
So that means..that even though we have a glutton in guards, theoretically we can only really send 2 people from our own active roster list down. However if they don't play for us, (and obviously we don't send them to the D-League) we still retain the rights to them cause we drafted them...so even if we don't include Pinnock in our 15 man roster (though with what I've heard, it would probably crazzyyy not to, but who would be left out is the question) we still retain the rights to him, and can bring him back whenever a roster space opens---much like we did with Turiaf. Hope that helps.
Here's the full list of Assignment Rules according to nba.com:
1. An NBA team may assign any player on its Active List or Inactive List to play in the D-League, provided that the player has zero or one Years of Service at the time of Assignment.
2. No players may be given more than three Assignments during any season. There is no minimum or maximum length of a D-League assignment.
3. During the 2005-06 season, no NBA team may have more than two players on assignment at the same time.
4. A player on Assignment will be carried on the Inactive List of his NBA Team.
http://www.nba.com/dleague/nbdl/dleague_affiliation_050919.html
Posted by: Faith | July 09, 2006 at 08:48 PM
Mitch said on AM570 that Smush will be our starting PG next season. Are we close to signing Shammond Williams?
Posted by: shaq_hater | July 09, 2006 at 09:01 PM
Mike T,
I went there two years ago and they were selling tickets at the window booth. I doubt the place sells out during the weekdays. If you plan to go on a weekend, though...go early in the week and buy tickets.
http://www.summerproleague.com/get_tickets.htm
Posted by: wasabi | July 09, 2006 at 09:08 PM
Didn't someone notable call Jelani McCoy the "sultan of swat?"
And although it's just SPL, it's really good to hear (read) that the rooks are doing well.
The progress of Bynum will be key to the Laker future. I like what Douthit said about offense, from what I'm reading he's a bit soft in the paint, but he's slick enough to get boards left and right. The roster numbers game is really going to kill his chances though.
Good luck guys!
Posted by: socalife | July 09, 2006 at 10:08 PM
Faith
It's Danillo. I think I approved spell check's suggestion without paying attention. Thanks for the pick up.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | July 09, 2006 at 10:11 PM
Thanks to all for the info.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 09, 2006 at 10:26 PM
Good news about Bynum is developing, but I wonder how good he is at pick and roll defense. Any insight from those who attended the SPL games would be appreciated.
I figure his offense will come along, as I'm sure Kareem is teaching the proper footwork and shots. However, with any of our bigs, I am really concerned with how they play the pick and roll. How instinctive does AB look out there when it come to pick-and-roll or switch situations?
Posted by: #4 | July 09, 2006 at 10:43 PM
Faith,
How long do you think those rules will last?
I think as teams start to buy into the idea of owning their own D-league team those rules will change.
I think in time the number of players will increase to, say...5. I think there will be a 3 season limit to which a player can be sent down. Kind of like baseball.
For that to happen the offical roster of a NBA team may increase to, say...18 players. With that a NBA active roster can be 13 players. What do you think?
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 09, 2006 at 10:53 PM
what kind of free agents do you think we can or should get next year?
another question: in the free agency next summer can we get a guy like chris bosh (6-8 million a year), or can we only get a guy that costs about 3-5 million a year.
please answer me!!!
I really don't get all the salary cap thing that's going on.
Posted by: laker 111 | July 09, 2006 at 11:04 PM
I hope Pinnock is as good as they say, because I ripped Mitch for the pick earlier.
People made a big deal about it being only a 2nd rounder but I said that these picks can be steals if used right.
Hopefully Pinnock will be a steal ooor way to waste Draft Picks Mitch!
Posted by: Korey | July 09, 2006 at 11:26 PM
Faith, AK,
I believe the correct spelling of his name is as follows:
Danilo JR Pinnock.
In George Washington University, they refer to him as JR but at the Pyramid, the announcer was using his first name. It is also pronounced as Da-ni-lo
Mike T.,
If I may contribute to your purchase of tickets, Wasabi was right that during weekdays that there are no lines in buying the ticket at the window. However, you can also call the ticketing office of Southern California Pro Basketball League and they have a special desk CALLS, you can pick up your ticket there if you bought it over the phone. Go to their webpage to get their phone no. and the schedule. With regards to parking, the fee is $ 5 during weekdays but there are free parking spaces on the Atherton St. near Palo Verde. Always read the signs you might end up paying Long Beach Police.
Be sure you read my post on the previous thread, I have a suggestion before writing your forthcoming novel.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | July 09, 2006 at 11:42 PM
Mike T,
I don't think it'll last long, if I were to guess, I'd say a year or 2. What's interesting is that one of the rules itself said "During the 2005-06 season," as if it's not set in stone...which it might not be. But as it stands, I frankly don't get it myself. I mean think about it, we will be employing our coaches, our offense, defensive philosophy on a team comprised of people we don't even pick among of which only 2 can actually play for us (during the season). I too think it should be like the minor system of Baseball...although I have to say I'm not sure what that would do to the free-agent, trading market.
I totally agree about the 18, and 13---as it stands now, there are many cases in which teams are thin because of injury, to the point where they really dress only the people they have (that could be 5, or 9 healthy people), so they're basically surrendering the game (having no real substitutes, and if it goes into overtime, the players are sure to be exhausted, especially in back to backs). But I'm not sure that'd be a good thing...lol, I don't know if I want Houston to actually win games cause they've finally got replacement to their injured many LOL.
I also think that if the 18, 13 were to happen, the roster during the playoffs need to increase as well. I definitely think an expanded roster would work to our favor...we'd actually not have to play Kobe as much (cause whatever deluge we have would be send down, to make a balanced--position wise team).
Posted by: Faith | July 09, 2006 at 11:45 PM
Bloggers
Thx for the info on the D-League. I was just curious to know if we obtain the rights (being able to chose first) to the players on our own D-League team. So if a guy breaks out and is phenomenal then we get first pick since he's playin in "our" d-league team. It would give us a huge advantage and it would mean we could just bring in players and if they work out we get first shot at them. Bit of unfair but for the rest but great for us.
Mike T.
I really dont think we "must" or "have to" trade Mihm. If nothing good happens (good trade) we could just let him go at the end of next season or try to resign him as a backup C. There is no point in just trading for the fun of trading. If we can get the guy we really want and they want Mihm then by all means make the trade. Even though you think Mihm's trade value is trash, that doesnt mean we have to take trash for him. Trash is trash and not always-"one mans trash is another mans treasure". By that i mean dont trade Mihm for some guy we are just gonna let go next offseason. Atleast if we keep Mihm we have a decent guy who can be depended on to some degree for this coming season. Like I said i would rather wait til next offseason to get a better FA even if it means releasing Mihm to get him. Ill get more into nexts seasons cap at the end of this post.
RichDaDCLakerFan
Great idea but neither Smush or Sasha have a polished enough offense to really go at Nash. Smush and Sasha arent really offensive or defensive players and are decent at best on both ends. Thats why i wanted a guy like Terry who could make Nash play D and tire him out. If you can take Nash out of the offense then the Suns are not too great with no one else to really step up other than Marion. We need a decent Guard who can defend but also be able to attack a guy like Nash and make him play D.
You can find a list of the salaries at hoopshype:
http://hoopshype.com/salaries/la_lakers.htm
Next season our total including Vlad is about $74-$15(Grant-not counted towards cap)=$59mil
If we keep the following for 07/08
Kobe
Odom
Bynum
Brown
Vlad
Evans
Sasha
thats a total of $52.2mil
Kobe,Odom,Bynum,Brown=$44mil
Imagine what would happen if we signed Miles=$8mil
which would be 52.2+8=60.2 and thats not including
Mihm,Walton,Mckie,Cook,Farmar,Smush,Turiaf. This would tie up our cap and the only thing we could do is resign our players since we wont be able to go over the cap by signing other FAs. Anything we do this offseason will affect us for the next 2 seasons. Think about it guys. Can we really go all the way with this squad and no more players added to our roster. Miles wont do it and we have very few options unless we make trades involving a part of our core (im a bit against that) in the likes of Odom or Brown to clear cap space. SAY NO TO MILES. Mihm is the only way we can get the guy we want but it will have to be a guy we can count on to help us improve. Too bad we missed on Artest cuz he's cheaper at $7mil. Hmmm wonder if the Queens will take Mihm and Walton for Artest. LOL what you think Mike? Realistic?
Posted by: Shady | July 10, 2006 at 12:03 AM
Faith- Thanks for doing the research. You beat me to it... and saved me the trouble (for which I am very grateful).
The idea you and Mike were kicking around is interesting, but I don't see rosters getting bigger, certainly not until the next CBA. You're talking about another major investment in players from the owners.
One thing to consider- part of the development of the D League, I believe, was as a compromise for the age restrictions placed on players in the draft, along with the NBA's desire to create a credible minor league and exert more control on the system of feeder leagues.
The changes in roster size also had to do with how they changed the IR system to active and inactive, I think. This, by the way, is why I wasn't part of the legal team who put together the last CBA.
I think the motivation to owning a D-League team is that it gives the Lakers an element of control. Over the players they have under contract who play on it, of guys to whom they might have the rights, over street free agents in the sense that they'll be playing their system and can see how well they'll fit in, etc. should the need arise and you want to sign someone.
Just my impression, at least.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | July 10, 2006 at 12:15 AM
BK-
Do you know or understand why the number of players you can take to the playoffs is different from the number of players you can have on your roster throughout the season? (or anyone who knows the answer)
Posted by: Elyse | July 10, 2006 at 12:23 AM
Elyse-
It is, I believe, to keep uniformity in playoff rosters, so a team that carries 15 guys throught the season doesn't have an advantage over one with 13, for example.
That's the thinking, as far as I know.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | July 10, 2006 at 12:30 AM
But are there actually teams who don't use the maximum they are allowed to use? I mean, does that even exist?
Posted by: Elyse | July 10, 2006 at 12:37 AM
I'd have to check. Not sure. Again, it's just my guess. The rule that really drives me nuts is that rosters get locked. I think you ought to be able to shift around series to series.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | July 10, 2006 at 12:45 AM
#4,
On a couple of defensive plays, Andrew properly showed on the pick and roll and dutifully surprised the Mav gaurd and disrupting their play. He wasn't playing against Nash, though.
But, Andrew has really good defensive instincts. For real.
Posted by: Fearless | July 10, 2006 at 01:58 AM
http://www.draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=1400
SPL day 2 (van got rejected K bros big time hahaha).
MIKE ( i feel so special , when u said i m only talking to purple and gold hahaha).
u know i m bynum s number 1 fan and like u beleive than kwame is great but u cant put kwame all the game , and what if he gets injured.
we cant put too much pressure on bynum too early plus the big man of the league would try to shut down the guy that scored on duncan and blocked him and the guy that dunked on shaq(something few have done).here we agree.
but miles,i know he is talented and PJ is great with headcases, he is a friend with lamar.
but 2 much money for something uncertain that we dont really need.so no for miles.
edwin bro stop idolizing mike,even if just to spite other guys u are way better than to do that.
Posted by: purple and gold | July 10, 2006 at 06:35 AM
Here's draftexpress.com's report w/ photos on day two of the summer pro league at Long Beach. It seems Bynum stepped up his game and Farmar played well again . . .
http://draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=1400
Posted by: Ron Ruiz | July 10, 2006 at 06:50 AM
Looks like Lakers have lost interest in Banks.
"Apparently the Los Angeles Lakers don't have any interest in signing free agent and former Wolves point guard Marcus Banks after spending their midlevel exception on Vladimir Radmanovic. Banks could be back in a Wolves uniform." -- startribune http://www.startribune.com/507/story/541979.html
Posted by: warlock | July 10, 2006 at 07:00 AM
hahaha this is religiously wrong but feels so right just had to post it hahahahahah. beleive me u will live it .
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akCixDfhiD8&search=lakers
Posted by: purple and gold | July 10, 2006 at 07:05 AM
i know this is off topic but give up your 2cents on this one..
if yall wanna watch laker videos and kobe interviews..visit this site..
http://www.lakersunderground.net/
waste some of your time and bandwidth on downloading these awesome videos on our LAKERS!!
cant wait til season starts..damn..
oh yeah, before i forgot..
here's the username and password for yall to download the vidz..
Username: members
Password: iapgsm5806
Enjoy!
Kobe is my man!!!
-dEx
Posted by: Brylle | July 10, 2006 at 07:11 AM
MUST READ
I hope we get Shammond Williams. He is a great addition to the Lakers just in case we need a piont guard that knows how to get a bucket and play defense. He played for NORTH CAROLINA with Vince Carter, Antwan Jamison, and Ed Cota was his piont guard. He usually stole the shows in those days. Kobe needs to play with a guy like this. I think he is going to wound up start and Farmer is going to come off the bench. Smush will be done by the end of the season. He is going to have no room to breathe. He is dealing with to very good piont gaurds from very good programs. Shammond Williams was coach by legendary coach DEAN SMITH. He is a better version of Tony Delk and CLEVLAND Fli Murray. Plus he has Kobe Bryant on his team. I am telling you guys, the LAKERS are going to be something real specail next year. We won 45 games last year, and we have only filled the gaps wit excellent shooters and defenders that are only going to help us now win 55-60 games!!!!!!!!
Plus Shammond Williams allows us to keep Chris Mihms for 1 more year. This is Smush's last season with the LAKERS.
HEY ADD ME TO THE 55-60 WIN BANDWAGON.
Posted by: ZAKEE | July 10, 2006 at 07:17 AM
Shady,
I hear what you're saying. You make a lot of sense as far as the cap goes. My position is that the Lakers need to abandon the cap as the reason for not spending. I could understand if they were saving up for one of the marquess free agents but they're gone. Now is the time to do whatever you they can to streghten the ball club with no regard to how far over the cap we go.
I mean, it's not like were going to be more than a few million over the cap. This isn't the Knicks where they are ridiculously over the cap with a bunch of miss match players on their roster.
Again, I agree with you:
"Mihm is the only way we can get the guy we want but it will have to be a guy we can count on to help us improve."
That's really my whole point. Whether we deal him for Miles or another player...it doesn't matter but, in my opinion, we would be better off trading him. Whoever/whatever we get for Mihm, so be it. Only make a deal and lets ride this thing with no regrets whatsoever. Put the petal to the metal, as it's said.
With that said, my concern is the SF and PG positions. I'm not too trilled about the Vlad Rad/Walton combo manning the SF position. Vlad Rad with another SF, yes! I like the Vlad Rad signing. I like Walton, but not in combination with Vlad Rad...where's the defense against elite SF's? I say we did a good thing in signing Vlad Rad, but that deal, in my mind, made Walton useless to us.
As for the PG position...well, everyone knows we have a need there, too,
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 10, 2006 at 08:26 AM
Fearless,
thanks for the info on Bynum. Sounds like this kid really has some good building blocks, at least against the SPL scrubs.
If he can become a consistent plug in the middle on defense and move his feet on the perimeter, that might be his ticket off the bench. The sooner he gets off the bench, the sooner he can work on his in-game offense as well.
As for our needs at SF, it definitely is a defensive hole. It looks like its going to be one of those defensive patchwork positions. I don't think Vlad is that bad, but neither he nor Walton is a lock-down defender. However, the combination of offensive skills gives us some presence there. Kobe now has young-and-hungry options at the 3 and that's a killer prospect.
Posted by: #4 | July 10, 2006 at 08:51 AM
purple and gold,
Edwin doesn't idolize me. He's sneaky. He calls my long post dogmatic. LOL! That's not a compliment. He using reverse psychology. He thinks he can advance on our methphoric chess board and get a checkmate so easily...Nay! Me thinkest not!
Also, I hear what you're saying with Brown, Bynum, and Mihm. Well, whether Bynum is ready or not one thing is clear in my mind. If Kwame, God forbid, goes down, we're up sh*t creek anyway. What Mihm will clog the middle? Or are you saying Kwame's offense will be missed and we need Mihm to fill in the gap if Kwame gets injured?
This is all about defense in regard to Kwame. If he produces this year on the offense that's an added bonus but overall my defense of Kwame Brown is strictly because he clogs the middle.
Not to stir the fire but, don't be surprised to see Douthit (a defensive player) fill in for what Mihm can't do. Again, clog the middle.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 10, 2006 at 09:00 AM
Zakee,
It's the 55-59 bandwagon.
The 60 and more wins club belongs to me and tajluck (We're it's only members). Choose now which one you will join. LOL!
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 10, 2006 at 09:12 AM
uhhh..mike, no offense, but is it put the pedal to the metal?
anyway, i think it would be bad if we go over the cap this season..oh well, just my opinion..
but trading Mihm will give us both positive and negative results..
brylle
Posted by: Brylle | July 10, 2006 at 09:14 AM
ZAKEE,
consider yourself added to the bandwagon. LakerTom will officially add you when he sees the post.
Mike T.,
what elite SFs are we worried about?
Do we not have Kobe and Evans as our primary defensive stoppers if push comes to shove?
BLOG,
I just got my question on ESPN CHAT! Add Mr. Chris Broussard to the list of naysayers that the lakers can win 55 games!
I really think people are overdoing this West has gotten so much better thing. I dont think anything is a foregone conclusion in the NBA now. The Lakers could get hot just as quickly as the Suns could go cold.
If Kobe is really a top 3-5 player in the league, why do people believe that we cant win more if we got more help?!!!
befuddling ... I guess I'll blog some more on it later
Posted by: Korey | July 10, 2006 at 09:18 AM
Mike T,
I don't think you quite understand how the salary cap works. The Lakers actually CAN'T under league rules, just go out and spend. They are over the cap so all they can offer free agents is the MLE and bi-annual exception. If there was a free agent out there they wanted they couldn't offer him a contract anyway.
Unfortunately the Lakers, and any other team, can't just "abandon the cap". It's not allowed.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 10, 2006 at 09:48 AM
Banks would be cool. But, this year, we don't need to go all-out for a PG. We just need a crafty vet. Someone smart. Someone dependable. Hopefully, someone with playoff and/or Finals experience. We don't have to overspend, because I'm telling you guys, we have our PG of the future already! He just needs time.
Posted by: Fearless | July 10, 2006 at 09:48 AM
Mike T,
Another question I had.
If you could get two players, regardless of contract, team, whatever, and bring them to the Lakers, who would you want?
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 10, 2006 at 09:49 AM
Zakee -- I agree with you about Shammond -- he brings much needed depth, experience and an ability to score. I remember watching him play with North Carolina and his NBA stints. I recall him riding a stationary bike whenever he was taken out of the game for short periods or whatever. He's got a great lower center of gravity -- strong legs. I am on board with most if not all the decisions our Organization makes -- they have always been committed to winning and doing whatever it is necessary to maintain that. This acquisition would be no different.
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | July 10, 2006 at 09:53 AM
Shady, Mike T.,
With all the guards we have on hand, perhaps you have to see them first how they play before adding another guy. We may be attracted to players who made name as PG in the last season, but if you will look closer on the new acquisitions like Farmar, Evans, Pinnock and Williams, I think these guys could do the job. So far, I have only seen two but I'm very satisfied with their performance, now I don't know how effective they will be in a real triangular offense of the Zen, but the most important thing they have the poise of fighters not quitters in the middle of the game. I was impressed with Farmar's and Pinnock's on their first game, the way they set up their teammates in a scrimmage game when they were trailing by more than 10 points, they did not took over by shooting a rain of threes but distributed the ball in an organized offense. Not to be unfair with Smush and Sasha, they too deserve a second look. That's why, I think we already have the players we're looking for, but of course we do not attract the attention of the basketball media exceot our local media with these names. Had we acquired KG, Jason Terry or Kidd, perhaps we would hear the thunder and becomes an immediate contender. I really value the pre-game workouts this summer in Hawaii and those pre-tournament games. Trading is not over yet as AK said it just started, based on statements of Mitch to MacDonnel K-570 if there is good trade offered on hand, he will not hesitate to grab it as long as it will contribute improvement of the team.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | July 10, 2006 at 10:02 AM
Korey, I think the reason these so call pundits do not believe LA is capable of winning 55 games or more with Kobe is because many may still question his ability to lead a team. I heard one make a comparison akin to KG and Minnesota in that although they are great players or something like that, they would never lead a team to the Promise Land. I forgot which Sports Reporter commented but I recall it was said. PISSED me off too and I dont believe that, but obviously that may be the general consensus.
They have had two years with the system and now they have to just work that much harder with the new guys in the offseason to grasp the offense and work FT shooting, defense and all those things -- study and watch film and more film.
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | July 10, 2006 at 10:04 AM
Where can I find the Summer League schedule for the Lakers?
Posted by: willn2win | July 10, 2006 at 10:05 AM
I hope that reporters everywhere keep saying the Lakers can't win more than 45 games, it only would add some motivation to this team. Unfortunately, I think the mental make-up of this squad is a bit soft so any outside "dissing" (that's probably not a word) can't do anything but help.
I still think the Lakers only win 48 games, but what can I say, it looks like our answer to a "defensive-minded PG" is going to be Shammond Williams, known for his shooting.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 10, 2006 at 10:16 AM
Mike T,
I'm beating the crap out of this dead horse (and really, what kind of bastard would do that?), but you mentioned getting Miles based on the fact that he would be utilized as a defensive stopper against the likes of Josh Howard, etc. Well, he's making about $8 million for the next FOUR years, whereas the premier defender on the wing, Bruce Bowen is getting paid $3.75 million. I'm just saying that we can get a defender for a lot cheaper that doesn't lock us into the same roster for the next four years.
I think that horse has had enough.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 10, 2006 at 10:21 AM
It has to be Kobe haterism because to me to say the Lakers will not make the playoffs or barely scratch the surface is giving no credit to last year's team.
Honestly, I dont see how we dont match up with just about any team in the West. The only teams that would be able to consistently hurt us are teams with lightning quick PGs. Other than that, we have the depth to not get totally killed by any PF or C in the league.
If defense wins championships than why dont these guys see that we have Kwame, Mihm, Turiaf, Bynum, and Odom manning the interior? I think the league will be surprised next year at our defensive presence and efficiency on that end. The depth we have at that position takes away to some degree the height/power advantages that teams like San Antonio, Dallas, Memphis, Houston, New Orleans, and Utah bring to the table. I especially like our Dallas matchup because I feel as if Odom is a perfect matchup for Dirk Nowitzki. Odom is quick and long enough to bother him on offense and defense.
The addition of Evans/Radmanovic decreases the firepower advantage that teams like Phoenix, Seattle, Sacramento, and even the Warriors possess. You know Kobe can give you 40 any nite if he needs to and we have the necessary peices to punish teams for double teaming Kobe. The chess match begins because if you put Radmanovic to the corner that Kobe is driving that takes away a help defender.
Anyway, my point is that the Lakers dont have a serious disadvantage to any team in the league. Add to the fact that we have Kobe and it's easy for me to see why we win more than we lose. This year I think we can get to 55.
Chris Broussard doesnt see us at 50. I bet he wont answer my question next season when I point out to him next February that the Lakers are at 50 wins!!!!
Posted by: Korey | July 10, 2006 at 10:24 AM
Purple & Gold, Mike T.,
I really don't idolize anybody nor I'm a fanatic to one person of group of persons. Secondly, it is in my principle that I do not hate nor love anyone if I don't know him/her personally. However, i find the blog a unique experience and you have to respect the respondents. There seems to be a human speaking under that anonymity. I always inject humor everytime I communicate to Mike T., for there are too many serious trangressions that occur and I'll compound his problems if I will be added to that flock. We are diametrically opposed on many subject matters from PJ, Kwame or Darius.
And to Mike T., I'm not sneaky nor try to checkmate you in the metaphoric chess board you referred, I'm just playing a court jester, a stopper or an eraser on your side. Sometimes when you're in the heat of the fight, you get sidetracked by the hurling insults and need constraint. That constraint may be a respite by giving you some other topics to discuss. It is your choice to discuss them or drop them.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | July 10, 2006 at 10:28 AM
Mike T. and Faith:
I agree with you guys that it seems as if the D-League rules have to be modified as NBA teams get involved in ownership. I liked your suggestions.
One potential problem in changing the rules is that they are part of the CBA and cannot be changed without both the players union and the owners agreeing. The rules cannot just be changed unilaterally by the league.
I am sure the players would be in favor of more guys being able to get paid for playing. Some owners, however, might not want to have to pay more players as that would increase their team expenses.
The owners would also probably want to be able to pay any additional players less than the current league minimum. It is possible we might end up with a separate D-League contract with a lower pay scale.
Another issue is making sure that higher revenue teams such as the Lakers, Bulls, and Knicks don't have an advantage. This might lead to another round in the draft.
My point is that there are several issues here that probably have to be negotiated between the owners and players before any real change can occur.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | July 10, 2006 at 10:33 AM