No. 10 With a Bullet

He is on something that is not legal, does he have glaucoma?

Maybe we can't get the marquee player just yet, but the strengths of Pinnock, and Evens off the bench, Vlad at the 3 and hopefully a stronger more backup/stay out of foul trouble/PF oriented Mihm in the mix will be a strong jump for us next season. Everything I have heard Kobe will be rockin #8x3 in time for the season.

T-Woody

Why can't the Lakers try to get Fish back...? Gotta think that would make a HUGE difference...am i wrong

Kim Miller,

I love Fish, but his contract is a killer. You'd eventually be paying a lot of money/taking up a lot of cap space for him to back up Farmar.

AK

Those have to be the DUMBEST rankings I've ever seen.!

>_<

Who cares about Stein ranking?

AK

Any new news on LO, Bynum and the rest of the Lakers summer "working out"

Marc Stein is the HEAD of all the DUMASSES of the world. this GUY, along with SI, have been wrong so many times, all the time as long as I remeber, in RANKING that I don't even remeber where I read a Stien piece on ESPN. Stein should handle the NBA power rankings, ONLY, and NOT speculate.

AK

You had to pick one, though. And you have a tendency of thinking OLD guys can still play ALA Aaron Williams. hehe

I don't see this as a problem, being ranked low is a good thing. Considering our falter in the playoffs; this should be more fuel the guys to prove everyone wrong. They ranked us low last season too! Big deal let the games speak for themselves, and have the so called critics back pedaling and eating their own words. Like Always!

My Two Cents for free!
Go Lakers!
Its almost time!

RayRay,

As long as I don't start recommending the Lakers bring in Paul Newman to run the point, I can live with my hit or miss evaluations of the eldery. haha

AK

In all fairness he did say, "These are offseason assessments, not my predicted order of finish for the coming season." But it's still f***** up. Someone explain to me why the one acquisition of Mike James in Minnesota, and the drafting of Foye topples our acquisition of Vlad Rad and Evans...considering that we'd most likely be a better team than them, even with KG. I also am just sooo happy about how he fairly mentioned other teams' draft picks being good, while completely ignoring ours...just warms me up...lol.

Marc Stein is a TOOL.

Come on, San Antonio number 3 with those moves? That says it all. The Clippers number 4 with almost no moves. Just exchanged Vlad Rad for Tim Thomas. Go figure.

mike

It seems like Stein is giving as much credit (and in some cases, perhaps more) to upper-escheleon teams that perhaps didn't need to acquire/change as much, but simply didn't screw up what they have. I can see the logic, although I'm not sure I'd apply to all teams the way he has.

AK

wwooooaahhh Faith- Bad crystal ball moment.

This is just a prediction and if you remember last years, we were about in the same boat.
I hope we can overachieve again and although it is harsh, so is the reality that we didn't acquire a game-breaker that makes us that much better offensively or defensively. Two more guys who have a great oppurtunity to let the league know they belong and can play- that’s all. Farmar, MoEvans, Shammond, Vlad and Pinnock just don't get it done as far as making the opposition or oddsmakers suddenly start thinking "Watch out for the Lakers this year!"
Weak off season with a lot of if's and hope that these players develop. I hate to say it but I have before but we might be trading away a bunch of talent for one good player by All Star break. This team has a lot of underachievers and inconsistencies, led by the hardest working man in the NBA, K24, lets hope his inspiration and leadership along with trust can promote these players to a new level in the game. This is a huge test for Phil. Kupchak has just about gambled away most of his credibility around the league by not making sure we came away with better deals since losing Shaq. Our ranking will more than likely be 6-8 in the West.

Think Big and dream a little, Vlad wins the 3 point contest and leads league in efficiency. Smush gets most Improved, Farmar gets Rookie of Year, LO becomes an ALL STAR, Kwame leads league in rebounding and makes ALL Defensive Team, Luke gets the 6th man award, and Bynum is playing 20 minutes a game by playoffs. Yeah !!!!!!

Now that is dreaming, but who says a few of these things aren't possible! A good Crystal Ball Moment!

How the heck is the Warriors #5? Wolves #8??? what a joke. go kill yourself Marc Stein.

Umm Stein said this was just for off season moves, and with all the insults chucked mitch cupcake's way on this blog I'm kinda surprised folks are crying foul when we get a bad grade for the moves our gm made.

Anywho, who cares about preaseason rankings anyway? I'm all for a #16 ranking in semptember and a #1 ranking in June, that's as good as it get's right?

In Kobe we Trust,
Go Lakers

With the San Antonio collapse last year, if it can be called a collapse, you would think they are a team that needed to make a few changes. They were old last year and now with Jackie Butler and Francisco Elson they're cured? I mean the Spurs were old last year and this year they're a year older. As much as I like Tim Duncan he's not getting any younger. He's bound to slow down or lose just a little of his game. Without a dominate Duncan, Parker and Ginobli can't carry that team. Again, Jackie Butler and Francisco Elson? Number 3? Where is the logic?

mike

AK

LOL. I actually agree with his Dallas assessment. the rest are a work of a NUMB BRAIN (I don't wanna use profanity). But, I agree with you. dude is gradign the SUMMER moves, and San Antonio is second????? I don't think SPURS getting a healthy Duncan and Ginobili counts as a summer MOVE. That part of this guys brain juss doesn't FUNCTION.

Wow! Preseason on Oct 9th...Lets roll baby!

Hey, we're getting ready to start this thing. Hockey preseason starts on Monday the 18th for the Kings. You know as soon as hockey starts basketball is right around the corner....

mike

This is the season where the "pros" are relying on the old school basketball. They probably think the Spurs are an elite team. I don't think they are. I think San Antonio is ripe for a fall. Parker is injured and a slow start my be in there future.

Oh, oh, I'm getting basketball enthused, again.

mike

Pete Maguire,

Great prayer, let's add lamar for all star mvp, kobe for league mvp and finals mvp, lakers as 06/07 champs. Amen.

Just so we don't get called greedy, we'll let Riles or some other sucker take coach of the year ( alright, alright, i confess ... I'm still not over PJ calling Kobe uncoachable ... lol ) ... and umm as for cupcake as executive of the year, not sure there's a prayer for that ... lol, we love

In Kobe we Trust,
Go Lakers

LOL Pete Maguire.

Pretty good assessment. Most of the posters here seem to be ignoring the focus of the article, which rates the offseason moves. That is not a comparison of the overall improvement of the teams. Big difference between those two.

How big a difference is Vlad going to make? You have to look at whose minutes he will be getting. A combination of Bryan Cook's, Devean George's, Lamar Odom's (assuming that the team doesn't want to play him 40 minutes a game again) and possibly Luke Walton's. He is going to be learning the offense; is his contribution going to be a significant improvement over the combined above contributions? No. It will hopefully be an improvement, but it's not going to be significant.
Hard to tell with Evans. He will be taking some time from Kobe, which will hurt the team during those minutes, but will help the team during the rest of Kobe's minutes, since he will be fresher. Can't say yet if that will be an overall plus, as that will depend on how the other players respond.
The Lakers improvement, or lack thereof, will primarily depend on the progress made by the players who were on the roster last year, not by the offseason acquisitions.

Good to see ya feelin' better today, Mike...LOL

I"m holding my San Antonio cards until a later time, but I clearly haven't counted them out.

>_<

Mark Stein is insane.

It won't end up like this.

A monkey throwing darts at a piece of paper could do a better job of establishing the rankings.

I pick Lakers fourth or fifth.

GO LAKERS!

number ten?...hes a dumbf**k

Go Lakers

exhelodvr,

Good assessment? So does that mean if the Lakers do better than you expect that you'll be disappointed? That's what it seems like. That "assessment" doesn't mean jack. Its a guess on his part but he doesn't know and no one else does for sure.

Ken,
It seems pretty obvious to me, but I guess I will have to spell it out for you. By "good assessment," I meant "accurate assessment."

Being a fan does not mean you have to ignore reality. By the way, in case you liked "Star Trek," those weren't Leonard Nimoy's real ears.

Steins edge is to try to raise evryones' hair. Controversey stirs up interest. He's an idiot.

exhelodrvr,

Yes they were.

A couple observations-

I think his "Don Nelson Bump" of eight to ten games for the Warriors based on the same sort of influence Phil had on the Lakers is flawed, mostly because had LO and Kobe been healthy two seasons ago, the Lakers would have likely finished around .500, and their improvement this year would have been 4-5 games. The Warriors are probably too talented to be as bad as they were last year, but they also had some injury issues, too. If they get better, kudos to Don Nelson, but I can't believe his mere presence makes them a playoff team.

Assuming a healthy T-Mac and Yao, I love the Battier trade for Houston's chances this year. I'd certainly say they were more productive than GSW.

His criticism of the Lakers- that signing Radmanovic means they're giving up on the notion of signing a marquee FA next season (he's right about that, I think) and that's an admission that their post Shaq strategy didn't work seems like an odd one. Wouldn't it be a worse move to sit around and wait for marquee FAs next year, when there are basically none to choose from? At the time they made the Shaq deal, it was a possibility. Now it isn't, really. So he's criticizing Lakers management for guessing wrong 2+ years ago, not for what they did this summer. Keep in mind, I'm no fan of the "lure FAs with our cap space" strategy, but I just think Stein's off for bagging on a team for recognizing the reality of their situation. I'm sure there will be plenty of things to criticize Mitch and the Gang for as we head forward. I don't think that's one of them.

Finally, once you get past NO/OKC, who made serious changes to their roster (for the better, even if it cost a bunch), a lot of this gets really, really arbitrary. More than the regular dose of arbitrary that goes along with all this stuff. Francisco Elson and Jackie Butler is THAT much better than Joe Smith and JR Smith, Rad, Evans, and Farmar, etc.? Or the Battier deal, etc.?

BK

exhelodvr,

Sorry, Star Trek was a little before my time, I not old enough to remember that show. To you, reality means negativity. Are you really a fan or are you another steven, its not so clear. :)

BK,

"they're giving up on the notion of signing a marquee FA next season (he's right about that, I think)"

Seems Mitch et al are banking on LO, Bynum, and Kwame reaching their full potential by next year hence there would be no need for marquee FA. Why else would LA take that stand?

With a lineup of Kobe, LO, achieving Kwame, developed Bynum and a non quitting PG Plus Radman and hopefully Mihm, Lakers would be competing for the Finals.

Here's to hoping Mitch is that good.

This is my first time posting, but I am a long time reader, please be kind!

The key to most championships is having at least two marquee players and at least 4-6 really good role players. We have one proven marquee player and one that should be one in LO. I think the Lakers have done a good job to add those types of players, players who can fill a particular role. Evans, Williams, Pinnock, Turiaf, and a couple others are the guys that I think can make a difference if they are willing to accept their roles. I think the Lakers will make a run for it and provide some exciting b-ball. I'm not saying this is going to be a championship year, but I am more than confident in Phil Jackson's ability to get the most out of his players.

Stein is just as ridiculous as some of other ESPN writers who continuously bash both the Lakers and Kobe Bryant, in the end we will prove them wrong just like we always do. The Lakers will keep coming and eventually recaputure the title...and everyone know it. Rebuilding starts in stages and we are on the next phase...2 years to rebuild plus 1 year to win...Phil knows how much time he has to get his 10th ring.

p ang-

I think it has less to do with belief that this is a championship core and more to do with the lack of marquee FAs that will be available, but that's just my guess.

BK

exhelodrvr,

Right... you're the only one smart enough to notice that these rankings were based on off-season moves. I guess we're lucky you're here to enlighten us.

McGarnagle,

At least exhelodrvr doesn't have his head so far up his purple and gold a$$ that he can't comprehend an article from an ESPN writer who makes things so obvious a first grader finds it boring (K Bros, you, Sports Guy, and Whitlock on occasion, maybe Caple, make me thankful for the old dot come-and Shirley).

How many people on this blog knew sh*t about Vlad before the Clips traded for him? Now he's the best thing since sliced bread?!? And Shammond?! The dude wasn't good enough to be in the league the last couple years and Farmar was lucky to be drafted 26th. Now you're pissed because Stein ranks us that low? I guess Maurice Evans is 21 points and 24 minutes a game from being an All-Star, so you have every right to be upset at Mr. STein's evaluation.

I love the Lakers, but I also love basketball,and believe I have a slightly higher than rememdial understanding of the game. therefore i don't understand how people that watch, or claim to watch, quite a bit of NBA basketball think that Lakers moves this offseason were so grand.

why does anyone who enoucarges an acceptance of reality here automatically get branded a simple purveyor of negativity? i doubt that reality means "negativity" to exhelodrvr (or anyone else who hasn't immediately and harshly written off stein) than it means a complete fulfillment of Pete Maguire's "prayer" to any of the rest of us.

i LOVE the lakers. i'm as hopeful and enthusiastic about their chances in this and every season as the next person. but i might be less embarassed to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with stein and his simple, harmless (well-articulated) opinion than with some of the zealots here who haven't quite wrapped their heads around either reality or the actual nature of the article -- and yet dare to call stein drugged-up, crazy, brainless, etc. BK put it best: after an analysis of the only to team to make significant moves this summer (the hornets), it's pretty much a wash as to the potential success/failure of everyone else's off-season activity. dude wasn't at all unfair in his rankings -- he just doesn't happen to be in a position to see a potential gold-strike in, say, a vlad radmanovic or mo evans. i don't see any reason for someone who decides to concur with him on some level to be taken to task here for some perception of implied defeatism. gimme a break -- obviously, when it all shakes out, we'll see. in the meantime, have fun debating the merits of an opinion, but try not to disparage the opinion-giver simply because some of us have failed to recognize the parameters of the issue at hand.

joel-sensei,

well said.

Andrew Z......

The vision of the anointed: self congratulation..!

AK -

Going back to your comment from 12:24 (I've been gone all day), I think it'd be a GREAT idea to get Fish back if we could - even with his contract.

As was pointed out in another thread, the Lakers signing Vlad shows that we are not waiting for B-Grant's contract to run out to reload - we're going for it now. And with Fish at the point I think we'd be an elite team in the West. He knows the triangle well, he's small enough to D up on Nash, Parker, etc, he can shoot both the midrange jumper and the 3 (remember 0:04), and most importantly he'd be the perfect mentor for Farmar so the new dynasty would continue.

I know we're not going to get him, but I don't agree that it would be a mistake if a miracle happened and he became available. Hell, I'd trade Smush, Sacha, AND Shammond for him.

- Jay Jay the Fish Lover

***!!!PAY ATTENTION!!!***

I scrolled down through the reviews, and apparently quite a few of you, as impossible as it seems, can write, but can't read a damn thing. Either that, or you don't know how to click on a simple link.

Marc Stein explicitly not only said, but EMPHASIZED that this list was not a list of the Power Rankings in the West. It was, as he clearly said more than once, that this was essentially a list of his grades for the Western Conference teams analyzing their off-season moves. THAT'S IT.

That's not to say the list is perfect, even in that regard. But it definitely makes more sense when you pay attention and analyze what he was actually talking about. The spot, of course, is still debatable. But it definitely isn't the outrage some bloggers have made it out to be.

B.
Cali King

Joel,

Contrary to Andrew Z's last post -- not well said. The negativity comment was based on his overall outlook, not that Marc Stein article.

Hi

I am new here. Does anyone have ESPN insider? Please post Kobe interview with Dan Patrick.

Appriciated.

Cali King,

As aposed by Mark Stein. I dont see the signing of Vlad a real hinderance in aquiring a top free agent next year. Sure we don't have the bucks for a blockbuster but the only one that I see right now as a possibility is Garnet (huge maybe, but would have to agree to a $ cut anyways..)and after that, I don't see any max player even available. So the money that we will have will be enough.

>_<

Andrew Z - thanks, and big up to your post, too.

Ken - actually, that's what i *was* referring to, but i guess i didn't make that so clear, so my bad. but i think it still stands, either way -- you labeled (or at least it appeared to) exhelodrvr a negativist simply for accounting for the possibility that things won't work out perfectly in integrating the new guys. actually, specifically, he says he thinks that any real improvement will be contributed to most by our hold-overs as opposed to vlad and evans. how does that view of reality constitute negativity? moreover, how does it justify you questioning whether or not he's "really a fan?" i don't wanna keep talking for dude, cuz he can do that himself. but that's what i was getting at, and i would hope that one wouldn't have to be blind to all that does not glitter (purple and) gold here to enjoy calling oneself a true fan.

We must forget those rankings. Whatever level we are, every day those young players should show to the world how they improve after one year. We must find a real motivation in those analyzises in which we are always down. Stein and the others specialists don't care about the learning curve.
If LO, Kwame, Smush (the old blood) have done their individual summer works, it would be another story. After integrating ( the new blood) Vlade Rad, S. Williams, Evans and Farmar, it would be a success story!
Wait and see.
GO

hey guys...no need to get butt hurt about that article. he was just talking about the SUMMER moves that teams made. what stein doesnt take in to consideration is the fact that if the lakers unloaded most of the roster for a new set of players...role players or superstars...it would basically mean that the coaching staff and the hold overs from the previous season would have to spend this next season trying to teach the triangle. as fans of the lakers and watching atleast half their games...you have to understand that chemistry and a strong knowledge of the triangle would make us a formidable team in the west. so again no need to worry. just as much as the the lakers would be their worst enemy if they cant gel this year...having a year of the triangle offense under their belts would do this team some good. just wait for preseason to see if the guys improved from their experience next year.

Inside Hoops Predictions/Odds to win in 2007

As of September 14, 2006, InsideHoops.com lays out our order of favorites to win the 2006-07 NBA championship. These are our genuine rankings, not based on odds or lines of any kind. The true, realistic championship contenders, in our opinion, with the rosters at this time, are the Heat, Mavs, Spurs and Suns.

1) Miami Heat
2) Dallas Mavericks
3) San Antonio Spurs
4) Phoenix Suns
5) Cleveland Cavaliers
6) Sacramento Kings
7) New Jersey Nets
8) Detroit Pistons
9) Chicago Bulls
10) Los angeles Clippers
11) Indiana Pacers
12) Denver Nuggets
13) Los Angeles Lakers
14) Houston Rockets

How about that! The Kings up that high and Detroit that low? Lakers are a huge underdog!

Making predictions is so hard to do until the season starts and players can be evaluated. New Players and injuries always become factors, so this is just as bogus as our friend Stein's summaries. The way the season ended we seemed to be a lot closer to the top than this, and I do beleive we improved with our additions. I am still hopeful we can shake up something before camp- Bonzi? what the heck! Start working Mitch, we are counting on you! Who is marketable is the question?

ESPN scuks all are Kobe haters.

coming to getting Fish.. back to lakers. I really like him but he is too old now to play. may be we can add him to the coaching staff.

Cali King,

How could the Clippers be ranked #4 in off season moves?

I love the Clippers, but the ranking makes no sense.

GO LAKERS!

McGarnagle,
I said "most", not "all."

Joel-sensei and Andrew Z,
I bet that PJ and Mitch, if you could get an honest answer from them on the team's probable performance this year, would be in the 48-win bandwagon!

hotwheels2x2

You should keep on POSTIN buddy.

Stein should have evaluated according to options, which, in the Laker's case were limited. With no room to move, Mitch made some decent moves. He failed to mention that Phil came back and changed the front office long term strategy. And, yeah, BK, there's no one left to buy next year, but we will have room to flash some cash.

The SA ranking must have been influenced by faith in a great GM from past performance. I don't care what color paper that one's on, it looks weak.

sixonezero,

Nobody's too hurt about the rankings. I'v been reading Mark Stein for years. He makes some valid points, but lets just say that we've had our disagreements over the yerrs. And frankly I'm glad to see him give the Lakers that much love. Its hard to post any ranking list that pleases everybody, but I personaly found his rankings flawed in more ways than one.

>_<

Who cares about the rankings.All we have to do is wait and see game.I think we are fine b/c i did't kill us but made us to learn and THINK BIG.GO LAKERS.!!!!!!!!!!

***Separating Predictions from Misinformation***

What, LakerTom trying to bring some reality to the Lakers Blog? What next, AK disowning the Clips? Ex predicting a championship this year? Mike T. deciding to re-sign Mihm?

There are two types of statements on the blog that create controversy. The first type are predictions about how specific players are going to do, e.g. predicting that Jordan Farmar will become the starting point guard sometime this year, Lamar will become an all-star, Kwame will become a top ten center, or the Lakers will win another championship.

These are all just predictions of what you think will happen. They could prove to be accurate or ridiculous. They can be backed by sound analysis or total fantasy. Bottom line, however, we will have to wait until the season is over to really know whether they were right or wrong.

Misinformation is the second type of statement that creates controversy on the blog. It is really believing that something that is true is not true, leading to numerous posts that are based on a misrepresentation of the facts. For example, I continue to hear posters talk about the top drawer free agents that we may be able to sign next year when Brian Grant’s contract is over. Well, wake up, guys. We are over the salary cap right NOW and we will STILL be over the salary cap next year when Brian Grant’s contract expires.

The ONLY free agent that we will be able to sign next year will be another player similar to Vladimir Radmanovic because ALL we will be allowed to offer per the salary cap rules will be the MLE, which is pegged to the average NBA salary, probably around $5.5M. If you think that the MLE will be enough to sign a Ron Artest or Bonzi Wells caliber player, you are seriously mistaken, unless it all of a sudden becomes vogue to play for less money.

Extending Kwame’s contract last year and signing Vlade this summer basically confirm that the Lakers have committed to winning with the squad that they have now. That means we are putting our money on Kobe continuing to evolve into the team leader we need, Lamar becoming the second all-star we need, Kwame becoming the top ten center we need, and so on down the line. Mitch has said many times that the Lakers know better what they have than the general managers on other teams. While we obviously are not be the team to beat on paper, the Lakers believe Phil Jackson can take the pieces we have right now and develop them into a championship level team in the next two years.

It will be up to Phil and the players to come out of the gate fast this year and show Lakers management that they were right by playing like an elite team. Posters like exhelodrvr and Andrew are right when they say that the real growth in the team has to come from the core players. If the team doesn’t continue to grow and evolve like we hope and we do not win more games and go deeper into the playoffs this year, then all bets may be off and the Lakers may look to make some major trades, most likely involving core players Lamar and Kwame.

So in this sense, I am not dismayed at Stein’s rankings since it really is our core players who will make the major difference. We have made our bets for now on Lamar on Kwame. If they falter, they will be gone and the new bets will be placed. This team needs to show up big this year or Lakers management will turn elsewhere to get Kobe the support he needs to win more championships. That is where Bynum and Farmar will probably come in.

Tom

smushcalade-

you werent hurt about the rankings but you have to admit that a lot of bloggers were. lol. i figure its a lot better to be the sleepers rather than being placed up there with the upper echelon teams and completely faltering throughout the season. i dont think our youth could handle that much pressure.

Mr. Maquire,

"Making predictions is so hard to do until the season starts and players can be evaluated"

Precisely. One can convincingly argue any team's potential in order to move them up on a list. Just ask Mr. orator extraordinaire Farmar Tom about selling one's product or point. I call it objective bias.

Speaking only of the Sacramento Kings, I think it was a reasonable call, but you already know my predisposition.

I knew there was a reason they play the games.

45 days and a wake-up.

sixonezero,

True, I think our players are in a good position right now. The less pressure, the better.

rayray,

Incase you didn't catch it, I left a response to your DB post on the "other side". Same thread @ 9pm.

>_<

Sonnybelfast,
I had a feeling a King fan would be pretty happy with that prediction. Salmons over Bonzi was a mistake, but we will have to see it unfold. Looks like the new arena is on the outs again, there's always Las Vegas.

LakerTom- your points are always well taken, I sure would like to see something happen in this last 45 days. The deals we can make are all so full of sign and trade, waiving, 3-player or 3 team deals, future draft picks and our own future (bynum, farmar, turiaf, sasha, etc.) not likely, so with that, we are probably done. Lamar may be in his most critical season ever, waiting on him has been too slow for all the talent he has and doesn't seem to know how to unleash. Not a lot of value to sell, and as far as credibility, the team is a long shot to be in the race at all while looking at these predictions. We are stuck hoping for a lot of parity as the season progresses and our players evolve. I hate predictions.
Mr.Kupchak seems to be taking easy money this off-season and along with me praying for great improvement of each and every player. If not, hey we do have Kobe to watch and that is more than most other teams in the league. Yeah Sacramento might get a dose of Ron Artest, "the real Ron Artest" is bound to show up eventually. In a 'Shining' Moment!!!
Let the games begin- I can't wait even for preseason!
Oct. 10th UTAH in Fresno. 24 days actually!

lakertom

that was a pretty realistic post. . .made the most sense of all the posts ive read so far

Honestly, I don't expect Ron to end up leaving the Kings. Yea, he might get into it with a player or something. Artest has a lot to prove, and I think he is all about trying to bring a championship to Sacto. Unfortunately for him, he's in Sacto and it won't happen.

It's pretty obvious that we are going to have to get another all-star from within our organization if we are to be a true contender. Lamar is the obvious candidate, and I think he can play the part. I look for next year to be his best yet with him banging in the paint; he is entering his prime years right now. We are doing pretty well stacking up role players, and I think we're on the right track. We were extremely close to winning a lot more games than we did last year. Vlad stretching the floor and another year together is a long shot to make us true contenders, I know, but I like to take the optimistic approach and say we will win about 50 or so games this year, barring injury.

Faith, I think Stein was ranking how he thought teams improved themselves, so whether LA is better than Minnesota is kind of a moot point; the question is, did Minnesota improve themselves more over the summer? Frankly, if I had to pick between Vlad/Evans and James/Foye, I'd take Minny's guys just about anytime, there's more overall talent there.

I'm not sure I agree with Stein's ranking, but it does show what I've been saying all summer; management didn't scare anybody with the moves they made. If LA improves this year, most of it will be from the improvement of the players we already had.

"Sacramento might get a dose of the real Ron Artest...in a 'Shining' Moment!!!"

Actually, Mr. Macquire, it is you who will be getting a dose of Testes, not to be confused with the more common ailment in your region, a dose on them, although that can't be ruled out either.

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. What has never gone to Vegas, never will. The Kings aren't going anywhere, much less Las Vegas, the grand and better lit L.A. to the east. I'll go as far as to say, Vegas will not have any major league sports franchise before the middle of the next decade, if then. Read Aileen Voisons comments in today's Sac Bee to hear a different objective bias-.

"Salmons over Bonzi was a mistake"

Maybe, Maybe not. Either way it was Bonzi's choice. Petrie is not interested in him at this point, even though very recently, Bonzai has been asking to rejoin the team.

I wish him the best and hope that he lands somewhere (anywhere but the Lakers), plays another good year and lands a decent contract. But Petrie doesn't think we need him, even for a year, and Petrie knows more about Salmons and Bonzi than all of the fans on this blog and Mitch put together. I'm going with Petrie, and I like our chances, a lot.

Start searching for another list and you may get happy again.

LakerTom, once again we agree on something. Nice post. Just curious whether you'll be lambasted for "negativity" now.

The fact is, it doesn't really matter where we rate on this list, and not putting the Lakers up near the top doesn't mean the guy hates the team, as some of the more hysterical here have been saying. It does mean he's not sold on all of the moves. I sure don't agree with everything Stein said, but I do agree with that. Like I've said, like some others have said, our improvement will have to be internal. If that doesn't happen, well, last year's results are pretty much what we can expect for a while.

Sonny,

"Bonzai has been asking to rejoin the team"

Do you have a working (or in your case, non-working) link to back up that statement?

>_<

"Artest...is all about trying to bring a championship to Sacto."

This is true Marcus, and this will become more painfully apparent to you as the season progresses.

"Unfortunately for him, he's in Sacto and it won't happen"

Are you gazing into your crystal balls again?

"It's pretty obvious that we are going to have to get another all-star from within our organization if we are to be a true contender"

You're right. You have a couple of promising rookies and others you talk about as though they were still rookies (who just need a chance to develop, to grow, to learn you say) but you may find this process more akin to fishing for Marlin in the San Gabriel River.

On the other hand, Kmart, Garcia or Price could all three explode this year, not to mention a couple of great rookies (who we will bring along) and off season acquisitions who show good potential. Add them to our Motley Crew of Bibby, Shareef, Miller, Testes, an all business coach, and a rabid fan base, and I must say again, I like our chances.

By the way, you may end up with Kenny Thomas, who is solid, but will pout if he doesn't start. Remember where you heard it.

Dan The Man,

Suffice to say, I learned of Bonzi's recent discussions with the Kings over local (Chico/Paradise) radio and television air waves.
Also read about them in the Bee, whose links, as we have all learned, aren't worth squat, so I've stopped posting them.

As I am probably the least technically proficient person on this blog, I am hoping a fellow blogger will provide Dan with a link or two about Bonzai's most recent Kings related comments, specically, his desire to return to the Kings.

Please don't make me work.

***Lamar Must Prove We Didn’t Need Artest***

You know, I don’t worry about Kobe at all. He think we will get him easier baskets, he will raise his shooting percentage, get more boards and assists, play better defense, and win MVP. Not worried. Kobe is the greatest and I don’t think that is an unrealistic season to expect from him. I think he is going to be very hungry but also very controlled and focused.

Roland’s comments about how Ron Artest would have been a perfect fit for our defensive needs, however, reminded me how important it was that Lamar Odom comes through big this year since we chose to stick with him instead of Ron Artest. And the trade that didn’t happen is even harder to weigh since Ron was a model citizen and great performer in Sacramento.

The truth is that we probably are not going to get to the next level unless Lamar Odom can take his game to the next level. If he does, then we were smart not to trade him for Artest. If he doesn’t, then we goofed. So, like it or not, a lot is riding on Lamar’s shoulders as we have pretty much bet the franchise’s chances to win this year on him. He is a indispensable key to this version of the Lakers winning a championship.

Andrew Bynum was the other player in the mix in the Artest trade proposals and supposedly the deal killer from the Lakers side, although I don’t think the Lakers would have traded Lamar straight up, at least not then. Today? Probably. Ron has been a very good boy in Sacramento and helped turned the Kings franchise around, while Bynum basically raised a lot of questions with his so-so play in the Summer Pro League.

Then, of course, there is Kwame Brown, the real enigma on the team, who dares you to have otherworldly expectations of his game but then scares the hell out of you when he plays. Are we really going anywhere unless Kwame delivers? Maybe, we still have Mihm, Bynum, and Turiaf so who knows. Many great careers have been made when guys got the chance to play, just look at Kwame last year. Who knows, it could be Mihm or Bynum getting a similar break this year. At any rate, we have options with respect to Kwame, but we really don’t regarding Lamar. He was who we chose over Ron Artest before we knew how well Artest would act and play for Sacto.

How well Lamar plays may actually be Mitch Kupchak’s the first measurable test as a general manager. We need Lamar to be the player we wouldn’t give up, even for Ron Artest. Otherwise, everybody is going to start to pine for a do-over on that trade.

Tom

sonny:

Maybe you are already doing this already, but a suggestion: hit the Enter Key after you paste a link into a the comments window and before you continue typing. That will make it clear to the program that the text is a hyperlink and not just text.

Tom

fically

Dan The Man,

Try the Sac Bee/Sports, Sept 10, "Sources: Wells fires agent" for a snippet short enough not to bore you. You might want to read the comments posted below as well, or not.

Laker Tom,

Do what? I'm sure you've heard of monkeys and their relationship with footballs. Thanks for your help though.

Tomorrow, it's the Niners! We're all together on that. Ya'll can get back to really hating me come October 31.

Go Niners!!!

Just enjoyed a totally home grown rib eye, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, cucumber and homemade wine supper. Back to check the blog and everyone is gone.

The SC game on already? Which way did they go? See you later.

Down the Nebraska Porn Hustlers!

Go USC!!!

Sonny,

Thanks for the artical, I beileve you now. LOL (j/k)

>_<

Could someone please post the Kobe interview with Dan Patrick. It looks like a good piece, anything with Kobe is a good so if you have access to it please share with your laker community.

Good post Lakertom...I think the latter part of last season, and especially his dominance during the beginning of the playoffs certainly made me forget. I just think consistency is really his kryptonite...the minute he conquers that, he'll not only be an allstar, not only will that trade be forgotten...he will be that HOF player that Kobe said he could be.

P.S. While he's at it, a continual improvement defensively would be great too! lol.

I don't understand how anyone can defend Stein's ridiculous article. And I say its ridiculous, not because I disagree...he's entitled to his opinion and thats fine. But the reason this is one of the most ridiculous articles is that he says he is basing his ranking on OFFSEASON MOVES....and yet in reality, it is a big fat mush of offseason moves and a bunch of other pointless stuff that has NOTHING to do with offseason moves.

BK hit it on the head. Even judging the article based on offseason moves, his ranking is highly suspect.
Francisco Elson give the Spurs the third best offseason? REALLY?
The Clips seem to get "extra credit" points for two things, keeping Maggette and Donald Sterling spending some money. Come on, does this really have anything to do with offseason moves? Cuz the owner is stingy so you ASSUME maggette is gone ...and then when he's not, you get kudos for it cuz of your own assumptions? If thats the case, I expected Buss to trade Kobe and Lamar this summer...but they stayed...so Lakers get an A+++++++! Also, if their rank is skewed by Sterling's willingness to spend, then the Mavs should get an F, since Cuban is always willing to spend, but has curbed his spending recently.

GSW getting 5 is just trash. Again, BK hit it on the head. They will win more games cuz they freakin sucked last year. Also like that BK pointed out that Phil wasnt necessarily a magician either, and that Kobe and Lamar missed a lot of games last year. So GSW gets the #5 spot cuz they signed Nellie? Geez, who knew that Elson and Nellie were that awesome.
This is where it gets ridiculous. The Rockets getting Battier was FAR more significant than most of the teams ranked above Houston. (BTW, I think it was a good trade for both teams). A very gutsy move by Hou to give up a potential star to get a very good complimentary player to Tmac and Yao and will help them be a much better team in the short term. Stein also seems to deduct points from Hou cuz of Tmac and Yao's injury history. I didnt know injury history can be considered an offseason move.

Continuing the ridiculousness: "but the real debate naturally involves the Suns' marquee addition: Amare Stoudemire." Hmmm, I thought the Suns ALREADY HAD Amare? Now suddenly, a return from an injury is now categorizd as an offseason move.

If the Lakers get that low a rank for picking up key FAs who not only filled specific holes we had, but are just simply better players than a lot of the crappy players listed above them....I dont wanna see what they wouldve gotten had they stuck to the 2008 plan.

I think the Jazz are about in the right place, but for different reasons. I actually dont like teh Fisher signing, he'll help...but he just makes too much $ for what he brings. If youre gonna overpay to put you over the hump thats one thing...but you dont wanna overpay a player just to make the playoffs. I wanna note tho that I think drafting Brewer at 14 might be one of the steals of the draft.

According to his logic, if the frugal Clips get kudos for keeping Maggette, then the MORE frugal (yeah more than Sterling) Sonics should get their bonus points for signing Wilcox, who everyone and their mamas thought would be traded. I know some bloggers disagree and think Wilcox is a fluke and was overpaid. I think its was a great signing and could turn out to be a steal. (note: rememeber only 19 million of it is guaranteed).

Stein ends the article with more insane explanations: "Rudy Gay would have to be spectacular from the start to lift the gloom … and none of the draft experts touting him as the potential star of the 2006 draft is projecting that sort of instant impact. The Grizz were a great story last season, but Pau's plight is bound to put them at the top of most Who's Gonna Slip lists in the West."
I mentioned that I liked Hou getting Battier. But I also like the acquisition of Gay for Memphis. Of COURSE noone expects the guy to be a star his first year. Memphis traded a very good player for a potential star down the road. (not to mention that Gay will at least probably sell more tickets than Battier did). And if any team needed to take that gamble , it may as well be Memphis who has no true superstar. According to this logic, trading Vlade for Kobe would get the Lakers an F , since Kobe would have to be an immediate star to make up for the loss of an all-star center.
And again, Stein lists Pau's foot injury as another negative "offseason move".

Now before anyone says how butthurt I am about the Lakers low score...I'm not. If he ranked the Lakers at #15, but had at least some reasonable arguments to back it up, I'd say thats fine. Its his opinion and we'll see who's right. But if youre gonna intro your article by emphasizing that this ranking is strictly based on offseason moves, then freakin base it on offseason moves!

I don't know what the Laker options were, or what other great player you could have acquired instead of Odom (great name for him: "Enlieu O'Lamar") when you brought him over from Miami.

As a Kings fan, I thought it was dreadful because he was a proven Kings killer. I also thought that this had to be at least a part of the reason he was picked over, say, another great player of essentially equal value.

That having been said, I think many of you are miscalculating the siphoning effect that Lamars incomprehensible tragedy is going to have on him. There's no way around it, period. Even if, understandably, no one is talking, I'm certain Phil and the rest of the staff and players know or sense this all too painfully. How it all will pan out on the basketball court is a crapshoot, but the house holds all the prop bets.

Only rarely (and depending on the standings) are there teams that I will root for against the Lakers. It killed me to watch you guys get swept by the Piss-tons.

I want the Lakers to fair well, and I hope that Lamar fairs well, both personally and on the court. The whole system seems to be failing somehow if the Lakers aren't fielding a team that's good enough to be in the hunt. I feel the same way about the Niners, and have grown to feel that way about the Kings.

In fact, with Lamar and your Saint leading the way, I want the Lakers to make it all the way to the WC Championships, so that we can wipe the floor with them. If it ain't the Lakers, it just won't mean as much or be nearly as fun.

Oh, Go Lamar!

Go Kings!

Go Niners!

Trojans kicked some...

Jon Kavulic:

I won't disagree with you. I actually wrote that I agree the the list is still debattable. Specifically, I agree with you that the only significant the Clips made was for Tim Thomas, which is all that much, so their ranking is probably too high.

On a side note, ARTEST:

You can't deny RonRon's skills. But he has done too much crazy stuff in his career to keep talking about him like any other player. Everyone keeps talking about Artest as if he is some kind of lock for future success. Does he have the skills? Definitely. But the Queens are SERIOUSLY gambling if they are really putting all their eggs in the Artest basket. He's "changed" and "reformed" before, and that obviously hasn't worked out. Based on his regular habits and patern, he's a timebomb. To say the Lakers need him, or even worse, to say they would be BETTER with him, is completely dilussional.

B.
Cali King

Wow - I'm sure Lakofan will find this interview. She's working on it. LOL!

LakerTom - For Lamar, the year to come is a decisive one, if he fails, Kuptchak is ready for a big trade. Cross our fingers.

GO

Just my 2 cents worth about Ron Artest, whose name keeps popping up in various posts. I don't think we lost anything by not getting Ron Artest. His offensive game was a bust last year. He shot 38% from the field during the regular season, and then after getting into top form he shot...uh...38% in the playoffs. His 3pt shooting was mediocre at best, and his FT shooting was in the same category. So all you are left with is defense, which I think is ok, but still overrated. But more importantly, he is a jerk. I don't like rooting for jerks. One thing throughout Laker history, we have had a history of getting players who you could admire on and off the court. I know for a fact, that this was a major consideration when Jerry West was the GM. Character does count for something in my book. Not to say that players can't make mistakes, but if they make a sincere effort to change, then I can live with that. Artest never seems to change, nor even to really apologize for what he has done.

Roger

I had a great dream last night that Raja Bell broke his ankle and was out for the season.

Wishful thinking or precognition?

Hmmm...

GO LAKERS!

The Chemistry needs to be good and I agree with that. Hopefully Kobe will be League MVP maybe even Finals MVP. Lamar might be an ALL STAR, if he's aggressive. Kwame has a lot of talent, but he needs to have control and WORK ON THAT HOOK AND MAKE IT CONSISTENTLY!!!!. Hopefully Sasha and Vlad man will be our perimeter players. Mo Evans can be our off the bench defensive stopper. Bynum will develop, Farmar will be Rookie of the year. Smush will be our most improved player, and DON'T FORGET LUKE WALTON, he was a big part of our success in winning some games in the first round against Phoenix. COME ON LAKERS, LET'S MAKE IT HAPPEN!!!
GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!

TOP REASONS WHY I NEVER WANT LEBRON JAMES TO BE A LAKER!

So, I'm in Cleveland for the next couple months before I return to California to attend graduate school. I have this thankless job, but one of my co-workers is a rabid sports fan (which is good) and the subject of LeBron James came up.

The guy is a lifelong Clevelander and hates LeBron James.

Why?

Well, three reasons:

1) LeBron said he'll leave Cleveland only if it interferes with him becoming the first athlete billionaire.

2) My co-worker, Dave, took his little brother to a local high school basketball playoff game, which one of LeBron's relatives was playing at. LeBron James also attended the game. There were a group of kids there (including Dave's little brother) who had LeBron jerseys on and the group of about eight kids approached LeBron asking him for autographs. LeBron responded, "I ain't signing nothing unless you're going to pay me for it, okay?" Completely ignoring the fact that these young, generally underpriviledged kids had saved up the money to buy authetic LeBron James jerseys.

3) Dave's sister also met LeBron at a party. They had a conversation and LeBron was fairly cool until she asked for his autograph. He responded, "Why should I sign anything for you unless there's something in it for me?" And he then grabbed his crotch suggestively.

The guy sounds like a creep who's let too much fame too soon go to his head.

I hope he gets injured, badly.

GO LAKERS!

You know, Kobe has been burned by hearsay, so I feel that unless there is dramtic evidence otherwise, I am going to give LBJ the benefit of the doubt.

If those stories are true, I do not at all condone his behavior. But everyone has a prespective when they tell a story. And when it gets retold, it often gets embelished.

All reports I have read, stories, etc. have indicated LBJ to be a compassionate person. I see no reason to become a pre-emptive hater, or even analyze whether or not his coming to LA would be a good or bad thing until there is any creedence to it... let's just talk about what we have.

Hey Smushcalade and my other NYC brethren on the blog.....Does anyone else besides me think Kobe is PISSED right now!? I mean, his beloved "Philadelphia Eagles just got SMACKED down by the NEW YORK Giants in OT!!! I'm loving right now, too bad Kobe is somewhere pissed off lol.

Yes...I'm bored....hehe

No offense Jon, but I may have some swamp land real estste that you migh be interested in buying.

I'm not buying that story about Labronze at the party. Now I never say never cuz anything is anything is possible. I just find the story highly questionable at least.

>_<

Ak/Bk
Can u guys give us another football thread this week so we can discuss the NINERS VICTORY OVER THE RAMS!!! I didnt get to see the game so id like to hear how the Niners did.

P.s.
LakerTom I hope u do ur grading again (if u saw game) to see how good they did. Thx

GO LAKERS!!!
GO NINERS!!!

blaze,

Eli's gonna be in Kobe's nightmares tonight!

>_<

Guy Owanlele,

I’m sorry but I wouldn’t know where to find that interview, unless it is on ESPN radio but I’m not an insider.

___________________________________________________________________________

I listened to the interview it was nothing special. Dan asked him various questions, here’s what I remember:

- When asked if he was into college football or NFL: he said he was an NFL fan, he is an Eagles fan.
Dan asked him about T.O and he said he didn’t care about that that he was an Eagles fan. That it was a shame when T.O left but that he is a fan of the team.

-Asked about team USA: he said he never said the team didn’t have chemistry, that he didn’t know who misunderstood his comments. He said that what he meant to say was that it is a 3 year plan, and that the team will eventually get more into each others tendencies and in consequence have better chemistry. But he never said that the team that played in Asia didn’t have chemistry.

-Asked about Reggie Miller that he said he would play for team USA if needed: Kobe was confused he said Reggie wants to play? He is retired isn’t he? When told that he could play if he wanted to, Kobe said well if he wants to play is up to him and he would help.

-Asked about the Lakers: he said that a lot of people in L.A were saying that Kevin would be a Laker, that people wanted the Lakers to make a blockbuster move, but that that wasn’t necessary. That they got players that they needed such as Vlad, Maurice and Shammond.

I think that’s a general summary of what Kobe said; it was pretty casual and a general interview. I usually don’t listen to Dan, I don’t like him. But I was driving and heard Kobe was going to call in the last ten min. of the show, so I listened, but like I said nothing new.

I forgot Dan also asked him about Wade, Lebron, Kobe said it was good for the NBA to have good competition between players, that he liked it. It was good for the NBA and the fans. That he liked it because it reminded him when he saw Magic,MJ and Bird.

Dan asked him if he was the best and most dominate player in the NBA. He said he wouldn't say that because it is always him compared with Wade or Lebron or T-Mac.

He said it was like in tennis that he likes tennis, and he said Federer is the most dominate man in his sport, because it was Federer and the rest, expect when he plays Nadal(so true, haha) and that in the NBA with him it was different because it is always is Kobe the best? Yes, No, Wade, Lebron, T-Mac. So that it is not one player who dominates, and that that is good for the competition, for the sport.

____________________________________________________

Kobe was on the Challenge on NBC, he said that when he goes to work out at six A.M he always sees Smush, Luke, Cook , Kwame and the others training and that they are very motivated to start the season, that they cannot forget about what happened in the playoffs,they could of made something very special in the playoffs but couldn't, so they are ready to start.

Fred asked him about if he wanted to have a son or if Gianna was the last one? He thought about it for a while and said that the next one was going to be a son. But that people tell him that once he has the 3rd girl he is going to look up and have 5 girls and no sons. hahaha

Kobe just had a short interview with Fred Roggins? on the Challenge show (West Coast).

ask if last year play off series still had a bad taste? Kobe said yes. Brian Cook, Smush, Kwame all show up when Kobe when to his training 6AM after his Asia trip.

I am glad they use that as their motivation.

He did not admit that the Lakers belong to the elite groups but he said the Lakers added some key players... Vlad, Evans, Shammond...
He aslo mentioned about the World Tourney... but that is not important for now...

Laker Training camp.. Oct 3rd?

Lakofan - I knew you gonna get something! You're always at the right spot. You need to work with Mitch K. perhaps it's going to help us in the offseason. LOL!

LakerTom - Your post (at 12:03 PM) was like a cold shower. You're right:We will die ou live with this current roster. But despite this, we, the fans, are always trying to dream... by expressing our disagreement with Stein. We hope that our great history as a NBA team will prevail. I mean those players would work hard and beat the odds. It's only a wish.

Edwin Gueco,Mike T.,... Guys where are you? Too busy or waiting for november ??

GO

Aristotle - Do you have a link to hear it, please?
Thanks.

Lakofan - Once again, do you have something this short interview with Fred Roggins? ((on the Challenge show (West Coast))).
I know you can get it!! LOL.

GO

Jon K is having dreams about Raja and hearing stories about LeBron, or was that a dream about LeBron and a story about Raja...Reggie Millers coming back??? Hahaaha
I think if LeBron goes anywhere it is Chicago, New York or LA. He did seem to be getting tight with DWade in Miami too- damn why did Kobe’s knee have to happen!
Sonny -
I have never been to Vegas either, and don't plan on it either. I spend my extra cash on going to Sporting Events. Yes, I did see the Niners beat the Rams. The Kings and anyone else will not ever make it to LV because it is silly tempting the greed of athletes today. They are already sold out to work for more money, versus less and sacrificing for winning. Nice reference to Aileen Voisin's articles, of all the writers on the Bee she is the most realistic. The worst part about living up there was the unbelievable homers on the 1140 station. Napier just makes me want to puke. You all do have the best fams I have ever seen, including Boston. I am sure I will be at the Warriors home opener of course...found a possum to bet me on the game already 5 points Lakers. See why I won't go to Vegas, its hard enough betting people I know and then inflicting the JUICE when they can't pay. That’s kind of like going to Vegas or Cabo, what happens there stays there.
We are hurting for some real basketball, or at least a little bit of shake-up news from the Laker front office.
Has anyone announced that Mihm is recovered and ready to play. I think he may be on a fast plane out of town if they get that news confirmed. Smartest thing he could do is stay lame, this team is going to be a surprise. I really thought his health could have helped negotiations with AHarrington. I still sort of wish we could sign Bonzi at some bottom end contract that pays him guaranteed money next year and maybe put his mug in a Lamar hip-hop Video. We need to work the Hollywood angle on these guys, Mitch, Carmen Policy and Eddie DeBartolo have to get together and start cooking up a new set of books here! Oh well, thats it I am whacked and Just wanna win!
Forgive me father...
Yeah it's Sunday and I said my prayers for the Lakers!
Jon K. , sweet dreams, get Mike T to start rubbing that crystal ball, we need some new material here!

the Kobe DanPatrick interview on ESPN Radio here's a link but you need an espn insider:

http://insider.espn.go.com/insider/espnradio/podcast/player?id=2588152

Seriously, I've been told that LeBron James in real life is a prick.

I'd probably be a prick too if I was worth $90 million before I graduated high school.

GO LAKERS!

blaze1bx - Re: whether Kobe is pissed about the Eagles -- I think he might be a little disappointed how they lost -- After all, Dumba$$ Donovan started celebrating wayyyyyy too early -- clown a$$ dude! But I honestly don't think he lost no sleep over a football game. He is too focused on the game of basketball especially with a couple days to go before training camp!

It's amazing how celebrities, in this case LeBron James, can be publicly smeared with 3rd or 4th degree hearsay, leaving the perpetrator of these stories an out ("It wasn't my story...I heard it from a friend") if there's no truth to it.

Ray Ray,

Do you have insider? if you do... would you be kind enough to copy and paste Kobe's interview?
Thanks bro

Lakersrydeordie,

"Training Camp"....wow, music to my ears!!!

P.S. yea im sure your right...Kobe aint losing no sleep over that loss. Maybe if we were talking about the sorry Knicks, THEN he might lol

dan the man >_< aka smushcalade,

I double-checked with my co-worker Dave regarding the LeBron crotch grabbing story, simply because you didn't believe it.

He assures me it is true, and it is his sister we're talking about. Not just some acquaintance.

I've known the guy for months and he seems like a pretty honest person. I don't know why he'd make up a story like that, especially since he's a huge sports fan in Cleveland.

Otherwise you'd normally expect someone like him to disbelieve such a story, but he doesn't.

LeBron James is thus a prick in my book.

He's no Kobe Bryant and never will be.

GO LAKERS!

ESPN hates the Lakers.

JJ’s Off-Season Moves Ranking (West Conference)

Isaiah Thomas said it well last season when he stated that except for the team that wins the championship, every other team (29) has room for improvement. I would like to take it a step further in saying that even the team that wins, needs to look at make key changes if they hope to remain the championship team in the future. That being the case, I have offered my own version of the rankings to provide a different viewpoint of this summer.

15 - Seattle SuperSonics – Additions-Mickael Gelabale; Losses-Mikki Moore – Overall, the Sonics did nothing to improve themselves from last season which is not good since they were 11th in the West last year.

14 - Sacramento Kings – Additions-Loren Woods, John Salmons; Losses-Bonzi Wells – Overall, the Kings lost one of their key components responsible for their late season push to the playoffs. In return, they now have acquired Loren Woods and John Salmons. Woods hasn’t been a significant contributor since enterning the NBA. Salmons did contribute at times in Philadelphia. However, with the loss of Wells, the Kings are seemingly going to start the season already behind.

13 - Memphis Grizzlies – Additions-Stromile Swift, Rudy Gay, Alexander Johnson; Losses-Shane Battier – Overall, the Grizzlies are hoping that the second time around for Stromile Swift, coupled with the addition of new rookie Rudy Gay, will equate to an improved team. Seeing as how the greatest need for this team was and continues to be their playoff performance, getting rid of one of the most consistent players for them, Shane Battier, doesn’t look like a good move.

12 - Utah Jazz – Additions-Derek Fisher, Rafael Araujo; Losses-Kris Humphries, Robert Whaley, Devin Brown, Keith McLeod, Andre Owens – Overall, the Jazz are a blue-collar, workhorse type of team which relies on sheer grit to win games. The acquisition of Fisher should bode well for them since he has experience and has had a history of simply working hard and playing consistent basketball. The losses don’t appear to be that significant in looking at major contributors for this team.

11 - San Antonio Spurs – Additions-Matt Bonner, Eric Williams, Jacque Vaughn, Jackie Butler, Francisco Elson; Losses-Rasho Nesterovic, Nazr Muhammed – Overall, the Spurs lost their starting and backup centers. This may not seem like much of a deal to some when looking at who they are, however, they both contributed to the Spurs championship season a year ago. In turn they added a bunch of players that may offer help, but didn’t really provide any source of improvement. They may still end up being one of the best in the West this season, but it won’t be because of any moves made this summer.

10 - Golden State Warriors – Additions-Coach Nelson, Devin Brown, Keith Mcleod, Andre Owens; Losses-Derek Fisher, Will Bynum – Overall, the Warriors addressed the most pressing need of the summer when they hired head coach Don Nelson. The other changes that have come involving the loss of Fisher and gain of Brown and McCleod, may pan out to be meaningful as the season progresses. However, the key will be the changes Nelson makes to the system of this team.

9 - Portland TrailBlazers – Additions-Raef LaFrentz, Dan Dickau, Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, Sergio Rodriguez, Jamaal Magloire; Losses-Sebastian Telfair, Theo Ratliff, Steve Blake, Brian Skinner, Ha Seung-Jin – Overall, a lot of changes and player moves for one summer by one team. Will it mean significant improvement? Time will tell. However, until that time, they do deserve a slight nod for at least attempting to make improvements.

8 - Minnesota Timberwolves – Additions Mike James, Randy Foye; Losses-Marcus Banks – Overall, this team had two major issues for most of the season, point guard production and overall scoring help for Kevin Garnett. They addressed both issues by acquiring James, which is why they are ranked so high. However, James wants and needs the ball in his hands a lot to maximize what he does on the court. How that affects Garnett and the rest will be the issue….which is why they are ranked so low.

7 - Denver Nuggets – Additions Leon Powe, J.R. Smith, Joe Smith, Jamal Sampson; Losses-Howard Eisley, Ruben Patterson – The “Smith Brothers” are solid acquisitions for a team needing more depth at the forward and guard positions. Losing Eisley shouldn’t be much of a factor, however, Patterson did offer a much needed spark for this team once they let go of Evans. The bottom line is that this team did manage to improve itself without losing much on paper.

6 - Los Angeles Clippers – Additions Tim Thomas, Aaron Williams; Losses Vladimir Radmanovic – Overall, the Clippers replaced one of their shooters with another one. However, the replacement, if he remains consistent, is also a better defender. They also added another big body to help with the front court duties. Not major improvements, but improvements none the less.

5 - Phoenix Suns – Additions Eric Piatkowski, Jumaine Jones, Sean Marks, Marcus Banks; Losses Brian Grant, Tim Thomas – Overall, the Suns managed to improve a few areas that needed some improvement. Very similar to that of the Clippers, they gave up something and got something back in return which may be better for them. Thomas was a major contributor during the final stretch and the post season. However, with their new additions they have strengthened their point guard position, perimeter shooting, and center position. Not a bad turnaround for a team already at the upper placement of the West.

4 - Los Angeles Lakers – Additions Jordan Farmar, Maurice Evans, Vladimir Radmanovic, Shammond Williams, Danilo Pinnock; Losses Jim Jackson, ??? – Overall, the Lakers used this summer to address some of their major needs. Currently, these changes have not cost them much if anything in comparison to last season’s roster. They have added depth at point guard, significant improvement with their perimeter shooting, and defensive improvement at the guard position. The only area not addressed was the power forward/center area. However, considering the fact that the majority was addressed and the cost was minimal, this appears to be a net gain for the Lakers.

3 - Houston Rockets – Additions Lior Eliyahu, Shane Battier, Kirk Snyder, Vassilis Spanoulis, Casey Jacobsen; Losses Rudy Gay, Stromile Swift – Overall, the Rockets have improved at positions they needed to improve. Shane Battier alone makes this a successful summer for the Rockets. It is no surprise that he was chosen to be on the FIBA team. Kirk Snyder has become a solid guard defender and can hit shots as well. Rudy Gay may become a premier player one day, but the Rockets realize that their window is right now. Swift has athleticism but has never been consistent enough.

2 - Dallas Mavericks – Additions Austin Croshere, Anthony Johnson, Greg Buckner, Devean George; Losses Marquis Daniels, Darrell Armstrong, Rawle Marshall, Josh Powell, Keith Van Horn – Overall, the Mavs have managed to take a Finals team and make it better. The significance of it all is that they managed to do it without getting necessarily the best free agents and traded players of the summer. Instead they went with players that fit needs or improve specific areas of concern. In essence they really took a hard look at the roster and made some educated decisions. Avery Johnson’s presence can be seen all through these changes.

1 - NOK Hornets – Additions Peja Stojakovic, Tyson Chandler, Bobby Jackson, Jannero Pargo; Losses P.J. Brown, J.R. Smith, Arvydas Macijauskas, Moochie Norris, Kirk Snyder – Overall, the Hornets used this summer to move their team from being a team trying to make the playoffs each year to being a team that is expected to make the palyoffs. Everyone of their moves have addressed a need. Everyone of their moves have improved them overall. They gave up some pieces, which make it easy to see where they have put their foundation for the future.

Guy Ow

This is the closest thing I can get for you about the show "The Challenge" on NBC.

http://www.nbc4.tv/sports/9630998/detail.html
http://www.nbc4.tv/sports/9630998/detail.html

Jon,

Unfortunatley, it's a loose /loose situation. If it's true, then Labronze is a huge a-hole. If it's not true, then the whole story sucks period! But if you know and trust your source, then I'll take your word for it.

"Don't Let Me Down" -Bob Marley

>_<

Need a new jersey? Say a 24 jersey?

http://store.nba.com/gp/product/B000INUJVE/ref=sc_iw_c_4_0_14129791/002-1539467-7382449?ie=UTF8&n=14129791&league=core

http://store.nba.com/gp/product/B000INTJWO/ref=sc_iw_c_4_0_14129791/002-1539467-7382449?ie=UTF8&n=14129791&league=core

http://store.nba.com/gp/product/B000INW9DK/ref=sc_iw_c_4_0_14129791/002-1539467-7382449?ie=UTF8&n=14129791&league=core

Regardless of what shmucky Mark Stein says the Lakers have made some improvements and they WILL be ready for this upcoming season. They may not be a championship contender tomorrow but after this team gets some more experience playing together and guys start to understand their roles better the Lakers will once again be THE force to be reckoned with. The bottom line is don't need another big-name star to do well or to win a championship - as long as we surround Kobe with smart, talented, hard-working guys we'll be fine.

these last few entries on this here blogg are madd funny -- only cuz its obvious we are running out of stuff of any real substance to chat about as far as the Lakers. I mean cmon now, Lebrat grabbing his crotch -- When they interviewed he and Carmelo I believe it was just before they got drafted, on draft day, he was scratching like he had some serious crabs goin on down there -- SORRY to go there -- but I also could not help but notice -- Hell, I am a girl but I couldn't believe the camera never steered away from it! He's young though, I would tend to believe he said whatever -- doesnt really make him a jerk IMO -- just a young knucklehead dude with madd oats to sort!

Yeah, hurry up 06-07 Season -- ISH is getting madd ridiculous if I don't say so myself!! LOL

I think that the Lakers will be a playoff team again this season. and with the addition of Vlad and MoEvans it will definately help our bench improve. LO will be a better players this year it will stem over from last year playoffs. and Smush should be our starting guard. Kobe will be MVP this year.if LO improves his game the way he should then he might be an ALL-STAR then season or so i hoped. Chris Mihm need to step up and show some enthusiasm

Jordan Farmar will be a working process and he will average close to ten pionts this season. Sasha or Vlad wil be in the top six for 3's this year.

And by adding an old asst. coach in Jim Cleamons will bring back some cohesiveness to the Lakers. he was on our previous championship teams. and it will help Kobe to be a better leader.

GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!

***The Key to the Lakers Playing Better Defense***

Yes, this is a basketball post and not a football post…

Yesterday, the San Francisco 49ers football team played the kind of defense that the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team is going to have to learn how to play if they want a chance to win a championship this year or next. It is called Team Defense.

Team defense starts by every player trusting the defensive schemes devised by their coaches and trusting the ability of their fellow players to be in the right place at the right time. When it works, the defense is a marvel of synchronicity and synergy that proves that the total is greater than the sum of the parts, that a team of average defenders can coalesce into a defense greater than the sum of their individual abilities.

At the end of last season, the Lakers really started to jell as a team, taking advantage of teamwork to elevate their offense and defense and perform at a level greater than expected based on the individual skill sets of the players on the roster.

Running the Triangle Offense to perfection, moving the ball for easier shots, rotating and communicating well on defense, and trusting their teammates to be in position allowed the Lakers to be a better team on the court than they were on paper.

Despite the criticism, Tex Winter’s Triangle Offense with its focus on ball movement, proper spacing, and floor balance lets the Lakers’ offense be greater than the sum of its parts. What the Lakers need to do this year is to create a solid team defense to go with the Triangle offense that allows them to be a better defensive team on the court than they are on paper.

The synergy generated by great team play on offense and defense is what can elevate this flawed Laker team on paper and make them champions on the court. The San Francisco 49ers showed them exactly how to do this on Sunday. Trust your coaches, trust your defensive scheme, trust your team mates, be in position, play with passion, play as a team.

Tom

JJ,

That was a great post, you have provided everything on changes on every Western team beating the AK/BK threads with timely analysis. Haha! Thank you, you're a great asset to the blog.

Guy O.

There's not much I can say because it's football season in the States at this time while Baseball is about to close. We do not have any NFL team here in LA except college football like the mighty USC Trojans and the up-and-coming Bruins. Like what LakerTom said, I put high hopes on our Laker roster this year and I hope everybody will improve, some will be active and the other group in the reserve or in the D'Fenders. You will never know who will pan out till playoffs time. It will be less than a month before the preseason begins and by that time, we resume the usual energy.

Less than a month... almost there...

Seriously, can't we just steal some games from the baseball season and add them on to the NBA season?

By the way, I know it's not exactly a short drive, but Lakers pre-season in Vegas is recommended. Close enough, and you can get tickets REAL cheap.

Might help bridge the gap a little, and help with those withdrawls.

B.
Cali King

DEFENDERS:

I was hoping someone could shed some light on this for me. I'm not exactly sure how this new "minor" league is going to work. I began to wonder why the Lakers would have to cut or release any of the guys in camp, like a Pinnock, Wafer, Profit, etc. if they don't make the team, can't they just be sent down? I know the Lakers also will own the Defenders. Can't they just send these guys there to let them develop while still maintaining their rights?

B.
Cali King

JJ,

Memphis' most glaring weakness, especially in the playoffs where a single individual can take over (see D-Wade and Kobe) they went out and got Rudy Gay (the most athletic guy in the draft), Kyle Lowry, arguably the most NBA-ready guy in the draft, and Alexander Johnson who was exactly what the Lakers needed, a big, athletic forward who plays tough D and cleans up on the glass, and yet you rank them 13th. I know losing Battier was tough, but they obviously weren't getting it done with him. I think Jerry West made bold moves to surround Gasol with the type of players he needs and other than 1996 this is the best job Jerry West has done as a GM, anywhere.

oops, forgot to say Memphis' most glaring weakness is a lack of athleticism, my bad.

Andrew Z,

It's hard for me to put much weight on rookie acquisitions. How many rookies enter the league making instant impact? Sure he may be beneficial in the future. However, losing Battier and Bobby Jackson was significant for this team right now. They brought back Swift....

I can see what you mean but think that none of those players (as the experts have said) will bring instant success/impact to any team.

Ordie,

Lebron had "madd oats" to "sort"?

Mine were wild. I always let the girls do the sorting and the process was likened more to stitches in time.

JJ,

You mean the Kings are all the way up to #14 in your off season acquisition rating?

I could have sworn that we also acquired Jeter, Williams, Amundson and "smokin'" Douby.

You may have forgotten to take off your purple and gold blinders before passing your evaluation off as anything even remotely resembling a comprehensive and accurate report.

Let the season begin! Have got some surprises for you. 43 days and a wake-up.

Andrew Z,
Why are you hatin' on Kobe like that? In that entire post on Memphis, you didn't once mention that Jerry West was the man who arranged to bring Kobe to L.A.!!

JJ,

I see what you mean, but when there are rookies that are taken at the top of the draft they usually do have an impact. In this case a solid team that made the playoffs made a trade for a