No news. Any ideas?
So I know people have been looking for a new thread, and I've been looking around for some news ... but really, there isn't any. At least nothing I can find. So anyone have any ideas? Places to take this one? There's always Kobe (haha). You got your USA Basketball, trade ideas, hypothetical mascot ideas. Anything. I'll accept solicitations, and then perhaps start a new, new thread.
UPDATE: Well, there is something new to talk about. Sort of. More on the Kobe situation, courtesy of ESPN.com's Chris Sheridan. Bryant continues to be vague about his status, leading Sheridan to say something that basically summarizes how I've felt for a while, given the current state of the roster and prospects for quick improvement: "Around the league, most people seem to think it boils down to this: Kobe still wants out, but the Lakers won't trade him -- at least that's the impression being left by Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak, who was unavailable for comment because he is not due back from a European vacation until Friday."
Of course, there's no way to know for sure, but it's the feeling I get as well.
-- BK
Mamba24/10 -- I love you. hAha.. man.. that was a nice thing you wrote for me and it really lit up my day... don't worry we are going to make one of these days for you too.. i have to go to work right now but just wanted to show appreciation for acknowledging my existence and giving me a day hehe.. i will remember October 21st 2007 forever -- even though it was August 21st hehe.. anyways man thanks a lot and you are the man..!!
STOP THE HATE 2008
David "the grateful to Mamba24/10" Whang
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: David Whang | August 21, 2007 at 10:36 PM
Derek
"Come on man, don't be so blatantly wrong. Name me ONE time that Shaq has led a mediocre team to a championship?"
As i recall, when shaq arrived in 1996, the previous laker team lost is the first round. check out the link below.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakers
after shaq's arrival, we made the semis, then conference finals before the championship run. so my scorecard tells me the lakers made the semis 3 times, conference finals once and NBA finals 4 times in shaq's 8 years with the lakers. i don't need to remind you of the past 3 years. i know the kobe loyalist will say "yeah, but". but i say, "but what?". kobe was a nobody before shaq's arrival and kobe is a nobody now that shaq's gone. that's kobe's curse for riding a HOF center and HOF coach.
in orlando, the magic didn't even make the playoffs before shaq's arrival. see link below.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando_Magic
check out the magic performance post-shaq....see any similarities.
now, let's take a look at the heats. prior to shaq arrival, Dwade was able to make the 2nd round. post-shaq, conference final then NBA finals. Oh, nevermind the championship thing, it was ref tampering with giving Wade 100 free-throw opportunities. Or my fav is that Dallas is soft eventhough Dallas had to beat out a championship-caliber Spurs team.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miami_Heat
i'd say, it's not a bad track record.
Posted by: KLBeast(The Real One) | August 21, 2007 at 10:39 PM
Nathaniel
Mihm has been out a long time so I will refresh your memory. Agressive play from Chris was never an issue. Learning to channel that agressive play so he wouldnt foul out was.
Mh
Posted by: michael h | August 21, 2007 at 10:45 PM
The Lake Show,
You wrote: But Kobe doesnt have that respect for him to be handed an MVP.
ARODs MVP came on a miserable last place team. Kobe has been on two playoff teams and is never in the argument for MVP.
Clearly, Kobe's legacy isnt that of an MVP caliber. Steve Nash (who i dont like) has surpassed his legacy in three quick years. So has LeBron's and even Dwayne Wade.
That's undenaible. See the real issue on this blog is that those of you how worship Kobe represents a small segment of the population. Jorema, who loves to talk about jersey sales and this and that is missing the point.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Umm ..... No. The reason why Kobe hasn't won an MVP is because his team isn't winning enough. His team isn't winning enough because
a high percentage of them lack focus. i.e . they go snow-boarding during the all-star break. They sulk/pout when they are pulled out. They
piss off the coach when he's trying to put them in the game.
To substantiate my statement:
Of course, we know that this is not how the NBA looks at MVPs. It has unwritten criteria. Here's how the league's MVP policy would look if publicized. The NBA's MVP must:
* Play for a winner - a playoff team
* Be a media darling
* Lead the league in at least on major statistical category
* Have several years in the league
This comes from: http://sportscommentary.suite101.com/article.cfm/nbamvpisundervalued.
KL, Gunner & Taos will like the article because it bashes Kobe. The writer claims that Lebron is the best
in the NBA. To that I give:
It's easy," James added. "You don't have to second-guess yourself because he is there backing you up. I've always been quoted as saying Kobe Bryant is the best player in our league, and I'll continue to say that. You automatically try to feast off of that. Why wouldn't you? Why wouldn't you want to copy the best player in the world to better your game?"
From: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/olympics/2007-08-21-usa-basketball-men_N.htm
In addition:
The MVP should go to the best player on the best team. Generally, I believe this. In the last 25 years, the MVPs have come from teams that have won 50 games or more.
This comes from: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=hill/070409&sportCat=nba
If my memory is correct, Kobe said: Dirk is the MVP because the team has to win a lot. Obviously, the Lakers don't fill that bill.
During all of the talk, it kept coming back to the team *MUST* win! So .... I was looking this up, like I suggested to Taoshum,
and look:
Few doubt that Bryant is the league's best all-around player – “It's not even close,” Phoenix coach Mike D'Antoni recently told Sports Illustrated – but that doesn't necessarily equate to being MVP. Analysts cite two reasons for that: The Lakers' relative lack of success and the perception that Bryant does not make the players around him better.
From: http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20060417/news_1s17nbamvp.html
BTW, for those who think/feel that Kobe is a ball hog ... I give you the words of the Lakers "Coach" Brian Shaw:
But, as Lakers assistant coach Brian Shaw said: “We need him to shoot the ball a lot.”
Also from: http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20060417/news_1s17nbamvp.html
Of course, you're more than welcome to side with Kl, Gunner & Taoshum in ignoring what his coaches
have publicly said that they asked him to do. You're also more than welcome to disagree with what HOF
basketball players have said about him. No, you don't need my permission. I'm just trying to be polite.
Also, you wrote: "1st Example: Let's say that Smush Parker is 10% behind the 3 pt
line and Kobe is 35% behind the 3 pt. line. Which do you guard?"
So Brian Cook shot 40% from the 3 point Line last year
Kobe Bryant shot 34% from 3 point
So I guess you're going to guard Brian Cook??? ( so will Weave-man...haha just kidding buddy)
THANK GOD YOU DONT COACH A TEAM, WORK AS A GM,
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
My response: Did you miss the point where I said they help you interpret? Or were you ignoring that part so you could continue to
post your thoughts regardless of what I actually said? BTW, the numbers that I used were ficticious. The phrase "Let's say" should
have tipped you to that. Also, since you bring it up .... Have you ever oached a team? Did you ever play organized sports?
I ask, because I can remember watching film of the opposing team and hearing my coach talk about certain situations and actually
using stats for determining how to play. However, if you don't believe that stats are significant ... Why don't you go ask your insurance
salesperson?
Gunner,
I *SPECIFICALLY* addressed that to KL because in an earlier conversation with him WE, [ he and I ] were talking about
Kobe's leadership skills vs. his team's ineptness. Rather than get into a name calling session with you, I would suggest that
you contact KL about the crow I want him to eat. Also, you *COULD* peruse the past topics on this blog and actually
read the conversation.
On a different note: The FIBA championships start tomorrow on ESPN. Specifically, channel 208 on
DirecTV. 8pm. Delayed.
Posted by: hobbitmage | August 21, 2007 at 10:46 PM
Keith Bogans, Orlando Magic: Kobe Bryant is the toughest guy to defend.
(Orlando): Keith, which NBA player do you circle your calendar for because you look forward to defending them? On the flip side, which NBA player you DO NOT look forward to defending?
Keith Bogans: I look forward to defending pretty much every much every star player on the opposing team. Thats my job. I look forward to it. The toughest guys are probably Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson, but I look forward to that because I take pride in my job
Posted by: jorema | August 21, 2007 at 11:14 PM
Keyon Dooling: You never want to see playing one-on-one to Kobe Bryant.
What NBA player would you not want to play one on one with? Which one would you want to play?
Keyon Dooling: Once you get to the league you don't really think one-on-one because you are concentrating on team success. But the one player that I think you never want to see one-on-one is Kobe Bryant.
http://www.nba.com/magic/news/chat_dooling_061212.html
Posted by: jorema | August 21, 2007 at 11:18 PM
Lebron : Bryant, best player in the league.
”It’s easy,“ adds James. ”You don’t have to second guess yourself because he is there backing you up. I’ve always been quoted as saying Kobe Bryant is the best player in our league, and I’ll continue to say that. You automatically try to feast off of that. Why wouldn’t you? Why wouldn’t you want to copy the best player in the world to better your game?“
Posted by: jorema | August 21, 2007 at 11:33 PM
Damn, nice Rick Roll, Derek. Although at first I thought Rick Fox taught him his dance move.
E
Posted by: Emma | August 21, 2007 at 11:34 PM
Chauncey Billups: Kobe is the cream of the crop, best player.
"I've always said from the beginning that I felt like Kobe was the best player in the league. We're around a very elite group right now and you can still see his greatness.
"The same can be said for a few more players but Kobe's the cream of the crop out there."
Posted by: jorema | August 21, 2007 at 11:36 PM
I don't have to say it, the LA Times headline already has: "Bryant is the star of stars"
http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-heisler22aug22,0,1137072.story?coll=la-home-sports
"In this ensemble of stars, where great care is taken not to build up anyone at the expense of anyone else, Bryant is indisputably the star of stars.
"Phoenix Coach Mike D'Antoni, who marveled at his ferocity as Kobe won the All-Star MVP here in February, is marveling at him again as an assistant coach on this team.
"He loves playing and he loves to compete and it just carries over," said D'Antoni. "I think all the guys are doing it this summer. It's been a joy.
"No matter who we're playing, what we're doing, he's competing. He works out like a fiend. I mean, he works out in the morning, at night. It's pretty impressive."
"Said Detroit guard Chauncey Billups: "I've always said from the beginning that I felt like Kobe was the best player in the league. We're around a very elite group right now and you can still see his greatness. The same can be said for a few more players but Kobe's the cream of the crop out there."
How many quotes will it take for the haters to close up shop and admit they are wrong?
Posted by: Rick Friedman | August 21, 2007 at 11:36 PM
There should be a rule for this blog that no one is allowed to spout off an opinion without backing it up with factual evidence and logic. I'm tired of all the emotional, prejudiced rants, no matter which side of an issue the ranter is supporting. I have to read through way too much emotional, opinionated crap to get to intelligent comments.
I'm especially sick and tired of the debate about Kobe. Look, the guy is way more talented than the rest of the team combined, and way more motivated and determined to win. So, sometimes he takes over games in order to try to win. That doesn't make him selfish necessarily. He's trying to win. Other times he sees the path to winning as being a facilitator, and then he gets criticized for not shooting enough. How would any of you adult bloggers handle playing ball with a bunch of 10 year olds? You'd have the same problem. I'm not saying the rest of the Lakers play like 10 year olds, just that the talent gap is tough for Kobe to handle. Cut him some slack on that.
Also, Kobe didn't drive Shaq off. Shaq was a great player but also a big baby lazy prima donna, who subsequent events have shown not to be worth the tremendous money he was demanding. There's no way Buss could pay both Shaq and Kobe and have enough left to continue surrounding them with good role players. So, one of them had to go, and Shaq was closer to the end of his career, and the one demanding way too much money for his actual value, so he was the one dumped. Kobe didn't drive him off. Buss made a rational business decision. On the other hand, trading Caron for Kwame was really stupid.
As for Kobe's behaviour this summer, he shouldn't have gone public like he did, as that weakened the Lakers negotiating power for making any beneficial trades. But he had plenty of reason to be frustrated and at the end of his rope with Lakers management. I personally believe Bynum will eventually be an excellent player, if not a perennial All Star. But the timing of his career is out of sync with Kobe's. In the NBA you can only follow one of two strategies -- rebuild or win now. You can't do both at the same time. Trying to do that is the big mistake of Lakers management. I really like Bynum, but he should have been traded for someone whose career timing paralleled Kobe's. I also like Crittenton a lot, but he should be traded, too, for the same reason. Kobe is 100% right that Lakers management isn't handling these things correctly, and he needed to do something to wake them up. He should have done it behind closed doors, but he had to do something.
Let's put these issues to bed. And, while we're at it, let's end off on the ridiculous trade proposals that might benefit the Lakers but that no other team would ever go for. Likewise the personal attacks on other bloggers.
Everyone's entitled to his opinion, and all the different opinions on this blog are part of what make it interesting. I'd just like to see the exchange of opinions be a little more well reasoned rather than on outlet for endless emotional nonsense that just wastes everyone's time.
Posted by: rationalfan | August 22, 2007 at 12:07 AM
Every minute I think about it, this non-action drives me CRAZY!!!
Cupcake seriously messed up. Odom + Bynum = KG should have been a NO BRAINER. Then all he had to do was sign a veteran PG. Be it Fish or Chauncy, or Mo Williams.
Our lineup then could have been
Veteran PG
Kobe
Mo Evans or Vlad
KG
Kwame or Mihm
That's some sick lineup, with flexibiity to run n gun, shoot 3's, or set up the triangle.
And it all could have been done without all these crazy "Trade Machine" dreams.
SIGH. I HATE CUPCAKE!
Posted by: Wasabi | August 22, 2007 at 12:13 AM
D'Antoni's quote is interesting:
"He loves playing and he loves to compete and it just carries over," said D'Antoni. "I think all the guys are doing it this summer. It's been a joy."
That seems to show pretty clearly that Kobe is a leader, at least with the right type of players around him. It highlights the contrast with the recent Laker squads, where self-motivation wouldn't have made a major difference in the actual performance and outcome in the playoffs. And the personalities of Smush (truly "uncoachable"), Kwame (apparently warped or at least left undeveloped by MJ's fantastic leadership) and Bynum (too young), all expected to play key roles in the new Lakers were such that the kind of quality leadership Kobe is capable of -- and which isn't just feel-good cheerleading -- couldn't have had much impact even if he had made more effort than he actually did (which was quite a lot in fact).
Kobe's neither a saint (not sure how many of those are hanging around the NBA) nor is he an absolute role model (mainly an effect or a requirement of marketing), but neither a saint nor an absolute role model could have done much more with the current Lakers. If d'Antoni -- who has no reason to enthusiastically admire any Laker -- feels that way about Kobe as a leader, it means one of two things: either he's totally sincere or he's hoping that through the FO's ineptness, Pheonix might find a way of ending up with Kobe on their team. Come to think of it, maybe it's both. Or perhaps some of the critics on the list will find the real explanation: d'Antoni is lying through his teeth just to make the other team members -- who all secretly hate Kobe -- believe that all is for the best in the best of all possible worlds.
Posted by: Tsphere | August 22, 2007 at 01:31 AM
Jorema,
"Keyon Dooling: You never want to see playing one-on-one to Kobe Bryant. "
"Keith Bogans, Orlando Magic: Kobe Bryant is the toughest guy to defend."
LOL!!! that's funny you're bringing out Orlando benchwarmers. Is that the best you can do?
Posted by: Gunner | August 22, 2007 at 01:39 AM
LeBron James 2006 NBA MVP?
© Mark Barnes
"If the MVP trophy went to the guy with the most value, LeBron James would win this year, and he would have won last season, too. The most sensational performer since Michael Jordan has taken a franchise that was one of the worst in all of sports and made it a legitimate title contender. Although value should not be judged on stats alone, consider that only one other player in history has career averages of 25 points, six rebounds and six assists. That player is Oscar Robertson. LeBron and Oscar are in a class by themselves.
Aside from these astonishing numbers, though, LeBron leads the league in both points and field goal percentage in the fourth quarter, when the best, most valuable, players step up and carry their teams. He makes more old-fashioned 3-point plays (the kind where you score and get fouled) than anyone. In fact, the next closest player is 20 behind LeBron in a category that underscores how truly unstoppable a player is."
Posted by: Gunner | August 22, 2007 at 01:47 AM
Want a new thread?? Talk about how the only real reason the Lakers didn't acquire KG and won't get JO is because of the 2 GMs and their continued loyalty to the Cetics and hatred for the Lakers. Kevin Mchale and Larry Bird once a Celtic always a Laker Hater.
Posted by: The Smart One | August 22, 2007 at 02:04 AM
Faith- "Here's what I never get...if we see it, why doesn't the FO? I mean it's soo obvious! l"
Exactly- not just the FO but a HOF coach with 9 rings?
Posted by: Laker Lover | August 22, 2007 at 03:36 AM
Jorema- Im not sure where you get some of your stuff, but I have never defended the Lakers FO. Could they do better? Of course. Is Jerry West the answer? Go check how he did in Memphis after he left LA. I would cant that team a championship contender.
Ive been saying for 2 years several guys on this laker team have no business being in the nba playing for the lakers- cook, sasha kwame smush. Not only do these guys play, two started and the others get consistent minutes off the bench. You have to wonder with your golden boy coach 9 rings why he continued playing these guys.
This is supposed to be the lakers! Is management responsible? Yes they made a mistake by thinking they could build the team around Kobe and trading Shaq. Maybe Kobe asked for that chance, maybe not, but thats what has happened and the results are under whelming so far.
Now they are stuck in many ways by that decision.
Posted by: Laker Lover | August 22, 2007 at 03:46 AM
damn
Posted by: yup | August 22, 2007 at 04:20 AM
So what did Kobe say...?
I hate these f***ing webcasts! 37 seconds - buffering... And the shizzit won't start again. Not the first time this happens. And I have a 8mbit hookup! I need a transcript!!!
Come to think of it, guess he didn't say anything significant... why would he? It's USA basketball time and it'll be nice seeing Kobe shine in an environment befitting of his talents! Go Kobe! Yeah, I can say this with a good conscience 'cause I'm Swedish and don't have the patriotic obligations you yanks have. I only wish we had a team that wasn't a joke... But that won't happen anytime soon. Basketball never seems to gain any popularity here in Viking Land.
Posted by: Andy L | August 22, 2007 at 04:39 AM
********************************************************************************************************************************
ATTENTION BLOGGERS : TODAY (AUGUST 22, 2007) IS DEDICATED TO THA_SHOW
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PAST HONOREES: MIKE TENIENTE, EDWIN GUECO, KLBEAST, GENERIC_ONE, A.K. J.J. FAITH, LAKER TOM,
SONNY BELFAST, JOREMA, TALIQ, DAVID WHANG
NEXT HONOREE (FATTY)
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He warned us last year when the season started and the Lakers were Oh so good. He warned us but no one listened.
Oh we were so happy with our 26 and 13 and beating the Spurs, Houston and San Antonio. So who wanted to listen to a
fear monger who warned us that these victories were paper thin. And what happened the warnings came true. The Lakers
flopped and jaws dropped. Who warned us? Todays honoree of course Tha_Show. If you need a Lawyer you go to
Johnny Cochrane if you need advice on basketball just ask Tha Show but dont get mad if his advice is a little strong. If you go to
a doctor for an illness do you want him to give you the brutal truth and help you to get well or do you want him to tell you a sweet
lie and watch you die? Thats why I refer to show as the sports doctor he can diagnose the condition and present a prescription
to cure the situation even though the prescription may be harsh tasting the results are a correction of the affliction. Dont get me
wrong Tha Show is all business when describing a cure but he can zip out those lines that will have you rolling in stitches while
at the same cutting through the B.S. The man is truly a Laker Fan first and if that means getting rid of Kobe in order to save the
Lakers well..HIT THE ROAD KOB AND DONT YOU COME BACK NO MORE NO MORE That after all is what a fan is. As they say
the Team is called The Los Angeles Lakers, not the Los Angeles Kobes.Ive enjoyed Shows post over the years even though
we have had our share of disagreements on Kobe and JO for LO. Tha Show is another of those who has tried to bring the
anti Kobe and pro Kobe factions together But dont blame the doctor kiddies if you dont want to take the medicine. If you are
looking for Integrity, if you are looking for knowledge or if you just want to trade a few zingers Tha Show is your man and thats
why on this August 22, 2007 Tha Show was chosen as our man of the day to honor. Thank you Dr. Show for all that you
do in making This Blog more than just a place to hang out at now and then but more like a family gathering place. Thanks to
you this Blog and the world are a much better place and so we honor you and hope that you enjoy your day.
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THA SHOW BLOG LINES OF THE WEEK:
i say fine. andrew bynum better become the real deal holyfield, or else the lakers will look like asses once again. hee-haw..
.
the same andrew bynum who has played "one on none" all summer and is making big time "improvements"...
for those who still believe that lamar odom and andrew bynum is too much for jermaine o'neal, i say job well done...you are
all esteemed graduates of the mitch kupchak school of general managing.
i've written this several times, quit asking phil & kobe for a steak dinner and giving them a pack of 99 cent franks to do it with.
KOBE IS SELF ABSORBED, FULL OF IT. The reason he spends so much time practicing and working out is because he has no
friends nobody to hang out with. There is a good saying..tell me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are...what do you
say about Kobe.
that's what i think. for whatever it's worth. which is nothing.
CORRECTION:
Yesterday I inadvertently said October 21, 2007 in honoring David Whang for his day. Mr. Whang I apologize. The Line
should have read: So David Whang for inspiring us to live up to the best within us and going above and beyond the call of
duty in doing this we would like to on this August 21, 2007 honor you for being the personification of what a true Laker fan
is. Thank you for your inspiration, your humility, your positive suggestions and for being the truly beautiful human being you are.
Enjoy your day David and dont stay up to late tonight. LOL!
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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
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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
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 22, 2007 at 06:18 AM
re: The FIBA games.
Is there anybody in/near SF who's interested in meeting at a bar to watch the games?
Tonight I'm watching from home, but starting Friday afternoon thru the weekend I could
make arrangements to meet.
Posted by: hobbitmage | August 22, 2007 at 06:22 AM
Hi AK/BK and fellow bloggers.
I just checked the blog and was amazed to see that we are looking for topics???
Are we so insular as not to know that the best of the best is in Las Vegas??
Starting Tonight?
Baywood
Posted by: Baywood | August 22, 2007 at 07:11 AM
"rationalfan" wow...
"As for Kobe's behaviour this summer, he shouldn't have gone public like he did, as that weakened the Lakers negotiating power for making any beneficial trades. But he had plenty of reason to be frustrated and at the end of his rope with Lakers management. I personally believe Bynum will eventually be an excellent player, if not a perennial All Star. But the timing of his career is out of sync with Kobe's. In the NBA you can only follow one of two strategies -- rebuild or win now. You can't do both at the same time. Trying to do that is the big mistake of Lakers management. I really like Bynum, but he should have been traded for someone whose career timing paralleled Kobe's. I also like Crittenton a lot, but he should be traded, too, for the same reason. Kobe is 100% right that Lakers management isn't handling these things correctly, and he needed to do something to wake them up. He should have done it behind closed doors, but he had to do something."
===============================
so, just like in the movies when somebody steals a car. They shouldn't but... they had a good reason to, so it's ok?
I also like the "theory" being floated around here that in order to win, Bynum and Crittenton MUST be traded.
Why? Should Dallas have dumped Josh Howard and Devin Harris according to this theory? Remember a young 19-20 year old Tony Parker going at the Shaq and the Lakers in the playoffs? I guess San Antonio should have followed this brilliant theory and traded Paker away IMMEDIATELY after Tim Duncan went on the radio in the offseason said he couldn't win with this young roster?
I mean... YOU POSTED IT:
"There should be a rule for this blog that no one is allowed to spout off an opinion without backing it up with factual evidence and logic."
Well... Hello? You guys want a team with an allstar at every position yet you still don't acknowledge the salary cap issue and then complain that the front office isn't dumping all of their young, LOW SALARY players for higher salary guys?
WHERE is the logic in this? How about some "factual evidence" on this?
Posted by: TaosHum | August 22, 2007 at 07:29 AM
Ir-rationalfan
"There should be a rule for this blog that no one is allowed to spout off an opinion without backing it up with factual evidence and logic."
do you know how many times i've heard the "my $hit don't stink" argument? I guess we'all all full of $hit and you're opinions are based on "factual evidence and logic"?
I think you're hari-yahoo in disguise.
You are absolutly wrong that shaq is quote/unqote fat and lazy. the "fat and lazy" argument was dreamed up by kobe and now perpetuated by kobe loyers (which you clearly are) to discredit shaq's contributions to the laker organization.
face it, kobe is a super-duper #2 and always will be. it's easy to say "i'm a leader", it's a whole different story to actually be a leader....now that's a fact.
Posted by: KLBeast(The Real One) | August 22, 2007 at 07:33 AM
TaosHum:
"The Lakers make that "bold" move and we're dead in the water for the next 5 years."
If you won't take risks because you're afraid to lose, then you don't deserve to win.
Posted by: hal9000 | August 22, 2007 at 07:46 AM
tha show:
"i've written this several times, quit asking phil & kobe for a steak dinner and giving them a pack of 99 cent franks to do it with.
that's what i think. for whatever it's worth. which is nothing."
That's of the best lines I've read on this blog in a long time. Tha show, you tha man.
Posted by: hal9000 | August 22, 2007 at 07:51 AM
TaosHum:
"Guys aren't going to take less money to come here, not with Kobe. They would with Shaq though... hmmmm..."
I see you're slowly turning to the dark side and becoming a FO apologist... that's to bad.
Posted by: hal9000 | August 22, 2007 at 07:55 AM
Lake Show,
I'm actually a Vick guy, and would love to have him on my team. Dude made a mistake, not even that huge of a mistake in my eyes, and should get a second chance. I mean, come on. This man is about to lose his career over a DOG!!!!! I know people love their pets, but come on. We're talking about a human being that is going to lose millions, and be villified by millions over a DOG? Why dog fighting is a FELONY, is beyond me, but there needs to be a change to that law. If I were writing the law that would definitely be a misdemeanor, and would be punishable by a MAXIMUM of 1 year in jail, and a fine. I know I'll probably take some heat for this, but I think a human beings well being is more important than that of a dog.
Posted by: Weave-Man | August 22, 2007 at 07:59 AM
KLBeast:
"let kobe rot and don't make any stupid trades unless the lakers get enough compensation for BOTH kobe and shaq since it is kobe who's responsible for shaq departure."
Uh oh... KL's flip flopping again...
Posted by: hal9000 | August 22, 2007 at 08:01 AM
Rick Friedman
Remember all the bozos calling Mark Heisler and idiot when the "insider" article came out.
"No matter who we're playing, what we're doing, he's competing. He works out like a fiend. I mean, he works out in the morning, at night. It's pretty impressive."
It just occured to me that maybe kobe has no friends or doesn't cares about family time....just a unsubstantiated thought...
"In this ensemble of stars, where great care is taken not to build up anyone at the expense of anyone else, Bryant is indisputably the star of stars."
i think we already know this since kobe's the reigning all-star MVP...my question is can kobe lead a team to victory (note not a [ie, singular] victory rather a big picture victory like a gold or making it into the 2nd round)? i'll start with the lakers in 2007-2008, then the summer olympic in 2008. i consider vegas a "stepping stone" (kobe's words), so anything less than a 1st place finish will be considered a failure since we have to be in vegas in the first place due to our disappointing performance last year. as i recall, only the top 2 teams make it to the olympic games....
Posted by: KLBeast(The Real One) | August 22, 2007 at 08:01 AM
Some people just don't get it. Statistics and MVP awards mean absolutely nothing. Same with personalities. It's all about winning CHAMPIONSHIPS. How hard is that to understand? Nash doesn't have one. Iverson doesn't either. Neither does Garnett or Nowitzki. Can you say three-love, baby? THREE LOVE. That's all that matters!
Posted by: Chris White | August 22, 2007 at 08:02 AM
******************************************************************************************************
CORRECTION: THE FOLLOWING LINE IN THE TRIBUTE TO THA_SHOW WAS NOT FROM
THA_SHOW AT ALL:
KOBE IS SELF ABSORBED, FULL OF IT. The reason he spends so much time practicing and
working out is because he has no friends nobody to hang out with. There is a good saying..
tell me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are...what do you say about Kobe.
THAT LINE WAS FROM LAKE_SHOW. TO THA_SHOW I OFFER MY DEEPEST APOLOGIES.
FROM ANY FALLOUT LISTING THIS LINE AS FROM YOU MAY COST.
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 22, 2007 at 08:04 AM
Those are all glowing comments about Kobe. It sort of rubs the fact that he doesn't want to be a Laker right in our faces. Something that guys like D'antoni, and Billups probably get kicks on.
There's no doubt that he's the best player in the world right now.
I've lived in a world full of Laker-haters my whole life. I'll tell you what, the haters are out in full force right now just laughing at the Lakers. The Kobe situation is like a dream come true for these people. As a fan, to get backstabbed by a player of Kobe's magnitude just hurts plain and simple.
Of course there's a side of me that wishes Kobe would come to his senses and make an apology to Lakerfans around the world, making everything hunkydory again. Then there's another side that tells me that at this point, nothing can make this situation work other than trading the best basketball player in the world. Which is obviously basketball suicide for at least 4-5 years.
If we trade Kobe, the future will look bright, but won't manifest into consistent wins for a few years. If we keep Kobe, we're going to be walking on thin ice for a few years, but be a player away from competing for a championship.
The thing about all of this is, Kobe can easily clear this situation up with a few words. Why won't he do that? How will these few words cause a distraction to team USA? Team USA is already distracted as much as it can be with this issue.
The ironic part about this whole deal is I'm still going to cheer Kobe on for team USA. Even though he's $hi**ed on my Lakers like no other player has ever had the balls to do, I still have to cheer for this guy. He deserves boo's like no other, yet I will cheer. Because as much of a fan of the Lakers I am, this is about the United States. This is our game, and we need to reclaim it decisively.
It'd be nice if Shaq, Duncan, and Garnett were playing. Will Amare, Howard, and Chandler be enough down low. Something tells me that these international teams are going to pound it inside and challenge these inexperienced bigs. If we need to double down low, shooters will be open. Maybe the Olympic Committee should have thought about Kwame as a big for his post D, haha!
Posted by: Rocky | August 22, 2007 at 08:08 AM
Gunner:
"ALL 11 PLAYERS CAN PLAY HARD EVERY NIGHT BUT WHEN YOU SO-CALLED LEADER IS JACKING UP 50 ATTEMPTS, WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO PLAY HARD?
SO, I GUESS EVERYONE SHOULD PLAY HARD AND BOX OUT SO, THEY CAN REBOUND 35-45 ATTEMPTS CATAPULTED UP THERE BY THE BALL HOG HIMSELF."
50 shots a game? I love how you exaggerate the truth to serve your own purposes. It really gives your posts a lot more credidility.
Posted by: hal9000 | August 22, 2007 at 08:13 AM
KLBeast:
"after shaq's arrival, we made the semis, then conference finals before the championship run."
Didn't the Lakers get swept out of the playoffs in 2 out of the first 3 seasons Shaq was here? Last time I checked, the only banners that hang in Staples are for Championships, not conference semi appearances.
KLBeast:
"so my scorecard tells me the lakers made the semis 3 times, conference finals once and NBA finals 4 times in shaq's 8 years with the lakers."
Didn't the Lakers have 4 all stars in 97-98 and arguably the deepest tream in the league with Kobe, Van Exel, Jones, Campbell, Horry, Fox, etc? Didn't the 00-02 squads have veterans with championship rings like Horry, A.C. Green, Horace Grant, John Salley and Ron Harper? Those were definitely NOT mediocre teams.
KLBeast:
"kobe was a nobody before shaq's arrival..."
Dude, you're joking, right? You really go to great lengths to come up with your ridiculous arguments. Kobe was a high school phenom before Shaq's arrival... but you already knew that. You just like hearing yourself talk, even if what you say makes no sense.
KLBeast:
"and kobe is a nobody now that shaq's gone."
I guess that's why he has the top selling jersey, is the consensus "best player in the league" and why people think he is the key to team USA bringing home the gold in the olympics. Pretty impressive for a nobody.
Posted by: hal9000 | August 22, 2007 at 08:36 AM
Wasabi,
JO + Fish might be possible. JO + Chauncey or Mo Williams is as unrealistic as most of the "trade machine dreams", as you call them.
The Lakers have been out of cap space since before Shaq left. Neither Chauncey nor Mo Williams would come to the
Lakers for a mid level exception. Miami tried to lure Mo Williams away and he went and listened to them, at his agent's
advice, but he said he was never seriously considering going there. It's all about money.
As for whether I'd take the Odom+Bynum+Crittendon for Jermaine O'Neal deal... maybe. But probably not. The problem is
that Kobe hasn't specifically endorsed it. If Kobe said he'd stay with the Lakers through his whole contract if I did it, then I'd
do it. But if Kobe walks or forces a trade with the threat of walking, then it's better for a rebuilding process to have Odom
and Bynum and Crittendon than it is to have O'Neal.
Posted by: Long time Laker fan | August 22, 2007 at 08:44 AM
WeaveMan,
"This man is about to lose his career over a DOG!!!!! I know people love their pets, but come on."
Don't worry about taking he heat brother, I'll take it with you. I'm 100% in support of what you say.
In Hong Kong Dog is a delicacy food dish. In thailand monkey meat is a delicay. Until everyone stops wearing
shoes, stop taking any drugs for sickness - since all drugs are anilmal tested don't give me your sob story.
The whole thing was F*cking sensationalized. Oh Vick eletrocuted and drowned the dogs. Do you know what they
do to baby seals to get their white fur? They bash their f*cking heads in with clubs, that's what. Do you know what
I hate to say this but this is going after a Brother plain and simple. When Bret Farve who I like admitted he went to
cock fights( that's Rooster fighting each other with knives affixed to their claws.) The reporters all laugh and not a peep
about how terrible it was. Sorry folks but this sh*t has me steamed so I'll just end it for now. But Weave my man
I'll be in your corner forever after for that post.
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 22, 2007 at 08:51 AM
Chris White,
"Can you say three-love, baby? THREE LOVE. "
LOL! 3 LOVE LOL! 3 LOVE Right on Chris white you know you right!!! LOL! 3 Love
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 22, 2007 at 08:56 AM
THe Lake Show:
"ARODs MVP came on a miserable last place team. Kobe has been on two playoff teams and is never in the argument for MVP.
You and I both know that on the offensive end, baseball is not a team sport like basketball, so why would you even make an "apples and oranges" comparison like that?
Posted by: hal9000 | August 22, 2007 at 08:57 AM
Weave-man,
re: why dog fighting is a felony?
5. Why should dogfighting be a felony offense?
There are several compelling reasons. Because dogfighting yields such large profits for participants, the minor penalties associated with misdemeanor convictions are not a sufficient deterrent. Dogfighters merely absorb these fines as part of the cost of doing business. The cruelty inherent in dogfighting should be punished by more than a slap on the hand. Dogfighting is not a spur-of-the-moment act; it is a premeditated and cruel practice.
Those involved in dogfighting go to extensive lengths to avoid detection by law enforcement, so investigations can be difficult, dangerous, and expensive. Law enforcement officials are more inclined to investigate dogfighting if it is a felony. As more states make dogfighting a felony offense, those remaining states with low penalties will become magnets for dogfighters.
from: http://www.petfinder.com/journal/index.cgi?article=633
Posted by: hobbitmage | August 22, 2007 at 08:57 AM
KLBEast,
"face it, kobe is a super-duper #2..."
At this point in time, I agree with that. With the best super-duper #2's in the history of the NBA like
James Worthy and Scottie Pippin and Joe Dumars.
"...and always will be."
That's where our opinions differ. If the Lakers could get 1 or 2 more starter quality players (whether through existing
players maturing into their roles, trades, or free agency), and the Lakers are able to win another championship or
two, then he will be in the group of #1's. I'd say the most likely candidates for maturation are Bynum, Walton, and
Farmar, in that order. If Fisher plays up to the level he was playing during the last Laker Dynasty, then he will
count as one.
Similarly, if Kobe can convince the Lakers to trade him to a team that has talent but hasn't won a championship yet
(Dallas, Phoenix, Chicago, etc) and that team subsequently wins one or more championships, then he will be in the
group of #1's. I think if Kobe was the starting SG for last year's Dallas team (instead of Jason Terry) and they
had won all those games, then Kobe would have been a shoo-in for MVP. And Dirk would move into the realm
of one of the best #2 talents.
If it's multiple championships in either situation, then (and only then) could you legitimately discuss him as one of the
greatest ever.
Posted by: Long time Laker fan | August 22, 2007 at 09:22 AM
HobbitMage,
"s there anybody in/near SF who's interested in meeting at a bar to watch the games?"
Hobbit if I was anywhere near SF I would gladly sip a brew and watch the games with you.
Alas, SF is a little bit out of the way for me but I will be with you all i spirit.
USA TODAY USA TOMORROW USA FOREVER
Posted by: Mamba24/10 | August 22, 2007 at 09:22 AM
Gunner,
Fair question: "WHEN YOU SO-CALLED LEADER IS JACKING UP 50 ATTEMPTS, WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO PLAY HARD?"
I think you have encapsulated the core debate about Kobe as a player. I've always viewed this as "chicken vs egg." Some believe the rest of the team stands around with their hands in their pockets because Kobe won't share the ball with them anyway. Most of the time, though, his team mates look afraid to do anything except pass the ball to Kobe.
This is absolutely where the Lakers offense breaks down on a consistent basis. The other team's defense swarms Kobe because they are not worried about anyone else. But Kobe's team mates send him the ball anyway and then he has to take a bad shot.
I'd like to see Walton adjust his game to be more inclined to penetrate in the paint, so Kobe can pass the ball to him more often. The "bigs" -- Kwame, Bynum and Mihm -- have to be better finishers and make sure they slam the ball down the net. Lamar has to be more selfish and relish being the second scorer, whether it's his natural inclination or not.
If these other guys can step up their game, as I suggest, it is my belief that Kobe will get the ball to his team mates more often. I also think that the mindset I'm asking for will reduce the number of times Kobe gets the ball too late in the shot clock and has no choice but to take a bad shot.
In short, I'm suggesting that Kobe sometimes looks like a ball hog because the other guys send him the ball too often under the wrong circumstances.
Early last season, when the team was playing well, Kobe worked harder to establish the other guys. What we saw at the end of the season was a complete breakdown of the Lakers as a team.
I'd like to see a return to a team-centric offense and a much bigger focus on defense. If this roster can play the way I'm suggesting, the Lakers can win more games, and Kobe will look like less of a ball hog.
Gunner, reading this back, I think we both want the same thing.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | August 22, 2007 at 09:24 AM
Backstabbing?
Backstabbing?
The only backstabbing being done is by the Lakers organization to Kobe and the Lakers fans, by not doing their best to make any significant moves!
Posted by: Kobe Apologist | August 22, 2007 at 09:28 AM
Smart One -
I agree, Bird dislikes the Lakers like McHale and is not inclined to help us with JO any more than McHale was with KG.
BUT... Bird does NOT dislike Magic. In fact they are GOOD FRIENDS, like McHale and Ainge. So the way to get it done is to appoint Magic "special negotiator" (since Buss obviously doesn't have the cojones to fire Kupcake) and let HIM handle the negotiations with the Pacers for a JO deal. I GUARANTEE we could get JO for Kwame, Bynum, and some combination of Rad/Luke/Cook and/or Critt/Farmar/Sacha plus our next years #1. A GREAT trade for BOTH teams.
Let MAGIC bring us back to our glory days. Bird will deal with him cause unlike Kupcake Bird likes and respects Magic!
Posted by: Jay Jay | August 22, 2007 at 09:38 AM
hal9000
"I see you're slowly turning to the dark side and becoming a FO apologist... that's to bad."
-------------
Actually nothing has changed. I actually like A LOT about this team and actually think if Kobe decides to work with it, like say a true leader and player like Tim Duncan would, then Kobe will be back competing in the finals again, but! that would require Kobe to learn from Lebron James about certain leadership skills like telling people to keep taking that open shot instead of sneering when they miss and then never letting them take that shot again.
Sure, the front office deserves some blame. Kobe stuck a gun to their head and we had to rush to trade Shaq and got stuck with Brian Grant's contract. There is no denying this, Kobe just said during his tirade he was seriously thinking about going to the Clippers. THE CLIPPERS!!! LOL! Well, if he was that close and Shaq hadn't been traded... can you put 2 + 2 together? Oh, Kobe may not have "said" anything but the implication was clear.
The front office AND Phil Jackson gambled on Kwame Brown. In some ways, Kwame was useful, especially on defense but there's a really bad computer program running in his head on offense. Everybody wants to take a gamble? Well THEY DID GAMBLE on Kwame and it didn't work out, so you move on.
I just love these arguments that Bynum and Crittenton HAVE to be moved because they are young. That same criteria could have been used after Kobe's rookie season since Shaq was the aging stud who needed to win NOW. That turned out ok, didn't it? What does this have to do with being an "apologist" for the front office? It's just common sense.
Posted by: TaosHum | August 22, 2007 at 09:40 AM
Taliq, i don't know if you hadn't noticed, but i'm sticking to a 5 post a day limit. i'm on #2 for the day.
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 21, 2007 at 01:31 PM
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 21, 2007 at 09:00 AM
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 21, 2007 at 11:46 AM
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 21, 2007 at 02:04 PM
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 21, 2007 at 02:12 PM
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 21, 2007 at 03:08 PM
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 21, 2007 at 03:55 PM
Posted by: KLBeast(the real one) | August 21, 2007 at 05:48 PM
Posted by: KLBeast(The Real One) | August 21, 2007 at 10:39 PM
(Excluding posts it uses "Gooner" as its other blog name).
Either the spammer who claims to be a financial man doesn't know how to count, has nothing to do with his time, or has words of no value.
Dude, I obviously don't care if you dislike Kobe, but you undercut your own credibility when you just throw stuff out.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | July 27, 2007 at 09:25 AM
Posted by: Lakergurl | August 22, 2007 at 09:46 AM
Weave-Man,
It may not be that big of a deal to you, but to a lot of other people it is. Keep in mind that he was not just a casual observer of the dog fighting world, but was one of the head honchos in the dog fighting world. He also killed about 8 dogs himself through strangling, shooting, and drowning. Dog lover or not, his horrific crimes should challenge your moral fabric.
Rocky,
Why do you feel as if Kobe stabbed us in the back? Because he wants to play elsewhere? This has nothing to do with us fans, but everything to do with the mishaps of management. He just wants to have a shot at winning thats all, its nothing personal. What do you want him to say? He has basically said everything that there is to know, so why do you want him to reiterate his stance? If you have been playing close attention, you should know that he doesn't want to play here, that he will show up for training camp, and that he won't beat the dead horse anymore.
"Even though he's $hi**ed on my Lakers like no other player has ever had the balls to do."
How is asking for a trade the most hideous crime a player has done to an organization? Did Shaq not demand a trade? Did Shaq not call the owner an idiot and a coward? Did Shaq not taunt Mitch during an actual game by shouting: "Pay me?!" Did Shaq not call us fans fake? Did Shaq not come to a Laker game for a few minutes to taunt us? Did Shaq not go out of his way to ridicule the owner after he was traded to the team of his choice? Did Magic not demand a trade or else fire their coach? Time and time again, you guys fail to see the big picture by placing the blame solely on Kobe or at least a great portion of it. Kobe gives it his all on the court and works out every off season to improve his game. What more can you ask from the number one player in the league? What has management done? I'll list the names for you: Kwame, Smush, Sasha, Cook, Mckie, Green, Jim Jackson, Von Wafer, etc. I'll pinpoint to you where management messed up, thus creating this current mess. They traded Caron for Kwame. Okay, it's a dumb move but I at least understand why we did it. Lebron, Amare, and Yao resign with their respective teams. Management gets discouraged and quickly abandons the 3 year plan. Brian Grant's contract comes off the books. Since we couldn't land those top 3 players, we use up our money to offer Kwame a 9 million dollar extension. A few dumb player acquisitions and extensions later, here we are. You know how easily we could have gotten Garnett or Oneal with Caron instead of Kwame?
Posted by: fkillah | August 22, 2007 at 09:51 AM
KL,
Your question, "can kobe lead a team to victory?" will be answered in the affirmative by Team USA. If that squad can't achieve a Gold, I'll be sorely disappointed. As for the Lakers, please see my post to Gunner.
Rightly or wrongly, Kobe's legacy will be about future titles. I think he knows that, which is so he was so beside himself when last season ended in meltdown.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | August 22, 2007 at 10:10 AM