But there's still a booming rum industry, so Puerto Rico has that going for it
What it doesn't have, however, is lingering bragging rights over the U.S. Not after Team USA took it down 117-78 in a semifinals-clinching victory. 2004 saw the Red, White and Blue fall in stunning fashion to the Carlos Arroyo Gang, but a balanced American attack, topped with 21 points from Average Joe LeBron James, was enough to turn 3-year-old tables. Next up, Uruguay, which has been no slouch at 3-1.
For Kobe Bryant, the Tourney O' the Americas has served as a platform to reassure any doubters that "leadership" can be added to his already impressive resume. He's not a team captain (which shouldn't be taken as a diss, since nobody is), but he's showing teammates the way via example and humility. And he's sharing his thoughts on what this experience means to him. Hopefully, the summer spent balling won't leave him too tuckered out to be a thrilla in Manila.
-- AK
And, finally, Lakersblog sends a message to Rafer Alston: Dude, settle down!
Greetings Blog Members……
Perhaps this has been mentioned on here already, but I have a trade idea for the Lakers that I believe could be a solid move heading into training camp. Not only does it address some of our needs, it doesn’t strip us of any of our key players or leave us strapped salary-wise.
Lakers send Kwame Brown, Brian Cook, Maurice Evans and 2008 1st Rd pick to the T-Wolves for Ricky Davis and Juwan Howard.
If I were a T-Wolves fan I would like this trade for the following reasons:
1 – Divestiture of Howard’s contract
2 – Acquisition of the expiring contract of Brown
3 – Acquisition of Evans and Cook
4 – 2008 First round pick
The only drawback to this deal for Minnesota is the loss of Davis. He has been a consistent contributor for Minnesota since his arrival. He also has a recent history of playing with the new former Celtics. However, his contract is already heading into the expiring year. The hope is that Minnesota would accept the loss of Davis based on everything that they would gain out of this deal.
As a Lakers’ fan, I find this trade to be very reasonable given their current situation and also very workable considering the unforeseen future of the team. Whether or not Kobe Bryant remains on this team for the upcoming season or the following seasons, this trade would be good for the team going forward. Here the reasons why:
1 – Davis is a consistent G/F scorer both inside on the perimeter as well as a solid defender. Davis has put up 40+ games and is capable of supporting the offense of a team. His arrival would give the Lakers some options if Kobe were to exit by leaving them with a potential replacement at shooting guard. If they don’t trade Kobe, he would have another player on the perimeter that can put up large quantities of points in a short period of time.
2 – Davis’ contract is expiring, which would give the Lakers options at the end of the year if this didn’t work out well. The salary adjustment would be easier to absorb.
3 – Juwan Howard can still provide 15-20 solid minutes a night consistently producing on both ends of the court. As a reserve forward and with his veteran experience, he would be a great addition to a young inexperienced team such as the Lakers. Unlike Cook, he is more versatile on offense and defense, and unlike Brown, he can play power forward and can both catch and pass the ball well on the interior. Although his contract is on the large side, it is only for 2 seasons, making this commitment a limited one.
*Given the recent statement by Chris Webber, I would consider acquiring him for a short 2-year deal with the second year being a team option. Offer him the remaining $1mil MLE and load the second year to make up the amount he wants.
Here is what the finishing roster would look like.
PG: Fisher, Farmar
SG: Bryant, Crittenton, Vujacic
SF: Davis, Walton, Radmanovic
PF: Odom, Howard, Turiaf
C: Bynum, Webber, Mihm
This would be a strong 14-man roster with several players that can overlap across various positions (i.e. Davis, Odom, Crittenton). I don’t say that this would automatically make the Lakers a contender. However, it does place them in the conversation of at least being a team to watch develop and see what they are capable of producing. Sometimes those teams are the ones that end up gelling and becoming contenders by playoff time.
Posted by: LakerFanatic | August 29, 2007 at 11:00 AM
_____________________________________________________________________________
ATTENTION BLOGGERS : TODAY (AUGUST 29, 2007) IS DEDICATED TO KOBE APOLOGISTS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAST HONOREES: MIKE TENIENTE, EDWIN GUECO, KLBEAST, GENERIC_ONE, A.K. J.J. FAITH,
LAKER TOM, SONNY BELFAST, JOREMA, TALIQ, DAVID WHANG, THA SHOW, RICK FRIEDMAN,
HOBBITMAGE, FATTY
NEXT HONOREE (ANGRY LAKER)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wiith today’s honoree what you see is what you get. Kobe Apologists is a fan of Kobe and
proud of it. But just because Apologists is a fan does not mean he/she cannot defend
his/her stand with facts and figures. The moment a Kobe slur is detected on the Blog KA goes
to work whipping out facts and figures on why Kobe is indeed the best player on the planet. If the
Lakers play defense this year the way you defend Kobe, this team is a cinch for the WC
finals.. If Smush had you as a Smush Apologist he would still be here. I’ts easy to be a
Kobe Apologist when things are going good, but KA’s ability shone even more brightly
when Kobe went on his Laker for Life, Trade me Now radio tour. While other Kobe fans
are worn out defending Kobe against the repeated broadsides of one-note trolls, KA much
like a timex watch takes a licking but keep on ticking. Or should I say gives a licking and
keeps on ticking. Their have been times that Kobe Apologist has been the only thing that
stood between the Force and total domination by the Dark side. Despite double teams by
KL and Gunner and their various imps Kobe Apologist stands tall making the Blog safe for
Kobe Fans everywhere. You don’t have to apologize Kobe Apologist, for what you do, this
August 29, 2007 is dedicated to you. Thanks for Your loyalty, your humor and your dedication.
Kobe, the Blog as well as the world are the better for your being, so enjoy the day which you
have earned and accept the best wishes of a thankful Blog.
--- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BLOG LINES OF THE WEEK:
“Jordan did not play with luke, smush, and Kwame. . . Oh wait he did play with kwame, he made him
better... at crying. “ LAKERDAWG
“After a 2 week stint in the L.A. County Jail...I'm back” MIKE TENIENTE
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
55 WIN BANDWAGON MEMBERS:
(1) Laker Tom (2) Marty (3) HUBBIT (4) Fearless Whack Job (5) Mamba24/10
(6) David Whang (7) BD (8) Dan Dan the Laker Fan (9) Long Time Laker Fan
(10) Roky (11) JoninJapan(In Canada) 12) JUNO (13) KEIFO,
(14) Alexinho17 (15) TALIQ (16) GENERIC_ONE (17) VIOLATER
(18) Twoody (19) SLO Gal (20) HobbitIMage (21) dice8up
Members at heart
(1) Bob
(2) Faith
(3) LakerLover
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WEARY-OF-BANDWAGON BANDWAGON MEMBERS
(1) Cbuck
(2) J. Walter WeatherMan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AND NOW ROLL CALL
(1) FAITH, MIKE T. TALIQ, Edwin Gueco,, KEIFO, Mamba24Fan4Life, Fan of Mamba, Wolf,
KIWI, WOW, PEACE, J_COOL, DAVID WHANG, ADAM KILEY, LAKERSRYDEORDIE, CLEON
FISH_GUY,TIM-4-SHOW, THA_ SHOW, WESJOENIXON, BAYWOO, THE_D, SBPIMP,
CHARLES, Precious, NEVER, CALI KING, RICK FRIEDMAN,THIRTY2, EXHELODRVR,
GENERIC_ONE, TWOODY, JJ, AJAX, MITCHELL., LAKERTOM, LAKERFAN, CHARLES,
KHANG VMAN, KOREY, XTRO, MCGARNAGLE, GUGY, GDChild,Laker4Life, Laker Seth
KL BEAST, Jorema, FearlessWhackJob, MARTY, JANDRO, LAKERFAZE, PhxLkrFAN,
TexasLaker, BOB, TreacherousBalloons, EagleBoy, JR., EASTCOASTJESSIE, Zakee,
Tully Moxness, KobeRocks, David Peterson, centralk, 244Life, SamII,
Swettual, Utzworld, Andrew Z, LAL Fan, BRANDON C., Kinglakernidas, BlackMamba24,
FKILLAH, CYRUS(VENTRILIQUIST), RespectMyAuthorith, Waterboy, Hariyahu, HUBBIT
ZEN, SARCOCOP,Staples24, Bobby, COMPTONS FINEST, MIGUELINHO, Greek Dude,
SOCALIFE, HAL9000, Greekdude, Michael J, Michael H, Michael A., Rick Friedman,
Gunner24, GINO, FATTY, CBUCK,LAKERGURL, CRITICAL BEATDOWN, PFUNK36,
PAUL LEE, Jay EL, SocalSpider , WEAVE MAN, JON KAVULIC, Tajluck, Alexinho17
BERKLEYLAKER, Dice8Up DION, KARL, CRAIG, MITCHELL, Lakers4Life, Ryan
JR, Dascilla, tellitlikeitisNik Kannan, GABE, SEAN P., HanSoulFood, HollywoodJack,
Jay Jay, TaosHum, HOBBITIMAGE, Caeser, Obel, CHITOWNLAKER, ANGRYLAKER
wiZo, MagicShaq, HugoBoss, OSCAR, RDLEE, RealityBites, LakerLarry, Bucky, LEELO,
Juno, LakerLifer, C.S. JOVA, BLAZE1BX, Tripgame3, TSPHERE, SIXONEZERO,
Mfeige, Reggie, Hollywood Jack, Reality Check Time, Jack In Hollywood, SLO Gal
JONINJAPAN(INCANADA), VIOLATER, LT Laker Fan, , KATE, TROY, Mainor, Caesar
JEFF, ANDY B., SWANWORLD, PUPLE&GOLD_4EVA, BENNY BLANCA,CS in Virg
EMMA, TIM IN SYDNEY RISING STAR, LakerBake, JuanMan888,Blkthght06,
Any_One_mouse, 10milliondollarZen, Shiva, Laker_Hopeful, LakerDawg, East Nyboer
,Ghost of Spiderman, Steve in Denver Guy Owanlele, Lincoln Laker, Houston Laker
MITCH KUPCHAK, JERRY BUSS, PHIL JACKSON, KOBE BRYANT, CLEON
Marc Gasol, Sun Yue, Shamond, Williams, Ronny Turiaf, V. Radmanovic,
Maurice Evans, Lamar Odom, Derek Fisher, Luke Walton, Brian Cook,
Kwame Brown, Andrew Bynum, Coby Karl, Chris Mihm, Sasha Vujacic
Jordan Farmar, Jarvis Critterton, JERMAINE ONEAL???, FAITH
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
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 29, 2007 at 11:02 AM
Regarding KL's Top 20 statement:
Now that he has clarified, it seems, indeed, that Forbes ranked USC (Marshall) among part-time business schools at number 13 in 2005.
FYI - UCLA (Anderson) part time was ranked 2nd.
Not USC HATIN', just statin' the facts.
Posted by: Kobe Apologist | August 29, 2007 at 11:03 AM
I think the arguments made about Kobe's basketball ability (including comparing him to MJ, etc.) on both sides, good and bad, are somewhat void since none of us most probably play or will play basketball at a professional level. As an individual, we might be able to judge more accurately since we are people and we all have problems. But even at that level it's hard to say since no one knows what anyone else is thinking and the kind of issues they have. So instead being completely biased and debating through insults and childish comments, I think all of those who read and write on this blog should try to only make well thought-out observations that contribute to our understanding of the subject at hand rather than writing incompetent comments that merely show our frustration and lack of intelligence.
Posted by: laker hopeful | August 29, 2007 at 11:13 AM
AK, BK is that synergy or what with the second and third posts. lol!
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 29, 2007 at 11:17 AM
I other news, things are looking brighter for M. Vick: He's got Ron Artest's seal of approval.
http://tinyurl.com/2ssd9u
Once you've got that, everything else is just cream cheese!
Posted by: The D | August 29, 2007 at 11:20 AM
Laker Hopeful,
"think the arguments made about Kobe's basketball ability "
A man of reason at last. Sounds good to me LH and welcome
to the Blog.
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 29, 2007 at 11:20 AM
REPOST
AK: "If you can make it in the West, you'll make it in the East."
Does that include New York, New York? Because "if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere."
By the way, some of those posting who argue about who's contributing most to the USA basketball team seem absolutely insane to me. I can already hear the arguments next season about respective Laker contributions to a win streak ("Sure, Kobe had 30 points, but Odom had more assists!"). Or how Kobe of the first 5 minutes of the quarter was good until the Old Kobe surfaced in the 6th and 7th minute when he missed two jumpers. Or, after a loss to someone like Memphis, "Same old Lakers, playing down to the competition," even though all the Laker dynasties would occasionally do the same thing.
It all reminds me of that Sports Talk guy (I can't remember his name, but he loved saying, "Oh, Laker Fans...!" in that annoying way of his) who, the day after the Shaq/Kobe Lakers won their first championship, already began dismantling the team, and talking about what a tenuous position they were in. Can't we enjoy USA Basketball for what it is? After years of disappointment, it's nice to see a bunch of spoiled millionaires beating up on third world countries.
Posted by: Marty | August 29, 2007 at 11:21 AM
Please, Skip To My Lou, calm down. Please!
Posted by: Najja AKA Bonus | August 29, 2007 at 11:25 AM
Mamba24/10,
Thanks.
Posted by: laker hopeful | August 29, 2007 at 11:28 AM
Regarding Kobe Apologist...
Although Kobe Apologist is...well...a...kobe aplogist, i have a soft spot for my mortal enemy insofar as it relates to feeding a hungry stray dog.
The guy (or gal) seems to beleve what he-she says eventhough he/she's full of it 99.99999% of the time, so i can respect that.
Warren Buffet once said: “Only when the tide goes out do you discover who's been swimming naked”
I think when it's all said and done, kobe (and kobe apologists and Kobe Apologist) will be expsosed...pot-tum-pump.
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 29, 2007 at 11:31 AM
Joe (Davis): David, what is your assesment of Andrew Bynum? Is he worth passing on J-Kidd for?
David Thorpe: No.
Posted by: LakerBake | August 29, 2007 at 11:37 AM
re: Heisler's article
Mark's article begins with "Unlike his role on the Lakers, the guard sets the tone with intangibles such as defense, work ethic and hustle." and ends with "It's different for him and he's different for them."
Sounds like he's saying that Kobe hasn't been bringing this level of intensity to his job with the Lakers. If that's true then it could be argued that Kobe is doing what Shaq did when he got traded to the Heat - showing the Lakers what they're missing when they mistreat their superstar. It's like your ex- dating your best friend and treating them better than they ever treated you.
If what Mark is saying is true, then it's a window into what really drives Kobe. There's nothing wrong with wanting to prove people wrong. And it's probably pretty common among pro athletes. Think about Gilbert Arenas and why he wears the number 0 or his "vendetta" against the Team USA coaches who cut him last year. It would just be a shame if the Lakers were on the receiving end of it for the second time in recent years.
Posted by: lakers_sth | August 29, 2007 at 11:41 AM
Gunner
I understand now.
You're not a basketball guy.
Carry on, I won't pay attention.
Enjoy loving Le Bronze all you want.
Posted by: LakerBake | August 29, 2007 at 11:43 AM
so who are the lakers taking on tonight?? sorry I mean team USA, A girl can only dream the lakers were that good.
Posted by: bob | August 29, 2007 at 11:44 AM
Hey bob where you been
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 29, 2007 at 11:48 AM
Marty,
It'll include New York once the Nets move there.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | August 29, 2007 at 11:51 AM
To piggy back on GINO's initial thought and Laker Fanatic's supporting comments,
1. the trade for Ricky D and Juwan for Kwame, Farmar, and Cook would really be good for this team and everyone gets some sort of "happy balance".
I think it would show that the Lakers want to keep Bynum but also want to move out players who are not ready for prime time or who don't give enough effort for their size.
Adding Ricky D, D-Fish, and Juwan in the off season is not bad.
Ricky D is in last yr of contract as GINO mentioned.
2. I'm not sure Minny would need that first round pick but if it gets the deal done so be it. We would like to have this team GEL and have a draft pick in the very high 20s of the first round next yr anyway. Our time is NOW.
Minny really wants to start from scratch and Ricky Davis's dominant game will not allow the Randy Foyes, Gerald Greens ,and Al Jeffersons to blossom.
3. On the other hand, he gives the Lakers the 2nd team maturity and for lack of a better word another guy with the BALLS to compete in the heat of the moment. Ricky Davis has never been a scared player, he brings his own courage and ferocity that Kobe and Phil don't have to coach into him.
4. The last huge factor is that it gives the Lakers a set roster at the start of training camp which is huge for PHIL JACKSON's triangle offense system.
I think waiting for a mid season deal with Kwame's contract is a waste of time because the fruits will not come from it. The player will not be able to work himself into the Laker system quickly.
5. We are ONE YR TOO LATE on the CRAFTY ALL STAR BREAK move idea. We should have traded for J Kidd last yr but blew it so let's move on.
This deal also moves us on from all of the Jermaine O'Neal trade or not bickering because it leaves that still on the table as an option for later. The main thing is the roster gets better with or with out the JO deal and that's REAL IMPORTANT and HUGE.
Heaven only knows if Mitch and JIMBO are listening.
Posted by: LakerBake | August 29, 2007 at 11:52 AM
lakers_sth
Mark Heisler is a punk. Kobe has been playing great for the lakers and is the only player I see who brings it every night. Sure he can bring some better D with the lakers but I give him a free pass because he always has to carry us on O.
I wish Kobe could play all out on both ends, and I think he can but it won't happen until he gets some help.
Posted by: bob | August 29, 2007 at 11:53 AM
laker_sth
"If that's true then it could be argued that Kobe is doing what Shaq did when he got traded to the Heat - showing the Lakers what they're missing when they mistreat their superstar."
i think you mean shaq was showing kobe what happens with you mistreat your franchise guy...Kazaam! Shaq's Kobe's Daddy.
"If what Mark is saying is true, then it's a window into what really drives Kobe. There's nothing wrong with wanting to prove people wrong."
nothing wrong with proving a point, even if that means losing games....oops, i'm posting out loud again. how many times have i heard kobe apologist say, "kobe wants to win at all costs"? "all costs"? i guess that means quitting during games and playoff games to prove a point. i guess that also means hurting our chances at getting free agents (KG) to prove a point.
my point is, kobe is willing to win as long as he can make his point....
what's your point KLBeast? i have no idea except that kobe's a talented guy with with an attitude problem.
"It would just be a shame if the Lakers were on the receiving end of it for the second time in recent years."
agreed. in both instances, kobe's the antagonist.
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 29, 2007 at 11:54 AM
Mamba24/10
been posting but my post get lost in all the I love kobe, I hate kobe crap.
Posted by: bob | August 29, 2007 at 11:55 AM
Uruguay is Team USA next opponent.
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 29, 2007 at 11:57 AM
Welcome back Mike T!
Laker Lover: "Dont mistake over-zealous effort for production and performance." Actually that's why I like Sasha. Because out of what we have, where production and performance ain't exactly booming, at least he shows that. I'll take that any day over no production, no performance, and no effort (of which we had plenty of games of).
bob, ditto. Then again, I'd be satisfied with even just a smidge of the talent of the USA team lol.
Posted by: Faith | August 29, 2007 at 12:01 PM
Mamba 24,
"Uruguay"
Am not!! You are!!
Posted by: exhelodrvr | August 29, 2007 at 12:04 PM
LakerBake,
I agree obviously....so how do we get Mitch and Jim to make the deal happen????
AK,
Can you get a message through to them?????
Posted by: LakerFanatic | August 29, 2007 at 12:08 PM
Lakerfanatic,
I'm not convinced the front office gives a rat's ass about my opinion on trades, but I can certainly try. haha
For what it's worth, I'd make that deal with Minny in a heartbeat. But I'd consider moving LO to the 3, starting Howard at the 4 (even if for only 15-20 mpg), and making Davis a 6th man. Let the offense run through him and Walton.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | August 29, 2007 at 12:16 PM
Exhelodrvr,
"Mamba 24, "Uruguay" Am not!! You are!!"
I know, I know I let myself intp that one.
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 29, 2007 at 12:21 PM
Andrew Kamenetzky,
That would work as well. Question: Do you have access to the El Segundo facility? Can you at least get an audience with Mitch? I'm just curious as to how far your access to the team really goes, seeing as how you are a member of the media.
Posted by: LakerFanatic | August 29, 2007 at 12:26 PM
laker_sth: "If that's true then it could be argued that Kobe is doing what Shaq did when he got traded to the Heat - showing the Lakers what they're missing when they mistreat their superstar."
It's an interesting point, but has a flaw. I think Kobe's approaching these games like he does the playoffs, playing like a crazy man, full-bore, diving for loose balls for the time he's on the court. He can afford to do that because it's only for a two-week period, and he's only being played 20 minutes a night. If he tried to do it in the regular season -- if anybody went that hard during the regular season -- they wouldn't make it out of December. In fact, I think that's what happened to Bynum last year. He felt the pressure, went as hard as he could while he was out there, and burned out.
Anybody who's ever played basketball knows there's a difference between playing hard, and playing crazy. When you start going 100% on both end of the court, scraping for every loose ball and exerting everything you have, well, the human body can only do so much before the laws of nature bring you back to earth. An 82-game season takes its toll. It used to annoy me when I'd hear players -- including dynasty Lakers -- talk about turning it up a notch in the playoffs, the implication that they were coasting through the regular season. But in realistic terms, it makes perfect sense.
Being great in the regular season means playing smart, playing with experience, picking your moments and delivering the dagger.
Posted by: Marty | August 29, 2007 at 12:26 PM
AK
"Lakerfanatic,
I'm not convinced the front office gives a rat's ass about my opinion on trades, but I can certainly try. haha
For what it's worth, I'd make that deal with Minny in a heartbeat. But I'd consider moving LO to the 3, starting Howard at the 4 (even if for only 15-20 mpg), and making Davis a 6th man. Let the offense run through him and Walton.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | August 29, 2007 at 12:16 PM"
AK, CAN YOU PLEASE DELETE THIS POST, IT HAS AN EXPLETIVE...kidding.
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 29, 2007 at 12:28 PM
Faith- Cant question Sasha's effort thats for sure. Same goes for Turiaf. Difference is Turiaf was productive.
Posted by: Laker Lover | August 29, 2007 at 12:35 PM
bob,
"been posting but my post get lost in all the I love kobe, I hate kobe crap."
yet another reason to trade kobe ... he generates too much controversy on the blog
Posted by: Taliq | August 29, 2007 at 12:43 PM
bob - Seems like Heisler's slant has been really slanted with this summer. Was it his article that had the Kobe Insider quote that set Kobe down the path? I don't know his previous writing enough to know if he's always been like that but perhaps being at the center of touching this whole thing off has had an effect on him.
klbeast - Someone's drive to win can be really strong, but it doesn't mean anything unless they know how. Say your President really wants to go to war, really bad. Does that means he knows how to wage a war successfully?
Posted by: lakers_sth | August 29, 2007 at 12:55 PM
So playing with the best in the world makes someone a leader?
I had a friend that I played a lot of "gym 3-on-3 with." If he was on a team that was losing, he'd quickly say the teams were uneven and we needed to stop and pick new teams. His will to win was so strong he lacked the patience to work with what he had. He was a good baller, but didn't know how to bring out the best in others. He was happiest (and played well) when surrounded by the best talent.
Posted by: Sled Dog | August 29, 2007 at 12:55 PM
Marty,
"After years of disappointment, it's nice to see a bunch of spoiled millionaires beating up
on third world countries."
----
I nearly laughed hot coffee through my nose on that one.
Posted by: Long time Laker fan | August 29, 2007 at 12:59 PM
KL,
"It would just be a shame if the Lakers were on the receiving end of it for the second time in recent years."
agreed. in both instances, kobe's the antagonist."
-----
Well, technically history is written by the winners. So if Kobe went on to some other team
and won a championship, then the Lakers would be historically remembered as the bad
guys who held him back and didn't build around him. He would be the PROtagonist,
the Lakers would be the antagonist.
Posted by: Long time Laker fan | August 29, 2007 at 01:05 PM
Marty - What you bring up isn't a flaw in Heisler's point (if that's what he was trying to illustrate) - it's simply an alternative explanation for why Kobe is playing the way he is. Either could be true or not.
Posted by: lakers_sth | August 29, 2007 at 01:10 PM
Marty,
"After years of disappointment, it's nice to see a bunch of spoiled millionaires beating up
on third world countries."
Wait, we're still talking about basketball, right? These days, them words there's an easy way to get your emails intercepted.
Posted by: The D | August 29, 2007 at 01:11 PM
Lakers Fanatic,
"Question: Do you have access to the El Segundo facility? Can you at least get an audience with Mitch? I'm just curious as to how far your access to the team really goes, seeing as how you are a member of the media."
Depends on how you define "audience." Can we get an interview with Kupchak? Sure (and we have a few times). At games and practices, if we see Mitch, are we both comfortable going up to him and shooting the breeze about the team? Definitely. But if we asked for a sit down for the sole purpose of sharing ideas on how to improve the Lakers, I'm guessing he'd pass and I don't blame him. Not even in a "who the hell are me and BK to tell him what to do" sense, but if Kupchak took a meeting with everyone who had two cents to give, he'd never have any time to actually do anything. Know what I mean?
Plus, BK and I share our thoughts all the time on the blog, so he can read them whenever he wants. And if he's for whatever reason intrigued, he knows how to get hold of us.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | August 29, 2007 at 01:15 PM
Andrew Kamenetzky,
That's cool. I was just curious as to what access you had because it had never been really mentioned on here before. Do you think he visits and reads the blog?
Posted by: LakerFanatic | August 29, 2007 at 01:22 PM
KL, Gunner & Taos,
Did this hurt: http://www.latimes.com/sports/olympics/la-sp-heisler29aug29,1,90087,full.story?coll=la-headlines-sports-olympics
How about this: Without fanfare, nine players have turned over from last summer's young U.S. roster to this grown-up one, led by veterans like Jason Kidd and. . . Kobe Bryant?
Rising from the ashes of his latest misadventure in his inimitable style, Bryant is not only admired but accepted as a leader by peers who were so leery so recently.
This has *REALLY* got to pinch the family jewels:
"I'll be honest with you," says U.S. director Jerry Colangelo, "when I first started this process, as I spoke with a lot of people I respect a great deal in the game, there were a lot of people who were down on him. . .
"I knew what he was as a player. I knew what he was as a competitor and I knew if he was focused on wanting to be part of this, you couldn't ask for a better guy.
"So he was one of the first people I spoke with. I didn't listen to peers on Kobe Bryant."
Right now, I bet that J-Kidd, Melo & LBJ are *REALLY* glad Jerry Colangelo didn't listen
to Gunner, Taoshum & KLBeast. Oh, sorry. Y'all aren associated with professional
basketball are you? They don't know you exist. Sorry about that. Gunner, why don't
you introduce yourself to Mr. Colangelo and ask him why he let Kobiatch on the
team? I mean he's got to recognize the utter BRILLIANCE of your postings
regarding the Arrogance & Selfishness of KB24. Especially after 2 seasons ago, when
the BallHog had the Suns down 3-1.
All of this kind speech regarding Kobe has got to upset your digestion. [ 2 words.
Pepto Bismo]
Gunner, I want you to know that I have remembered your little problem with E.D.
So ... to help you out. Kobe ... Kobe? KOBE! KOBE! KOBE! You good?
Go see your significant other. Give them my regards. You can go give $5.00,
my fee for helping you with your problem. [ Yes. I'm giving you a discount. ]
Tell them the Hobbitmage wishes them well.
To all on the Mamba 24/10 roll call:
How about a comparison of Jerry Colangelo to Jerry Buss. Can anyone post an
article about Jerry Colangelo getting popped with a DUI, mentioned in the same
breath with drugs or associating with a woman young enough to be his grand-daughter?
Me neither. But that's off the court. Let's talk basketball! It is my understanding that
when the rumors started flying around about Marion or Stoudemire being traded,
the Suns FO [ which must include Colangelo, right? ] got in touch with them directly
and quieted the storm. They needed a quality SG and picked up Grant Hill. When
he had to make a decision about picking up Kobe for the Olympics, he did 2 things.
1. He talked to other basketball people.
2. He talked to Kobe.
[ Slipping in a little football. ] Jerry Colangelo. You made the right call!
Go Team USA!
Go Kobe!
Posted by: hobbitmage | August 29, 2007 at 01:30 PM
AK,
After you're through telling Kupchak who to trade for, could you tell Bynum that he should
listen to Kareem and get that skyhook move down. And then could you tell Lamar not to
defer to Kobe so much in the offense.
And while you're at it, tell Kobe he should stay with the team.
Thanks for your help on these matters. ;-)
Posted by: Long time Laker fan | August 29, 2007 at 01:38 PM
This is going to be a GREATyear. A renewed and kinder Mike T is a harbinger of good things to come.
If Mike can change, then Kobe can change and the front office can change, and the Kobe haters can... well 2 out of 3 ain't bad.
GO Lakers, I'm headin' home from France. Great country but some of the things that pass for sports over here aren't worth liftin' your head up from your cafe' creme to watch.
Posted by: Vman | August 29, 2007 at 01:41 PM
AK,
"After you're through telling Kupchak who to trade for, could you tell Bynum that he should listen to Kareem and get that skyhook move down. And then could you tell Lamar not to defer to Kobe so much in the offense.
And while you're at it, tell Kobe he should stay with the team."
And please tell PJ not to smirk so much.
And ask Dyan Cannon to
Mr. K,
This is Mrs. Exhelo. Do not ask Dyan Cannon anything!!
Posted by: exhelodrvr | August 29, 2007 at 01:55 PM
lakers_sth: "Either could be true or not."
You're absolutely right. I didn't produce a flaw and simply gave an alternate explanation. Darn you for noticing! haha
Posted by: Marty | August 29, 2007 at 01:55 PM
repost
wes
"Being one of America's top 10 public universities (UCI)? The awesome Baseball stadium? The awesome student rec facilities? The hot Asian chicks? "
First order of business. Kobe sucks.
UCI= University of Chinese Immigrants? (BK, please don't censor this one, it's a common joke if you attend UCI)
Hey, remember a while back there was crazy dude spewing more hate against "hot asians" than KLBeast against kobe?
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 29, 2007 at 02:09 PM
the Monkeys that are KoBIATCH and MikeDyckVick are messing up sports..God please give them their 40 acres and mules now!
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 29, 2007 at 02:15 PM
Good and interesting answer AK,
Well this Minnesota (Ricky Davis and Juwan Howard) trade idea has a lot more folks on board and aligned than the JERMAINE O'NEAL trade idea.
This trade bridges both sides of the JO trade idea gap. (Those for and against the JO trade could possibly unite on this Ricky Dave-Juwan trade idea)
We have not heard from Trip game, laker Tom, Exhel, JJ, and Andrew Z???????
Perhaps the Blog could draft a letter for Mitch, even though some of us are not season ticket holders based on location, I think we're as die hard as those cats.
That trade sure would help everyone's pysche for the season and training camp.
No time to unite and align as one like the present.
You listening MITCH, JIMBO????
U there Jeannie????
Magic???
Jerry???
Ronnie Lester?????
Posted by: LakerBake | August 29, 2007 at 02:16 PM
true lakers fans like kobe. They don't think guys like dwade or king james are better than him because of the simple fact that dwade and king james are not lakers.
If there is a one on one between D-wade and Kobe you pick Kobe just because he's a laker. If kobe moves on to another team, then good for him. Just show me the next laker super star so I can start loving him.
If the lakers don't get a star to replace kobe then I'll be stuck in laker limbo like it's the 90's all over again.
Posted by: bob | August 29, 2007 at 02:17 PM
Thank you , Mamba. TODAY IS MY DAY!
As such I would like to take the time to explain the origins of my name.
Much as other groups have taken to "co-opting" the various slurs that they have been called, and turning into something common, and to reduce the power of their negative sting (like the N word), I too, have taken the epithet "Kobe Apologist" and turned it on its face.
I am NOT a Kobe Apologist, I am simply an objective observer. I state the facts as I see them, without having to resort to: near meaningless statistics (where at least, in basketball, they are much less valuable than observation coupled with experience), and listing of accolades (which are given by other people who by and large use the meaningless statistics to make their judgments). And since those observations lead me to the inevitable conclusion that Kobe is the best basketball player (team, or otherwise, since basketball is a team sport) I have been called all sorts of names: "Kobe Lover", "Kobe Apologist".
I don't love anyone I don't personally know, so I can't love Kobe Bryant. I can only respect his skills and dedication to his craft.
I'm out to fight against those who attempt to mythologize Michael Jordan, who by my estimation is the best basketball player ever, with Magic Johnson a close second. MJ mythologizers believe that give Kobe's situation, MJ would be get MUCH better results. That is what the mythologizer would have you believe. But it's not true. Great as MJ was, he still needed great players next to him to get the results he wanted. Same goes for Magic.
I am able to separate the value of the player from the results of the team. Many people cannot do this or refuse to do this. John Elway was considered "not a winner" for most of his career until his team won Super Bowls at the end of his career. MJ was a "gunner" before his titles. As soon as a player's team begins to win, public perception of the player's attitude changes. Articles are written about their "maturation" and "leadership". Most times, the player is the same guy he was before he was winning, he just has a team now. Winning titles has more to do with management assembling a team than any one players' maturation process.
I can see that Kobe would be a great asset for any team, any style of play, any where. I understand when a player is hurting a team, or when he is helping. By far, throughout his career, he has helped a team.
I do believe he took the Shaq feud too personally in the 2004 NBA Finals. I also believe that Shaq was just as much at fault for that feud. I also believe that Michael Jordan would have had problems playing alongside Shaq.
I believe that the Lakers front officecould have gotten much more in the Shaq trade than they did.
I believe that trading Caron Butler for Kwame Brown was a mistake.
I don't believe in looking at just the results. The process is just as important.
I believe that the average player today is much better than the average player twenty years ago. However, the top 10 players twenty years ago could definitely match up with the best 10 players today.
I will leave you with a quote:"A public-opinion poll is no substitute for thought." - Warren Buffett.
Posted by: Kobe Apologist | August 29, 2007 at 02:18 PM