He's no KG or JO...
But the re-signing of free agent Luke Walton nonetheless represents front-office activity, as well as the retaining of a triangle-friendly piece that doesn't count against the cap. From here, attempts to land a household moniker continue, as well as the search for just the right guy to award some purple and gold MLE cash. Point guard Steve Blake could be such a fella, although it remains to be seen whether the whole enchilada will fill him up. Speaking of enchiladas, Chris Mihm's agent is talking up a pricey plate of Mexican food. The Lakers aren't likely to foot the bill for such a meal, but they are interested in negotiating. So, for that matter, are the Bulls.
Despite his pleas, the Lakers are still a ways off from trading Kobe Bryant. And for the alarmists (and historians) in the crowd, that's probably a good thing.
If Mihm's ankle is healthy, he'll be able to get more than 2M. Based on current salaries, his pre-injury production and potential would probably be worth at least $6M. Take away some of that for rustiness, and some for concern about the ankle, and he can probably get at least 4 M per year, for at least a couple of years.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | July 02, 2007 at 09:48 AM
THE STATUS QUO IS NOT GOOD.... FIRE MITCHelle KUPCHAK!!!!!
Posted by: timwillis | July 02, 2007 at 09:52 AM
Wow, what is Mihm's agent trying to do? I don't think the Bulls would want to pay him that kind of money either.
Posted by: ajax | July 02, 2007 at 09:54 AM
Hey BK...
http://youtube.com/watch?v=uhbxN4NO38k
Posted by: generic_one | July 02, 2007 at 09:58 AM
Ex, that's about right. I think they can probably get him for $3 million...less than that, I would be surprised.
Posted by: Michael A | July 02, 2007 at 10:07 AM
Anyone see this?
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/06/29/WSNOTES.TMP
Regardless of whether Warriors coach Don Nelson returns to the sidelines next season, his fall schedule is likely to include a stop in court, where his arbitration suit against Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is taking on new dimensions.
According to a source with knowledge of the situation, Cuban filed a counterclaim against Nelson last month, contending that the former Mavs coach violated his non-compete clause by using insider information against Dallas during the playoffs.
The source also said that Cuban is seeking an injunction against Nelson working for Golden State, though the litigation has no bearing on Nelson's pending decision on coaching again or retiring.
Reached by phone this week, Nelson's lawyer, John O'Connor, would say only that the Cuban's claim was baseless, particularly the notion about inside information.
"I suppose if Don knows that (Dirk) Nowitzki likes to go to his right and not his left, that that is confidential information as far as Cuban is concerned," O'Connor said. "We disagree and think it's absurd."
Posted by: generic_one | July 02, 2007 at 10:11 AM
We should not overpay Blake. We already have two future lead guards so we need to find a veteran willing to take a shorter-term contract. With a promise of a high-profile starting gig for the Los Angeles Lakers, that should be an attractive option for someone like Blake, Pargo, Knight, etc.
Plus, Jordan Farmar will be able to contribute significant minutes next season.
Posted by: Critical Beatdown | July 02, 2007 at 10:12 AM
For all the bloggers saying Kobe turned KG off LA. Ric Bucher is saying the Lakers acquiring KG is the one move that would result in him backing off his demands. Its in an article by Stein on ESPN, in add. Charlie Roosen(sp) sees LA as the most suitable destination for KG, but Mchale is reluctant to trade with the Lakers because of the Celtic/Lakers rivalry. I still think Odom and Bynum for KG is as good as the Wolves will get unless the Bulls can offer something better and they are not about to include Deng in any deal from all reports. I think if the Lakers can include Kwame (expring contract) and absorb a bad contract from the Wolves (Jaric) they could get it done. They would probably be forced to overpay for Mihm to re-sign then but its worth a go.
Intrestingly everybody keeps quoting an inside source saying KG would be happy to hook up with Nash but ignores the inside source who was quoted as saying ' what got KG upset was the Suns rumors but then he heard about Boston and just went off' might not be the exact words but the meaning was the same. This was published just before he said he didn't want to go to Boston, but nobody mentions that in the media all you hear is about Kobe calling KG and the move going dead when Mchale it is said doesn't really rate Odom's game and is not intrigued enough by Bynum to get over bad blood with the Lakers. Just to point something out to the Kobe haters.
Posted by: max | July 02, 2007 at 10:18 AM
"Pargo"
Oh, god. Not him. Not again. Why do people keep bringing that name up? AK halp plz.
plz/
asdfjakl;dsfsdf; fjawjeio4flk
Posted by: generic_one | July 02, 2007 at 10:18 AM
***************************************************************************************
* ATTENTION BLOGGERS : TODAY IS : ROLL CALL ENDS DAY
*******************************************************************************
THE LAKERS PLEDGE
I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE BANNERS
OF THE 14 TIME WORLD CHAMPION LAKERS
AND TO THE GREATNESS FOR WHICH THEY STAND
ONE TEAM UNDER (9RINGS) INDIVISIBLE
WITH NBA TITLES FOR ALL
Psalms 24
Phil Jackson is my Shepard I shall not want.
He maketh me not to lie down on pick and rolls
He leadeth me besides quiet referees
He restoreth my Laker Soul and
Guides me in the path of Greatness
Yea though I walk through the valley
Of the shadow of the Suns
I fear no Defeat
For The Mamba is with me
His 81 points and slam dunks comfort me
Phil prepares a game plan in the
Presence of my opponents
He anointeth my head with gatorade
My shot flows and flows and flows
Surely Greatness and NBA titles will follow me
All the days of my career and I
Will dwell in the house of Staples forever
AMEN
******COMMENTARY *********
I’d like to thank all of the Bloggers for making me feel like one of the family. This will be
My last day on the Blog. I’ve gained some great knowledge of Basket ball and
Appreciation for some truly beautiful human beings. If you would indulge me I would like to
Thank a few people
To Keifo thanks for always being in attendance on roll call
I Feel like I’ve gained a brother Take care my brother
To Faith thanks for helping me find my faith lol
I feel like I’ve gained a sister
To Edwin Gueco thanks for the insightful logic and inspiration
I feel like I’ve gained a mentor
To Fan of Mamba , thanks for the positive spirit
I feel like I’ve gained a fan lol!
To Generic_One Thanks for some of the funniest pieces of writing
And also for some of the most insightful pieces. G, I predict
You will be a great writer one day and it was an honor knowing you.
To Beast , thanks for helping me regain my equilibrium
Though I still don’t agree with you Peace lol
To Mike Tiente thanks for the journals I learned a lot next to
Edwin Guerro you are like a mentor to me. Keep fighting the good fight
To Fatty thanks for the humor and spirit and even the cursing out
To Tha Show thanks for telling us the truth we should have listened
You have a great mid brother
To BerkeleyLaker thanks for the positive shout out
To David Whang thanks for the boundless enthusiasm
To Tim-4-Show thanks for keeping it real
To Taliq thanks for your strength brother if I was ever in a war the two
brothers I would like to share a foxhole with are you and Keifo.
Stay strong.
To Wesjoenixon, Zakee, Tim-4-Show, KIWI, WOW , AJAX, LAKERFAZE
Thanks for helping me keep my Laker spirit when times were dark
To Mitchell thanks for one the single greatest pieces of writing
I’ve ever read. It’s been a priviledge to know you.
To AK and BK thanks for giving us the greatest Blog of them all.
And finally, to anyone I may have offended please accept my apologies
and chalk it up to my insatiable love for my team and not malice I love
You are like family to me one and all and now it’s time for me to GO FISHING lol.
I KNOW IT’S DARK NOW LAKER FANS BUT REMEMBER IT’S ALWAYS DARKEST BEFORE THE DAWN
IF YOU CAN KEEP YOUR HEAD WHEN ALL THOSE AROUND YOU ARE LOSING THEIRS YOU WILL INHERIT THE WIN.
I BELIEVE I BELIEVE I BELIEVE GOD D*MNIT I BELIEVE
I BELIEVE IN KOBE (THE BLACK MAMBA) BRYANT I BELIEVE IN PHIL (9 RINGS) JACKSON
I BELIEVE GOD DIDN’T BRING THE LAKERS THIS FAR TO DESERT THEM NOW
AND NOW THE LAST AND FINAL ROLLLLLLLLLLL CALLLLLLLLLLL:
Faith, Taliq, Edwin Gueco,, KEIFO, FATTY, MIKE T. KIWI, RespectMyAuthorith, The D,
TIM-4-SHOW, THA_ SHOW, WESJOENIXON, TALIQ, BAYWOO, Bobie,SBPIMP, lakersrydeordie
NEVER, CALI KING, RICK FRIEDMAN,THIRTY2, WOW, EXHELODRVR, J-COOL,GENERIC_ONE
JJ, AJAX, MITCHELL., LAKERTOM, LAKERFAN, DAVID WHANG, KHANG
VMAN, KOREY, XTRO, MCGARNAGLE, GUGY, GDChild, Laker4Life, Atl_Laker_fan
KL BEAST, Jorema, FearlessWhackJob, MARTY, JANDRO, LAKERFAZE, PhxLkrFAN,
TexasLaker, BOB, TreacherousBalloons, EagleBoy, TWOODY, EASTCOASTJESSIE,
Zakee, Swettual, Utzworld, Andrew Z, LAL Fan, BRANDON C., Kinglakernidas,
Fan of Mamba, Mamba24Fan4Life, BlackMamba24, FKILLAH, CYRUS(VENTRILIQUIST)
Waterboy, Hariyahu, ADAM KILEY,Bynum=The BigLazy, ZEN, SARCOCOP,Staples24
COMPTONS FINEST, MIGUELINHO, Greek Dude, J.Walter Weatherman, SOCALIFE,
Greekdude, Michael J, Michael H, Michael A., Rick Friedman, Gunner24, GINO,
CBUCK,LAKERGURL, CRITICAL BEATDOWN, PFUNK36, PAUL LEE, Jay EL
WEAVE MAN, JON KAVULIC, Tajluck, James da Kingpin, BERKLEYLAKER,
DION, KARL, CRAIG, MITCHELL, Lakers4Life, JimBussIsAMoron, JR, Dascilla
GABE, SEAN P., HanSoulFood, HollywoodJack, TheKobeShow, Jay Jay, TaosHum
Caeser, Obel, CHITOWNLAKER, ANGRYLAKER LAKER FANS, wiZo, MagicShaq,
HugoBoss, OSCAR, RDLEE, RealityBites, LakerLarry, Bucky, LEELO, BikBlonde,
Mfeige, Reggie, Hollywood Jack, Reality Check Time
ALL TOGETHER NOW
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS THE WINNERS OF 14 NBA TITLES
THE HOME OF WILT, KAREEM, GEORGE MIKAN, SHAQ, MAGIC, KOBE,
ELGIN BAYLOR, JERRY WEST, PAT RILEY, JAMES WORTHY, SILK
COACHED BY THE 9 TIME TITLE WINNER PHIL (9RINGS) JACKSON
AND NO ONE AND NOTHING WILL EVER DIVIDE OR CONQUER
LAKERS TODAY LAKERS TOMORROW LAKERS FOREVER
THANK YOU ONE AND ALL PEACE
Posted by: Mamba24 | July 02, 2007 at 10:21 AM
I think re-signing Luke Walton was a great move (also very much foreseen). He is from California and always wanted to stay anyway. Also, his game is best played within the triangle so he compliments the team perfectly. He doesn't need to shoot the ball or have it in his hands too much and he will have another year with the team so the chemistry keep building as we move forward. His only glaring weakness will be to guard the leagues premier small forwards (Artest, Melo, Lebron, Etc) which will pose a problem. He should be our 6th man either way.
We should really look into re-signing Mihm for a minimum deal as well as explore a few other back-up centers like Melvin Ely and PJ Brown.
I would like to see more aggressive talks for a Starting PG whom Farmar will back-up. Mo WIlliams and Steve Blake seem like good prospects.
Another really really good fit would be Gerald Wallace! (I've been saying this for at least 3 years now) Just in case we have to trade Odom, then we absolutely MUST get Gerald to fill that void.
Its going to be an exciting season I can feel it. Go LA!
P.S. Is it me?! But being from NYC, I cant help but think that Isiah Thomas got ZACK ATTACK from Portland so that he can go after a superstar like a KG, J.O. or Kobe (but I doubt any of those will happen)
Posted by: blaze1bx | July 02, 2007 at 10:21 AM
Mamba24:
"This will be My last day on the Blog."
Wha?? Shut up. That is not acceptable. We do not accept your resignation. If you leave, you will be hunted down and handcuffed to Mike T to serve a sentence of no less than five years. Now, ask yourself, is that something you are willing to subject yourself to?
Posted by: generic_one | July 02, 2007 at 10:30 AM
Javaris can hit the outside 3
http://youtube.com/watch?v=JB5OTh3V4ok
Posted by: ajax | July 02, 2007 at 10:41 AM
Mamba24,
if you really are leaving the blog, it's a damn shame...
your positive thinking, entertaining takes and willingness to learn from others are unparalleled. there are plenty of kats on this blog who THINK they know it ALL...sometimes i even fit that bill.
there is plenty of ego on this blog (no wonder we're kobe fans), and you have always been different (free from ego). and for that, i commend you.
anyhow, please reconsider leaving the blog - you would be missed.
cheers.
Posted by: tha show | July 02, 2007 at 10:41 AM
Lakers please do not overpay for Mihm. I believe he should play for the fans here for free after missing the last 1.5 seasons. The nerve of this guy to want the full midlevel. Dont give the full midleve to Blake either.
Use it to try and get either Magloire or Francis as they will help right away if Francis is healthy.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: tripgame3 | July 02, 2007 at 10:44 AM
Thank you also Mamba24 the uniter and the pacifier. It is hard to be a Laker fan nowadays because we have lots of divisions in choosing our players, in paying their salaries and finally, in understanding the unorthodox moves of this Front Office. You have to use your zombies because the blog is not only infliltrated of people who hate Mamba but SPIES using different aliases coming from the office of Jim Buss. They are trying to direct the opinion of the blog. Please watch them Mamba 24, we still trust you.
Before this PG gets out of the Laker scope, I'd like to post again a portion of what I have posted yesterday on the Greek, Theo Papaloukas
"Theo Papaloukas, the star point guard of CSKA Moscow and the National team of Greece had another successful year-- full of titles and awards--which helped him beat both Dirk Nowitzki and Pau Gasol for the "European Player of the Year" award."
Again I repeat this PG beat Nowitzki, last year MVP and Pau Gasol as the BEST EUROPEAN PLAYER. Go for a PG who is already tried and tested and PAY HIM WELL. Put your money where it will work well. I like Steve Blake but Korey does not like him and so with the Blazers and so with the Bucks and finally, the Nuggets are trading him. Why oh Why? There must be something wrong. While this European is the best PG in Europe, 6'7" 30 years old, toyed Lebron, Wade and Melo during FIBA Games, toyed on Brand and Maggette when Clippers played against CSKA Moscow, he must be a special player. He is in demand by 11 teams. Don't tell me the Lakers will be beaten by the Raftors or Spurs AGAIN.
With this kind of player, I don't mind chasing him to end tip of Russia near the North Pole and give him the money that will make him happy because I know he will bring the Lakers to great heights. If you keep on sending mixed signals of NOT WANTING him on the PG position by drafting two guards, chasing Steve Blake, hey even greeks know how to read English and greeks know that they are mere second fiddle to American PG's, he can walk away and sign with another team.
DON"T UNDERESTIMATE FOREIGN PLAYERS and wonder why Manu Ginobli, Tony Parker and Fabricio Oberto play with the Spurs?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | July 02, 2007 at 10:54 AM
Now that the draft is over and the free agency period has taken effect. The decisions for the Lakers look much different than they did even a week ago. Below is a compilation of both the rumored moves as well as some suggested moves by myself for the Lakers over the next 2 weeks.
1 – Re-Sign Luke Walton to a $30mil/6yr. contract.
According to reports, this deal has already been agreed to in principal. I, perhaps would not have made it for so long or for as much money, but it can be justified based on the market value/salary comparison currently in the league. Luke Walton’s annual improvements and overall performance since arriving in LA, make signing him an understandable first step, especially considering that it doesn’t affect the first year cap.
2 – Sign FA Steve Blake using half of the MLE – $2.5mil/3yr. (player option) contract.
According to reports, the Denver Nuggets are not serious about retaining Steve Blake for the future, and the Lakers couldn’t be happier. Based on his expired contract and the current market value for players of his caliber, the Lakers could potential acquire his services for half of their MLE. The Lakers appear to be high on his consistent, if not exciting, style of play offensively and defensively. He could be just the right guard to fill that starting role.
3 – Sign FA Grant Hill using half of the MLE - $2.5mil/3yr. (player option) contract.
According to reports, Toronto has agreed to a contract with Jason Kapono in principal. Although this UCLA graduate would love the chance to play for the Lakers, he appears to be set to sign with the Raptors. This effects the future home of Grant Hill, since he was believed to be the first free agent choice of the Raptors. He is still believed to be a possible future Phoenix Sun, however, they are not willing to pay him much for his services…or so the reports say. It may come down to WHERE HE WANTS TO PLAY and not who can pay the most money. If the Lakers can’t acquire him, Nocioni becomes a target in a sign and trade deal.
4 – Trade Brian Cook, Vladimir Radmanovic and Kwame Brown to the Golden State Warriors for Al Harrington and Adonal Foyle.
No offense to the 3 current Lakers in this trade, but there time in Los Angeles has been bitter sweet at best. All three have serious liabilities that make their overall packages just not enough to warrant keeping them if a better option is obtainable. The Lakers could decide to hold on to Brown and either trade him before the deadline or wait and receive the salary relief. However, both Brian and Vlade need to go. IF the Lakers had a lot of depth, perhaps they could keep them, but they don’t. The two incoming players would immediately fill needs in key areas. Al Harrington is a version of Lamar Odom. He is less of a distributor, yet he is more productive and less predictable as a scorer. Although the Lakers would keep Odom, Harrington would instantly become his backup. It would also be possible to pair them together in certain situations against smaller lineups. Foyle is way more productive than his numbers indicated last season. He simply doesn’t fit in Golden State anymore. However, his solid defense and high percentage in the paint make him a solid pick as either backup or starting center. He also would serve as a veteran presence to help with the on-court development of Andrew Bynum.
5 – Re-Sign Chris Mihm to a minimum limited-salary (team option) contract or sign Melvin Ely to a veteran minimum contract.
According to reports, the Lakers may not be the ONLY team potentially looking to sign Chris Mihm. However, it is most likely a foregone conclusion that if given the option, his first choice would be to return to Los Angeles. As with Walton, the fact that he can be signed under the Larry Bird Provision without affecting the salary cap for next season, he is a wise pickup if only as another reserve big man. If the Lakers just can’t get Mihm, I would go with Ely.
New Roster
PG: Steve Blake, Jordan Farmar, Javaris Crittenton
SG: Kobe Bryant, Maurice Evans, Sasha Vujacic
SF: Grant Hill, Luke Walton
PF: Lamar Odom, Al Harrington, Ronny Turiaf
C: Andrew Bynum, Adonal Foyle, Chris Mihm
This may not be the most impressive lineup, but it could be equally as productive IF they play as a team. The young players must improve over the summer. The older players must refine their skills. Kobe and Lamar MUST commit to doing whatever it takes for this team to win, starting with reaching out to EVERY team member and creating a TEAM FIRST philosophy. Something like Pat Riley’s 15-Strong Mantra would do wonders for this team next season.
Posted by: JJ | July 02, 2007 at 10:56 AM
LUKE WALTON AH?!??
30 mil
WOW LOL HAHAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOW
so this is the big offseason improvement is to resign walton.......
Posted by: COMPTON'S FINEST | July 02, 2007 at 10:58 AM
i don't know much about papaloukas.
i know a lil something about blake.
and from what i know about blake, let's go with papaloukas.
especially if it means waiving sasha vujacic.
speaking of waiving, the bobcats waived brevin knight last week.
i wouldn't mind bringing that guy in for a cup of coffee.
why not?
Posted by: tha show | July 02, 2007 at 10:59 AM
tripgame3,
Francis could be signed for $1mil since he would also be getting money for the contract he is currently finishing. It is believed that Portland may buyout his current contract, which would make him available for 1mil like Chris Webber was.
Francis would be an intriguing pickup especially at point guard, but I wonder about his attitude and defense. He would definitely be the least expensive veteran point guard out there at his talent level.
Posted by: JJ | July 02, 2007 at 10:59 AM
Now tell me the Buss children aren't a dysfunction lot.
Johnny Buss gets married on day and two days later he's divorced.
Jimmy Buss' "friend" is killed in an accident and he mourns for years. It's almost as if they were lovers or something.
Jeannie Buss is so starved for her father attention that she does a spread in playboy because she knows her father reads the magazine on a regular bases.
The other Buss daughter seems to be the only one who's normal. She so normal I don't even know her name.
Now how much of Johnny's, Jimmy's, and Jeannie's dysfunctional life is a direct result of having a father who parades 23 year olds in front of them all their lives?
Why does Los Angeles celebrate such a morally bankrupt person like Jerry Buss?
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 02, 2007 at 11:01 AM
Mamba24,
I read that you're leaving the blog for fishing only just for one day.
Don't leave the blog. Let's wait till free agency is over and when and how Kobe will be further get frustrated and finally leaves the Lakers. Once you leave I will also follow it's becoming a lonely trail to keep up with sanity.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | July 02, 2007 at 11:01 AM
another weekend passes by, and kg remains with the wolves.
while this does not mean he will be traded to the lakers, it at least means there is still a chance...
to quote jim carrey from 'dumb & dumber':
"SO YOU'RE TELLING ME THERE'S A CHANCE..."
Posted by: tha show | July 02, 2007 at 11:02 AM
Mamba24,
It was fun while it lasted. Hopefully this is not some desperate attempt to see who loves you. Good luck in your future endevours
Posted by: zen | July 02, 2007 at 11:05 AM
Mamba24,
I'm going to write my Jerry Buss paper, then I'm out of here too.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 02, 2007 at 11:07 AM
"Why does Los Angeles celebrate such a morally bankrupt person like Jerry Buss?"
Dr. Buss's personal life is exactly that. Personal. He's brought the City of Los Angeles 8 championships. He's certainly not a role model, but how many Americans can claim that they've never made a mistake?
COMPTON'S FINEST:
Weren't you heading this way? http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/cliptomaniac/
Posted by: generic_one | July 02, 2007 at 11:15 AM
Mamba24 & MT,
You guys are not leaving! Mitch will get KG and Kwame Brown will turn into a superstar before that happens.
Posted by: zen | July 02, 2007 at 11:15 AM
I always said this: If I didn't believe the Lakers had a chance of winning the championship why follow them?
The Lakers are going down in a fast hurry. No way wil I follow them next year. Well, I will check out the boxscore just to see how bad it is.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | July 02, 2007 at 11:15 AM
tha show
Papaloukos will cost the Lakers their whole MLE. Considering the number of areas needing to be addressed, that would be quite a huge amount for just one improvement. Blake is much less expensive and will still serve the purpose.
COMPTON'S FINEST,
Although I disagree with paying him so much for so long, I agree with taking care of him first. It shows good faith to the player plus it is good business sense. He has nothing to do with the salary cap for next season. In other words, he is an addition that won't hurt the team financially next year. However, he isn't a "big summer acquisition"! The Lakers are still working on that one.
Posted by: JJ | July 02, 2007 at 11:15 AM
WE COULDN'T TRADE KOBE IF WE WANTED TO.
I've been reading anything and everything in regards to KG being traded. I've looked at how rosters shake down on both ends, salary implications and how it all falls under the Collective Bargainning Agreement and I've come to one conclusion: it's damn near impossible to trade KG. This led me to another thought: it's going to be even more difficult to trade Kobe. Take the KG situation, throw in the demands in the media and the only no-trade clause in the NBA and things become even more muddled.
The interesting thing is, even if Kobe demanded to be traded and we decided to basically trade him for peanuts, there really wouldn't be a market for him. The only team that I could see as a possible destination that would have the money to pay for him, the shear gall to make that deal, and the complete disregard for the future or team chemistry are the Knicks. Even the Bulls have said that they rather stick with what they've built (and they're right) instead of shipping out half the team for Kobe (even then they'd have to pull off one or more tricky sign and trades).
So what do the Lakers do? Well, there's the Odom/Bynum for JO deal. That will cause some to say we'd be trading the future for JO and what if Kobe opted out? Well, that's fair. The thing is, JO has three years left on his deal. Let's say Kobe plays two years and still hates it here and opts out. That frees up $20 million in salary and we have JO on the books for one more year and when that expires we have $45 million off the books in the two stars to pursue a free agent class that includes Lebron, D-Wade, and Carmelo. Not saying we devise some "2010 Plan", but all would not be lost if we traded for JO and Kobe left.
In conclusion, as things look a tad bleak right now and every move wreaks of "damned if you do, damned if you don't", if you step back and take a look at it, it's not that bad.
Now, if we take Troy Murphy back in the JO deal I'm going to shoot myself in the face.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 02, 2007 at 11:16 AM
JJ,
sound moves. they are moves that make financial sense, even though most of them are gambles (grant hill, blake, mihm). i guess you could call them cheap gambles like divac, mckie, vlad rad, shammond, etc.
it seems your offseason formula is the same one the lakers have been using since they traded shaq.
and that's fine.
however, kobe will be gone by the all-star break if our biggest offseason acquisition is al harrington.
so you are obviously in favor of adding a couple of small pieces instead of making a deal for a superstar (kobe's demand), correct?
as for me, i am not sure what i think anymore.
i do know that kobe wants out unless a star is brought in to help him.
peace.
Posted by: tha show | July 02, 2007 at 11:16 AM
Theo Papaloukas now has a nickname...
Theo Papaloukas aka T PAPA.
Posted by: ajax | July 02, 2007 at 11:17 AM
I don't know if I'm more depressed about the 30 mil, or Mamba24 leaving.
NO MAMBA24!!! NOOOOOOOOO!!!
Come back!
Mike T TOOOOOOOO!!!!
I would like to think we'd be "smart" about signing Mihm. After all the guy just took up a spot on our roster without actually playing a single game. Like our big MLE signing from years back....Aaron McKie. But at least he played 1 game this season. Hooray for McKie. I swear our salary cap isn't a problem because we're tied...it's a problem because we're so inept in signing/guaranteeing and basically making it harder on us. Please God help us!
Posted by: Faith | July 02, 2007 at 11:18 AM
I don't understand why a few of you are so gloomy. The Lakers are not in a terrible position right now. Don't let the record fool you. If they are going to keep Lamar and Andrew, then all they really need is 1 more impact player and some solid role players to fill in the holes and they will be fine.
Kobe + Lamar + 1 more above average contributor = very competitive tandem.
It doesn't take much to build a championship team when you already have 1 or 2 superstars. This is why I have been so surprised by Minnesota. With a guy like Garnett, there is no reason why they haven't been able to pair him with a star guard by now. The formula for a championship is still to put 2 or 3 superstars (1 being a top 10 player) and a bunch of solid role players, and you have a contender.
Posted by: JJ | July 02, 2007 at 11:21 AM
MT,
is that a promise? just kidding, really just kidding.
i know that you see the writing on the wall.
i know your beef with the lakers re-signing luke walton has nothing to do with money or the length of the contract.
it really has to do with luke walton being a phil jackson favorite.
i sense you are putting two and two together. luke walton for 6 years must mean we will have phil jackson for at least the next 4 years.
while i may disagree with you from time to time (namely kwame brown), mad props for the consistency and determination.
you even had a blog title with YOUR NAME ON IT. pretty damn awesome, at least i think so.
peace.
Posted by: tha show | July 02, 2007 at 11:21 AM
You know what pisses me off the most people still using the word (POTENTIAL) when speaking of walton,FLUCCING clowns DUDE is 27,you use that when speaking about BYNUM or farmer young cats with room to grow....
Their is no more potential with walton,what you see is what you get.
1) CANT SHOOT
2) CANT PLAY D
3) SLOW FOOTED
4) CANT CREATE HIS OWN SHOT
5) BELOW AVERAGE BALL-HANDLER
6) NO ATHLETICISM WHAT SO EVER.
So were paying 30 mil for a guy who can make the extra pass???????
THIS IS A FLUCCING JOKE..........MITCH IS A FLUCCCCING JOKE........AN WHO EVER THINK THIS IS A GOOD SIGNING ARE FLUCCING CLOWN.
IM BESIDE MYSELF FULLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: COMPTON'S FINEST | July 02, 2007 at 11:21 AM
Mike T,
I'm not exactly sure Dr. Buss is morally bankrupt. He seems to be a guy who is enjoying the fruits of his hard work and labor.
I don't think any person is able to pass moral judgements either.
Haven't you said that you've done time in jail?
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 02, 2007 at 11:21 AM
JJ,
I wish players would think that they are getting paid enough and take an advantage to play for a franchise like the Lakers for the cheap. That would be great if he came here for the veterans minimum (1.5) but i doubt he does and hell probably take the full mle from the Clips.
The few times I saw Blake play, he had decent defense but not offense. he has an ackward jumpshot and isnt as consistent, but at least he wont be a liability on the defensive end which is where we need help the most.
I hope we can snag Francis though...
Posted by: tripgame3 | July 02, 2007 at 11:22 AM
JJ,
good point about papaloukas.
however, the buzz around papaloukas is that he is a difference maker.
i would much rather use my MLE on a difference maker than a band aid (blake, grant hill, etc.).
then again, who knows what will happen in the upcoming weeks...
Posted by: tha show | July 02, 2007 at 11:26 AM
AK,
Why do you keep saying that Luke Walton doesnt count against the cap? Sure he doesn't count this year, but he sure counts in the coming years. The Lakers now have about $16 million tied up on Cook, Radmanavic, and Walton. Kobe's contract kicks up to a bout $20 milllion next year, so essentially they will have about $35 million tied up between 3 bench/role players, and one superstar. How does that make financial sense.
Chris Mihm is a nut if he think hes worth $1 million dollars. If Kupchek pays even half the MLE for that guy, he's crazy.
Posted by: I miss van exel and eddie jones | July 02, 2007 at 11:27 AM
Generic One,
You are hereby promoted to "genius one" for posting the epic Muppet drum battle. The Lake show could use some of what Animal's got.
Posted by: Vman | July 02, 2007 at 11:29 AM
tha show,
Kobe will be in training camp for the next two season, regardless of who the Lakers acquire in a trade, or he is committing PR suicide.
As soon as he sits out, the black hat goes from Dr. Buss and the front office to Kobe Bryant. His image everywhere from his sponsors to his fans to the other organizations around the league will be tarnished. After Colorado I don't think Kobe could withstand another bad publicity move. There's not enought time left in his career, not enough titles to make it happen. You have to remember, even though he's still with Nike, other big money endorsements like McDonald's, Sprite, and Nutella (thought that was funny) never came back. Nike has marketed him as the win-at-all-costs basketball junkie, but if he decides that a personal tift or a bad comment by an "insider" is enough to keep him off the court, well then I'd like to find a marketing person who can sell that.
Bring into the equation that the Lakers can't find equal value for Kobe, on and off the court, and you have the perfect storm for a whole lotta' talking and not a whole lotta' action.
The organization will be fine, and Kobe will shut up and play.
Hey, it's Hollywood baby!! Mike T and the rest of the bandwagoners who are only around when we're winning can go and find other blogs to read. I'll be around through it all.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 02, 2007 at 11:29 AM
Mike T
Me thinks you wont have as many people begging you to stay as Mamba so i'll say it...dont go Mike.. but I want the old Mike T back.The one who would call it how he saw it not the one who appears to be posting for responses.
Mamba24....take a break and come back
Edwin...youve got my approval...I must apologise I sometimes reread my posts and cringe at what an egg I can be...like Im marking an essay or something.I dont mean to patronise...Im just not that cool
Old comrades sniping, boycotts and unpleasantries exchanged... that last thread was angry dark place.LETS make this one even angrier and even DARKER rarrrrgh!!!!
I'll kick things off shall I?....Ex ...I think you are a Kwame Brown....
Mike T you are a Mihm mixed with Walton mongrel
KL Beast....ever noticed you have the same initials as Kobe ...you wanna be him so bad....
Smush parker rules we should have resigned him for six years...
go clippers!
go heat!
go Jim Buss and Mitch!
Go Raja!
GO SUNS!!!!!!
John Kavulic... NO ballet doesnt count as a martial art
Anyone I havent upset ?????
right , back to the glue
Posted by: Kiwi | July 02, 2007 at 11:30 AM
tha show,
I was in favor of making a big deal on draft day, which the Lakers didn't. Now I am becoming more resolved to make small changes to better the team. However, don't confuse my plan with what the Laker shave been doing the past few years. It is NOT the same.
My plan would have Antonio Daniels and Caron Butler on the Lakers team right now. My plan would have had Juwan Howard on this team as well. My plan would have looked much different than what the Lakers did so don't confuse the two.
As for the plan going forward, my changes should not even be compared to guys like Divac and McKie. Both of those guys are past their prime. Their last quality season was two years before they came to the Lakers. Grant Hill just came off of a VERY impressive season and although he is older, his body has less miles than any other guy playing at his age. His ankles are worn but on a team where he isn't the main star, he could fit in nicely similarly to how Ron Harper did. As for Harrington, I wanted him last summer and still wish we had gotten him for the price we offered. Consider that Smush and I believe Kwame were the pieces being offered at the time. We left that on the table. We could have put Lamar at small forward and harrington at power forward. Blake is a quality point guard that has been very productive. Because he has moved around, doesn't mean he hasn't been productive. There are several players that have moved around and yet have been very productive. Sam Cassell is/was a very productive point guard at one time and moved a few times.
As for Kobe, he won't leave if he is winning.
Posted by: JJ | July 02, 2007 at 11:32 AM
JJ,
"Kobe + Lamar + 1 more above average contributor = very competitive tandem."
Most of your trades have been for two or three role type guys (Hill, Blake, etc.), who do you think we should target to fill that position? I'm just curious because the only guy I can think of is Ron Artest. Also, when I think of people I look at their availability and how we would be able to acquire them.
Curious to see who you have in mind.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 02, 2007 at 11:32 AM
The Bob Young AZ Central article on moved superstars was interesting. As we are Lakers fans, I am also naturally more curious about the flip side; the fate of the team losing the superstar. Drawing on just my recollections, I suspect the results are sobering.
Posted by: The D | July 02, 2007 at 11:35 AM
tripgame3,
I have yet to see one of those stars not play for the veteran minimum. No team is going to pay Francis to play for them. Do you honestly believe he can command anything over the minimum? He has no negotiating power.
tha show,
You must have missed all of the games with Blake against the Lakers. In Portland he shot the lights out. In Milwaukee he was starting too. In Denver, he didn't get the ball enough, but still was a solid perimeter scorer. Go look at his stats.
Posted by: JJ | July 02, 2007 at 11:37 AM
This is not how you build a championship team....signing a 27 year old dude with no upside.
can someone please explain to me why we didn't resign (DEREK FISHER)
you mean to tell me he's not worth 30 mill . 4 sec,he did 10 time's more than luke but we let him walk.
are you guy's going to sit here an tell me luke flucing walton has more value than DEREK FISHER.........were looking for a pg right now that were going to pay out 30 plus mil to lol
clowns that's what we are, were the joke of the league.
Im with KOBE I have no confidence is this FO what so ever
Posted by: COMPTON'S FINEST | July 02, 2007 at 11:39 AM
I miss van exel and eddie jones,
All that matters right now is what will count against the cap next season. You forget that Kwame (if kept) will be coming off the books next summer. That will offset some of Walton, Cook and Radman's salaries. As for so much being tied to those 3....that is why I recommend trading 1 or 2 of them.
Neither Briand or Vlade provide enough on either end to justify keeping them at those salaries. I say, trade them now.....
Posted by: JJ | July 02, 2007 at 11:40 AM
After getting Crittenton in the draft, Blake seems like a good pickup if he will take reasonable money, not the whole mid-level. Sounds like Papaloukas has some other bidders so we probably can't afford him. But if we were to get Blake, he could hold the PG position until Javaris is ready to take over. I think the guy (Javaris) is going to be good, maybe not great but a good, solid player but... once again, he's another guy that needs to get a full year under his belt to understand the level of conditioning and commitment involved at this level.
Yeah, we bag on the Lakers but you look at other teams and they aren't doing that great at this or that position either so... we're not alone... LOL! At least the Lakers are building a good, young core. Eventually you could see Javaris starting, Farmar backing him up, Kobe (in theory) holding down the SG and Walton and Radmanovich (if he plays better) are young, Odom is still young, Turiaf, Bynum obviously, and the 2, 2nd round draft picks, if one of them hits, it's a win, hey, they're 2nd round picks, waddaya want? Gasol could theoretically back up Bynum not next year but the year after and he'll be CHEAP!
If Mihm gets the full MLE from Chicago or if he goes somewhere else, you would have to guess that Kwame is staying, even though he does have some trade value. We can't risk thinning out the C position unless we get a C back in trade. Odom has now become an interesting question mark. First of all, does he still want to be here after all the trade rumors? I like the guy but is this marriage going to work or do we move Odom for a more traditional PF?
Posted by: TaosHum | July 02, 2007 at 11:40 AM