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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RichDaDCLakerFan,
Nice, 24 and all!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | August 14, 2006 at 04:47 PM
haha damn so busy at work today. but yah what rayray said. ;)
Bosh and Gasol should definitely considered but cmon now... but the rest... *pukes*
well i'll be off work in 30, mind if you bring some of your "goodstuff" over troll?
Posted by: The Lamar Show | August 14, 2006 at 05:00 PM
Because I was away from the beloved blog for a couple of days, coming back, reading all the posts, and feeling the passion is just terrific.
I am an optimist, so I hope for the best even as I fear the worse, and gradually either lower or heighten my expectations as circumstances and events warrant.
Conventional wisdom says the Lakers should be better. Consensus says the Lakers were better than most expectations (and predictions) last season. Lamar, Smush and Kwame improved visibly as the tournament wore on, and at one point Kobe was veritably and certifiably insane. I thought when Mihm went out we would falter but we found Kwame, or maybe Kwame found himself.
The Lakers should play better ball because the returning players are a majority with a season of playing Phil Jackson’s system under their belts. The acquisitions of Williams, Evans and Radmanovic is an improvement. There is reason for hope, for optimism but championship level expectations? Nope, I think not, even in a league of greater parity.
Will we win 55 games? I don’t think so. If most of the other teams hadn’t improved too, I would have said it was a possibility. I think more than 45 is expected, and 50 is reachable and would be nice.
The Lakers is an organization with a championship tradition and history. As fans we need not be ashamed to dream of winning more championships, and to demand our teams’ players, managers and owners to do their best to make that dream come true.
I hope that it is not just because last season was such a ride why I have to fight this feeling that we have a shot, and it makes me feel good. This time last year I didn’t even want to think about the Lakers. I was in an extended period of purgatory. Like some of the other bloggers, when the team loses I don’t want to hear anything from anybody. When we win, I’m giddy and eager.
We won last year when we should have lost, so excuse me if I lean a tad too much towards giddy and eager right now rather than hopelessness and despair. We have a shot. The correct set of circumstances, the right unfolding of events, you know, whether it’s injury or trade, we have a shot, and for me that’s what important – that and the fact that the Lakers matter once again.
We are the enigma of the conference right now. We have a season of effort and a huge flash of possible potential behind us. Even as WE scheme and dream and calculate, just imagine what our opponents are doing!
Posted by: Glenn | August 14, 2006 at 05:04 PM
Pass that Ish! Troll!
-_-
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | August 14, 2006 at 05:16 PM
Rich,
That cover was crazy!!!!! I loved that they added the 24 already too. The only thing is...that isn't Live '07. It's "The Life Vol.2". Still it's good to see that some of these companies are starting to give Kobe some love again. If we do big things this year he'll be on Live '08.
Posted by: Weave-Man | August 14, 2006 at 06:06 PM
The Troll
Its easy to pick out better SF/PFs than Lamar but thats not the whole thing. Any player that ever decides to come play for the Lakers better know that they dong get to be the driver but a passenger. It all has to do with chemistry. TMac is definetly better than Lamar but do you think that he would sit back and be the 2nd go to guy to Kobe. That was the reason he left the Raptors because he was tired of being 2nd to vince "Air Canada" Carter. There are ver few players that are not scorers like a KG type of unselfish player that can let Kobe do his thing like.....LAMAR ODOM. Like I said it has to do with team chemisty and that was one of the reasons why Shaq didnt want to stay in L.A.
RichDaDCLakerFan
Thx for the site. Kobe looks really different with a 2 digit number. First time ive seen it but I think its gonna take me some time not seeing him in the #8 jersey. I cant wait to get my new wardrobe of #24 jerseys.
Posted by: Shady | August 14, 2006 at 06:24 PM
AK,
The time now in Atlanta is 8:30 PM, have you heard any news break on the Harrington deal to the Hawks supposedly to have materialized this morning?
There is something fishy is that news report which could be interpreted as a PR report of the Atlanta Hawks. It is all over the sport news that Al Harrinton was about to become a Pacer if the Pacers will approve the Atlanta offer i.e. $ 57M for 6 years plus J. Edwards and they are just asking in return for a 1st round draft pick.
1. Why did they remove the $ 3M bonus which was there when Andy Miller was Harrington's agent? In effect they only get the 1st round draft pick from Pacers and disposing James Edwards ONLY.
2. If I were Al Harrington, I will only receive $ 9.5M per year with this deal, how about the rumors that other teams could offer as much as $11M per year?
3. If Harrington is a free agent and fired his former agent, don't you think he would wait first the new agent to come aboard especially now that there are many teams who equivocally announced that they are interested of him? If the only interested party was Pacers & Hawks sign and trade then Al H. have no other alternative but to go with the only contracts on the table. However, if other teams have expressed desire, don't you think his best interest is to wait until the last team makes the final offer?
4. Why is there no response from Pacers Front Office if this news report of Atlanta has a great hold on their free agent? This offer is much cheaper than the previous one, why are they not making any news conference? Is it possible that the noise is coming only from the Hawks for they are about to lose AL without anything in exchange?
Lastly, Arn Tellem is a super agent so his allegiance would be to Al Harrington's interest. These two guys have residences in Los Angeles, in fact the wife of Arn works at CBS in this town. In matters of communication, Mitch Kupchalk does not have to travel to talk to them and present his offers, it is just a matter of what he is offering? Now, if his sales piece is the same as the first one, then it is DOA (dead on arrival) Is that how we got Shaq and Kobe? It had to be creative for the three to agree. Hey, if at the end of the week we don't get the deal we still have a good roster maybe not better if Al is with us but still a good one.
As we have described before, Mitch K. is noted for sleepin on the switch, he is silent on Laron Profit, no word on the status of the 18 players on the roster. The one year deal on Chris Wilcox has slipped away to Sonics 3-year deal offer. With regards to veteran guards still in the market, Eddie House is now with the Nets, Derek Anderson of Heat becomes available again, no final word on the contract of Tony Delk of Pistons and Gary Payton of Heat.
Hey, Mitch where are we heading?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | August 14, 2006 at 06:29 PM
LakerTom - I never left the Niners, they left me. York is still not spending to the cap, he did not bring in someone trustworthy like a Ron Wolf to oversee all football operations, and this front office is still fractured with a lot of infighting. I don't have the faith in Nolan that you do, all I see is a 20-year assistant who did little to distinguish himself last year. I must disagree, York IS a dope (What else can you say about a guy who buys his own tickets?), and the thought of his son taking over is a big part of the reason I left. Understand, Tom, I missed one game from 1978-2005 and attended all five of the Super Bowl wins. For me to have so little confidence in the organization, that is how awful York is.
Posted by: Jman449 | August 14, 2006 at 06:59 PM
Tracy Mcgrady is on the cover of nba live 07
http://www.nba.com/videogames/mcgradycover_060623.html
Posted by: lakofan | August 14, 2006 at 07:07 PM
Edwin,
With Harrington, remember that neither team has officially commented on anything. Everything's just coming from "sources," and it's vague as to which camp. And teams never have news conferences before anything's actually agreed upon, so there's nothing to be suspicious about on that end. This doesn't strike me as anything out of the ordinary.
As I've said before, it's felt like Indiana's always been his first choice, so there may no need to field out anything new, from his perspective. Harrington knows by now who's interested, more or less what they can offer (from previous discussions before firing his agent) and if he'd want to go there.
As far as Mitch being "asleep at the switch" when it comes to the players you listed, I would disagree on all counts. I think Chris Wilcox is a bad triangle fit, having proven with Seattle that he's much better in an up tempo, running offense than anything the Lakers do. And they'd have needed to orchestrate a sign and trade, so what would you give up (that the Sonics need/want)?
Eddie House is a one dimensional gunner who's now on his 7th team in 5 seasons. Every organization that he plays for eventually decides they could live without him.
The Lakers already have an injury prone/past his prime vet in McKie. Do they really need another in Derek Anderson?
Gary Payton was terrible in the triangle two seasons ago. Why would you want him as an older, less effective player (not to mention bitter about how the Lakers traded him)? I can't imagine bringing him back (or Payton even wanting to come back).
Plus, the Lakers already have a 13 guaranteed contracts (and Turiaf and Smush, who are basically givens to have their $ guaranteed). So to get any of the above players, they'd need to either orchestrate a sign and trade (which could lead to overpaying) or waive Turiaf or Smush. Would you axe either of those guys to bring in Derek Anderson? I sure wouldn't.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | August 14, 2006 at 08:05 PM
Thanks Rich...It's gonna be weird seeing Kobe in the number 24. I think I'll always think of him as number 8 no matter how long he plays with 24.
Posted by: Xodus | August 14, 2006 at 08:29 PM
Andrew,
I do not doubt you, I'm wishfully thinking. Those are really two different things. It's like those two curves in Algebra class where you try to maximize two variables moving in different directions. Sometimes you get lucky.
The real question is just how serviceable a big man does Kobe need? Especially while in his prime? Because we've got three legitimate "serviceable" centers on the roster right now. I think other roster help is really what's in order. Kwame might (this may fall into the wishful thinking category, again) just be enough center for us for the 2-3 years before Bynum gets productive, and even the 5-6 years before he gets really good.
Mihm makes a pretty good backup against smaller teams and a pretty good running mate against larger teams.
As long as we land a PG or one of the PG's we have actually pans out. I'm betting on Farmar. Dude's a STUD.
--Fearless
Posted by: Fearless | August 14, 2006 at 09:08 PM
Rich,
Mega thanks! MTW, Kobe now looks more like one of the Laker Greats with a 2-digit number. I never saw west play, but Kareem and Magic both had 2-digit numbers and that's what I remember.
I can dig it!
--Fearless
Posted by: Fearless | August 14, 2006 at 09:18 PM
Man, I think we need a new thread. When I'm reduced to commenting on the Rams and Raiders things are really slow.
All you Raider fans - remember how Mr. Al 'lost' two years of a HOF running back (Marcus A.), until the lawyers said he had to let him go? Now there is an owner who really needs our support. I have NO intention of saying anything good about those guys (wasn't it nice they got SMASHED in that Super Bowl) until Al is gone.
Same with the Rams (Georgia and John).
The 49er's, now that might be a supportable team.
Posted by: Craig W | August 14, 2006 at 09:49 PM
Fearless,
You seem to forget Baylor. Now there was a microwave, until his injury. Just think - two guys averaging 30ppg (also West) - and you think it's tough to find enough balls to go around these days.
Posted by: Craig W | August 14, 2006 at 09:52 PM
Question: If Kobe wins 4 championships wearing 24, which one goes into the hall of fame? (though it might not be like that in the nba hof lol).
Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love 8, and have a feeling he might revert back to it at some point (much like Jordan did)---just a feeling...but it's interesting.
P.S. Which one really is in the NBA Live cover?
Posted by: Faith | August 14, 2006 at 09:53 PM
wuz up bloggers. well i found this rookie ranking on nba.com check out where famar landed...
http://www.nba.com/rookie_rankings/
Go Lakers
Posted by: TrueLakerFan | August 14, 2006 at 10:20 PM
Faith,
one is the NBA LIVE '07 and the other one is NBA LIFE '07
Tracy is on the cover of NBA LIVE '07(I think the important one)
Posted by: lakofan | August 14, 2006 at 11:02 PM
AK/BK,
There are 16 under contracts and two under consideration i.e. Pinnock & Green that makes 18. So far, I only heard from AK and Eric Pincus that they are not going to be in the Laker roster. My read is that they will be playing during the pre season and the final roster will be determined by Phil Jackson, unless of course Phil took AK's advice beforehand.
My point is that other top tier teams in the West have more or less determined their roster at this time, while in the case of Mitch K. the only player removed from previous roster was D'George. Nobody knows whether JJ is still under consideration but presumbly out because he's not under contract. The only reason why I mentioned those veteran players in my post because many bloggers are questioning how come we do not get a veteran PG, so I mentioned the guards who are still available at this time. You can't blame people to be concerned on our PG because our past guards did not pan out and they were a subject of debates the whole summer. The new guards, Evans & Williams are a mystery and we have a rookie who is in the offing through JF. But still, old Laker watchers are not satisfied that we have a complete team that can last competition during the season so they kept on asking the veteran PG because they are used to going deep in the playoffs.
You seemed to be satisfied where we are, don't want to make any kind of recommendations, no risk taking, always a critic or analysts on the side like Pincus and Lazenby on any point of views raised by blogger's aspirations. Ironically, you only offer your views when asked, however we don't see any PASSION from AK or BK as Laker fans. Is that by design? I hope you don't mind if I put you "two" on the spot. Since you are representing the Lakers Blog which is the voice of the Laker fans, what are your aspirations from this team to make them a NO. 1 in the West or at least compete for the Conference Finals? What should have been done that we are not doing? What should Kobe do in order to be an MVP in your book?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | August 14, 2006 at 11:16 PM
AK
If it could be done, wouldn't you prefer Anderson over McKie? A pointless distinction maybe since both are hurt with their best days behind them, but Anderson could be more Kobesque in spurts than McKie, thereby, maybe keeping the flow a bit better?
It's frustrating, man, we need another piece in this puzzle to get out of the middle of the pack.
Posted by: Vman | August 14, 2006 at 11:39 PM
Edwin Gueco,
I know you didn't ask me...but I think the K Bros don't believe our team to have enough talent as constructed to go as far as we think they will (as indicative about me and AK's defensive personnel discussion)...whether that means 50+ or championship in 2 years...And I also think they view our situation in a sense of being deadlocked in terms of doable actions...so in a sense we're in a no win situ.
However I think they have a lil bit of (genuine) faith that things will turn around, or that our question marks can be answered...but they're in a wait and see attitude.
What I would be interested in what moves they think we should and can go for...in that most "introduced" seem not viable...or bordering impossible.
Posted by: Faith | August 14, 2006 at 11:45 PM
Vman,
They definitely could use an extra piece. Derek Anderson ain't it, though. I doubt he'd make any tangible difference whatsoever.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | August 14, 2006 at 11:49 PM
Edwin,
No, there are only 13 players under guaranteed contract at the moment (with Turiaf and Smush more or less a lock to find themselves guaranteed).
I understand why fans would want a vet PG/guard, but the guys you mentioned (GP, Delk, D.Anderson) are too old and slow to guard speedy 1's for big minutes, so it makes no sense to bring them in. Speedy Claxton was the closest thing to a world beater PG option out there (and mind you, I said "closest"), but he's hurt a lot and may not be worth that kind of money, especially long term. So Kupchak instead signed guys like Vlad and Evans who help with other areas that need addressing. It was a weak FA class and the Lakers don't have a ton to offer in trade. I think they did what they felt they could under such circumstances.
As far as me being "satisfied," I'm not. Not even close. But I'm also realistic about how things generally work. Most championship teams aren't made overnight (and trying to force overnight results often screws up franchises, like the Knicks). People like to think of the 3-peat era as "Phil Jackson arrives and they automatically start winning." But everyone forgets that the core players were together 3 seasons before winning it all. Champion teams usually take time to build, especially if you're building them to last. And it feels to me like things are moving forward at a reasonably quick pace, considering they broke up a championship nucleus two seasons ago.
I'm not claiming Kupchak is the next coming of Jerry West. Frankly, I think it's much too early to truly evaluate him, period. But I don't fault Kupchak for not simply adding "names" to the roster. I can't recall a player this offseason that they could have afforded and passed on where I think it was a legit mistake.
I'm not sure where you're getting that BK and I don't offer enough of our own opinions, considering the post that created this thread is one big opinion. That's all we've done since the blog began, and we've been accused by some readers as being overly opinionated. But remember, we were hired to operate the blog from a more journalistic angle than "rah rah" fan. We're supposed to be giving objective opinion (or trying, if nothing else). I'm personally a Laker fanatic, but I wouldn't be doing the job as described to me if I purposely saw everything through my "Laker glasses," so to speak.
What do I think they should be doing to become a true #1 contender? The question is moot, because they need to add an A-List player they don't have the cap space for (or trade bait to acquire, probably). They'll have it down the road, but for now, they mostly just have to work hard with what they have, which I don't think is enough to win a title. But I think they can have a good season, for sure. And with a little luck, you never know how things can shake out.
What do I think Kobe should have done to be MVP? I went through all that when I gave my OPINION on the MVP race at the end of the season, not to mention many other times throughout the year. There's no need to rehash it.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | August 15, 2006 at 12:07 AM
One of the reasons im really pushing for the Al harrington trade is cuz we would free up some roster space to keep some of our younger prospects. I dont want to see Turiaf leave that guy is so much fun to watch in the background evertime theres a dunk or a great play. If anything I think we should take in offers for a better PG in 1-2player trade for our 2-4players. Do what Utah did and throw a couple of PGs for a better PG. Its really hard to drop one of these guys when theyre so young and havent had a chance to prove themselves. Unfortunately we cant keep them all (only the 15) and if nothing is done for the remainder of this offseason then some of these players might have to be cut or sent to the Euro league.
Posted by: Shady | August 15, 2006 at 12:11 AM
Edwin-
Like Andy mentioned, I think it's going to be hard for Pinnock and Green to both make the roster. One maybe, but not both. That's with the team buying out McKie. There's just not the space.
In terms of the other guards on the market, who would you have liked them to get, and more importantly, what would you have paid to get them? How would you have brought guys in? The Lakers went into this season with very little wiggle room to improve the roster. That wasn't a choice (at least based on this year's moves) so much as a reality. They didn't have the cap space to make significant deals, and while I'm surprised that Mihm wasn't moved, once they used their FA cash on guards and Radmanovic, they were put in a position where Mihm basically had to be kept unless they got a big in return. Given what they could do, I think the Lakers did fine. I like Radmanovic, and think he'll fill a need, but no MLE player fills every need at once. He's not a very good defender, no question. He makes odd decisions at times, no question. But he's also relatively cheap by NBA standards. Evans fills a need (defense) but doesn't do much else. Which is fine, because he's inexpensive. Williams? Who knows? But the Lakers, short of a sign and trade, never had a shot at someone like Wilcox (you mentioned him), b/c they can't afford him. And the Sonics aren't taking Mihm in return. They have enough centers. Plus, would Wilcox be a good fit in the triangle, under Phil? You have to wonder.
It's not a question of being satisfied or defending the Lakers. This offseason is a product of how the championship team broke up. Everyone knew the reality going into it.
I think we deliver plenty of opinions on the blog. Basically everything we write, by definition, is an opinion (short of story posts). I've said a bunch of times that I don't think this team is good enough to challenge for the WCF this year. Getting through the first round will be a nice accomplishment, if they can do it.
As for how we offer our opinions, since we get a chance to express ourselves whenever we want in the form of posts, AK and I try not to dominate the conversation in comments all the time, so the community of bloggers can interact with each other. We still jump in, but blogs aren't just for the blog writers (at least not this one). It's in many ways a group project.
And I've said a bunch of times that I'm not a dyed in the wool Laker fan. Never claimed I was. I didn't grow up steeped in purple and gold. AK is a much bigger fan than I am. I enjoy covering the team, and have no interest in seeing them lose, but I'm not die hard, like most of you. But even if I was, my job is to deliver news, opinions, etc. not to cheerlead. And hopefully do it in an entertaining way.
As for Kobe, the best way for him to get an MVP is to lift the team to a better record. MVPs generally come from top flight teams.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | August 15, 2006 at 12:25 AM
Niner fans? Gross! haha.
Alex Smith looked better and Gore could surprise people this year. And Vernon can be a real force. Bryant is doing great but he did great last preseason too...I drafted him and he sucked...but he's got talent.
I dont mind the Niners...cuz of their battles with Green Bay a while back for best of the NFC. I hate the Packers. Im a Bears fan. I doubt there are any others in here though.
Lakertom,
Are you going to make a "4-Win" Bandwagon for the Niners? haha
AK & BK,
Forget the Dodgers blog, we need a Fantasy Football Blog! =)
Posted by: wiZo | August 15, 2006 at 12:58 AM
Who's older? AK or BK? Almost sounds like AK is the younger (more reason that he'd be 'brought up' bleeding purple and gold).
Just curious.
Posted by: Robert Chen | August 15, 2006 at 01:20 AM
Constraints into account, you did well picking up Mo Evans. He's priced right. He's had phenomenal growth over the last year and a half. He'll keep you excited for 25 minutes. Don't play him more than that and you'll be fine.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | August 15, 2006 at 01:53 AM
i think THIS article embodies what true community service is all about.
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/2006-08-14-mutombo-cover_x.htm?POE=SPOISVA
i mean, hey, i love kobe, he's an awesome baller and i have 3 posters of him hanging on my wall, but seroiusly, when all of you praise him for sending kids to italy, i can't help but think his priorities are a bit mixed up. ppl are dying in the congo from curable diseases and he's wasting time sending kids to italy? and what's wrong with the nba? they can buy three cadillacs and a 5 million dollar mansion each, but as a collective unit, the best the nba players can donate is 500K? that's really sad, especially when you look at the avg yearly salary for nba players. that's basically the equivalent of me donating 5 cents a year to worthy causes.
the thing is, mutumbo isn't even a huge name player. he's an avg nba veteran who's earned his fair share of salary and is now giving back to a worthy cause that will actually save lives. how many other players, other than magic, come to the top of your mind who have done that recently? and don't start googling to try to prove me wrong. be honest.
Posted by: Chris | August 15, 2006 at 05:47 AM
I wish everyone would stop harping on the point guard situation. Past experiences should tell us that the point guard position for the triangle offense is not a serious issue as long as the 2, 3, and 4 positions are covered correctly. Plus, past experiences should tell us that the most unlikely candidates can turn out to be the exact ones that fill the position of point guard.
We all forget that when Ron Harper joined the Bulls he was a 2-guard. He was a 2 guard with Cleveland playing with Mark Price. He was a 2-guard with the Clippers. In fact, he use to be considered a poor man's version of Michael Jordan....BEFORE MJ started winning the titles. When they were facing each other in the playoffs, Harper and MJ would guard each other. However, Harper ended up being the starting point guard for the Bulls. A guy that had NEVER been a point guard, became a point guard for 3 championships with the Bulls.
When he came to the Lakers it wasn't even a thought about him being the starting point guard, however, this was still the same guy that had always been a 2-guard before winning those titles.
My point is that PJ and his coaching staff knows how to shape players based on their skills and produce the right combinations in order to win. They know how to adjust schemes and strategies to maximize the talents of their roster. They also know how to help players shift to positions which seem unlikely and excel. I don't know how it will actually fall into place, but believe me that the point guard positon will not be a factor this season.
Posted by: JJ | August 15, 2006 at 06:35 AM
K brothers are right in their assessement of lakers. And it is good that someone tells people on this blog hard truth - No championship for LA any time soon, maybe not even play off this year.
Of course, maybe LA tin man GM goes to OZ and finds his brain and things get better.
Most people here thinks that being 'diehard LA fan' equals giving unrealistic and stupid (to the level of soccer hooligan idiocy) predictions about winning title this year and talking how Smush is almost stockton-like PG.
Posted by: deyan | August 15, 2006 at 06:47 AM
Breaking news!!
I saw the final tune-up game, France-Brazil. Turiaf had his best game yet, helping France to a decisive victory, active and effective on both offense and defense. The suspense is over: both Turiaf and Petro (the Sonics rookier center) have made the final roster in favor of a solid French veteran, Cyril Julian. I expect Turiaf will get good minutes in the coming games, something he hasn't yet had in LA.
I also saw Team U.S. crush Korea, but the Koreans looked like a second rate high school team, so we shouldn't get overconfident after a win with a margin worthy of the '92 Dream Team. After all, Team USA barely got past Brazil, which France dominated thanks to Turiaf and especially Diaw, who finally showed his stuff in a big way. (France has some other good players and should come in as one of the favorites in the tournament).
George Eddy, the French commentator (actually, he's American, but he comments for French TV), reminded the audience that Turiaf has made enormous progress since the last time he played for France. The nice thing is that the Lakers are going to benefit from this experience.
Barbosa was speedy and efficacious -- the only one who performed well on his team, dropping 30 points on France, with his usual brio -- so I imagine Mike D'Antoni, the USA team's offensive coach, must be pleased to see two of his Suns having a great game on opposing teams. If Team U.S.A. plays one of them in the tournament, I wonder who he'll be rooting for?!!
Posted by: Tsphere | August 15, 2006 at 07:58 AM
AK, BK,
Next summer I believe that both Mike Bibby and Chauncy Billups become unrestricted free agents. Do you think the Lakers have a shot? I think that landing one of these PGs will allow the Lakers to have Jordan come along slowly while making the other PGs expendable. I also think that either gaurd would place the Lakers in championship contention (considering guys improve and are consistent throughout the season).
Posted by: Nate | August 15, 2006 at 08:57 AM
AK & BK,
I appreciate the way that you run "the blog". You guys give us a topic and let us go at it. Since you guys are in the biz and really know your stuff, you could totally dominate this thing and never let us get a word in edge-wise. But you don't, For the most part you let us hash things out among ourselves, but you guys are always in the wings to step in if we get too far out of line.
Love This Blog!!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | August 15, 2006 at 08:58 AM
BK/AK interesting reference to Monopoly at the beginning there, would you care to elaborate on where this pack of teams would be located on the board?
I'd personally either put the Lakers around New York Avenue with a hotel (i.e. decent team that overachieves because of Kobe) or Marvin Garden with 4 houses (one house and one property short of the big time)
Ah, the analogical possibilities are endless
Jon(inJapan)
Posted by: joninjapan | August 15, 2006 at 09:08 AM
AK, we might just hit 400 comments today
. . .out of curiosity, off the top of your head, what would the record for most comments ever for a post on this bkog be?
Jon(inJapan)
Posted by: joninjapan | August 15, 2006 at 09:13 AM
I wanna see the Rockets in the playoffs again, at least replace that "always-being swept" Grizzlies
Posted by: KB8TH WONDER | August 15, 2006 at 09:14 AM
JJ,
I agree. That's why I don't understand why everyone is so amped on Farmar. Along those same lines, that's why I like Smush. He's bigger and almost plays like a two. I think ultimately at the point you need a guy who can handle the ball, but basically the one in the Triangle seems to be reserved for someone who is a bit "longer" on defense and can hit the occasional spot up three. There really isn't the conventional drive and kick we see from traditional points, so a Farmar is really unnecessary. I think that's why there was so much talk of Brandon Roy around draft time. At 6'6" he had the size of wing, but the quality handles and ability of one. Anyway, I think the biggest keys to the Lakers success this upcoming season are Lamar Odom's continued aggressive approach to his offense, Kwame Brown developing a 12-15 spot up jumper and some energy on the boards, and Smush Parker's improvement on position defense (he already has very quick hands and long arms, and gets his share of steals) so as to slow opposing points.
Posted by: Andrew Z | August 15, 2006 at 09:25 AM
JJ,
Absolutely right about the point guard position. The Lakers do NOT need a point guard. They need someone who can defend and hit open outside shots. A Bruce Bowen/Raja Bell type would be perfect.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | August 15, 2006 at 09:47 AM
THANK YOU AK & BK for offering your views, now it clears the air where you two stand. Most of your replies are normally aimed of what is being asked so I could not dig your real answer to the needs of the team. I truly understand where BK is coming from, he did not grow up as a Laker fan so the Lakerville has another homework to do in the next season to make him one, not necessarily too optimistic or a die hard fan but just enough to be motivated to represent the Lakers Blog in a parade along Figueroa. Actually, I really do not expect any changes in the PG position since the die has been cast when Mitch K. chose guards during off-season. However, many bloggers have been asking from their posts the status of PG's who are still on vacation and nobody have seen them how good or how bad they will be. We had a preview of Jordan but it was only a Summer League.
Again, AK & BK, I appreciate your kindness to a blunt inquiry that may have put you in a dilemma that could have compromised your own standards and beliefs. We are always proud the way the K-Bros manage the blog, for that reason we keep on coming back. Now that we know where you stand, I'm sure nobody will be asking the question: "Are you really a Laker fan?"
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | August 15, 2006 at 09:53 AM
Andrew & Brian,
As a new member of the blog, I do appreciate your management of the blog. It is one of the key reasons for its success.
It is not yet the time for most our fellow fans to accept that it is unlikely that the Lakers will win the next tournament, but the best part of off-season is championship dreamin', regardless of how well or how badly your team did in the previous one.
This is the only time of year when, theoretically, the teams all have an even chance and that cannot be empirically disproven and defies logically disputation because it would require the ability to 100% predict the future to assure a definitive conclusion.
So don't be too hard on us dreamers - I know reality will start setting in by the end of preseason, and certainly as the tournament moves along, well, you know.
Last off-season was the absolute worst of any in my 27 years as a Laker fan. If I let myself dream a little, well maybe a little more than a little, it is because my hopes are deservedly high, even if I know that my expectations will be tempered by the reality of the upcoming months.
In fact I invite you guys to dream a little with us ... we know and you know that it is only a dream but yo Kambros, this is what the off-season is for.
Posted by: Glenn | August 15, 2006 at 10:20 AM
I just watched a France /Brazil game!
Ronnie turiaf is really in good shape, very active, with a lot of energy, and he can play 4 or 5, makes blocks, and takes a lot of rebounds...
I really think he is going to be very useful for us next year!
Posted by: mamadu | August 15, 2006 at 10:36 AM
The AK/BK take on the 06/07 Lakers sums up when you do the math, as the fact remains, if you want to pay a superstar and his sidekick, after trading another one, you're bound to be contractually bound and gagged in the NBA.
Wade didn't make max bucks last year, so Miami could put pieces around him with Shaq takin' 1/3 less than he wanted as a Laker. I don't know how San Antonio does it, but what have they done lately? Phoenix / Dallas look good but haven't won anything yet.
We've got a cap that mean either Kobe, Lamar and the system have to be otherworldly, we get lucky with somebody playing way over expectations, or we wait.
In the meantime, it will be entertaining. Truth is, the season's a bit long anyway. 2nd round could be a happy ending.
Posted by: Vman | August 15, 2006 at 10:51 AM
"POINT GUARD" ISSUE EXPLAINED
JJ you are only partly right - the Lakers don't need a "true" point guard. But they ABSOLUTELY DO need a certain type of player at that position, and they DON"T HAVE ONE on their roster.
Our main competition in the West is the Spurs, Mavs, and Suns. Translation: Tony Parker, Jason Terry, and MVP Steve Nash. We NEED someone who can D up and at least slow these guys down if not stop them. Smush is hopelessly inadequate for that task, Farmar is at least a year away in NBA savvy, Shammond is over the hill, and Sacha is a defensive joke. Kobe could do the job, but if we switch him over he'll use up too much energy on defense and we NEED him at full strength at the scoring end of the court.
Speaking of which, we also need someone in the "point guard" slot who is at least somewhat of a threat to score from the outside so Parker, Nash, et al can't just camp out doubling Kobe. Nash didn't even bother to guard Smush in the playoffs, Farmar is possible but again too green, Shammond is not the man, and Sacha is inconsistent.
So we NEED a "point guard" NOT to run the offence but to take the pressure off Kobe on both ends of the floor so he CAN be the MVP and take us to the Conference finals! Get it?
Posted by: Jay Jay | August 15, 2006 at 10:53 AM
Jon(inJapan)
Most posts would go to BK's pick of Dwayne Wade as MVP. He took a pounding that would have hit 1000 posts if they'd left the thread up.
Conversely, he showed admirable restraint when the champs were crowned in not "in your facing" us all.
Posted by: Vman | August 15, 2006 at 11:12 AM
Chris,
As an educator of American children, a country which BTW ranks near the bottom in education internationally, I am offended that you would consider anyone spending any money whatsoever to help educate even one of our youth as a waste of either time or money. Kobe IS saving lives. And, by educating someone, he is probably saving more lives per capita than any of the more glamorous altruistic acts by other athletes.
He may not be keeping these individuals alive, but he is keeping their possible future victims, or families, or children, or neighborhoods alive and prosperous. Young men without opportunities turn to drugs, gangs, and crime. Kobe has prevented that from happening for those eight young people. Which translates into eight family trees of prosperity. Do the math. That is a lot of lives.
Then start counting up the people those people can positively touch in their futures.
That is huge. That is what “pay it forward” means.
He may not be stopping the spread of AIDS. But, then again, AIDS isn't the only cause that needs help. Then again, he may have just inspired the person who might cure AIDS.
Education is so undervalued in this country it’s pathetic. Then, the same people that say that Kobe wasted time and money helping to educate, will then complain about all the technical and scientific jobs that pay well that are outsourced to other countries. Do you know how that happens? Education. The reason why India and Pakistan lead the world and America in high tech jobs is because both countries spend huge percentages of their annual budgets educating their populations.
This really isn't a job for athletes, anyway. But I applaud Kobe. And, I will defend him to the death in this regard. BTW, did you not read in this very blog that Kobe's other altruistic endeavors also deal with education? I can't believe how exactly on point this guy is, especially since he's the guy who skipped college. That is a classic example of irony. And I think he gets it.
--Fearless
Posted by: Fearless | August 15, 2006 at 11:19 AM
TrueLakerFan,
Perfect link. Way to come through. Looks like we did a pretty good job in the draft after all. What was Farmar picked, 29th? Then, he leap-frogged 20 other players (so far). Makes you wonder what the OTHER GM's were thinking.
If he continues to grow, the other teams will look like idiots -- for a change.
:)
--Fearless
PS: I don't think any of the guys ranked ahead of Farmar were available when we picked Farmar (I could be wrong). That is significant. Means we picked the best available player.
Posted by: Fearless | August 15, 2006 at 11:30 AM
JJ,
You are exactly correct in how PJ and crew gets what they need from the 1 position consistently. What you also allude to is that they will adjust the triangle to fit the personnel. I think your comments actually speak for Farmar and not against him. He has NBA game, now. He just lacks experience. He knows the triangle more now than Smush did at the same time last season. So he won't spend as many games looking like a fish out of water the way Smush did at the start of last season.
AND, he's a facilitator. The problem with the triangle is that it breaks down a lot. Which is the case of any complicated system, in basketball, in engineering, in any sort of planning. Complicated systems break down. Kobe's been the repairman in the past. W/Farmar the Lakers get two repairmen. When things break down, you want the ball in one of two places; a) your best player's hands, b) your true point guard’s hands.
Now we have both. We just got to wait and see how long it takes Farmar to develop, that's all. Farmar’s problem isn’t that he’s a real point guard. His problem is the he's a real young real point guard.
--Fearless
Posted by: Fearless | August 15, 2006 at 11:42 AM
It's good to hear Turiaf is jammin' in international play. I also think he's going to play a good role for the squad this year.
Regarding the point guard debate. I agree that the triangle doesn't need a true point guard. But wouldn't using a true point guard only be an extra benefit? A true point guard has the type of skills that can thrive in the triangle. Take Farmar, he would be a benefit over Smush because he can push the ball more effectively, penetrate and dish more effectively, and put his b-ball IQ to work in leading the team through the offense more effectively.
Smush has a Kobe-like game. Shoot first, pass second. And the fact is that with Smush playing that type of game, which happens to be the type of game he's been playing his whole life, he's just not good enough for the Lakers with Kobe. We need players who can complement Kobe and Lamar.
Smush cannot be compared with Ron Harper. Harper was a very good player from the get go. A notch under Jordan and Dominique. Smush is a notch under Marcus Banks at this point, which doesn't bode well for his future with the Lakers.
A veteran like Shammond can come in and eliminate the dumb mistakes Smush made last year and provide pretty much equal output. All while developing a new true point guard who has a lot more potential than Smush.
Posted by: Rocky | August 15, 2006 at 11:50 AM
I feel that we really need a guard who can be a leader on the floor. I know KB does that already but to take that pressure off him would surely be beneficial? Its true we do not really need a point guard to facilitate the offense as with other ballclubs yet we still need a quick guard with strong defense and a consistent outside shot. However that doesnt mean if we do happen to come across a "true" point guard that we pass him up...think of Lamar dominating the post and increasing his rebounds to KG numbers whilst also taking his offense to a level where we know he can.
At the end of the day the lakers need the best players they can possible obtain...theres no point in talking about true point guards when there is none available...the goal is to play the best basketball we can with the players we have.
Posted by: Caesar | August 15, 2006 at 12:02 PM