Know Thy Enemy: Houston, Seattle, New Orleans, Utah
Back by (semi) popular demand! Today we'll take a look at the rest of the Western Conference's lottery squads. While the Baltic Avenues of the West don't shape up as threats this season, this bunch, including the Rockets, Sonics, Hornets and Jazz, could make a little noise. But will they be better or worse than the Lakers?
HOUSTON ROCKETS (34-48 last season)
Big Gains: Traded for Shane Battier, Kirk Snyder.
Big Losses: Traded Stromile Swift. Bob Sura?
Big things were expected from the Rockets last season, with Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady (permanently referred to by Mom as "Yao's friend," since she always draws a blank trying to remember his name), having played a full season as a duo. Instead, the team suffered so many injuries, you expected news of Jeff Van Gundy getting shanked in the shower as a capper. But the talent is there, if stunningly fragile.
After healing up, Yao Ming spent the season's second half newly aggressive and absolutely balling, including a 28 point/11 board/2 block March. With Shaq on the decline (and content to let Wade carry his ass), "NBA's best center" could be Yao's for the taking. T-Mac is labeled by some as a poor man's Kobe Bryant (one hopes he has a rich man's Kobe Bryant health insurance plan), but Kobe-lite still shreds teams on a regular basis. Throw in Shane Battier, who can do just about everything (including take pressure off McGrady), and that's a pretty tough trio, reinforced by solid compliments Juwan Howard, Luther Head, Ryan Bowen, Rafer Alston, Deke "Cookie Monster" Motumbo, Snyder and Sura (assuming injuries don't force retirement, resigning him to life as a Stephen Baldwin impersonator). Then again, should everyone's medical history remain consistent, you could very well end up with Van Gundy's slower-than-a-parked-car offense being run through whoever's capable of walking. We watched that version last season. Ain't pretty.
Final Verdict: This a really tough one to call, since it's entirely health dependent. Should they all stay on the court, Yao-McGrady-Battier could keep Houston running side by side or even slightly ahead of the Purple and Gold. However, I've firmly established myself as a "gotta see it to believe it" kinda guy on this blog, so I'm gonna label them "worse than the Lakers." But an asterisk is understood. (AK)
SEATTLE SUPERSONICS (35-47 last season)
Big Gains: Drafted Mouhamed Saer Sene (not so much a big gain as a tall one), Denham Brown, Yotam Halperin, and brought '05 pick Mickael Gelabale over from Spain.
Big Losses: Traded Mikki Moore (and all his reptiles) for a second rounder in '09.
After a surprising '04-'05 campaign that saw them win 52 games and the Northwest, the Sonics took a serious step backward last year. And unless the NBA decides to award teams an extra five wins for every inexperienced, raw, below-the-legal-drinking-age center that they keep on the roster, they're one of the few W.C. squads shaping up to be worse this year than last. Most of the speculation around the team this summer has centered around where they'll play and who will sign the checks, as opposed to finding better players to receive them. Yes, they've still got Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis, but after that, the talent level drops off the Space Needle. Luke Ridnour is a solid player, as is Earl Watson. Nick Collison doesn't hurt anyone. Chris Wilcox, who is likely to return, if only on a one year tender deal, played well for Seattle after coming over from the Clips. Good players all, but nothing that excites you, and maybe just a mite backcourt heavy?
Even with Wilcox, there may not be a team in basketball with a more questionable frontcourt than the Sonics. They seem to be collecting young projects in the post with the enthusiasm of sci-fi geeks hoarding commemorative Star Wars glasses from Burger King. Robert Swift, Johan Petro, and Sene have a total of three years experience between them, and all need more work than a rusted out Chevette. Seattle was so weak on the boards last year that Wilcox, whose motor was constantly questioned in L.A., was easily their best rebounder at 8.2 a game. Sure he played well, but it would have been almost impossible for him not to be a force on Seattle's glass. They were among the worst rebounding teams in the league, especially on the defensive end (Reggie Evans, who only played 20 minutes a game before being traded to Denver, was second on the team with 6.7 RPG). Combine those problems with their tendency to let other teams score with Scott Baio-esque frequency (Seattle allowed 105.6 ppg, an NBA worst), and it paints an ugly picture.
Final Verdict: In a conference headed north, Seattle's going the wrong way. Much worse than the Lakers. (BK)
NEW ORLEANS/OKLAHOMA CITY HORNETS (38-44)
Big Gains: Traded for Tyson Chandler. Signed Peja Stojakovic, Bobby Jackson. Drafted Hilton Armstrong and Cedric Simmons.
Big Losses: Traded P.J. Brown, Kirk Snyder, J.R. Smith. Lost Speedy Claxton and Aaron Williams to free agency. Waived Moochie Norris (which is actually irrelevant, but he's one of my favorite scrub players, so I'll throw him in there).
Remember how Melrose Place started out as a totally unwatchable, boring piece of crap on the verge of getting canceled, then Heather Locklear joined the cast and it became awesome? That's basically the effect Chris Paul had on the Hornets. People talk about how dependent the Lakers are on Kobe. And that's often been the case. But the Hornets' relationship with CP could be summed up in two words: Crackhead. Pipe. Do you even remember how God awful these guys were just a season earlier? And with all due respect to '05-06 addition Desmond Mason (solid on both sides of the ball and likely the NBA's best artist) and the strides made by F David West (2nd in MIP balloting), Paul made it happen. Beyond anybody's craziest of dreams.
Cue aggressive overhaul.
Whether "aggressive" equals "overpaid and overrated" has divided many an NBA analyst. But even if none of the new additions are worth their paycheck, they all have their uses. Chandler is pricey for a guy without a go-to move, but he's an energetic rebounder and defender (West can provide the front court scoring). The way too expensive Stojakovic is older and injury-prone, but can stroke it from the French Quarter and moves well without the rock. Me thinks Paul will find him for a lot of wide open looks. And for the 40 games Jackson's healthy (I don't remember which reader calls Jax "The Suit," since he's always wearing one on the sidelines, but it's a great nickname), he gives them scoring, D, and serious nads. Plus, he's taking over for Claxton, who's always hurt anyway. And bottom line, if anyone can spark automatic meshing, it's Paul. He's the best rook point guard to emerge in eons. And if CP's running of a less talented squad indicates anything, these Hornets could pack a mighty... wait for it... sting.
Final Verdict: These guys upgraded, but so have other teams. The West is seriously tough. And even if the Lakers improve by just 3 wins, I'm skeptical as to whether NO/OKC's new parts equal the 11 necessary to pass them. They'll finish behind the Lakers (although not by enough to breathe easy). (AK)
UTAH JAZZ (41-41)
Big Gains: Drafted Ronnie Brewer, Dee Brown, and Paul Millsap (no relation to Ronnie, in either blood or spelling). Traded for Derek Fisher and Rafael Araujo, resigned Matt Harpring and Jarron Collins.
Big Losses: Traded Devin Brown, Keith McCloud, and Andre Owens to GSW, Kris Humphries and Robert Whaley to Toronto, while Greg Ostertag (mercifully) retired.
Two years ago, I had Utah in the playoffs, and they were terrible. Last year, I thought they'd struggle and they nearly cracked the playoff ladder. Maybe I'm the wrong guy to make an evaluation on these guys? They were basically a .500 team both with and without Carlos Boozer last year, so it's hard to say a healthy season from the big PF will be the difference maker, even if the words "healthy" and "Carlos Boozer" could be put in the same sentence without causing laughter. Utah has a great player in Andre Kiralenko, and some good ones in Boozer, Mehmet Okur (who at 18/9 probably tops the NBA's Unknown Production Team), and Harpring, plus some potential in Deron Williams and Brewer. While I'm not sure I'd have been running out to add his contract to my payroll, acquiring Derek Fisher will help take pressure off Williams and bolster Utah's backcourt. There's theoretically enough talent to challenge for a playoff spot, but Utah will have to find more scoring. 92 points a game is even boring in Utah.
They'll also have to fix a point differential (-2.6, worse than six lottery teams) that suggests they were lucky in '04-'05 to finish with at .500. I have a sneaking suspicion Utah will be this year what they were last year- a group that isn't talented enough to beat good teams that play to their capabilities, but will frustrate good teams on off nights. They won't blow into the gym and wipe people out. If the chips fall their way, they could contend for a playoff spot. But given the improvement around the conference, it'll be a tough road in for the Jazz.
Final Verdict: Almost a litmus test for playoff hopefuls in the West, like one of those signs you see heading onto a roller coaster. "You must be at least as tall as the Utah Jazz to ride this playoff ride." Being better than them won't necessarily get you in, but being worse means you're definitely out. Fortunately for the Lakers, they're on the top side of the hand. (BK)
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Laker Tom,
Thank you sir, I can accept that.
Posted by: Ken | August 12, 2006 at 08:48 PM
He said with pain in his eyes, Ray Ray, I don't call your team Brokebackers. You are a brokebacker, are you not? I call your team the Brokebacks.
Granted, it's not as clever as Shaq's name for the Sacramento Kings of basketball. Even so, Shady, it's simple: SoCal=LA=Hollywood=Movies=Brokeback Mountain. Instead, I could have named the Lakers the "Mountains", but I don't believe they pile it that high. No, Brokebacks works fine.
To quote a famous Southern Californian, "there you go again" with your inferences that effeminacy is clearly associated with sexual preference. You know, a lot of people probably don't appreciate that.
"If your talking about female fans then I do hope do display effeminate characteristics"
I think I know what you are saying.
In the first place, perhaps only in La La Land do so many women feel compelled to "display" feminine characteristics vis.a.vis self evidently letting them flow naturally.
As for me, I don't know. Sometimes I like my girls a little on the boyish side.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 12, 2006 at 08:50 PM
It just KINDA gives me the IMAGE of an IQ test question:
Which word doesn't match with the others?
A.UTAH B.SEATTLE C.NOK D.HOUSTON E.LALs
and the answer is B, in a bad way and E, in agood way.
But you're RIGHT. thats probabely a little too literally.(I like the CAPS)
How about a FOOTBALL BLOG. I think unlike the NL West, FOOTBALL will bring up a lotta conversation.
SONNY
SMITH's hands are too SMALL. But I tell YA. I think SMITH looks the way, DREW BREEZE looked, when he started in the NFL. BREEZE got really good and I think, through TRAINING. So hopefully ALEX can do it. He's pretty much what we got. Imagine KWAME BROWN was pretty much what we HAD with the BROK... oh sorry the LAKERS.
Posted by: rayray | August 12, 2006 at 08:50 PM
Is Arthas still around?
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 12, 2006 at 09:15 PM
Sonnybelfast
"SoCal=LA=Hollywood=Movies=Brokeback Mountain"
I understand where you got Brokebacks but your going at a city not a franchise. Does this mean that the L.A. Dodger fans are Brokebacks too? The reason I said it wasnt clever or funny is because it really isnt a direct shot at the Laker organization (like Queens) but more towards the city of L.A. At this point in time when you refer to something with "Brokeback" the movie you talk about homosexuality. Why not pick another Hollywood movie? The reason you chose to call the Laker fan Brokebacks is for one reason and obviously refers to something in the movie.
"Sometimes I like my girls a little on the boyish side."
Thats your preference and I really dont care. For whatever reason it may be theyre yours and no explanation needed on that.
Posted by: Shady | August 12, 2006 at 10:13 PM
Sonny,
"Sometimes I like my girls a little on the boyish side."
I don't know what this means, and it is too much info, buddy. Feel free to carry on to the next subject. :)
Posted by: Ken | August 12, 2006 at 10:15 PM
I'm late to the thread and didn't have a chance to read all the comments - but AK and I had a similar conversation a month ago about how the Laker competition have their own problems to deal with. I'm not sure anyone seeded lower than the Lakers were last year are appreciably better.
The Lakers may not have hit a home run this off-season - but there's no question this team has added depth without giving up much of anything cept Devean George.
Good work AK and BK . . .
Posted by: Eric Pincus | August 12, 2006 at 10:22 PM
Tsphere & G. Owanlele,
Thanks for sharing any info on Ron Turiaf, it's ok to play hard for France just avoid injuries.
Craig W. & Exhelodrvr,
Welcome to the Senior bloggers, nice to know that LakerTom, Jayjay, Roger B., Guity, Vman, Mike T., Tsphere, Pete Maguire, well our group is growing the Showtime era.
Tonight at 10pm, don't forget to watch USA vs. Lithuania, it's on NBA TV, I'll just watch it on the small screen of sports menu of Direct TV.
Let's all cheer the USA in spirit. According to Manu Ginobli, "the American dominance in world basketball is a thing of the past." I disagree with that statement, it's just a matter of adjusting the point of interest of this NBA selection. What I noticed, our USA team is not trying their best as though they are just playing in a basketball camp, they don't dominate the rebound or stick to their opponent like leeches and see, if any international team could compete the high level of basketball. I think this will be the role of Chris Paul, Heinrich and D'Wayde being guards to defend the perimeter and shut off those three's while Bowen, Battier, Brand, Lebron and Anthony as well Arenas cover the post and take care of the rebounds, don't treat any team lightly and play hard for 48 minutes.
This is all OUR team representing all NBA teams in America. Let's put aside our loyalty to the Lakers for a while and start cheering for Team USA for the next two weeks. Some people remarked that it was good for Kobe and Lamar for not playing the national team and they get to rest as well as avoid injuries. Well, they have a valid reason for not playing. However, should they be given another opportunity in the future, they should play and be proud of it. It sounds like "W" (who is corny and I prefer not to be on his side) but there is truth in saying that we all chose to live in this country, so this is our home. Therefore there is no other greater honor for any athlete but to be a representative of People of America under one banner, Team USA in any international competition. It is expected from them to show their BEST and prove once and for all that Manu Ginobli was wrong to underestimate the country that introduced Basketball to the world. Wow, that's not me I suddenly became patriotic, God Bless America.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | August 12, 2006 at 10:34 PM
LakerAl
Rodman qualifies as the one pretty good player. I am hoping that Kwame can supply defense and rebounds enough to qualify.
How a team fits together is usually more important than how strong each individual player is. PJ has to have different kinds of players to be able to plug the correct one into each game situation. I like the variety of skills and think there will be plenty to choose from.
Maybe Roni at the 5 against Phoenix, Kwame against Miami, Mihm against Denver. Now that is flexibility.
Posted by: Craig W | August 12, 2006 at 10:42 PM
USA 104 Lithuania 90. Good defense, USA still unbeaten in the exhibition games. Next game will be Korea on 8/14 but will be replayed on ESPN 2 Tuesday 10:30 AM.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | August 13, 2006 at 12:13 AM
Alex is an enigma, but I have high hopes. There are a lot of great quarterbacks playing today who are fun to watch, but none of them are a Joe Montana or Steve Young.
I sense Alex may possess crucial intangibles similar to those of my main man Joe, and of course, Steve Young. It's just a sense, but I always go with my gut. Just enough of the time I'm on the money. Right now, Smith is about even, which is good.
Most of us want Alex Smith to transform into Steve Montana, on a team which (inspite of the Yorks) has begun its march back up to absolute preeminence. I can't imagine Brokebackers allowing a decade or so to go between championships. I wonder when Niner fans (many of whom are not among my favorites, except that I share common blood with them, so there you have it, but I digress) are going to demand it. Let's ship York to New York.
Then they attempted a 30 footer through the basketball net, but the football hit the rim and bounced out. The other team had no rebound. The Brokebacks won the game.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 01:05 AM
sonnybelfast
"SoCal=LA=Hollywood=Movies=Brokeback Mountain"
that's a bit of a stretch isn't it? im sure with your extensive intellectually driven explanation for your opinions...im sure you can come up with something better than that. i hope you're enjoying your "boyish girls".
Posted by: sixonezero | August 13, 2006 at 01:47 AM
Some of you are thinking "girly boys". As we have established, this may be a natural predisposition for many brokebackers. What I'm thinking is "boyish girls". It is instinctual.
What? You don't like tom boys? Really?
Just go to church or something.
How about that girl you grew up with next door? Never got that far? O.K. then, how about all the celebrities, athletes and all the girls you see on the street? Surely, you have a favorite? O.K., how about your favorite Sparks player? Hey girls, wasn't your best friend growing up sort of a tom boy?
What has happened to my old neighborhood? When are the Brokebacks going to be any good again?
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 03:03 AM
"That's a bit of a stretch isn't it"
There is a price to be paid for demanding so much attention from the world. You get it or you don't, reap rewards or not, but you don't get to pick and choose what others think about you.
Don't worry though, you are "showtime", right? Your opinion of yourself is the highest. You are the champions.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 03:17 AM
At minimum, this is a championship blog and you are part of it.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 03:18 AM
Roger,
Here in France the cable channel I'm subscribed to broadcasts all the France games and apparently most of the U.S. games. I saw the France-Australia game today in which France easily dominated in the first half and crumbled in the second, losing by six points. So I can add to what I said yesterday about Turiaf.
Today he had fewer minutes and was a little less consistent, as the team ball was incredibly sloppy. Still, he absolutely closed down the paint while guarding (single-handedly) Andrew Bogut, who only scored once with Turiaf on the floor, and that was thanks to an offensive rebound on which Ronny found himself blocked out. He had a couple of really impressive blocks and a nice 7 foot hook shot, one of the rare shots he took and possibly the only one that went in. He didn't get as many touches as he did against Greece.
LakerTom,
Turiaf is playing strong and cool, staying clear of foul trouble while maintaining a combative presence in the paint on defense. If he plays the same way in Lakeland as a backup 4 (and maybe one day a starter), he will be very effective. I think his offense is off kilter for the moment because he's out of position at center, especially moving often to the high post to draw out the opposing big guy, who is inevitably a few inches taller.
Australia, a pretty crappy team, beat France with uncontested 3 pointers while Turiaf was in and only managed to drive to the hole when he was out, replaced by Cyril Julian. The guards weren't doing their job on D even though they knew the Australians wouldn't drive to the hoop (until Turiaf was replaced).
Apparently, Ronny may not make the final cut because France still has to shed a player and they're only using him at the five, which gives them four centers (including Petro, who didn't even play against Australia).
I agree with you that Diaw is a fantastic talent and expect him to shine when the serious competition satarts. He was again invisible, but that may be for two reasons:
1) he's the team captain and taking that role seriously, so he's using the tune-up matches to understand how the other guys are playing,
2) he doesn't want his future opponents to see how he can take over games before the actual start of the competition.
Still, it makes you wonder whether Nash and the Suns' running style game aren't the ideal setting for his talent.
Having seen four games, I get the impression that all the teams and many of the players in these exhibition matches are deliberately underperforming so as to bluff their opponents. We'll know what they're all up to starting on Friday.
Posted by: Tsphere | August 13, 2006 at 07:34 AM
Sonny,
I think that we should go back to being enemies.
You posts used to piss me off, until I lighted up to to fact that you were just having a good time with us. Then I started finding some good humor in your posts.
We started to actually give you a little respect,
and almost treat you nicely.
Then you get a little too comfortable and drop this little gem "sometimes I like my girls on the boyish side" (gross).
And now it is plain as day. The reason why you can't go 10 minunte with out refering to a brockback is because it takes one to know one.
dan
Posted by: dan the man aka smushcalade | August 13, 2006 at 09:23 AM
rayray,
I think a football blog would be great too. I'm a fan of baseball but talking about NL West teams doesn't interest me much, although the Dodgers are making things really interesting now that they're on this incredible tear. But, I could talk about football just as much as I can talk about basketball. Too bad there isn't a team in LA we could put AK/BK to work and have em create yet another blog.
Posted by: Xodus | August 13, 2006 at 09:50 AM
AK and BK deserve a storied franchise like the Niners.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 11:42 AM
sonnybelfast
from now on...you'll be tupac with your "me against the world" rhetoric. hahahaha dont get so defensive about your boyish girls.
Posted by: sixonezero | August 13, 2006 at 12:20 PM
Craig W:
Good post regardingt Kwame. I agree with you that his continued improvement (or lack thereof) will be a huge part of the lakers success this coming season-especially if no further personnel moves are made before opening night.
Frankly, I dont see Brown as a long term answer at either the 4 or 5, but just an interim solution until Bynum is ready. Hopefully, once Mihm's ankle heals, he will be productive at the 4. Mihm wants to stay and Kupchak likes him, so who knows...
The guard situation is really a big question mark! It will be interesting to see who emerges in training camp. Would like to see Profit get a shot to return to the team.
AK/BK:
What is the status of the D-league? Is it still being tweaked by the league? If the league would allow the Lakers to send down 5 players instead of 2, they could play an entire rookie team: Bynum, Turiaf, Green, Pinnock and Farmar. Think of the benefits this would have for them as a unit.
Posted by: LakerAl | August 13, 2006 at 12:39 PM
Thanks Edwin G. - Just to complete TSphere's comments about Ronny: Yesterday, he scored only 5 points. I've nothing about rebounds, assists and blocks.
Once again, here is the boxscore link in french. Edwin G., I know you can read it. After your trip in Lyon, France, now you're good in french!! Lol.
http://www.sports.fr/fr/cmc/basket/200632/france-australie-la-feuille-de-match_103907.html
Posted by: Guy Owanlele | August 13, 2006 at 12:52 PM
Craig,
I like the thought of Roni playing the 5 when we play PHX. Unfortunately for the suns (and general basketball fans around the world) Amare will probably never be the explosive force that he once was. That means that D'Antoni will have to go with the style of play in which they ran in th '05-'06. Roni's gonna eat 'en up!
dan
Posted by: dan the man aka smushcalade | August 13, 2006 at 01:51 PM
Thanks guys for the Ronny FYI, I love Braveheart...and I absolutely love what I'm hearing about his defense. Ronny to me epitomizes what our team should be, or at least strive to be---and that is hardworking, full of heart, be whatever we need, rebounder? Got it! Defender? Got it! Go Ronny!
I think Ronny (at least for this season) is a great example of an impact player that doesn't really show his worth by "numbers"...he gives the team energy in and out of playing...while doing what he can in the little things.
Posted by: Faith | August 13, 2006 at 03:46 PM
We just signed 7'2" Loren Woods to spell Brad Miller. In limited minutes, Woods has been solid under the rim. As Brad moves closer to his final move back home (to Indiana) Loren will instantly be a favorite in Sacramento.
Unless some major shake-up trades occur (which is always a real possibility), it looks like Bynum, Mihm or Kwame won't become Kings anytime soon. Bonzi is still out there. Whoever can nail him down for a one year contract could benefit greatly, so long as he continues to behave.
Niner Newberry is retiring. Good guy who has fought the injury bug for some time. His ability and leadership will be missed. Alex looked oh so sweet; Steve Montanaesque. All new recievers except one. Keep it up. Secondary still weak. Gonna have to do something about Rumph.
Go Niners and bring on the Brokebacks! Let all the games begin. Have started stretching for fantasy football.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 03:54 PM
We just signed 7'2" Loren Woods to spell Brad Miller. In limited minutes, Woods has been solid under the rim. As Brad moves closer to his final move back home (to Indiana) Loren will instantly be a favorite in Sacramento.
Unless some major shake-up trades occur (which is always a real possibility), it looks like Bynum, Mihm or Kwame won't become Kings anytime soon. Bonzi is still out there. Whoever can nail him down for a one year contract could benefit greatly, so long as he continues to behave.
Niner Newberry is retiring. Good guy who has fought the injury bug for some time. His ability and leadership will be missed. Alex looked oh so sweet; Steve Montanaesque. All new recievers except one. Keep it up. Secondary still weak. Gonna have to do something about Rumph.
Go Niners and bring on the Brokebacks! Let all the games begin. Have started my workout for fantasy football.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 03:57 PM
I always get defensive when you talk bad about my girls.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 04:45 PM
LakerAl:
Wow, sorry you don't like my posts. I do not consider my contributions to be "pie in the sky optimism." My posts reflect what I believe is going to happen based on my "realistic assessments of the Lakers."
You're free to disagree but please don't insult me by implying that I am some "just out of college, 20's-something, eyes-wide-open" poster that makes predictions without any bases or support. And I have never been a "PR director, chearleader (sic), or car salesman," though I've known many fine people who have done those jobs.
As for 55 wins, there are 68 people on the 55-Win Bandwagon who disagree with you. It is not "pie in the sky" optimism to believe that the Lakers will win 10 more games than last year considering the growth of the team and the new players added to the roster.
If you don't like my brand of "realism" then please feel free to scroll down. It won't hurt my feelings or "temper my enthusism" for the Lakers. After all, I wouldn't want to add any sunshine to your day.
Tom
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | August 13, 2006 at 04:50 PM
Tsphere:
Glad to hear the good news on Ronny's play. We could really use some strong interior play from him this year. It will also be interesting to see how Diaw does as the tournement progresses. It may be that he is one of those players in the "right place at the right time."
Thanks for keeping us posted.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | August 13, 2006 at 04:59 PM
sonny:
I have the same gut feeling about Alex that you do. He has the same tangibles and intangibles that Joe and Steve had: great physical ability, superior intelligence, strong competitiveness, and good mobility.
I think there will still be times when he screws up because he is so damn young, but I think we may be seeing what will become the real thing, another great San Francisco 49er quarterback.
I was disappointed to hear Steve Young question Alex so much, especially since Steve's first year starting performance with Tampa Bay was just as poor as Alex's performance last year. The organization you play for and the team around you can really make a huge difference. Young was lucky that Walsh saw something in him and brought him in to backup and follow Montana.
Anyway, it was really a huge relief to see Alex play so well. Hopefully, it is a sign of things to come. While it was only the first exhibition game, you can see that the team has dramatically improved over last year and will hopefully show it on the field. I am still a little worried about our defensive secondary but I think the offense is poised to make a dramatic turnaround.
I actually have to give John York credit for realizing how badly he screwed up with Donahue and Erikson and paying them off and turning the reins to the franchise over to Mike Nolan. I have been impressed with Nolan since day one and believe he will take us back into championship contention. York opened up his wallet and Nolan brought in some quality free agents in Bryant, Allen, and others. So, bottom line, I'm done bashing York and give him his due. He didn't get it right the first time, just as DeBartolo screwed up with his first coaching hire, but he got it right the second time with Nolan, just as Eddie did with Walsh.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | August 13, 2006 at 05:21 PM
Merci' Guy, Why is Diaw 0? I have to go back to my French lessons in cassette tapes, this is to advance, G. Owanlele.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | August 13, 2006 at 05:37 PM
Tsphere
" I get the impression that all the teams and many of the players in these exhibition matches are deliberately underperforming so as to bluff their opponents."
I havent seen them play but if that is whats going on I hope team U.S.A. is doing the same thing. Those guys keep scoring 90+ and I hope its not all they got or theyre gonna be in trouble again this year. Its probably cuz theyre young and want to show off during these exhibitions and through some ESPN i see a lot of dunks and some pretty nice fast breaks. Im not sure if theyve played any top ranked teams yet but I want to see the real games and see how good team U.S.A. does. As it is anything less than a Gold Medal is a dissapointment. I hope they dont get too overconfident or they may lose again.
Posted by: Shady | August 13, 2006 at 06:54 PM
Laker Tom,
I'm not through with York just yet, but will call a cease fire. I am liking Nolan more and more, but still have visions of sugar plums, Walshs and Eddies dancing in my head.
Getting back to where we belong, a cut above all the rest, is the only acceptable outcome. If I sense that any 49er owner, manager or coach demands less or is unwilling to take all the necessary measures required to get there, I'll want their heads, plain and simple.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 13, 2006 at 07:02 PM
how hard can it be for kwame to average 14 and 9. wait....that was LO's line last season. LO needs to step it up then. a little over two months left.... dog days of summer.
Posted by: sixonezero | August 13, 2006 at 08:38 PM
The primary threats to the Lakers in the coming season I think will be Spurs, Phoenix(monkey-on-our-back) ... everyone else is beatable.
I think the Lakers lack confidence, shot consistency, and they need to increase their defensive intensity level. But, they need to do this from the beginning of the season.
They need to burn from the moment they get on the court.
Bottom line, they need one solid co-killer to play with Kobe (Lamar is not a killer, but a respectable threat), and a consistent third scorer, with that, I think they could hide their other deficiencies.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: SMP | August 13, 2006 at 09:54 PM
Shouldn't you change the picture on the link to the blog, because that looks like Dallas Mavericks forward Devean George to me.
Posted by: Daniel | August 13, 2006 at 10:33 PM
XODUS
we DON'T need a team in LA to talk FOOTBALL. if the BOSSES give the OK, the K-BROS should do it.
AKnBK
What do you feel about you guys starting an NFL blog? Lets face it, you guys are PRETTTY GOOD at running a SPORTS BLOG. If you think I DONNO what I'm talkin bout, just ask the ESPN people. and like XODUS says and I CONQURE(is that spelled right?) there's as MUCH in FOOTBALL to talk about as there is in BASKETBALL. put up a HOCKEY or a BASEBALL blog and I'll pass. the most exciting thing about HOCKEY is actually BOXING and the most used STAT in BASEBALL is OPS. it took me sometime time to make sure it's not the TV PEEPS saying:"that SOB is a pretty good BASEBALL PLAYER." I mean I like the game but talking about it, I leave that to PETER GAMMONS.
for the DODGER blog
I don't even go to the DODGERS blog. FIRST, I don't like those "BROKEBACKERS"-DODGERS- Ya I might be bias. they just SWEPT my GIANTS and I'm pretty upset. SECOND, what am I gonna say. this guys OBE is better than the other SOB? there is just nothing to talk about.... NFL, though, I think is DIFFERENT
Posted by: rayray | August 13, 2006 at 10:55 PM
York Sucks. He has killed the Niners. This is the first year since 1978 I haven't gone to the games.
Posted by: Jman449 | August 14, 2006 at 12:55 AM
The Blog is going out to lunch with no B Ball to assess and or argue about. The Olmpic team is shaping up nicely and seem to have a good attitude and a lot of talent. Carmelo comes back with a great performance and our buddy Manu Gunobli is trying to inspire them with some dumb comments that US is not the powerhouse of Basketball. What kind of joke is that.
Kind of makes me think why do we ever respond to Sonny and Steven- jeez gimmee a break.
Having to pass over so many sonnybrokeback-girly-boy comments and find some interesting reads here is a laugh in itself. I think Ken and Shady have finally captured why sonny loves to talk about the Lakers as Brokebacks- he is a brokeback cowboy! Phil had it right long ago, noting but pastures and cowbells along with some cute sheep that run scared of fellas like sonny- whew, I am hoping you bounce sonny, I personally have had enough of your jive comments and wasted bashing here. Now that is personal, sorry to insult you but you brought in on yourself - now please get lost.
Thank God for LakerTom, AK, BK and E Gueco for keeping this stuff real and about sports and above all the team. Dan Smushcalade, LakerAL and Faith, Nyla you guys and gals are keepers, so stay true to the team and loyal to this Blog, it is a tribute and you are all moving up the ladder on my LakerBlog hall of fame! Tsphere thanks for the Rony Updates. Roland if your out there thanks for all the real insight and first hand information, always a pleasure. Mike T- where you been? I suppose we need a new thread or whatever here soon.
I am still waiting for the Lakers to do another move before camp and I have a feeling it is wishful thinking. I see KGarnett has been slowly starting to realize his time is limited and that is a huge plus for us.
Here are his quotes;
Don't print that
The Timberwolves' Kevin Garnett in a coming issue of Slam Magazine: "…one thing that I can't stand is if I'm working hard and the organization upstairs isn't working hard, it's not fair. It's not fair to me."
Asked if he would want to leave if the Wolves don't improve, Garnett said: "I got to." Down the road somewhere? "I got to. If you're not working towards a championship, then why are we in this? I'm in it to win, man, I'm not in it to be coming back talking about next year. I'm 30. I've probably got four to five years, you know what I'm saying? My clock is ticking, man."
Now that is good news!
I just don't know who or how many players we have to give up to get him here. I think his game is definitely complimentary and his defense would improve immensely within the PJ scheme. Kobe has hinted about something happening but what...?
Evans, is a good pick-up and Vlade helps but then Shammond??? that just doesn't get me excited. I would rather hear about the big gunner Wagner - Dujuan, I think that’s his name and I know this kid can flat out score. We haven't truly helped our defense minus Evans possibly so why not bring in a Vinnie Jonnson- microwave kind of guy.
As far as the Niners go...they might be lucky to win 7 games this year and that is being generous. Oakland also needs to step into winning again (C''mon AL) with a much better defensive approach than what we've been seeing. The A's are going to get hot again right on time, and the Giants are just sucking bad. No room for them and that team needs to sell Barry off while they can and get him over to the American League. He would probably retire and forget the chase but he sure plays well for his age. Funny how he hasn't shrunk up and everyone else has that did the riods- hmmmm...Maybe it was hard work after all.
Laker Nation we gotta get 50 Wins this year and more importantly Phil has to play everyone a lot for us to grow as a team and also to have the young talent developed enough to contribute when the playoffs arrive. There won't be another Pheonix team with no imterior heigth and strength to make Kwame look so good again- unless he becomes that good, which would be phenomenal. We might have a few stupid losses but it will pay off when the end of the season comes if we play everyone.
Posted by: Pete Maguire | August 14, 2006 at 01:22 AM
Edwin - Steve Nash is not around. This can partially explain why Diaw is so weak. But there are many others reasons (fatigue, coaching style, team spirit...). I really don't know.
I will add that Parker has always been so-so in this French Team. Now, with Diaw, it makes two. Strange: Those guys seem to play very well only in their NBA teams. Another thing, those games are exhibition ones. Perhaps, they're hiding their game strategy. We're going to have a good idea very soon at the beginning of the real competion. We will check also carefully Ronny's contribution.
Now, I'm gone because you need to listen to your french lessons cassettes! Yes, Practice makes perfect. LOL!!
LakerTom - Whatever your "optimist or realism level is, let me remind you that there're some free hot places left in the 55-Win bandwagon. It's a bargain and you don't need to argue a lot.. But there are always some guys too shy to join easily the band!! LOL!!
55-Win is only a goal. I think our 15-20 first games will dictate the pace. We could foresee and speculate better about the playoffs.
Just a fan.
GO
Posted by: Guy O. | August 14, 2006 at 01:28 AM
Diehard 49er fan.
I actually met Roger Craig last week at a Chinese restaurant. Real cool guy.
I will keep my comments limited since this is a Laker Blog, but MAAAN am I excited about my NINERS.
It is the perfect segway to get me through to the Lakers start balling again.
NFL & NBA, two best sports leagues in the world ...
Posted by: Korey | August 14, 2006 at 04:05 AM
Dan, Phoenix won over 50 games last year without Amare. Even if he's not as explosive as he was, he'll still be effective... what makes you think D'Antoni will change his style? That team's built to run. That sounds like some wishful thinking to me.
Posted by: Michael A | August 14, 2006 at 07:24 AM
If I had a choice, i would gladly trade Lamar Odom for any of the following forwards:
Lebron James, Carmelo, Elton Brand, Shawn Marion, Andrei Kirilenko, Rashard Lewis, Ron Artest, Vince Carter, Garnett, Dwight Howard Dirk, Jermaine Oneal, Amare Stoudemire, Paul Pierce, Tmac and Tim Duncan.
I would consider trading him for (depending on need/situation):
Caron Butler, Richard Jefferson, Corey Maggette, Tayshaunn Prince, Carlos Boozer, Chris Bosh, Channing Frye, Drew Gooden, AL Harrington, Rasheed Wallace, Antawn Jamison and Paul Gasol.
I would not Trade him for:
Emeka Okafor, Chris Webber, David West, Antonie Walker, Troy Murphy, Boris Diaw, Peja Stojakovic, Desmond Mason, Macus Camby, and Shane Battier.
Posted by: The Troll | August 14, 2006 at 07:52 AM
the niners???? hahahahahahahaha!!!!
Posted by: THE WOLF | August 14, 2006 at 08:03 AM
i dont see how anyone can make an excuse for an nba player (or any pro athlete making millions) when he can't handle criticism from the press, fans or even his own team. they need to man up and realize that they're getting paid millions (and a whole lot more than people with a lot more education and dedication to their craft) to play a game.
Posted by: taka | August 14, 2006 at 08:24 AM
Good morning folks,
I don't know what to say about being the resident pessimist of the blog, but I thought my predicition of 48 wins and a trip to the second round was pretty optimistic?
LakerTom,
I never thought I looked at things negatively, but I try to take a broad view of the team, our current players, their strengths and weaknesses, and how long it will take to limit those soft spots. I don't think we have a chance in hell to win 55 games this year with the roster the way it is currently constituted. I think we have some good young talent, we have a couple key players that are oh-so-close to turning that corner (LO and Kwame) and we have a bunch of new pieces that if things go well will fit into their roles and do some good things. I just think that ALL those things happening and coming together is extremely unlikely. I do hope with every ounce of my purple and gold being that it does, but I couldn't convince myself to think that those are small feats and it's very possible that they could happen.
But I should say that I like your optimism, enjoy reading your posts, and definitely appreciate the back and forth discussions we have. Your enthusiasm is appreciated and I'm sure we'll have much more to discuss (disagree on).
Posted by: Andrew Z | August 14, 2006 at 08:52 AM
AK,
This AH thing does not seem to be dying. Are the Lakers really in the running? The suspense is KILLING me!
The national outlets keep mentioning that the Lakers and his agent are working on something.
This move puts us into the WCF this year and a couple of good bounces here and there and we're in the Finals. That lineup would definately strike fear into the hearts of the rest of the league.
Thanks,
--Fearless
Posted by: Fearless | August 14, 2006 at 09:14 AM
sixonezero,
Kwame averaging 14-9. Odom puttin up more than that?. Scary!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | August 14, 2006 at 10:13 AM
rayray,
Whats THAT sound? S-W-E-E-P!!!
Go Dodgers!!
Go Lakers!!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | August 14, 2006 at 10:43 AM
Fearless,
According to this, he's about to join the Pacers, as I've suspected would happen.
http://www.ajc.com/monday/content/epaper/editions/monday/sports_440e618f339452a400c8.html
Granted, things can always change, but from the couple people I've talked to and what I've read, I don't think the Laker talk was anything other than just interesting rumor. Were the Lakers interested? Sure, I imagine. Why wouldn't they be? Were they actually in the running or close? I doubt it.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | August 14, 2006 at 10:44 AM