Finally, mercifully, thankfully, it's game day
It's been a long time coming, but the Lakers will finally play a real, live game tonight against the Rockets at Staples (7:30, TNT). It won't put an end to the turmoil the team is enduring to start the year, but at least keeping score and counting games in the standings will give everyone something else to do. At best, it's a return to business as usual, at worst a sideshow while KobeWatch! plays out. Today, Kobe's a Laker (and for a while, at least, likely to stay that way), all the comments are positive, and the Lakers have hope just like everyone else. Certainly those on the inside like D-Fish are aiming high. The light popping on for Kwame Brown could facilitate the process. As could a season of Kobe playing distributor as well as scorer.
Finally, as far as previews go, it wouldn't be complete without one from Mom, who sent in a few nuggets in response to these SI.com scouting reports for the Lakers:
- "These reports are dismal."
- "I think Luke Walton is better than reported and a good leader."
- "Nobody mentions Coby with a C."
- "I think Kobe needs an attitude change. I agree that he is not the coach and should pump up his team. Let Phil Jackson criticize Bynum and the others."
- "If they don't win and he isn't traded, there is always Dancing With the Stars" (a reference to Mark Cuban).
Meanwhile, back on the Kobe Trade Front (you thought that was going away?) more have opined. Mark Spears of AOL writes that the Lakers shouldn't move him. Too much damage to the franchise, too hard to get anything resembling quality in return, too much leverage in the process for Kobe. Better just to try and make him happy in L.A. Steve Dilbeck of the Daily News agrees, saying Kobe's value extends well beyond what he does on the court.
Meanwhile, TJ Simers pretends not to understand why Kobe won't give him a straight answer about where he wants to play. Peter Vescey continues to weigh in on the situation, saying (among other things) the Bulls are still the best fit of the places 24 is reportedly willing to go. Wizards GM Ernie Grunfeld has dismissed the Kobe-for-Gilbert rumors (would you expect otherwise?).
Just as I predicted, the Bulls are not interested. NO WELL-RUN TEAM IS. Just listen to the hurt baby backpedal now. "we gotta learn from our mistakes" PLEASE, PRETTY PLEASE, TAKE ME BACK!!
http://tinyurl.com/27jeyu
Cuban is still a possibility though. He has to feel like he needs to do something after his last two seasons.
I think if the good doctor holds his ground, and he sounds determined, Kobe will have no choice but to expand his list of destinations. I've been saying for a couple of years now that he needs to be on a crappy team. That's where he and his talents belong. He can average 40, bring a .350 team to .450, fill up the stadium and maybe even have a shot at MVP.
No well run team will take a chance at this. They know the odds are against them.
Posted by: HAB | October 30, 2007 at 09:25 AM
LAKER FANS ATTEN SHUN GAMMMMMMMMMMMME DAYYYYYYY!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALLAD OF THE LAKERS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The doubters sat waiting for them to fail
Training camp came and they began to jell
L.O. looked like an allstar to be
Kobe appeared to be the new MVP
The newspapers said Kobe would be gone
But its the start of the season he has purple and gold on
One llook in Kobes eyes and it was easy to say
Paybacks a mother and Kobe would be the rockets daddy today
Bynum came out like the second coming of Shaq
Can I believe my eyes Sahsa is on the attack
The Lakers appeared strong and stood tall
And Kwame, yes Kwame caught every damn ball
Dfish kept all of the crew in line
Not one Laker was heard to whine.
In the game the Mamba did not miss
He had 55 points and 55 assists
The triangle my friend was a thing of beauty
Even Scootie and Michael had to come to see
The season started and wouldnt you know
In November The Lakers beat every damn foe.
December and January went the same way
The Lakers became the Team, teams were afraid to play
They held to under seventy the high flying Suns
That was the same game Kobe scored 101
The regular season ended and they were so great
They broke the Bulls record they were 74 and 8
Then came the Playoffs and Im sure that you know
They ended up winning 16 in a row.
Mitch cried for joy and Jim gave up the crack
Jerry retook his Office the Lakers were Back
9Rings became 10 which made Phil the Best
For three years in a row The Lakers ruled the West
For each of those years Kobe won the MVP
Then Kobe retired and handed Bynum the Keys
But Bynum said NO! Kobe we both can drive
So when Kobe retired instead of 3 they won 5.
Which gave Kobe 8 NBA Titles and 5 MVPs
And Kobe not MJ became greatest in NBA history
And one final thing that the haters should be told
When Kobe retired he proudly wore Purple and Gold
The moral of this story, don't get me started
Purple and Gold and Kobe will never be parted
AND NOW LETS GET READY TO RUMMMMMMMBBBBBLLLLLLLLLEEEEEEEE
AND NOW ROLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL CALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL
(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, vi lakerfan
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, Man
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, Jennifer
Maurice Evans, Lamar Odom, Derek Fisher, Luke Walton, Brian Cook, KOBE FROM MANILAS
Kwame Brown, Andrew Bynum, Coby Karl, Chris Mihm, Sasha Vujacic
Jordan Farmar, Jarvis Critterton, JERMAINE ONEAL???, Larry Fulcher
ALL TOGETHER NOW:
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS THE WINNERS OF 14 NBA TITLES
THE HOME OF WILT, KAREEM, GEORGE MIKAN, SHAQ, MAGIC, KOBE,
ELGIN BAYLOR, JERRY WEST, PAT RILEY, JAMES WORTHY, SILK
COACHED BY THE 9 TIME TITLE WINNER PHIL (9RINGS) JACKSON AND
NO ONE AND NOTHING WILL EVER DIVIDE OR CONQUER
LAKERS TODAY LAKERS TOMORROW LAKERS FOREV
Posted by: Mamba24 | October 30, 2007 at 09:26 AM
Kobe Bryant is the BEST PLAYER EVER.
Tonight, Kobe will show the world AGAIN why he's the BEST EVER.
Go Kobe!
Posted by: Average Joe | October 30, 2007 at 09:27 AM
I heard Kobe is asking for an extension of $30 per year.
Kobe Bryant IS WORTH EVERY SINGLE PENNY since he is the BEST PLAYER IN THE HISTORY OF THE NBA.
Go Kobe!
Posted by: Average Joe | October 30, 2007 at 09:30 AM
"The only winner in this ugly tragedy will be Jim Buss. Will you still be a fan?"
With BYNUM, TURIAF, FARMAR, CRITTENTON and the replacements. Sure, I will be a Laker fan and even after them I will still be a Lakerfan. I also think the Lakers management has put together a roster that is competitive when healthy.
Let's breakdown the roster why it is competitive.
3 legit starting Centers in the NBA
BYNUM huge progress each year and still at 20 yrs old
MIHM nice low post offense, rebounds and energetic
Kwame, defends bigs that likes to park at the low post
Power Forward - this is the weak link
TURIAF- servicable PF, not great but solid
If MIHM or Kwame can play some PF minutes it should be all good
DEEP at Small Forwards
Odom, Walton and Radman can all start for the Lakers.
The best Shooting Guard in the NBA
Point Guard
Fisher starting PG for 3 NBA Finals
Farmar, starting PG for NCAA Finals
Crittenton, talented young PG, too obvious!
As you can see this roster is well balance at every position. Something they did not have the last two years,
At Center MHM was out, Kwame was injured half of the season, Bynum practically a rookie at 19.
At PF, Turiaf's 1st year from his heart surgery, his first complete year with the Lakers was last year. Cook is useless. A healthy MIHM and Kwame can help at this position.
At Small Forward, the emergence of BYNUM, allows Turiaf to be full time PF with back up from MIHM or Kwame. This allows ODOM to go back to his natural position at 3, So now this position is deep with the continuing progress of LUKE and the last year's FA signing Radman.
BRYANT, will get help here with Evans, KARL or Vujacic
Point Guard, this position so much a disappointment last year and the major caused of the collapsed. NOW you have a veteran leader and a clutch shooter in Fish, Farmar and Crittenton as young talented back up.
This is a much better team than last year, with BYNUM, TURIAF and FARMAR getting their first NBA real season last year and emerging as better players in the pre season..
Am I going t be a Lakerfan? HECK YES! The real question is, does kobe still wants to be a Laker. All Kobe has to do is apologize to Jerry Buss and lead his teammates.
Though If Kobe chooses to leave, the replacements should be welcome especially if they come in the form of DENG AND THOMAS.
I also will still be a KOBE fan especially if he goes to CHICAGO. Who would not want to see KOBE BRAYNT IN BULLS uniform, tha'ts like seeing MICHAEL JORDAN all over again.
Bottomline, as a Lakerfan if KOBE can stay that's great. If he leaves as a KOBEfan that's great too, see him in BULLS uniform, that's a WOW! He won't just have the LA fans, in Chicago Jordan built a huge amount of fans without borders. If KOBE helps Chicago WIN an NBA Championship, KOBE will not just have Angelino fans, he will inherit JORDAN"S WORLD WIDE GLOBAL MARKET in CHICAGO BULLS JERSEY, most fitting for the best player in the planet. Let's face it, around the NBA and the World there are a lot of them who does not like the LAKERS, because they are jealous or envy of us. BUT CHICAGO BULLS, it seems is more likable to them. It is the best stage for KOBE!
Why does KOBE need to be loyal to the Lakers? Do we need to be loyal to our employers? We all know corporations are only loyal to their stockholders. KOBE is doing the right thing for himself to get where he wants to be.
Posted by: Staples 24 | October 30, 2007 at 09:44 AM
Average Joe,
" Kobe Bryant is the BEST PLAYER EVER. Tonight, Kobe will
show the world AGAIN why he's the BEST EVER."
Average Joe please stop the fake KL opposite imitation or
satire. We get it. Kobe fans can be zealots but so can
anti Kobe fans so you've done your schtick now please sir
return to sanity. Smush Parker is the greatest Laker of all time.
Posted by: Mamba24 | October 30, 2007 at 09:45 AM
Average Joe,
Your boy, Kobe may be the best player in the league but he is STUBBORN & a head case, he's equally creating a lot of distraction with the Lakers and in the league. OK, he does not agree with management or Jimbo, he doesn't have to be the opposite of Jimbo. Once he made delivered his point that's it, play ball as a professional. Trade or no trade, he has a job to do for the fans and for the pay he is getting. Why play gamesmanship? Why cater to controversy if he has a higher objective in life? He should know by now as a professional, his loyalty is only to his family and not to anyone. He has to protect his name. Today, he has dragged his image down and it would be a tremendous job for PR people to rescue that lost faith on Kobe. That is worth hundreds of millions in the next five years. That is what happened when you are uneducated Superstar pure fantasy and no vision of the future.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:48 AM
Fan of Mamba,
GOING TO THE PRESS.....
I totally agree to what you said in the other thread, all these characters have used the press as their launching pad. Many years ago, it used to be the backroom politics where decisions are made, today it is through media. Lakers F/O has the penchant of using media as its loudspeaker. In 1994, rather than talking to Shaq or the Phil in private, they involved the media. Today, everytime they want to send a message to Kobe, it's through media or through blog. What is the result involving the press inthe decision-making, they created a circus for every story.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:55 AM
TJ SIMERS: ALWAYS MORE OF THE SAME.
As Sting (the worst singer lyricist pick up by music-magazine Blenders,
thanks to lines that betray "mountainous pomposity (and) cloying spirituality,") say and sing:
You could say I lost my faith in Lakerdom and progress.
You could say I lost my sense of direction.
I imagine Kobe doing a duo with him, singing those lines.
What I don't imagine is TJ Simers trying to change his column theme predictability and repeating himself worsts than the legendary and sinister -KL/Gunner/Taoshum- trifecta.
Same written, same said. Same mesage:
"I, the venerable TJ Simers, should be congratulated for being the Kobester-reporter-molester , the strong guy in the middle of a coward press.
I, TJ SIMERS, will smash Kobe on till the end.
That's what I do.
That's what give me some fans out there.
News don't take in account objectivity.
A reporter isn't a pastor or a reverend."
Yes, smashing, pondering, self aggrandizing ego, unapologetic disdain and hate, discard of objectivity and embracing a personal agenda without any shame and remorse. This is in your face journalism "a la entertainment tonigth".
In the background some Sting's lovers will sing to Simers and those pseudo reporters, a capella:
" We could be lost inside their lies without a trace".
Posted by: jorema | October 30, 2007 at 09:58 AM
The best prescription for the Lakers
1. Change the coach
2. Change the GM
3. Trade Kobe
4. Finally, sell the team to Magic Johnson and AEG Enterprises
Professionalism will be back to the Lakerville rather watching daily circus.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 10:00 AM
Is this dude a bore or what?
All he wants to do is win titles. YAWNNN..
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AnRg7PqNXT5DB51jJVqIwnO8vLYF?slug=jy-tim102907&prov=yhoo&type=lgns
Posted by: HAB | October 30, 2007 at 10:03 AM
What does leadership have to do with the lack of defense?
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 10:09 AM
Is Phil afraid to talk to Kobe face to face and tells him: "You suck. Play better, Mr Bryant."
Phil is playing chicken run. As George Buss did versus Bill Clinton in their presidential battle.
Phil never took Jordan to the task in the press.
The same with Shaq.
Phil is the Jekyll and Hyde of all coaches.
The problem is his tactics are getting older.
If he couldn't manipulate and motivate Smush, Cook and Bynum, imagine how he will succeed with Kobe.
Not even writing a garbage-book, eclipsed Kobe popularity.
Now, he is afraid Kobe are going to far in the game they both agree to play.
What's matter is always his own benefit, I know. I understand.
Phil...Retire earlier before your legendary name acquire lower dimensions.
Posted by: jorema | October 30, 2007 at 10:09 AM
Mamba24,
SWEEEET poem.
You are making us believe that there is still hope for this franchise.
Peace,
Mitchell
Posted by: LAKER TRUTH | October 30, 2007 at 10:10 AM
Mom sure has a thing for the long-haired, good ol' unathletic types, doesn't she?
I'm waiting for the Dan Dickau shout out next
so is Mom rooting for Helio or Scary Spice?
Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 10:11 AM
Cbuck,
If Mom had any earthly idea who Dan Dickau was, her take on him would be the same as her take on Earl Boykins and Nate Robinson. "He's adorable." haha
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 10:15 AM
I do find it interesting the PJ uses the media to speak to players instead of just sitting them down. Unless he has no control and the media is the only way he can make it a public appeal.
jorema,
Are you still angry with me? You said I was a jerk...I guess I've been called that before but you didn't say you didn't love me.
LOL
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 10:18 AM
At least we are not Spurs.
They have to be the dullest organization in history of sports! Timmy, Pop, Eva's little hubby, the crutch kneeer, and the remaining three dwarfs. All they do is sit quietly in the corner and work their little schemes.
Has a single sports writer mention them the entire off-season? I think not!
Posted by: HAB | October 30, 2007 at 10:20 AM
LAKER TRUTH,
SWEEEET poem. You are making us believe that there is still hope for this franchise.
Thanks TRUTH anything I can do to help the cause.!
Lakers Today Lakers Tomorrow Lakers Forever
Edwin Gueco,
"Professionalism will be back to the Lakerville rather watching daily circus."
I fear you may be right my mentor but don't give up hope just yet.
AVERAGE JOE YOU HAVE TO STOP THIS AND STOP IT NOW!
THAT WAY LIES THE DARK SIDE SON.
Posted by: Mamba24 | October 30, 2007 at 10:21 AM
There's been so much to digest this summer and pre-season that I need to take a moment to get perspective on the Kobe situation as it stands right now on opening day. Here is my understanding.
Kobe wants to be traded. He has made an agreement with the organization that he will not talk about it to the media any more about it ("I'm gonna hold up my end of the bargain"). They have made an agreement with him that they will work to give him his wish but they won't do it unless it's a good deal for the team.
In the meantime, Phil is trying to get Kobe to fully commit on the basketball court while he is still here. It is, understandably, a challenge considering he wants out. Who knows how long KG did it for - it must have been extremely difficult. But, if Kobe does commit, Phil believes that this team can perform as well as it did at the beginning of last year. It has the same, if not better, personnel. Why wouldn't it? Phil also would like to see a resolution sooner than later so the team and Kobe can get out from under this cloud of uncertainty, at least for right now. What is the resolution he's looking for? Kobe being traded. Knowing that Kobe won't be traded until a later date. Kobe saying he doesn't want to be traded anymore. Any of those would work.
Does that sound right?
Posted by: lakers_sth | October 30, 2007 at 10:21 AM
MIKE T.
"Are you still angry with me? You said I was a jerk...I guess I've been
called that before but you didn't say you didn't love me.
Mike we all love you but the good Gods AK and BK are not to be
trifled with.
Posted by: Mamba24 | October 30, 2007 at 10:23 AM
Hab,
Tim Duncan is a humble and an unassuming Superstar. He's a psychology major at Wake Forest and was a basketball scholar during his college days. He knows what the future can bring so he agreed for salary cut to allow the Spurs to invite good players and they can continue winning Championship. In the case of Kobe......no college background and you know his story in the last 12 years with the Lakers.
On the other hand, Tim Duncan has Popovich & Buford as a support group while Kobe has PJ, Cupcake and Jimbo as his critics. Perhaps, that's also the difference. I remember a cliche' which says like this: "Tell me who your friends are, and I will tell you what kind of person you are."
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 10:28 AM
Why can't we leave Bryant's off-the-court stuff alone? Sure he is a bone-head, but he plays ball like a madman.
Just like Rodman... he was a headcase, but he could rebound and play D.
Let's leave the Kobe bashing to the east cost media. Let's root for our player (while he is still our player) and hope that his on-court actions help us win games.
Let's root for the team as a whole. Point out flaws, and improvement. that are made on the court by our players.
Just a thought.
Posted by: frank1rizzo | October 30, 2007 at 10:29 AM
The day has finally arrived, and we need to band together as Laker fans in the common purpose of cheering for a win. Unity. Togetherness. All hold hands and sing Cumbaya.
I'm excited. I'm ready to "strap it up." Let's all strap it up, shall we? That's probably the best thing we can do right now, strap it up and be ready. You, me, all of us. In fact, I'm strapping it up right now, as we speak, and I have to admit, I feel ready. I still don't know what "it" is, or exactly how far up to strap it, but I'm game and apparently so is everyone on the team.
I personally think the Rockets are one of the big teams to worry about this year, one of the top four or five. We need to clog the middle and get Brown's big body all over Yao. I hope Brown's strapped it up.
Barkley will be there. He's been strapping it up all day long. I wish he'd stop strapping it up, but the Round Mound of Sound keeps getting Rounder and Soundier.
Chick, wherever you are, I hope you can kick back from your vantage point high above the western sideline, and doggone it, you strap it up, too. I'll be watching TNT but I'll be hearing your voice.
It's the only way any of this makes any sense.
The Drive for 55 is Alive!
Posted by: Marty | October 30, 2007 at 10:30 AM
frank1rizzo:
I FULLY AGREE WITH YOU
Posted by: DaxxMD | October 30, 2007 at 10:34 AM
I know there are a lot of people who subscribe to the belief that Buss has become "the man" and is looking only to make money rather than improve the team. That might be true although it doesn't make that much sense to me considering I don't see where Buss is saving money. He's spending a lot on payroll and, because of the CBA, is literally prohibited from being able to spend more. What is he cutting back on to generate these profits everyone keeps talking about? Do people realize that Kobe, LO and Kwame make more than Duncan, Parker and Ginobli?
What I do believe is that the front office is a mess. There is no architect - a singular voice that manages scouting, payroll and coaching so that they're all working together to build a competitive squad. I'm not talking about micro-managing. I'm talking about something more specific than the ambiguous goal of merely trying to "get better". Someone who decides what type of team is this going to be, how they go about building it, having the authority and conviction to not to deviate from that plan and finally, having the deal-making ability to pull of the necessary moves.
Posted by: lakers_sth | October 30, 2007 at 10:37 AM
Marty -
hahahahahahahaha!!!! funny mans.
Posted by: Dave M | October 30, 2007 at 10:37 AM
Edwin,
"while Kobe has PJ, Cupcake and Jimbo as his critics."
You think if Lakers had Duncan, PJ, Cupcake and Jimbo would be HIS critics?
Or would they embrace him and surround him with other superstars like Manu and Bruce?
Posted by: HAB | October 30, 2007 at 10:39 AM
OPEN LETTER TO MAMBA24
My good friend you are a very wise and sage man I see with the ability to see and discern through this illusion of manipulating the power of words.Your instincts serve you right who was that fine philosopher that said (IAM a man indeed the man iam) and that i cant hide my identity from my true pals and I consider you my true pal the great and wondrous SIR MAMBA24 the greatest blogger of the Laker blogoshere.And it has truly been and honour to serviette this path in life we have taken.......Thank you sir....Ken Landers
Posted by: Ken Landers | October 30, 2007 at 10:39 AM
Repost
Fan of the Mamba
Great Post..........I have said all along that Phil Jackson is the mortal ememy of one Kobe Bryant. Phil Jackson is evil incarnate and a master of tricknology to the unsuspecting.
Let's take a moment and examine Phil's questioning of Kobe's "heart and soul". First, after 11 years of unquestioned dedication to his craft Kobe should never be questioned on his dedication and passion for the game....especially in the EXHIBITION season. Kobe is the last person that you have to worry about "bringing" it.
Why would Phil Jackson suggest such a thing ........especially in this climate? Why hasn't the media raised the quesion of Phil's possible motives? Why haven't AK and BK asked this question?
Kobe has to get out of this circus known as L.A.
What is amazing to me is Other than L.A..........Kobe has been a dream to play with and coach.
All the Olympic coaches couldn't give him enough praises calling him the "heart and soul" of the Olympic team and "raising" everybodys level of play and making his teammates better............Has the media forgotten these facts already? Has Phil Jackson forgotten? Have these bloggers forgotten?
When Rudy Tomjanovich was coach he called Kobe the hardest working and most talented player he has ever been around...........I can't remember the last time I have read a quote from him in the L.A. Media.........AK, BK get on it.
When Kobe has played for other coaches in the All-star games from Don Nelson, to Avery Johnson, to Popovich, to Flip Saunders every coach to a man has spoken very highly of Kobe as a person, a player and a leader.
When I have read accounts from his highschool coach he has said that Kobe was the best leader he has been around and all his teammates followed his example as they won a championship.
What has been the drama in L.A.? Kobe doesn't create drama......his drama is usually A RESPONSE of the drama of Shaquille Oneal or Phil Jackson or that silly front office and their comments to an increasingly 24/7 dumbed down media.
Kobe has made mistakes but in a supposedly Christian country he who hath no sin let him cast the first stone. When you take a snapshot of Kobe Bryant what do you see? What do I see? I see an extremely intelligent, insightful young man that is dedicated to his craft and to winning, I see an individual that speaks three languages fluently that made a committment to marry and is still married and had his children in wedlock.
I see a person that discarded the naysayers and made the leap to the pros and has proven all the doubters wrong about his jump to the league........it appears he knew better than all the critics.
Most of the people that have a problem with Kobe fall into two camps........the ignorant and the envious.
I could write a book on this subject but I will spare you.....for now. Since most people who have an opinion of Kobe do not KNOW him personally.....what is the basis of their dislike? Their opinion isn't based in knowledge.....it is based in the perception created by the media and the second camp........the envious.
Kobe Bryant believes Phil Jackson to be his friend.....which is a critical error on Kobe's part...........after that book Phil wrote Kobe should never trust Phil again.....forgive yes...trust never!
Phil is a very careful study.....I would compare him to Shakespeare's Iago the close "friend" of Othello. Iago stood as the INTERPRETER between Othello and Desdemona......the reliable "insider" of both. Iago was the master manipulator of the truth because he was envious of Othello's character and relationship with Desdemona.........sound familiar?
When you look at this Kobe Drama clearly there is a lack of communication with Kobe and Jerry Buss......Kobe and Mitch Kupcake......Kobe and the media. The one person that stands as the confidant of Kobe is Phil Jackson..........Phil Jackson has the ear of Jerry Buss and Mitch Kupchek.......he also has the ear most importantly of this media.......sound familiar?
Most of the stories in the media today are the interpretation of one Phil Jackson. He questions Kobe's dedication (interpretation) the media runs with it. Phil questions whether or not objects were removed from Kobe's locker.......the media runs with it. He questions whether or not the team is distracted......the media runs with it. Do you see a pattern?
Phil even gave a glimpse last year of his intentions when he said we don't want to waste Kobe's prime years...........but when you look at his and the Lakers decisions and actions the past two years that is exactly what they are doing. This would be a masterful plan by Phil Jackson exept one thing..........YOU GOTTA PLAY THE GAME.......after all the talk and interpretation.
Next look........Phil's triangle offense.......to be continued.
Posted by: pfunk36 | October 30, 2007 at 10:39 AM
Pfunk36,
"Let's take a moment and examine Phil's questioning of Kobe's "heart and soul". First, after 11 years of unquestioned dedication to his craft Kobe should never be questioned on his dedication and passion for the game....especially in the EXHIBITION season. Kobe is the last person that you have to worry about "bringing" it. Why would Phil Jackson suggest such a thing ........ especially in this climate? Why hasn't the media raised the quesion of Phil's possible motives? Why haven't AK and BK asked this question?"
The reason I personally haven't raised this question is because it's plainly obvious to anybody who's talked with Kobe during the preseason (as I have) that he's got absolutely zero enthusiasm about being here right now. As I've said on a few occasions, he looks like he's serving out a prison sentence. Thus, outside of possibly trying to motivate Kobe through a bit of calling him out (since Kobe respects Phil enough that he can get away with it), there's nothing to read into. Kobe's lack of verve has been so apparent, even many of Kobe's fans on this blog have mentioned this.
"When Rudy Tomjanovich was coach he called Kobe the hardest working and most talented player he has ever been around...........I can't remember the last time I have read a quote from him in the L.A. Media.........AK, BK get on it."
Aye, aye, Cap'n.
"I could write a book on this subject but I will spare you.... for now."
I assumed this post was the book.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 10:42 AM
Mamba24,
NO ONE AND NOTHING WILL EVER DIVIDE OR CONQUER
LAKERS TODAY LAKERS TOMORROW LAKERS FOREVER.
I agree with you and Marty, our allegiance is really to the tradition of Purple and Gold, forget the people running the colors. They are like seasons of the year, somehow they too, will pass away and someday, we'll enjoy that those sunny days that we have been aspiring.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 10:43 AM
pfunk36,
MORE, PLEASE!
Posted by: LAKER TRUTH | October 30, 2007 at 10:46 AM
Edwin Gueco,
"I agree with you and Marty, our allegiance is really to the tradition of Purple and Gold, forget the people running the colors. They are like seasons of the year, somehow they too, will pass away and someday, we'll enjoy that those sunny days that we have been aspiring."
Thank you Edwin for reminding me of tradition it is this and this alone
that alows folks such as the Buss to get away with what they do.
Posted by: Mamba224 | October 30, 2007 at 10:48 AM
Am I on a sports blog... or a freakin Desperate housewife's blog?
Basketball people... basketball.
If I read one more line about:
"heart and Soul"
"books written"
"look at the friends you keep"
"he has dragged his image down "
"he is using the media"
ARRRG.
I am hoping Mike T. starts posting about Kwame's sick defense. That's what it has come to for me. :(
Posted by: frank1rizzo | October 30, 2007 at 10:49 AM
I DON'T KNOW BUT I BEEN TOLD
PFUNK36 BLEEDS PURPLE AND GOLD!
BIG PROPS TO YOU PFUN36!!!
Posted by: Mamba24 | October 30, 2007 at 10:54 AM
AK well said, kobe is not happy with his situation with the lakers, compare that and his body language to when he played for the USA team during the summer and the differecne is obvious.
I understand the Lakers wanting to be patient and make the right trade but its going to hurt the Laker team and direction of this seasons team , as 9 rings notes, until its settled one way or another.
For those Kobe lovers who said he needs help around him here is a quote from him
I'm happy being around them," he says. "I'm happy competing with them. The talent that we have on this team is good.
If the best player on the planet says the talent is good, what does that tell you?
Posted by: Laker Lover | October 30, 2007 at 10:55 AM
Frank,
>>>Am I on a sports blog... or a freakin Desperate housewife's blog?
Hell hath no fury, like a woman scorn.. or something like that..
You figure it out.
Posted by: HAB | October 30, 2007 at 11:01 AM
Hab,
"Or would they embrace him and surround him with other superstars like Manu and Bruce?"
I don't know if our GM is capable of spotting Manu Ginobli. He was taken by the Spurs as 2nd round - 28th pick. Lakers missed him by a mile. Even if they have Duncan here, if they're capable of just ruining any team, it would be no use. I sincerely have no faith at the Lakers F/O. It's time for a change.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 11:03 AM
Frank Frizzo,
"I am hoping Mike T. starts posting about Kwame's sick defense. That's what it has come to for me. :( "
LOL! LOL! Godd@mnit FRIZZO SHAPE UP. YOU'RE OUR POINT MAN
IF YOU GO THEN ABANDON YE ALL HOPE! LOL!
Posted by: Mamba24 | October 30, 2007 at 11:03 AM
Frank Frizzo,
"Am I on a sports blog... or a freakin Desperate housewife's blog?"
We're portraying you the news in Laker circus. We don't want these stories as well but that's where we are right now. It's all soap opera and drama. What basketball can we discuss when the news is all about Jerry Buss interview, Kobe's rant, the trade rumors, Kobe advisory, fake wrist injury, ESPN laker stories? Where is basketball here?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 11:10 AM
I find all this talk about Duncan taking LESS salary to be amusing. Afterall, a $40 million 2 year extension is $20 mill a year, basically what Kobe makes.
Someone PLEASE tell me what's the point you're trying to make??
I can tell you the point I took from you, it's that San Antonio is a class organization run by professionals who do their job extremely well and have done it very well for at least a decade. Duncan, instead of pulling an MJ (or even Shaq) where he demanded $30 million a year is settling on $20 million a year so as to not totally strap the Spurs. Great. Good point. But, why does it belong on a Laker blog????
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | October 30, 2007 at 11:22 AM
Laker Lover,
"If the best player on the planet says the talent is good, what does that tell you?"
Why do you always doubt and question Kobe's intentions and comments, but when he makes an obviously untrue comment, you finally believe him? What do you expect him to say, that this team sucks, has no chance to win a title, and he's still pissed that Jason Kidd is not on the team? Would that kind of brutal honesty during this media circus be reasonable, would it make you happy? Damned if Kobe does, damned if he doesn't.
Peace,
Mitchell
Posted by: LAKER TRUTH | October 30, 2007 at 11:30 AM
Just to add a little wood to the fire, there are two relevant dates with respect to a potential Kobe to
Chicago trade:
Date 1: October 31 at midnight.
That is the deadline for when Luol Deng and/or Ben Gordon can sign the extension offers that Chicago
made to them. Reportedly they were each offered a contract of about 50 million over 5 years.
Here's why it's important. If they both sign, you can forget about a Kobe trade to Chicago this season.
With those two as poison pill provision and Hinrich and Nocioni both base year compensation, they
would have to completely gut the team to get Kobe. And in fact, if they got both of those guys to sign
long term, then they'd merrily go on their way with their team set for several years.
On the other hand, if neither signs, then that means they both want to get paid MORE than 10 million
a year starting next season. If Gordon and Deng are both thinking they're max contract guys (or
more likely if their agents are thinking that), then that would be almost 30 million in salary for the
two, starting next year. Adding that to Ben Wallace's 14.5 million Kirk Hinrich's 10 million and all
the other salaries would put them in the neighborhood of 82 million and change starting next season.
And when you add in the luxury tax, they'd really be paying out more like 92 million.
John Paxson won't do that. So if neither Ben nor Luol signs, then a Kobe trade becomes more likely.
If he trades away Noc or Hinrich along with one of Deng or Gordon, then he could have Kobe, keep
the other of Deng or Gordon, and still stay under the luxury tax.
If Deng signs and Gordon doesn't, then Gordon becomes the trade bait. If Gordon signs and Deng
doesn't, then Deng becomes the trade bait.
Date 2: December 15 -
That's the date when Nocioni, Joe Smith, Thomas Gardner, Chris Mihm, Coby Karl, and Luke Walton
become available for a potential trade. In particular, Nocioni, Smith, Karl, and Mihm would be pieces
that could make balancing the salaries and player count easier.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | October 30, 2007 at 11:31 AM
"Kobe Bryant believes Phil Jackson to be his friend.....which is a critical error on Kobe's part...........after that book Phil wrote Kobe should never trust Phil again.....forgive yes...trust never! "
After everything Phil did to the Lakers over the last two season, which, basically, effected Kobe's legacy, I find it hard to believe that Kobe Bryant could be so naive about Phil. Unless Kobe is putting up a front about his relationship with Phil...Kobe trusting Phil is mindboggling.
If Kobe is truely close to Phil it would explain why Jerry and Jim Buss want him out while Phil and Jeanie want to keep Phil.
From the time Jim called Phil out about his coaching, to me, he was looking out for Kobe. And I think Jim and Jerry are on the same page or Jim wouldn't have done that interview. It was obvisous...about Phil coaching.
Now going after Phil through the media is, to me, a public support of Kobe because what Jim said was true. Phil screwed Kobe around big time.
Example:
Game one of the Phoenix series last season.
The Lakers jump out to a 17 point lead. Phil pulls Kwame Brown, the clog to the lane. Then he keeps Brown out to around the 3 minute mark of the 2nd quarter. By that time the Suns pull within 2 points. So what does Phil do? He bring Kwame back into the game. A little late there don't you think? But Kobe hits three 3-pointers to push the lead to 11 going into the half.
2nd half.
The Suns and the Lakers come out trading baskets. The Suns are making all their shots. But they're doing it by working for it. They're working out of a half court set. The Suns pull within 4 points. Then they bring in Barbosa. Then they run two plays where they screen off the ball. In those plays they get Kwame to bump into his own players. Phil sees it and pulls Kwame and brings in Bynum. The Suns and Barbosa go on to score like 18 of the next 24 points. Barbosa scores around 15 of those points. Barbosa attacked the basket at will. We lose that game.
We lose game 2. We win game 3. We should have won game 1. Going into game 4 we should have been up 2 games to 1.
That right there is where PJ manipulated the line-up and then cried he needed a center when the season was over. Jim Buss basically told him to be quiet and start coaching with ethics.
What Kobe doesn't seem to understand is that Jim was really watching his back by bring Phil into accountability. Now, if it's true, that Kobe is Phil's only supporter in the organization then it would explain why Jerry and Jim want to trade Kobe. By critizing Phil's coaching, which was accurate, they were watching Kobe's back. And for Kobe to follow Phil blindly...well, Kobe is betraying both Jerry and Jim.
Jim had it perfect! And if Kobe can't see that...he needs to examine who his real friends and supporter are.
One more thing. In the end, no matter what, Jim Buss is going to be running this organization with or without Kobe or Phil. Kobe is on the wrong side if he's siding with Phil. But I still have my doubt that. I mean check out the interview over the last few days. Phil is taking shots at Kobe and Kobe kind of brushes them off by not adding fuel to the fire. He usual respons is: He said that? But look at his face when he says that. It's like a little irritation or something.
And another line of thought is this: Kobe doesn't have to be angry at Phil but that doesn't mean he trusts him. He says it plainly: It's not his job to be the GM. If the FO won't deal with Phil then Kobe would welcome a trade and that doesn't mean he has to be at odds with Phil. It's not his job to be at odds with Phil. It's the GM's job to hold PJ responsible. Kobe can take the hardline with the FO as long as they let Phil do whatever he wants and still say, in public, that he and Phil are close. It doesn't matter because Phil is the FO's problem.
Kobe in the hands of Phil Jackson is nothing more than a political piece to manipulate. And if Kobe can't see that and he lets Phil play him like that, then it's the reason why Jerry and Jim want Kobe to be traded. What does it all mean? It means Jeanie Buss is still trying to manipulate her way to the top. But she'll never get there because Jim is Jerry's choice. And if Jerry has to trade Kobe to prove it...so be it.
Drama, drama, drama. Welcome to Lakersvilee USA...
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 11:45 AM
Here's the injury report from the gameday section of lakers.com
http://www.nba.com/lakers/news/071030_gameday_rockets.html
-Kwame Brown: Left Ankle & Right Shoulder Surgeries - Probable
-Kobe Bryant: Sprained Right Wrist - Questionable
-Maurice Evans: Strained Left Hamstring - Probable
-Lamar Odom: Left Shoulder Surgery - Out
-Vladimir Radmanovic: Sore Throat - Doubtful
Posted by: lakers_sth | October 30, 2007 at 12:05 PM
I thought Kobe was on the inactive list for tonight's game...
Posted by: joey numbers | October 30, 2007 at 12:19 PM
PFunk 36
Are you serious?
Kobe has been accused of Rape. Cheated on his wife. Snitched on Shaq to the police. Got Shaq traded. Broke up our dynasty. Was called uncoachable by PJ. Accused Karl Malone of hitting on his wife. Called Dr. Buss an idiot and liar. Belittled Bynum to a bunch of strangers. Asked to be traded and thus betraying his fans. Who hasn't this guy double crossed is the better question?
This guy is a headcase, just slightly better off than Artest. But the Lakers invested so much in his image as the franchise player, they have overlooked it all. But even after LA was handed to Kobe, he couldn't fill the shoes that Magic wore. If it was my team, I would ship the guy out for 20 million dollars worth of gum.
The team is better off without him... tho i would miss all the drama.
Posted by: joey numbers | October 30, 2007 at 12:35 PM
The only way I see Jimmy Buss giving Phil power is if I was wrong about Phil dogging Kwame. Behind the scenes it may have been Jim. Either way, whoever was supporting Kwame to be the starting center, Jim or Phil...he is the one who is right. If Jim was pushing Bynum and saw how Bynum can't, yet, guard the lane then he may have relented and acknowledged that Phil knows what he's doing.
But if Phil is being controlled behind the scenes...awwwwh, start the games already!
LOL!
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 01:05 PM
Joey Numbers
If Kobe cheated on his wife then asked God and his wife for forgiveness and they said yes...........Who are you to judge? What is the basis of your judgement and condemnation? Are you perfect? Have you made a mistake? Or are you filled with hypocrisy......which is it?
SNITCHED ON SHAQ......
How do you know this Joey? The transcripts of Kobe's conversation with the police doesn't reveal this.........How do you know what transpired between Kobe and the police in that interrogation? Were you there?
Kobe, Shaq, and the police have never commented on what happened.....but you know?
The one thing we do know is that "Video Vixen" stated in her book that Shaq paid her for sex regularly........We know that for sure.......Did Shaq sue for defamation of character?
We do know that Shaq's estanged wife has accused Shaq of fathering a child during their marriage.......We do know that.
We know that Kobe was ACCUSED of rape but charges were never brought by the accuser in a court of law. If that were your sister, girlfriend, daughter would you allow her to drop charges if she were truly raped?
If you follow the critics viewpoint that Kobe bought his way out of it and she accepted for money.......what does that make her?
She could have gone to trial and got the money in the civil case.......if she were telling the truth.......is that right?
The fact that Phil referred to Kobe as "uncoachable" simply reveals Phil's amazing ego.........funny but his highschool coach coached him and never called him uncoachable, Mike Krzevski never called him uncoachable, Flip Saunders never referred to him as uncoachable when he coached him here in LA during the all star game.
And guess what Joey........look whose coaching the uncoachable guy now
none other than Phil Jackson........go figure
Belittled Bynum...........This is a business buddy and you got to have tough skin.......what Kobe said about Bynum wasn't personal it was stricly business.
Kidd for Bynum? Did you see this summer's Olympics with Kidd and Kobe in the same backcourt? Are you kidding me?
Do you remember what prompted Kobe to ask for a trade? The media, Charles Barkley and the rest conveniently forget this part and so do you.
Kobe was betrayed by Dr. Buss and a "laker insider" that leaked to the press that Kobe drove Shaq out when Kobe told us that Dr. Buss told him that he had decided to trade Shaq and their was nothing he or anyone else could do about it......his mind was made up.........DO YOU REMEMBER THAT?
The Lakers organization has betrayed the fans of L.A. with their incredible ineptness......is that Kobe's fault?
You need to come again buddy.
Posted by: pfunk36 | October 30, 2007 at 01:15 PM