Rumors and housekeeping
July 29, 2007 | 11:41
pm
The good news is that Kevin Garnett is rumored once again to be on the move. The bad news? The rumors don't put him in L.A. Instead, Boston looks like the destination du jour, with Danny Ainge's draft-day acquisition of Ray Allen having apparently made Beantown seem more palatable to The Big Ticket. At least he'll be out of the conference.
Also, on the housekeeping end, we'll be in Seattle on Monday. HQ will know, so hopefully everything goes smoothly.
-- BK
If that goes through, this would be the scoreboard for the summer:
Lakers add:
Critter
Fisher
Celtics add:
Ray Allen
KG
Glen Davis
Posted by: HTP | July 29, 2007 at 11:45 PM
It looks as though the only thing that can stop this trade now is KG. And I really do not think you can blame Mitch on this one. Boston had more of what Mchale was looking to aquire in a deal. Plus we are the Lakers after all, figures he is shipping KG to Boston.
MH
Posted by: michael h | July 30, 2007 at 12:04 AM
BK,
I live in Seattle at the moment so i must ask, what brings you up here?
Posted by: Violater | July 30, 2007 at 12:09 AM
I do not understand McHale's preferences and priorities. Why would he prefer a package of Al Jefferson, Theo Ratliff (expiring contract) and R. Rondo over a package of Lamar Odom, Andrew Bynum, Kwame Brown (expiring contract) and perhaps Jordan Farmar? Does he hate the Lakers that much? Glenn Taylor should intervene before it costs the Twolves dearly.
Posted by: Justin Young | July 30, 2007 at 12:20 AM
Violater-
Doing some stuff with the Seahawks.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | July 30, 2007 at 12:35 AM
I wonder if McHale is doing this in secret behind Glen Taylor's back..
Rajon Rondo?? Dont they already have Randy Foye at PG??
Al Jefferson he's going to struggle once he faces bigger stonger bodies in the West.
Man, Farmar is the same size and Rajan Rondo, Lamar is already Al Jefferson in terms of stats, and Bynum is a high reward gamble, a guy who in a few years COULD be compeiting with Oden as one of the best True centers in the West.
Is Bill Lambeir part of the T-Wolves too???
BTW, BK...
The SEAHAWKS?? I hope youre trying to convince the franchise to close down immediately.. LOL..would could you possibily be doing with a team thats on the verge of being passed by the Niners once more?? That must be a terrible assignment
Posted by: The Lake-Show | July 30, 2007 at 12:50 AM
With KG almost certainly headed to Boston, I'm convinced more than ever that Kupchak should hold the line and stand pat. If Larry Bird wants to trade O'Neal for Odom, one on one, maybe. But come on; what have the Pacers done the last few years? That doesn't say much for their roster to me. There's no way we should give up a lot of young talent and take on a couple of bad contracts in the deal. After all, we just finally got the Caron Butler money off the books, two years later.
As I've said, the best teams in any sport are the teams with the most stability. Look at San Antonio and Detroit in the NBA and New England and the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL.
Fishguy is right: change for change's sake will not help the Lakers.
Lake Show, I think your trade machine changes too many pieces for not enough benefit.
Laker Blake, I encourage you to be patient. Do some of the individuals still around from last year's team have weaknesses? Absolutely. But the return of D-Fish and a potentially healthy Chris Mihm bring a lot to the party. We have guys who know each other and who are capable of better teamwork than we had last season.
You say, "Our 3 centers alternate on who's better daily which means none of them is much better than Kwame Brown." Let's see what happens if Kwame comes back healthy. With Mihm back and Bynum further along, he will have to compete for minutes in his contract year. Whatever Kwame's physical limitations, he's playing this year for next year's money. That's not a bad motivator.
If we can cut Sasha, as suggested, and fill the 14th slot with James Posey, that would be a win. If ANYBODY will take Brian Cook, PUH-LEEZE do. Cook featured on the Lakers web site? Somebody in the marketing department has been doing too many "special" brownies. That's just insane.
But the rest of the team, at least offensively, can function. We still desperately need Defense. But with everybody on board already knowing the offense, that gives the coaching staff more time to devote to D. I say, preach it and teach it and preach it some more. Giving up fewer points is the key to more W's.
Changing topics...
Jon Kavulic,
Dude! What's with you, this weekend? I've had the pleasure of meeting both K-Brothers and they are classy guys. For a blogger whose posts are mostly lucid and heartfelt, you are just out of sorts. AK and BK are not the kind of people who would do any of the things you've suggested. We've had our disagreements but I've always been allowed to express them, as have many others. This blog errs on the side of freedom of expression, sometimes to a fault. Your emotions are totally leading you down the wrong path. Your fellow bloggers are all cheering you on to return to an even keel.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | July 30, 2007 at 01:24 AM
The Lakers have always been a two superstar team. For the last 30 something years starting from Wilt & Jerry West to Kareem & Magic to Kobe & Shaq, the Lakers always had championship teams with two (or sometimes even more) future Hall of Famers. Anything less than that is simply too little for such a famed franchise like the Lakers. Every team in the league rises up a notch or two when they play against the Lakers. Everyone wants to beat the most glamorous and storied team in the NBA. There's just no way a single superstar can carry that load day in day out and still have anything left in the tank for the playoffs, no matter how good his teammates are. Even Jordan had Pippen, who many people felt was the second best player in the NBA at that time. Plus there was Rodman, one of the best rebounders in the history of the game and Steve Kerr, one of the best long range bombers in the history of the game.
And then there's Kobe...
...and...
...the current Lakers.
The next best player in the team after Kobe is Lamar Odom. The next All-Star game that Lamar attends will be his first one.
That says it all.
Don't get me wrong. I love Lamar's game. But he is not even a sure fire All-Star in the NBA, let alone a superstar.
But having said all this theories about multiple superstars, there's just nothing the Lakers can possibly do to get another superstar baller...at least it doesn't look too encouraging on the trade scenario. I just feel that Kevin McHale will much rather help his Celtics with KG than help the Lakers. And I don't know what other superstar player the Lakers can get right now or even in the future.
That pretty much leaves us with the here and now.
And what we have in the here and now, in terms of talent, is Lamar, Bynum, Walton, Farmar, JCritt, Kwame and Turiaf. Fisher is a solid addition who'll provide some much needed leadership. If the Lakers cannot get that covetted superstar through free agency they should really try to work with the core of the team as much as possible by adding (or subtracting) important parts here and there. DFish was a great addition that will complement this team. This was a very San Antonia Spur-esque move. They got Duncan, Parker and Ginobili and then a bunch of solid vets and role players. The Lakers should try to take a lead out of the Spurs page when it comes to team building in the NBA.
Given the free agents that are available and the current Lakers roster, let's look at each position and what they can do to improve without trading for that second superstar...
CENTER
The trio of Kwame Brown, Chris Mihm and young Andrew Bynum forms a very solid, even formidable big men line up (without injuries of course). That's three pretty solid guys who, once again if healthy, can combine to average at least 20 points and 15 boards. That right there are All-Star quality production, even if it is done by committee. Not too many team can boast of having three guys who can clog the middle and play fairly solid defense. I would hold onto these guys and keep working on them. From what I hear, Bynum looks really good during his summer workouts. Kwame is playing for a contract next year. And Mihm is hungry to show everyone that he can still contribute after his ankle surgery. Serious potential in this position if they're healthy all year long.
POWER FORWARD
Lamar is the man over here. He really wants to stay in LA (good place to be for his other career as a music producer) and once again, if he is healthy, he may just give an All-Star quality performance for the year. He truly is a matchup nightmare for most teams in the NBA and if he is firing on all cylinders (working on the post and taking his man off the dribble, plus hitting his J), then forget about it. Plus, he's one the nicest individuals in the game. I see Lamar having a great season if all goes well healthwise (that word again...can't emphasize enough about the dreaded "H" word).
As back up, Turiaf should really be played a the 4 spot instead of the 5 with even Mihm doing some work as a backup PF. This brings both size and rebounding to the 4 spot that is sorely missing when Lamar takes a breather. Brian Cook should only be a situational sub or should simply be shipped out for a more useful cog. Free Agent wise, a veteran at the PF, someone like PJ Brown or Chris Webber, would be great. Just give some solid minutes or even play in tandem with Lamar in the post.
SMALL FORWARD
This is where we need the biggest help. Luke should be a backup. Simple as that. They need a more prototype, defensive minded NBA SF from the free agency pool like the veteran James Posey or Ruben Patterson (in spite of his baggage) or someone fairly new like Ume Udoka. In today's NBA it is extremely critical to have some athleticism and defense in SF position and the Lakers really have to upgrade. Luke is a wonderful backup player who should work with the second team or even with the first team in patches. Radmanovic should also come off the bench and probably see time in both the SF and PF position to stretch the defense with his shooting. VRad can also be used as a trade bait to acquire a defensive minded SF from a team that's looking for shooters (like the Rockets for instance). But overall, seriously needs some upgrades in the SF positioin.
SHOOTING GUARD
Kobe. Enough said. Mo Evans is a pretty decent backup. Both DFish, JCritt and Sasha can also backup Kobe if needed. Not too many worries. Just pray that Kobe stays healthy (that word again).
POINT GUARD
DFish is solid. Veteran leader. Will get the respect of the opposition and also the refs. Farmar has good IQ and could turn out to be a decent backup. JCritt is very promising and should learn a lot playing with Fisher. Would be very nice to get a quick, tempo changing guard but JCritt might very well be turn out to be that guy. Overall, the PG postition is slightly better than last year and if all goes to plan, the two young guys at PG could really turn out to be steals.
So, once again, for the millionth time, if everyone's healthy and playing somewhat close to their potential and with a few key additions, this team can probably reach the second round or best case scenario, the WC finals this coming season.
A lot of variables need to work exactly as planned or else we are looking at another first round exit at best.
If I was Mitch Kupchack, I'd be scouting and talking to the free agents still available try to fill some of the gaps mentioned above.
That'd be my two cents (yeah...more like a quarter or something, but I just had to empty my heart out guys).
GO LAKERS!
RG
Posted by: RG 07 | July 30, 2007 at 02:13 AM
great just what we need(even thou its not really our fault)another missed pick up with kg imean the celtics?really?whatever it just figures we can never seem to get anything done the last couple of seasons weither we really had a chance or not and as for the flip side of the coin it doesnt seem like the answer for the big ticket either(him and ray allen)and a few other guys is going to get it done if they couldnt get over the hump a few seasons back with sam cassel,spreewell,wally,candyman,troy hudson ect.(i mean they had a pretty deep squad)so boston kinda seems like a step foward and one back,anywayz i love the fact that0.4's back and they we locked up walton but turth be told we still got work to do!just my humble opinion and your entitled to yourz(p.s. i know i havent posted in a while but its been a depressing pre-post-and off season,heres to it only gettin better)cheers mates....faceuno
Posted by: faceuno | July 30, 2007 at 03:10 AM
Only way KG trade would happen is if its ok with KG. If he would rather play with Ray Allen and Doc Rivers rather than proven winners Kobe and PJ there's something seriously wrong with his thought process.
Posted by: p ang | July 30, 2007 at 04:22 AM
Well all you Andrew Bynum lovers.
It's clear that his value is wayyyyyyy lower than AL JEFFERSON.
SOCKS for president right!!
Posted by: LakerBake | July 30, 2007 at 04:25 AM
WTF?!? Will KG really let himself be McHale's pawn his entire career? Has McHale convinced KG that he's some Minnesota Martyr and therefore has to do what's best for the franchise even at his own expense? I can't bring myself to believe that KG's really sold on teaming up with co-Allstars Allen and Pierce to outdazzle the Leastern Confernce. Yeah, it MAY even work (McHale's got Ainge drinking the koolade too, I guess), but only for one year, and then is Boston really going to fork up that extension, pay THREE max players? Yeah, no biggie for KG either way, some team will pay up even a year from now, magical four-leaf clover ring or not. My point is, KG, of course you're going to make a difference wherever you go (I'm talking to you directly at this point, Ticket).
If the trio-of-stars strategy doesn't work (see Casell-Allen-BigDog Bucks), it's not like it's unchartered territory for you to deal with. You'll start over again, and it will have been worth the gamble... Well if the point is starting over (albeit to contend), why just shoot the moon for only one ring? Demanding to come to LA is more than just joining forces with Kobe and Phil, being in a warm climate, still allowing for the cap-assisting pieces the Wolves need via trade, and getting that badly needed fresh start. It's about starting the right way, being in that winning culture where even in down years (every ringless year) there is still hope and most times even opportunity to somehow pull it off. Yeah, Boston has the tradition too, but we've got present members who were just there and still have that burning fire - and the game/coaching to back it up - to get back to that level, and then sustain it. Age of key players and cap room favor the Lakers for a longer run than what Boston is rubbing their rabbit's foot for. The worst case is that it's the same here as in Boston (yeah, right) and you are free to choose once again. But if it works here, it'll work for years. Even if it doesn't translate to a ring this season, that one year of triangle experience will still leave a big enough window for dynasty potential. Ponder, marinate, demand!
Posted by: lakerade | July 30, 2007 at 04:46 AM
1. With the blessing of the Blog's braintrust, we've sat on our 2 VERY VALUABLE trade chips and let deal after deal go by and now when the BIG DEAL comes they don't want them. (Bynum and Odom)
2. We sat out of the JKidd trade for the love of ANDREW BYNUM
3. The Blog's braintrust wants to sit out of the Jermaine O'Neal trade for the love of ANDREW BYNUM.
4. All of our trade assets (Odom, Bynum, Kwame) and the scraps like Farmar can't move us ahead of a Boston deal highlighted by Al Jefferson and Gerald Green?
5. I guess the BLOG's BRAINTRUST feels as though BYNUM or ODOM match up better with guys like KG, Amare, and Duncan than would Jermaine O'Neal.
6. At least Kevin Garnett is leaving the conference, good for him, he's gonna finally win.
7. Cheer up everyone, we've got ANDREW "SOCKS - LA BLOG FAVORITE" BYNUM.
Posted by: LakerBake | July 30, 2007 at 04:57 AM
At least we know the T'Wolves are not going to be in the playoffs this year, so thats one less team we can worry about...
I say we all be patient... if by mid season Bynum has not broken out, we trade him, but I have a feelin if we trade bynum now, we will regret it by April '08
Posted by: ctlaker | July 30, 2007 at 05:09 AM
I don't know why most of you guys are acting so ridiculous when it comes to these trades. Not getting KG or JO may be a blessing in disguise for LA!
I've said it a hundred times, and I'll say it again. I THINK LA HAS A REAL NICE CORE. We just have to be a lil more patient and allow our team to gell and grow together, not rip them apart when things get tough.
Yes, I want KG as bad as the next person. But think about it logically...LA or Boston for KG? BOSTON is a much better option for him. He'll be in the EAST, so Boston will absolutely be instant title contenders (maybe even THE best team in the east!) Plus, they would have 3 all stars!!! Allow me to repeat: THREE ALL STARS! (KG, ALLAN, Pierce) Now thats nasty. Now lets look at LA: KG will play with only ONE all-star, LA would definitely have to give away LO and AB (not worth it), plus McHale is a Laker hater and wont make it happen. Proof? A mix of AB, LO, and Farmar for instance is def a better trade package for KG than AL, Rondon and Ratliff!! And if u need more facts or reasons KG know that coming to LA means he'll be in the west and everyone know how much better the west is than th4e east. THINK ABOUT IT!!!
I say we just chill out and see how the season unfolds. Yea i know Kobe will still be pissed and he has every right to be pissed, but we cant go acting foolishly and giving up our best players not named Kobe for anyone because we wont be taking steps forwards only backwards.
Posted by: blaze1bx | July 30, 2007 at 06:04 AM
RG-
Nice break down. I am in alignment with you on most of your viewpoints. Especially the point that "Brian Cook should only be a situational sub or should simply be shipped out for a more useful cog." I actually would prefer him off of the team altogether.
I have not seen anyone counter the argument that the biggest impediment to having a championship caliber team is lack of a better #2 player, and that the biggest hole in the roster is the small forward position. Unless the Lakers can magically get better at that position without losing too much (or the 4 and move Lamar to the 2) all moves are essentially lateral in my little mind.
Posted by: C.S. | July 30, 2007 at 06:07 AM
blaze1bx,
I'm with you on your points that our team is pretty good as is... I think we can make a pretty decent run next year barring injuriers...
However, if we can still get KG, we need to do it. Anyway anyhow.
For JO, it changes. We should only get JO if we can retain Kobe and Lamar. I think Kwame + Bynum + Farmar should be enough to get JO.
JO Is a Kwame Lamar hybrid (in terms of production) and will be more of a lateral movement. It can even perhaps backfire.
There are few players in the NBA I'd trade Lamar for at this time:
Kevin Garnett, Amare Stoudamire, Michael Redd, LeBron, Dwayne, Carmelo, Yao, T-mac.
As for Bynum, I'm down to, as Kobe said, "ship his ass out"
I know Bynum will be good but not great. He just doesn't have "it" I think.
Anyways, GO LAKERS!!!!
and since it's been a while,
WASSUP LAKER FAM!!
Posted by: David Whang | July 30, 2007 at 06:53 AM
if kg's that loyal to mcfrankenstein well so be it...
just cant believe it if he'll approve it, boston over lalaland...
the blog must move on and look for other options...
trade for ron artest or sign james posey....
we'll still have the core and add tighter d...
Posted by: juanman888 | July 30, 2007 at 07:05 AM
********************************************************************************************
ATTENTION BLOGGERS : TODAY IS GARNETT ABOUT TO BE FREED DAY
*******************************************************************************************
*********** MAMBA24 EDITORIAL MONDAY JULY 30 2007 **********************
KEVIN GARNETT NOW SAYS THAT HE WOULD NOT MIND GOING TO BOSTON AFTER ALL
TO WHICH I SAY ….TO HELL WITH KG. I’D RATHER HAVE LAMAR ODOM THAN SOME
IDIOT WHO WOULD RATHER STAY IN MINNESOTA OR BE TRADED TO BOSTON. I ALSO SAY
TO HELL WITH JERMAINE ONEAL. LET’S KEEP LAMAR ODOM AND I BET HE’LL HAVE AN
ALL STAR YEAR. AS A MATTER OF FACT LET’S KEEP LAMAR AND BYNUM AND
EVEN KWAME. I THINK THIS TEAM AS IT IS PRESENTLY COSTITUTED CAN
COMPETE FOR A TITLE IF EVERYBODY PLAYS UP TO THEIR POTENTIAL.
WITH THE ADDITION OF CRITT AND FISH THAT IS 5 MORE WINS RIGHT THERE.
A HEALTHY LO FOR THE ENTIRE SEASON SHOULD BE ANOTHER 5 WINS
AND IF KWAME JUST REMAINS HEALTHY, SOCKS STEPS UP A NOTCH AND
IF MINH IS HEALTHY THAT’S ANOTHER 5 WINS. I PREDICT THIS TEAM
COULD EASILY WIN 55 GAMES THIS SEASON. IF YOU WANT TO TRADE
COOKIE OR RAD OR SASHA OK BUT OTHER THAN THAT I THINK THIS
TEAM SHOULD REMAIN AS IT IS NOW. THAT’S THE MAMBA24
EDITORIAL. OPPOSING VIEWS ARE WELCOME
IN OTHER NEWS
THE SMUSHTER YES SMUSH PARKER HAS SIGNED WITH THE HEAT.
THAT’S ALL THE NEWS FOR NOW.
AND NOW ROLL CALL
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WOW, PEACE, J_COOL, DAVID WHANG, ADAM KILEY, THE KOBE SHOW,
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TexasLaker, BOB, TreacherousBalloons, EagleBoy, JR., EASTCOASTJESSIE, Zakee,
Swettual, Utzworld, Andrew Z, LAL Fan, BRANDON C., Kinglakernidas, BlackMamba24,
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Mfeige, Reggie, Hollywood Jack, Reality Check Time, Jack In Hollywood
JONINJAPAN(INCANADA), VIOLATER, LT Laker Fan, , lakersrydeordie,
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 US
LAKERS TODAY LAKERS TOMORROW LAKERS FOREVER
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | July 30, 2007 at 07:08 AM
1. Now guys seem to be extremely concerned with the SMALL FORWARD position.
2. You can get small forwards very simply in this league. It's the power forwards, centers, and point guards that are hard to get.
3. James Posey, Ruben Patterson, and Micheal Pietrus could be had and probably for Cook and Sasha or a league minimum especially in Posey and Patterson's case.
4. The best we can do now is JO or Navarro to add to the hard to find positions (Point Guard, Center, Power Forward)
5. Otherwise, we can go with the patience plan but patience sure does look similar to the last 2 yrs and those were pull your hair out your head years.
Posted by: LakerBake | July 30, 2007 at 07:27 AM
Rick Friedman
It looks like you're on board too with the "PATIENCE PLAN",
well that's probably what we're going to get as training camp starts. If there ever was a team that has displayed the fact that they don't play totally collectively with passion every night, that they can't adjust when adversity stares them in the eye, that they are not strong willed stubborn warriors collectively, it is the last 2 YEARS worth of Laker teams.
All we have different is Derek Fisher. I love the guy and think he will help but we're going to have to wish on so many "LAKER TOM" optimistic things to fall in place for us.
I think the biggest thing that comes out of if KG goes to BOSTON is that
Al Jefferson is far and away ahead of the pace ANDREW BYNUM is on. BYNUM is longer but no more athletic. Bynum is not much of an athlete at all.
If BYNUM was not 7 feet tall he could not play any major sport in America including basketball. He just does not have IT.
I guess we gotta see this 1 more time. Heck if he teases us with good play, MOVE HIM RIGHT THEN. It won't last!!!!!!
Posted by: LakerBake | July 30, 2007 at 07:32 AM
but i dont htink this deal would go thru...
why wait this long when they could have done it a week ago or something...
besides no mega trades had started from rumors coz other teams might spoil it... (i.e. ai to denver, ray allen to beantown, randolp to NY)
but if this deal would go thru then the celts are in for a luxury tax ridden seasons, and it'll prove that ainge and mcfrankenstein are the dumbest gms that ever lived....
MABUHAY LAKERS!!!
Posted by: juanman888 | July 30, 2007 at 07:33 AM
1. QUESTION FOR ALL YOU LAKER FANS WHO SAW THE 80s Lakers
Would any of you not lose a lung trying to play hard for Kareem Abdul Jabbar if he was your PERSONAL TUTOR???
I figured all of you would be on board.
Well what the heck was wrong with ANDREW "SOCKS" BYNUM's energy level, effort, desire, hunger, and sheer hustle factor last yr??
He slumbered around as if he was not up to par, he was tired, or he thought he was a prima dona that only had to get UP for games against SHAQ or DUNCAN or KG.
Are you kidding me?
The KID'S resume speaks loud and clear yet everybody wants to make him into an HONOR's student.
Posted by: LakerBake | July 30, 2007 at 07:37 AM
LakerBlake,
I agree with all your criticisms. Especially about Bynum.
But, as warriors go, both D-Fish and Lamar have proven they can step up.
My reluctant decision to be patient is the belief that if Cook and Sasha never see playing time, and that if we can achieve some consistency in establishing a first and second team, that the whole might become greater than the sum of its parts.
I wish I could be as optimistic as Laker Tom. I can't. Other than adding Posey at SF, I just don't see any available alternatives that are better than what we have.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | July 30, 2007 at 09:18 AM
REPOST FROM LATE LAST NIGHT that's really ABOUT THIS THREAD!
The last paragraph is a very interesting and fresh perspective....
Wow - I can't imagine KG wanting to go to the Celts. He's already coming from a freezing northern climate where he has to carry the team. Why duplicate that? He wants to be in the sun near his Malibu crib and play side by side with another superstar. Now Phoenix is a potential rival for us in those respects but not Boston. Ever spent a winter in Boston? Plus Kobe and Nash are both superstar compliments to him, but Ray Allen? C'mon. Can you imagine Kobe or Nash traded for a #5 pick? If KG goes to the Celts, McHale and Ainge are the greatest salesmen in history.
By the way, speaking of old Celtics, notice that the men in our way of getting JO and KG are our two old Celtic rivals - Bird and McHale. The thing is - they had NO repect for Kupcake for years on the court because they could always play circles around him. So HOW can they respect him off the court in making a deal? THAT's why we're getting nowhere and THAT's why we need West or Magic pulling the strings. If not as titular GM then at least as consultant dealing with Bird and McHale on the trades. We need someone who was an ALL-STAR like they were - someone they respect who can go toe to toe with them and play them even.
Posted by: Jay Jay | July 30, 2007 at 09:21 AM
AK & BK:
Wow, you guys got lucky. Looks like it's going to be a nice day here in Seattle as opposed to how it was last week.
Violater:
You live up here, too?
Posted by: generic_one | July 30, 2007 at 09:25 AM
I agree with blaze 1bx and mamba 24 -
Let's stand pat and see how the had plays out.
I think we have a solid team!!
The trade for KG was aNEVER going to happen anyway!
Come-on people!
GO LAKERS!!
Posted by: keifo | July 30, 2007 at 09:26 AM
So if Garnett goes to Boston, is that an F-U to Kobe, an F-U to MInnesota, an F-U to Baron Davis, an F-U to Dirk Nowitzki, or an F-U to Derek Fisher? I can't figure out where the F-U goes on this one.
Posted by: Kobe Apologist | July 30, 2007 at 09:37 AM
LakerBake,
"Would any of you not lose a lung trying to play hard for Kareem Abdul Jabbar if he was your PERSONAL TUTOR"
Cut the kid some slack, he's only human, a 20yr old one at that. I doubt most of us work as hard as losing a lung at our jobs. Some kids come into the league as men, ala bryant, garnett, lebron and others take more time jermain oneal, t-mac.
I'm not sure even Bynum's harshest critics can confidently say he won't develop into a great center. Also the kid has definately shown enough flashes to justify the continued investment of a team in his growth. Question is should that team be LA? Bryant has made it clear he's not willing to lead one of the youngest teams in the nba, unless he somehow has a change of heart it doesn't seem like he'll be playing with Bynum much longer.
What would the lakers be without Kobe? Do the Buss know what they're doing? Does Phil care enough to coach a very young team? Is Mitch shrewd enough to be a gm? Does anyone doubt that Jerry West's drive as a gm matches Kobe's as a player? Is there anybody within the current laker organization with that passion? And what about magic, is he willing to take a more active role?
Who are the lakers without Kobe? If you can answer that question you've got a shot at predicting what Bynum's future will be.
Posted by: Taliq | July 30, 2007 at 09:39 AM
now that garnett is off the radar, the lakers need to switch their attention to jermaine o'neal...
on http://www.firemitchkupcake.com the author wants to know if they should create a getoneal.com or getjo.com
haha
Posted by: laker fan | July 30, 2007 at 09:41 AM
Rick Friedman,
I've been on this blog since the very beginning. My tone hasn't changed; however, ever since I angrily questioned BK's thread regarding Whether or Not We Should Boo Kwame" I've had A LOT of posts deleted.
There's just a correlation. I don't know the K Brothers personally or what's in BK's heart, but I've had A LOT of posts deleted and I feel deleted unfairly.
Some of these posts were rather long, took a lot of time, and all of them were passionate.
It pisses me off that people like Michael T. are allowed to post openly racist comments, but some of my posts (none of which were racist) are deleted. Some of the times I have no idea why. There's no email or communication from the K Brothers saying, "Jon, you CLEARLY are over the line here!"
There's just a lot of posts which disappear that are no more offensive than other posts I see. And all I know is that this began AFTER I personally attacked BK for his pro-booing a Laker thread.
Of course, my recent angry statements were precipitated by a couple posts being deleted recently without explanation again.
After a while one gets pissed off.
So, that's what's up.
Yes, I will admit that overall the K Brothers do a fantastic job with this blog and that it is not easy managing a bunch of rabid lunatic Lakers fans. However, I do feel like I am being unfairly singled out at times by whatever subjective guidelines that the K Brothers use to determine what posts they will or will not delete.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | July 30, 2007 at 09:44 AM
-I REFUSE to believe that KG is going to Boston. Until the trade is official, I will continue to believe that KG only wants to play in either Phoenix or LA, as his agent (NOT sources) has confirmed. If LA and Phoenix are indeed the only options, the Lakers have ALL the leverage. My guess (desperate hope?) is that McHale and Ainge are leaking this rumor to gain leverage for an eventual trade with the Lakers. KG BELONGS IN LA!
-What is all of you people's obsession with the Big Silly Puddy - Andrew Bynum? I just don't get it. If anyone thinks that Bynum is better or even comparable to Al Jefferson, you haven't seen Al Jefferson play. He is light years ahead of Bynum on both sides of the court. Don't blindly believe the press release (from the FO) that Bynum is looking really good this summer. I'm gonna have to see it to believe it. The FO wants to increase Bynum's trade value, and as a result, they are going to do everything in their power to hype him up. Unfortunately, the other GMs aren't buying it. The only people that are buying it are the Laker fans.
Posted by: Mitchell | July 30, 2007 at 10:01 AM
If we can get James Posey and/or Pietrus by swapping out Sasha/Cook, I'd say we had a decent summer . Same goes if we can get JO for LO OR Socks and riff-raff.
Posted by: Fish Guy | July 30, 2007 at 10:02 AM
"We feel very good about acquiring Smush,'' coach Pat Riley said in a statement. "He brings size, shooting and defense to our backcourt. He has been improving every year, and we feel that this could be his best year yet.''
Smush... defense... PLEASE!!!
Then again, watch... Smush will make big strides with the Heat and kick ass!
Posted by: keifo | July 30, 2007 at 10:03 AM
The Lake-Show,
I don't think you read my post carefully enough. I clearly said that both Ainge and Mchale have been awful GM's in the past and because of that, I do not have faith in them right now. And, as a result, their respective teams are awful. Also, Mitch hasn't been the greatest of GM's either. Looking at the history of Ainge, Mchale, and Mitch neither will be a candidate for the best GM. I do agree that we have the better team. But to have the best player in the game, the best coach in the game, and not have that team get out of the first round is terrible and shows zero progress. We were even a lottery team one year. And yes, like I clearly stated before, I do understand that this proposed trade may be due to the fact that Mchale and Ainge are buds. But that is only part of the reason. My point and let me emphasize this again is that other teams are making moves while we are not. I mention Isiah because he has been an awful GM yet he has made a great move. No where do I mention nor infer that his team has been great or that he has been a great GM. I bring up the Isiah example to illustrate how even the worst GM in the league can strike gold. You're going to tell me that dumping Steve Francis's ridiculous contract and acquiring Zach Randolph is not a great move? Has Mitch made a move comparable to this? I'm tired of talk from the FO and want to see results. That was my bottom line which I clearly stated many times.
Posted by: fkillah | July 30, 2007 at 10:09 AM
p ang
"Only way KG trade would happen is if its ok with KG. If he would rather play with Ray Allen and Doc Rivers rather than proven winners Kobe and PJ there's something seriously wrong with his thought process."
Speaking of something wrong with a thought process, please enlighted me on how Kobe plus PJ minus Shaq [emphasis on "minus Shaq"] has produced a "proven winner". Please enlighted me. i'd like for you to try and rationlize this your post....
Posted by: KLBeast | July 30, 2007 at 10:15 AM
The Lakers didn't land KG because the inept CUPCAKE does not have the balls to offer more than chump change in his deals.
Look, Celts are sending Al Jeff, Gerald Green, expiring Ratliff, and draft picks.
Lakers could easily have matched that with Bynum, some dude, Kwame, and picks.
If the Celts pull off the KG deal, the Buss family needs to seriously consider releasing CUPCAKE.
Ridiculous.
Posted by: wasabi | July 30, 2007 at 10:18 AM
repost
Hate2BlogCuzOfKL
"Blog has turned WHACK due to KL and GUNNER's postings! I am going to another site! EFF this ISH!"
dude, you made a total of 2 post on this blog (including this one). Good riddance i say.
Posted by: KLBeast | July 30, 2007 at 10:20 AM
KG to Boston?? Could be worse, we could be a Sacramento King fan like SonnyB...
I always thought Garnett would be a Laker, that combo of KG and KB would have brought Showtime back...A Celtic, can't get much worse being a Laker Fan... I only hope KG turns it down..KG go KOBE on Mchale!!!!
If not, I am ready to go with the new Showtime team, the KIDS.. I happen to think both 19 year olds are going to be special... I am really surprised by some of the post on Bynum.. Yes it was all down hill for him last year, but you can't tell me you didn't see the SKILLS...I think he has all the skills to be great... not good... great.. all I saw last year was a KID who was not conditioned... didn't have the strength, stamina, plus the speed of the game was to fast for him, reasons for fouls, but those things can be addressed thru training... Critt... saw all 5 games... he has it all... another gift dropped from the sky to the Lakers along with Fish... 2 things about Critt in just 5 summer league games, he can shoot and breakdown his man.. unlike Farmar... ( still like Farmar though... he is an assist man, just can't shoot )
Guys, I think you all agree the last 3 years it is clear the Lakers are building for the future, not for the now... I can't figure out why they don't want to build around Kobe, but it's clear, they are building around Bynum... It will be very interesting to see what type of improvement Bynum shows this year, because, the whole season rides on Bynum now.. and I am ok with that..
It's KG or the Kids...I will enjoy either team.. Being a Laker fan it is only a matter of time before enjoying a championship again.. Unlike Sacramento fans, like SonnyB..
Go Lakers and keep the Faith!!!
bd
Posted by: bd | July 30, 2007 at 10:22 AM
repost
sbpimp
"For the record, I don't think you should count this thread when you tally up the "taking a break from bashing Kobe" totals. "childish Superstar", etc. etc. etc."
fair is fair. i will refrain on the next thread too. hey, i may be an a$$hole, but i am a reasonable a$$hole...LOL.
"Also, calling him "You-know-who" doesn't instantly make the posts more palatable. Who are you, Harry Potter??"
my apologies for not understanding he Potter reference. i've tried very hard getting into the whole Harry Potter thing, but it doesn't do anything for me. Granted, i only saw the first movie. is the book better? my general expeience is that movie versions of novels are not as good. again, i may be an a$$hole, but a literate a$$hole..LOL.
Posted by: KLBeast | July 30, 2007 at 10:26 AM
if anyone is interested, I found this page that has up to date Lakers news feeds
http://www.mysportsscoop.com/lakers/
Posted by: z | July 30, 2007 at 10:28 AM
Laker Bake,
"The KID'S resume speaks loud and clear yet everybody wants to make him into an HONOR's student."
In keeping with your student metaphor, the kid was a Sophomore.
That's what Bynum would have been if he'd have gone to college. I think
by the time he's (effectively) a senior, he'll be a very very good player.
Unfortunately, Kobe may be playing for the Bulls by then.
Posted by: Long time Laker fan | July 30, 2007 at 10:36 AM
------------------------------------------------------------
THE CHRONICLES OF SERGEANT KOBE: Part 10
------------------------------------------------------------
SERGEANT KOBE: General... when do you expect Captain Garnett to arrive?
GENERAL KUPCHAK: Sergeant, I already told you that Captain Garnett is not going anywhere. General McHale has denied all requests for assistance, and now he has cancelled all plans to transfer Garnett to another unit.
SERGEANT KOBE: Don't tell me you really believe that...
GENERAL KUPCHAK: I'm sorry, but we've tried our best. Captain Garnett is staying at Fort Minnesota and there's nothing we can do about it.
PRIVATE BYNUM: General Kupchak!
GENERAL KUPCHAK: Yes, what is it...
PRIVATE BYNUM: We've just received word that Captain Garnett is leaving Minnesota...
SERGEANT KOBE: Yes! I knew he was on his way! I should have never doubted you, General...
PRIVATE BYNUM: Wait, I'm not finished...
SERGEANT KOBE: Huh?
PRIVATE BYNUM: Captain Garnett is leaving Minnesota... and he's headed to Fort Boston.
GENERAL KUPCHAK:...
SERGEANT KOBE: Could you hand me my revolver?
GENERAL KUPCHAK: Where are you going?
SERGEANT KOBE: If you need me, I'll be in my quarters, playing Russian Roulette.
GENERAL KUPCHAK: No, wait!
PRIVATE BYNUM: I didn't know Sergeant Kobe was Russian..
Posted by: hal9000 | July 30, 2007 at 10:38 AM
McHALE is still a CELTIC. How have the Timberwolves tolerated his failures for so long? And now this softbal tradel to his former franchise. BOOOO
FIREC McHALE AND KUPCHAK
Posted by: timwillis | July 30, 2007 at 10:40 AM
Bynum + Critterdon + Brown > Jefferson, Rondo + Ratliff
Posted by: Tim Willis | July 30, 2007 at 10:43 AM
juanman888:
"but if this deal would go thru then the celts are in for a luxury tax ridden seasons, and it'll prove that ainge and mcfrankenstein are the dumbest gms that ever lived...."
Who cares about the luxury tax when you have three perennial all-stars in your starting five? Celtics fans must be jumping for joy right about now... and I can guarantee that if this deal goes through, Boston will make back whatever money they lose to the luxury tax.
Posted by: hal9000 | July 30, 2007 at 10:43 AM
C.S.,
Thanks for the feedback. Yeah, I still don't understand why Kupchack doesn't realize the importance of having a defensive minded wing. I mean it's not that difficult to find an athletic SF in the NBA unlike the center or the PG positions. Instead, we got a bunch of "offensive minded" guys who are allegedly "Shooters" like Sasha, Brian Cook and Radmanovich who are neither here nor there as far as both defense or offense is concerned. And I agree with you that Brian Cook simply needs to go. The guy has a very bloated sense of self-esteem that is completely unnecessary in the Lakers locker room right now with all the young kids around. I also like the idea of getting better at the 4 (through free agency perhaps, like a veteran) and using Lamar at the 3. Lamar would be even more unstoppable at the 3, especially in the post. And LO is still a way better defender at the 3 than both Luke and VRad.
Let's hope Kupchak gets down to business sooner than later.
RG
Posted by: Showtime07 | July 30, 2007 at 10:47 AM
First let me state that I have been a Lakers fan since the Jerry West, Gail Goodrich, Jim McMillian, Happy Hairston, Keith Erickson, Leroy Ellis, and The Wilt. Even thru the lean years with Elmore Smith, However, what I have seen for the past three year turns my stomach.
What the Front Office has done in taking for granted the Lakers fans and the city of Los Angeles, is un-imaginable. What I see in their decision making process is one of laziness, and arrogant. Their decisions cannot be attributed to just the salary cap, or a disgruntled employee (i.e. Kobe Bryant), that is too simplistic of argument.
As management it is incumbent upon them to navigate those waters and make sound decisions. A great example of a team that navigates those waters perfectly and I fear the best run team in the NBA would be the San Antonio Spurs.
What we have now and unfortunately for the next 5-10 years the Lakers will be the Boston Celtics. After the Hated Red Auerbach step down, the organization with thru a series of arrogant (i.e. know it all) executives who made the same missteps that the Lakers are engaging in.
1) We will lose Phil Jackson – Look at Detroit with their new coach they have not even reached the Finals
2) We will lose Kobe Bryant (will opt out). No superstar.
3) We will be forced to hold onto Lamar Odom who has and never will be an All-star. If he could not become an all-star in the eastern conference, he never will be one in the western conference.
4) We will be forced to hold onto Andrew Byrum who has talent and potential, however, does not seem to have that passion or fire in the belly that you need to be great.
5) Players who are satisfied with their paychecks not with a championship.
6) I will take years (I feel 5-10 years) for NBA players to forget how that front office treated their top two superstars and take a chance on being treated differently than, Shaq and or Kobe.
I hope that I am wrong, however history is on my side unfortunately. The New York Knicks, The Boston Celtics, The Portland Trailblazers, The Philadelphia 76ers.
I hope you appreciated the Showtime Lakers and the Shaq-Kobe era, it may a long time before those feeling return.
Posted by: JK | July 30, 2007 at 10:52 AM
Time for a reality check. Look, McHale is willing to make the same mistake Mitch did during the Shaq trade, take less to get your player out of the conference.
Mitch COULD have traded Shaq to Dallas for Norwitzki AND Nash. Nash was not going to be resigned in Dallas but was available for a sign and trade. Mitch did not want to see Shaq more than twice a year so he turned down this deal to take trash from the Heat.
McHale knows trading Garnett will not be popular. He does not want to see Garnett in the Target Center more than twice a year. SO, he is willing to take an inferior package from Boston. You think by some point GMs would learn to TAKE THE BEST PACKAGE, period!
The sad thing is that Boston, which was ridiculed at the draft, will now be a leading contender in the least, I mean the East. WHAT SAY YOU?
Posted by: reality check time | July 30, 2007 at 10:58 AM
"...the Larry O'Brien Trophy needs to reference the Kings quasi-belief that Game 6 of the 2002 Western Conference Finals were fixed"
Like I have said in the past, it's all water under the bridge, but since YOU brought it up, your comment would be more accurate with a bit of revision.
Substitute "league-wide" for "Kings quasi" and delete "Game 6 of". I'm always glad to help out.
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | July 30, 2007 at 10:59 AM