Live from Staples Center -- Lakers vs. Rockets

Here we go, people. There are those who doubt this team's ability. There are those who doubt whether Kobe and the front office can work out their differences. But for those who doubt whether Jeffrey Osborne can still bring a National Anthem, you needn't wonder. The man still has pipes after 24 straight seasons.

Marge Hearn did the player introductions. Very nice. The fans love them some Marge Hearn about as much as they loved them some Chick. A lot more than they love Kobe, apparently. Some boos in the house for No. 24.

First quarter:

The Laker girls are now wearing ruffled bottoms with their outfits. As BK noted, as least the organization is continuing to make improvements in some areas.

9:36: Kwame does a good job denying Yao further position under the hoop and forces a tough shot and yet another miss. Tough start for both teams when it comes to the ol' point generation thing.

8:10: Still 2-0 Lakers. For those who bet "the under," you're looking strong so far.

7:32: Kobe misses a free throw shortly after hitting his second shot. He's missed a couple others, and his handle has looked iffy at times. I'm wondering if that wrist is bugging more than he's letting on.

7:17: Yao makes a 12-foot turnaround over Kwame. Absolutely zilch Brown can do about it either. Hand in his face, position. Unfortunately, Yao is a rather tall man with the ability to shoot. You just have to hope he misses.

5:40: Good job by Turiaf tapping out the loose ball after T-Mac's miss, which was saved by Kobe and eventually converted into a trip to the line to shoot a pair. That's something I've noticed a lot about Ronny in general. He might be the best guy on this team when it comes to tapping out stray balls he can't get to and keeping them alive. All about awareness and effort.

4:25: I like seeing Kwame take it off the dribble and go right at Yao. He gets hacked and missed both freebies, but I don't really care. It's much more important to me to see Kwame be active offensively and force the defense to account for him. It makes everything easier for his teammates and harder for the defense.

3:56: Good lord, did Ronny get up there on that dunk! Like, way the hell up. Nice dish by Kobe after leading the break.

2:15: I'm sure y'all saw the wrap-around pass Kobe threw in the paint to Kwame for the dunk. What you might not have heard is Kwame yell, "Right here," letting Kobe know he was ready and waiting. Good job by Kwame helping set up that play.

.45: Right as I note that Bonzi Wells should go right at Jordan Farmar mismatched against him, Farmar pokes the rock away and into Mo Evans' hands and eventually Kobe's for a trey. Shows what the hell I know about strategy.

19.7: Brian Cook checks in. Someone in the crowd yells, "You're the worst player in the league, Cook!" Dude, the entire league? The ENTIRE league? Dude, that's a little harsh. I mean, has this guy ever seen Jerome James play?

First quarter concludes. 25-16 Lakers. Lotta hustle. Lotta D. Good stuff indeed. If this is the first quarter of the rest of their 2007-08 lives, some nice things could be in store. BK will be your guide through the second.

Second quarter:

10:49: Bynum picks up a foul for a shove on Yao before the shot on the low block. Both Lakers bigs are doing a pretty good job on Yao, and either the Lakers are doing a good job as a team denying the entry or the Rockets simply aren't looking to the post enough. I feel the same way about him as I used to watching games where Shaq would go three or four trips without touching the ball on the block. Shouldn't happen.

Two on Bynum. It's important he doesn't pick up a quick third.

8:59: Timeout on the floor. Checking the box, the Lakers are holding the Rockets to 33% from the floor. A lot of that comes from missed open jumpers, but to their credit the Lakers are active defensively and are doing a good job of keeping the Rockets on the perimter. Couple of breakdowns on the pick and roll, but otherwise a fairly clean effort. Unfortunately, the offense has gone cold and the Rockets are back in the game.

8:00: Bynum extends off a Lakers miss, over Mutombo, gets the offensive board and the dunk. Good to see him active and aggressive on the offensive glass.

5:53: Almost a mirror opposite second quarter from the first. Now the Lakers can't buy a hoop. Only six points scored in the second quarter. Houston has started to knock down some of their jumpers -- those things tend to even out -- and now the game is flowing their way. But no question, with Cook, Farmar, Bynum, Walton on the floor, it's not as strong a defensive bunch.

Kobe, Fish, and Turiaf all return coming out of the timeout. That should help tighten things up.

Also, Cobe Karl comes in and makes his NBA debut. I detected a distinct little buzz in the crowd when he came in -- probably because they were surprised to see him being given run in non-garbage situations.

And just as I finish that sentence, Karl sits.

4:44: Great dish by Luke to Kwame, who was moving with the play and did a nice job making himself available for the pass. Just got to go up with two hands on the dunk attempt. He's fouled, misses both FTs.

Ask and you shall receive. Next trip down, Kwame runs the floor with Luke, gets a nice dish and finishes with both hands. Every time. Every time.

3:25: Kobe makes one of two from the line. Looks like one problem from last year has stuck around. The Lakers are currently 9-19 from the FT line. Good play though to force a TO from Rafer Alston off the miss -- but the Lakers give it right back. The second quarter has gotten sloppy for the purple and gold. Mike James drills a three, and the Rockets are up 38-36.

2:02: Coming out of the TO, T-Mac hits two FTs and the Rockets are up by four. 22-11 Houston in the second quarter.

1:35: Finally, someone hits an open jumper. Fish takes a feed from Kobe, and with more space than a Montana ranch he hits a three.

END OF THE FIRST HALF: The Lakers go on a little spurt to get ahead by one -- another jumper from Fish with a pretty little reverse layup from Kobe -- before T-Mac ties it up at 43. Lakers get the last shot, but Kobe's tear drop doesn't fall, and we have a tie game going into the half. 26 points allowed in the second quarter isn't a disaster, and it was fueled in part by how cold the Lakers went on offense. You have to score to slow a team down now and again. Plus, Houston wasn't going to shoot 25% all night.

Overall, the defense held up OK. Things naturally began to open up after the first 10 minutes or so. It'll be interesting to see if the Lakers can hold Houston to another low-scoring half, or if things start to get away from them on that end. Fortunately, the Lakers can make plenty of improvement offensively themselves.

Halftime leaders: Kobe with 19/4/3, with three turnovers. Fish has nine, Walton 5/4/3. Nice work from Kwame in the low post on Yao.

AK will have the third.

Third quarter:

Well, Phil's hips are apparently healing up to some degree. He leaped out of his seat in maybe a nanosecond when it looked like Yao was about to fall into him along the sideline.

8:33: Awful help D by Kwame on that attempted layup by Battier. He literally didn't even move as Battier was passing by. Luckily, Ronny came over and helped make life a little more difficult.

Yao's isolated on Cook in the post. Another time where Kwame's help D is lacking. It comes, but considerably too late. He's gotta get there faster and force Yao to pass out. There's no way Cook can handle that match-up for longer than about a split second.

6:09: Chris Mihm checks into the game for the first time since March '06. A nice round of applause from the fans.

4:38: Yao floats a hook over Kwame (this time, Kwame played it well, there's just nothing he can do about the height discrepancy). The boo birds begin to chirp a bit. The Lakers take a time out 26 seconds later, down 62-52. They need to get this baby back on the rails before it gets outta hand.

By the way, that bobbled Rocket "basket" from Kwame to Luke: Quite possibly the weirdest play I've ever seen live.

3:35: Mihm and Bynum in the game at the same time. This is a configuration I'm interested in seeing play out defensively. I haven't seen enough of Luis Scola to know how fast he is, but if he's got any speed at all, I don't know if Mihm can guard him.

2:52: Nice baby hook by Mihm for his first "it counts" bucket in quite some time. I imagine that felt pretty good.

.41: Great job by Evans rebounding Mihm's second missed freebie. One Longhorn helping out his old teammate. Mo also won the ensuing jump ball, which quickly turned into Kobe at the stripe for two. One made. 70-60 Rockets.

Farmar brings the crowd back into the game with a dunk during the quarter's last 18 seconds, which also cuts the Houston lead to eight -- 70-62, Rockets. A little more D is in order. BK will take you through the final countdown.

Fourth quarter:

Lakers stick with Bynum at the five, Mihm at the four, and keep Farmar in to help push pace. They have to make something happen offensively if they're going to get back into it. Nice little inside out play there. Good too see Andrew confident enough to take a jumper (it looked good coming off the hand) and Mihm get inside to draw the loose ball foul going after the offensive board.

10:53: Lakers down by eight, 70-62. Two consecutive quarters under 20 points. Lakers were outrebounded 15-8 in the third, 39-29 overall. That's not good. Someone is going to have to pick up the slack on the boards with LO out.

9:42: The Lakers are having trouble taking advantage of the offensive mismatch they have with Mihm being guarded by (I believe) Chuck Hayes. Theoretically, he should be able to play right over him. But the ball movement, as well as the player movement, hasn't been good since ... well ... anytime during the game. They scored a little in the first quarter, but things have become increasingly more disorganized since. Disorganization on offense puts a lot of pressure on the defense.

9:38: Ronny back in the game for Mihm coming out of the TO. Kobe loses the ball to Wells, then fouls him on the other end. But it prevents the easy deuce. Almost got the block, too. Wells misses the back end, so the Lakers save a point.

6:54: Kobe goes for a steal on T-Mac and misses, but Fish is there on the help and the Lakers get the turnover. Kobe gets fouled on the other end, but misses the front end before making the second. L.A., down by nine, is currently 16-30 from the FT line. Change that percentage and it changes the game considerably.

6:39: Timeout on the floor. Lakers down by nine with Kobe going to the line. Even he has been bad at the stripe tonight (11-18). The Lakers can't give away points like that. But there's still time to make a run over the last six plus. The game's not over by any stretch, but the organization has to get better. It looks like this bunch -- Kobe, Fish, Turiaf, Drew, Luke -- could be the group that finishes the game.

They're trying to keep Kobe on T-Mac, Walton on Wells.

5:19: Off a great block into jump ball from Bynum, Walton gets fouled on the other end ... and clanks one. Lakers now 20-36 from the FT line.

4:43: Another Lakers possession that consists mainly of Kobe isolating somewhere on the top of the key while everyone watches. This is the worst way for the Lakers to play offense. I don't mind when Kobe shoots, but the Lakers operate best when guys are moving on the floor. Cutting, passing, posting, reposting. Giving everyone, including Kobe, space to work.

4:30: Bynum picks up a foul trying to step out on a Yao screen for T-Mac. He'll sit, Kwame back in.

2:00: They're heading to the exits with the Lakers down 10 and Houston with the ball. It's only one game, but given the tough preseason and the disappointing play for three of the four quarters tonight, those who had concerns coming into the season won't exactly go to bed feelin' free and easy.

1:00: The Lakers have cranked it up in the last minute. Two steals turn into five points, but with 35.6 the Lakers foul and Mike James heads to the line ...

... misses the first. Houston still up by four, 92-88. Misses both ...

... Kobe gets an easy lay in on the other end. Cuts the deficit to two.

Those people in the parking lot are probably pissed they left.

Timeout on the floor, 24.9 left on the clock. The Lakers have become incredibly aggressive on the defensive end, and the catalyst for the comeback has been D-Fish. His strip of Yao on what would have absolutely been an easy two might turn out to be the play that swings the game if the Lakers can complete the comeback.

Fish hits the jumper to tie the game with 13 seconds left. Houston doesn't call timeout. Battier hits a clutch three over Luke to give Houston a three-point lead with 2.5 left.

Lakers call timeout, will set up on the other end with time for a shot. I don't think it'll go to Kwame (ha ha).

Inbound to Kobe, Battier grabs him right away to put Kobe on the line. Good call from the refs. Kobe tried to wrestle himself away from Battier to shoot, which kind of confirms that the foul was on the floor. Kobe makes the first, but will likely try to miss the second -- ironic -- and get the board.

He misses, it doesn't happen, and the Lakers lose by two.

Lots of work to come back and make a game of it, which will likely be encouraging to many. And we all saw the sort of influence Fish can have on a game. Nice to have him back. But in the end, it's a loss, 95-93. More to come.

-- BK

Comments

LETS ROCK!!!

GO LAKE SHOW!!!

LIGHTS OUT!!!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 07:52 PM

Win the tip, go undefeated. That's how it works, right?

Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 07:54 PM

wow,
Kobe got booed by the home fans?

who would've thought?

Posted by: Korey | October 30, 2007 at 07:54 PM

LIKE THE ENERGY!!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 07:58 PM

Hey gang,

Go Lakers! I don't have it on TV here, so any updates would be great!
Lets start the season off with a win!!

Posted by: YK Lakers | October 30, 2007 at 07:58 PM

Kobe is going to play big! Mark my words..

Posted by: laker from the south | October 30, 2007 at 07:59 PM

Can we stop with the Kobe won't play hard crap now?

Posted by: hobbitmage | October 30, 2007 at 07:59 PM

offense too jumpy... need to settle

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:00 PM

Kobe being booed? Even at 7:30 in the 1st quarter.

Charles

Posted by: Charles | October 30, 2007 at 08:00 PM

atta boy Fish... drive the lane!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:00 PM

At least we're not behind...

Go Lakes!!!!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:04 PM

They musta been reading the blog.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 08:05 PM

okay, Lebron James commercial count

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:05 PM

Keifo,

I agree, regarding the energy. The exceution is a little off, but that can be as much about early season rust as anything. But good energy generally begats good results, so it's nice to see it on display from the jump. Lotta spirit from this starting 5 so far.

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:05 PM

Kwame's doing OK, as long as Walton comes over to help him out.

Posted by: exhelodrvr | October 30, 2007 at 08:06 PM

ex-

Thus far, Kwame's bodying up well, and the rotations have been pretty crisp. For these guys, at least.

Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:08 PM

likin' the D.

let's put it together... get a run on, boys

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:08 PM

Hey look Kobe looks 100% commiteed and like the best player in the NBA again. Who woulda thought?

Posted by: Steve From New Jersey | October 30, 2007 at 08:09 PM

did kwame nearly take yao?!?!!?

NICE!

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:10 PM

Good comments so far guys - keep em coming.

Posted by: YK Lakers | October 30, 2007 at 08:11 PM

Great pass rom Luke... go luke... go luke!!!

goa to hit the free throws Ronny!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:11 PM

Let's go Lakers, Let's go!

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 08:12 PM

This doesn't look anything like last year. There are signs of actual defense.

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 08:12 PM

BAM!

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:12 PM

Damn free throws!!

If we don't hit em, we lose!!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:13 PM

turiaf looks great out there

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:13 PM

Now, why didn't Kwame challenge Battier? Gotta protect the rim, Kwame!!

Posted by: exhelodrvr | October 30, 2007 at 08:14 PM

Ronny!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Charles | October 30, 2007 at 08:14 PM

gREAT dEFENSE ON kOBE'S PART. The whole team is playing good D. Kobe is looking good. Passing the ball, playing with fire and passion. Playing good D. I like it. Glad the season started boys and girls. Love it!!!

Posted by: juno | October 30, 2007 at 08:15 PM

Love Ronny's energy!!

Posted by: laker from the south | October 30, 2007 at 08:15 PM

Things you may miss during commercial break: The Laker Girls are in midseason form.

Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:15 PM

good rotations on defense.

Keep it up!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:15 PM

The defense does look good.

mike

Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 08:16 PM

I've been waiting for this for a LLLLOOOONNNNGGGG time!

Colorado loves the Lakers!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Hugo Boss | October 30, 2007 at 08:16 PM

So far so good. Better shot selection but i like what i see!

Posted by: Rudy | October 30, 2007 at 08:16 PM

one word..... Turiaf!!!

this guy must have the biggest heart in the NBA

Posted by: todd | October 30, 2007 at 08:16 PM

craig's suit should've came with a warning

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:16 PM

Kwame is doing his job on the defensive end. But -- surprise surprise -- he's still fumbling the rock either on his own or with a little help.

Posted by: AndrewT | October 30, 2007 at 08:17 PM

Turn around, so that we can see the "BK" and "AK" on your jackets.

Posted by: exhelodrvr | October 30, 2007 at 08:17 PM

I honestly can't remember the last time we played defense this well. 2003? 2004? Let's hope they keep it up.

I've been part of the we should trade Kobe camp. But if we play well, who knows?

Posted by: Xodus | October 30, 2007 at 08:17 PM

Somebody has to wake up KWAME. This is basketball not CHESS?

Posted by: Staples 24 | October 30, 2007 at 08:18 PM

Kobe D looks great. When Luke took Tracy after Kobe got his first foul, Tmac struck. But Kobe cant play this D for a long strecth of time.

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 08:18 PM

Xodus-

Don't get too excited. We're not out of the first quarter (haha).

Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:18 PM

hey mike - good to see your comments again! It's been a long off-season. C'mon Lakers!

Posted by: YK Lakers | October 30, 2007 at 08:19 PM

This just in, we're better with Kobe.

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 08:21 PM

SIXTEEN POINTS IN THE QUARTER!!!!!!

HOLY JESUS! I LOVE IT!

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:23 PM

great 1st quarter!

Keep it up guys!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:23 PM

The rockets could use the triangle, their offense is ugly right now

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 08:24 PM

i'm happywith the whole team right now.

Posted by: man | October 30, 2007 at 08:24 PM

Great first quarter. The Lakers are going to get better on their defense. If this is the priority...watch out because we have athletes go rotate. Especially when Odom comes back.

Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 08:24 PM

Kobe gave some props to Andew when he checked in. When it's game time, no one is as focused as Kobe.

Thank you Staples Center for booing Kobe, it'll only want to make his mark.

Colorado loves the Lakers!

Posted by: Hugo Boss | October 30, 2007 at 08:25 PM

why is ronny doing what kwame should be doin to yao? kwame hasnt done anything but force yao to take a outside shot once. whats up mike?

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 08:25 PM

Notice how Andrew B followed up Kobe's layup, in case there was a rebound?

Posted by: exhelodrvr | October 30, 2007 at 08:25 PM

lakers/kobe D looks suprisingly good

Posted by: greek dude | October 30, 2007 at 08:26 PM

Good first quarter. Not a lot of turnovers and they are showing good rotations on Defense. Turiaf go all ball on that dunk attempt by Yao. hahaha.
KOBE best player in the world.... Stay with us homie.

Juno

Posted by: juno | October 30, 2007 at 08:26 PM

Yk Lakers,

Kobe is playing like a fiend!

Kobe has 13 in the first quarter. A couple of assists.
He's passing. He's defending. He's shooting. Lakers are
up by ~ 10.

BTW to everyone else, Did Hobbitmage say: Kobe's not a fascillitator. They should let him just play basketball? Did Hobbitmage say: Kobe's a killer. He'll play hard?

Gunner & KL [ wherever you are], I told you so!

Posted by: hobbitmage | October 30, 2007 at 08:26 PM

Vman, what? lol.

Better D for the most part, but they were cold on their part. 50/50.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 08:26 PM

Need a bigger lead going into the half.

We all know how we come out in the 3rd!!!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:27 PM

Thank God they're bacckkkk!!!

Posted by: bobie | October 30, 2007 at 08:27 PM

My 1ST QTR Observation - Socks should start, Kwame would probably be an excellent night manager at an In N Out Burger, but NBA Center just isnt his thang....Kobe, Booed? Wow.. lol

Posted by: complex brotha | October 30, 2007 at 08:27 PM

Yeah. I like it when he silences his critics with his play.

Posted by: Lakergurl | October 30, 2007 at 08:27 PM

Wells on Farmar is not fair. I would go with Crittenton.

Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 08:29 PM

2nd unit ain't flowin' like the pre season. A little different now that it's real.

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 08:32 PM

Why is Kobe not passing the ball to BYNUM inside?

Posted by: Staples 24 | October 30, 2007 at 08:32 PM

how old is that ball boy with the yellow head band? i mean, really

he's been there FOR-EV-ER

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:32 PM

complex brotha,

Are you kidding me? With Kwame the Lakers pulled out to 9-point lead when he was pulled. Now it's a 4-point lead. I mean, what are you watching?

Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 08:32 PM

Evan is either hot or cold, usually cold.

Can anyone make a basket other than Kobe?????????????

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:32 PM

Kwame sat, and the lead went down. We need to do a better job gettting Yao into foul trouble. Offensive or defense, just foul trouble.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 08:32 PM

Bonzi and Yao ate the lakers up starting the second quarter, Refs are still a bunch of Jackblank

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 08:34 PM

Faith,

Team D team D team D. Nothing like havin' a Fish that knows where to be on the floor. The Farm came in and his man scored 1st posession.

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 08:34 PM

Mike T,

Crittenton isn't active.

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:34 PM

if cook gets the ball, its going up

Posted by: greek dude | October 30, 2007 at 08:37 PM

Geesh, nobody has turned Socks on to the back roads outta Westchester? LMAOOOOOOOOOO Lemme get this straight... Kobe can make it to staples from Orange County on time but Socks cant get Downtown from Playa Del Rey? Buwahahahahahahaha gotta Love LA...only here does the Surreal become common..

Posted by: complex brotha | October 30, 2007 at 08:38 PM

I hate Brian Cook, I'm sure he's a nice guy on the street, but I hate him in a basketball uni.

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 08:38 PM

Let's see Kobe sits. Lead gone, ouch.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 08:39 PM

Cook looks nervous...

Posted by: joey numbers | October 30, 2007 at 08:39 PM

Does Bonzi alway play well against the lakers? I cant stand that dude

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 08:40 PM

Easy come, easy go

Huston came out with more energy in the 2nd.

might be in trouble if we don't get a lead into the half.

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:41 PM

2nd unit pretty raggedy. Opening night jitters, I guess. I don't understand the decision to play Cook but make Mihm inactive. Of the two, I'd take Mihm, especially if Bynum gets in foul trouble later.

Posted by: Rick Friedman | October 30, 2007 at 08:41 PM

BK,

I know. I'm definitely acting a bit giddy.

C Buck,

I was thinking the same thing about that ballboy.

Posted by: Xodus | October 30, 2007 at 08:42 PM

Mike,

Kwame has a wide body but his hands are and will prove to be a liability to the team once again this season, not to mention, Shaq has a better Free Throw shot than Kwame.. I'm sorry man, but to me, the guy is GARBAGE and I'd much rather have Floppy Divac, bad back and all, rather than Kwame.. next to Malone, he's my least liked Laker.. its Personal Mike lol

Posted by: complex brotha | October 30, 2007 at 08:43 PM

the lead went down because the second team lacked.

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 08:43 PM

wow Luke is being very aggressive... don't know how much i like that...

Posted by: joey numbers | October 30, 2007 at 08:44 PM

does McGrady always look stoned??????????/

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:44 PM

There's that hounding D from Kobe.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 08:45 PM

3 guard offense. PHil's pullin' out all the tricks

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 08:46 PM

YKLakers, you can watch the game online, just google myp2p.eu and look there, there are several software to watch lots of lakers games.
I live in Brazil, and I always watch them on my computer.

Posted by: THI | October 30, 2007 at 08:47 PM

Coby Karl is in, good defense. He was replaced by Kwame. On the onset Bynum is not ready for Yao. Another free throw for Kwame missed four in a row.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 08:47 PM

Ronny is literally shaking right now in the bench. His head goes alternately in his jersey and his hands, he's so pissed about that third foul called on the block. It looked like was even biting his jersey at one point.

For what it's worth to him (and I doubt much), he did get hosed.

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:47 PM

Kobe's D is sweetttttttttttttttttttttt

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 08:47 PM

about time kwame! welcome to the game!

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 08:48 PM

i bet Mom is happy!

nice pass Luke

btw, Ks... don't keep me wondering. does Mom want Helio or Scary Spice?

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 08:48 PM

Cbuck,

I don't even think my Mom could pick a Spice Girl out of a lineup, outside of whichever one is married to Beckham. Remember, the woman is 60. haha

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:49 PM

Good D by Kwame. Changes the game.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 08:50 PM

Huh. I'm surprised at how well Kwame's playing this year. He's gotten 3 offensive rebounds already... against Yao Ming?! Dang...

Much as I hate to say it, Mike T's got a point that Kwame's got defensive game... Bynum doesn't have so much of an offensive presence to compensate for his defensive lapses.

Posted by: Robert Chen | October 30, 2007 at 08:50 PM

kobe tryin to do too much and turnin the ball over and missing tuff shots...

Posted by: Korey | October 30, 2007 at 08:50 PM

Refs suck.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 08:51 PM

Sit kobe down!!! He looks tired and trying way too hard...DAMN!!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:51 PM

kwames in but the lead is still gone. whats up mike? you can make the argument that the lead evaporated since ronny left the floor.

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 08:53 PM

Keifo...yes. I think TMac has a face like a cow. Seriously.

Can we not make free throws?

Posted by: Hugo Boss | October 30, 2007 at 08:53 PM

The refs are some Bsssssssssss

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 08:53 PM

In the interest of being "fair: I will concede this Mike T. Defensively, Kwame plays Yao good, seems to frustrate him, I just wont drink the Kwame Koolaid.. unless its a pass underneath and he's alone.. he'll blow it on the offensive end and he seems confused during the offensive sets, as if he doesnt understand the offense??? I mean, this isnt pick up games at Venice, its Big Boy ball, Kwame has had more than enough time to get it..

Posted by: complex brotha | October 30, 2007 at 08:54 PM

Wonder if they'll offer a player software update on Playstation NBA 08 if Kobe goes to Chicago.

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 08:54 PM

Kobe blocking Yao. That's some good stuff right there.

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:56 PM

Kobe (14) has 3x+ as many FGA as the next closest Laker (Walton - 4). Thank goodness he has 2 assists to match his 2 turnovers.

Still, not a recipe for success against a good team like the Rockets. You can get away with that ballhoggery against the Memphises of the league, but if you don't spread the wealth against the better teams, problems will arise unless you are incredibly hot, which Kobe is not (5-14).

I don't like how this game is shaping up. I hope things even out more in the 2nd half.

Posted by: fakerz | October 30, 2007 at 08:56 PM

well, houston's a good team so they were bound to make a run. let's see if Kobe can stop pressing and the team can be a little more resilient.

nice three from fish!

Posted by: man | October 30, 2007 at 08:57 PM

Cow... funny!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 08:58 PM

Free throw missed, field goal missed, we lost the lead but comes back w/ Fish 5pts. Lakers still by one but may be tie game after t-mac FT. 43-43

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 08:58 PM

Vman,

"Wonder if they'll offer a player software update on Playstation NBA 08 if Kobe goes to Chicago."

All kidding aside, would that even be necessary? The way you can trade players back and forth these days, those truly picky could recreate the new Bulls and Lakers, then play on, right?

Of course, why miss out on a filthy lucre opportunity?

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 08:59 PM

Let's see, both sides of the court again.

That's what makes him the best in the game.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 09:00 PM

Great words KOBE BRYANT with Craig "The Suit" Krager.

Posted by: Hugo Boss | October 30, 2007 at 09:00 PM

charles barkley... his lips are moving but oddly, nothing's coming out

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 09:01 PM

tied at halftime, great!

let's see if we can get a second half.

Posted by: man | October 30, 2007 at 09:03 PM

Wolf,

Are you saying that Turiaf can guard Ming? Come on, man, give the guy credit. Defense is the name of the game.

Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 09:06 PM

Magic is saying the right things that fans love Kobe, but it is Kobe who is trying to trade himself to embarass the Buss. Magic has to resolve this dispute with another assist in his golden years.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:07 PM

I'm gettin sick of Sir Charles dissin the Lakers.. I guess Magic summed up the Kobe situation best.. KB DEMANDED TO GO (present tense) Kobe's halftime comments seem to reflect his "shock" to being booed.. he seemed humbled to me somewhat in his P.C comments about representing the organization correctly and I think he gets that even though LA loves him, we Love the Lakers even more...

Posted by: complex brotha | October 30, 2007 at 09:08 PM

I like that Kobe himself admitted hes emotional too. He has to be emotional, and the organization too. But with today's game and the news that the lakers are still in pursuit of JO, I believe Kobe will remain a laker. Bynum just put himself on the list again by being late to the game.

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 09:08 PM

Cmon dude, work WITH me. haha

If only we didn't have to worry about the actual humans in the uniforms. Virtual NBA on TNT. May be the only way to keep Kobe a Laker for life.

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 09:09 PM

Where's Gunner?

Who are those people talking about trading Kobe?

C'mon. Y'all were soooo vocal when it didn't count.
Speak up you weasels!

Posted by: hobbitmage | October 30, 2007 at 09:10 PM

We should try Critt' in the 3rd Q together with Radman, Karl, we need to decongest the post by perimeter (accurate) shooting

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:10 PM

Edwin,

Crittenton isn't active tonight.

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 09:13 PM

AK/BK -

Is VladRad on the inactive?

Posted by: bobie | October 30, 2007 at 09:14 PM

where's vlad? why hasn't he beat cookie out of a job yet?

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 09:16 PM

T-Mac does not have Kobe's burden of carrying the team night in night out. They are both "The Man" of their respective teams. If it was Kobe who has T-Mac's out put on the first half, he would now be crucified as tanking the game. T-Mac has it good.

Posted by: Lakergurl | October 30, 2007 at 09:19 PM

Edwin,
good point.

Also, anyone notice that even Magic looks hurt by this whole Kobe mess?

I am glad Magic is putting Kobe on blast and letting him know he can't be beloved by L.A. if he demands to leave L.A.

Fans will never appreciate that.

Posted by: Korey | October 30, 2007 at 09:19 PM

TONIGHT'S INACTIVE LIST (just to answer all questions in one shot)

LO
VLAD
THE CRITTER

As y'all were.

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 09:21 PM

Jordan Farmar is fast but small. See even coach the analyst was saying Bynum was not a good defensive player. Jimbo are you listening from the experts. there goes Walton with his T/O. Kobe missing shots while Rockets making it so the score now is 49-43 Rockets lead.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:21 PM

well we looked good for a half.

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 09:22 PM

Lebron James commerical count

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 09:22 PM

well it's good to see us back to our usual ways...

no defense, early fouls and no ball movement.

did the alarm clock go off for the 3rd quarter????????????????

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 09:23 PM

mike,
im sayin ronny was covering yao more effectively in the first half (when he was in). just good rotations. not too many was coming in the paint to yao or mutumbo after a while either.

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 09:23 PM

Why not vujacic, cook and odom on inactive list? Arrggh I'm not the coach.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:24 PM

I don't like this new " WHERE ____________ HAPPENS"

its lame as duck

Posted by: bobie | October 30, 2007 at 09:24 PM

LO means a lot to this team. A LOT.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 09:25 PM

see what i mean mike, guys are shooting over kwame all night.

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 09:26 PM

That was the fastest slow-motion move I've ever seen Phil pull off!!! haha

Posted by: bobie | October 30, 2007 at 09:27 PM

bad play from ronnie. he deserve to be removed.

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 09:29 PM

We lacked height in the middle. Pj is afraid of his hips being hit by Yao going to the laker bench, rockets by 4 but with a free throw by rockets. We need the height of Bynum & Mihm, why put Mihm on inactive list. fisher made it its now 52-49.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:29 PM

COOK ABSOLUTELY DID NOT JUMP FOR THAT REBOUND!!!!!!

UNBELIEVABLE

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 09:30 PM

I can't believe Brian Cook has 10 million dollars from playing basketball

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 09:30 PM

What’s with PJ’s obsession with Cookie?

What does Cookie have on him?

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 09:31 PM

SIT KOBE DOWN COACH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 09:32 PM

damn we need LO.

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 09:32 PM

this is painful

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 09:34 PM

Rockets are now by 10. Kwame just put the shot on rocket's hoop strange! Lakers are being outhustled

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:35 PM

I know defense matters, but the Lakers have scored a total of 27 points over the last 18 minutes. That won't get 'er done.

It'll be interesting to see how this lineup with the two bigs works. Over the long haul, they need to use it when possible.

Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 09:36 PM

where's the hustle?

Posted by: sixonezero | October 30, 2007 at 09:36 PM

Assist by Walton to Kwame!

Posted by: p ang | October 30, 2007 at 09:36 PM

correct me if im wrong, but when you rebound arent you supposed to hold the damn ball when its rebounded? here we have the lakers trying to fast break after every rebound. why are they overdoing it?

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 09:36 PM

WE NEED A TEAM THAT CAN PLAY 48 MINUTES OF BASKETBALL

WE HAVE NO CHEMESTRY, AN EVERYONE TRIES TO GET THE BALL TO KOBE

WE LOOK LOST AND CONFUSED, INCLUDING PJ

Posted by: keifo | October 30, 2007 at 09:37 PM

this is frustrating

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 09:37 PM

Aaarrgh!! They're playing like they don't give a shut my mouth! Kobe's attitude is making him the new Smush.

Posted by: RespectMyAuthoritah | October 30, 2007 at 09:38 PM

That was Luke Walton who put that shot in for Houston.

I don't get it, either, with Brian Cook. That guy just hurts the whole team defensive game. Plus we're turning it over a lot, too.

Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 09:38 PM

Game 1 isn't even over and I feel this will be a long season.

We need a few more veterans. Get JO'neal NOW!

Colorado loves the Lakers and the Lakers need HELP!

Posted by: Hugo Boss | October 30, 2007 at 09:38 PM

I think the only reason Cookie and Sasha are still on the team is strictly for practice purposes. I think Rambis, Clemons and Shaw just have the other players abuse them during practices. They do NOTHING in the games and I share Vman's sentiment as well...I cannot believe this guy has made over 10 million dollars from basketball. lol

Posted by: blaze1bx | October 30, 2007 at 09:38 PM

Mihm is playing so he's not in the inactive list. Rockets now by 12 from T-Mac.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:39 PM

I love Luke on offense, but he's killing me on defense.

Luke on T-Mac? Yeah, that'll get it done. NOT!

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 09:40 PM

You know it is a bad sign when you score a point for the other team. Kobe better learn to pass to his D^%N team mates. His first thought should be to pass, if Kobe and the Lakers expect to get back in the game.

Posted by: lm | October 30, 2007 at 09:41 PM

Now they have Mihm at the four with Bynum at the five. They were able to take advantage of the mismatch on the last trip down. The key for this sfort of thing will be whether or not Mihm can stay with fours defensively. Scola is his current assignment, so in this case he'll probably be okay. Especially with Mutombo on the floor. It allows Bynum a little more freedom to roam the lane and help if necessary.

Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 09:42 PM

Cook is the worst Pf of the league. We are shooting and making points in hour own basket. I only see Fisher making shots. Turiaf is a clown, walton... wait, is walton playing?

... And you blame Kobe for wanting to go in a better team?

LOL! The Lakers sucks, and it's not Kobe fault.

Posted by: Alexinho17 | October 30, 2007 at 09:42 PM

No rebounding, no hustle, no heart and absolutely no organization whatsoever.And, of course, no offense.Kobe looks not very much interested so far and things look bad!By the way that "basket" scored by Kwame is one of the most stupid and embarassing moments in the history of basketball.Pathetic!

Posted by: bcb | October 30, 2007 at 09:43 PM

Down by 9 with 24 points by #24....NOW can you imagine how much we would be down by without KOBE?

Posted by: bobie | October 30, 2007 at 09:44 PM

If Bynum is so great, why no P.T.?

Let the man play already...

Posted by: Korey | October 30, 2007 at 09:44 PM

Once LO comes back healthy, Cook should be getting zero minutes. The Lakers simply are not a deep team.

Posted by: Rick Friedman | October 30, 2007 at 09:44 PM

Aside from Kobe who can stop T-Mac? He's scorching the lakers. Kobe is back because there is no scoring machine. Kobe has 26 and Rockets lead by 9, lost the ball to Mike James now Rockets by 11.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:45 PM

It's always nice to see Laker fans wearing their stunna glasses indoors...which reminds me...where's Jack?

Posted by: bobie | October 30, 2007 at 09:48 PM

who needs a team, when we have the supreme ball hog. Has he even looked for anyone? He doesn't even care!

Posted by: KG | October 30, 2007 at 09:48 PM

i can't blame kobe for this...aside from him, everybody sucks...

Posted by: kobelovesjuan | October 30, 2007 at 09:48 PM

FAR-MARRRRR!

Posted by: Rick Friedman | October 30, 2007 at 09:48 PM

Let's see, how much down would we be without Kobe?

Beyond insurmountable (sp?). Add defense into the equation, losing one of the best defenders in the league (please god no more Luke or Cook on T-Mac)...and it's unthinkable.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 09:49 PM

Only Kobe is playing with heart and fighting,

... and you blame him for wanting to play on a better team?

Please, I'm getting frustrated realizzing we have the worst players on the NBA!

Posted by: Alexinho17 | October 30, 2007 at 09:49 PM

why is cook in the game?!?!? ill take vlade over him

Posted by: asdf | October 30, 2007 at 09:50 PM

cook sucks...why is he still on this team?

Posted by: kobelovesjuan | October 30, 2007 at 09:50 PM

At the end of three, Rockets lead by 8. Farmar made an interception. Lakers are missing too manyFG's called cheapy shots. They are still groping with their new offense and get confused on the post play.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:50 PM

Man the lakers fan decided to call Kobe's name at the wrong time, they jinked him.

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 09:50 PM

I'd rather have Mihm in the game than Cook. I have no idea why PJ goes with Cook. Especially in the 1st half when Turiaf picked up his 3rd foul. That was a perfect time to go with Mihm instead of Cook.

This team does miss Odom.

Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 09:51 PM

Bobie...I caught that too. LOL

Kobe needs HELP! I feel bad for him. Announcers are right, he needs to VETS to help him. Send in the United States Air Force!!!!!!!!!

Flexibility is the KEY TO AIR POWER!! Let me get my reservist uniform on.

Posted by: Hugo Boss | October 30, 2007 at 09:51 PM

got to have FAITH!!!

Go Lakers!

Posted by: kobelovesjuan | October 30, 2007 at 09:51 PM

After 3 qtrs:

FGA: Kobe - 24

Next closest Laker - 7 (Walton)

Stop if you've heard this before.

When does Nocioni become available to be traded again?

Posted by: fakerz | October 30, 2007 at 09:51 PM

I've never seen Kobe miss so many free throws, I guess the elbow is affecting him.

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 09:51 PM

KObe's interested but rusty. All the drama has to divide your attention. His J isn't fallin' but he's houndin' TMac. Somebody else needs to step up. No Vlad, no Critt, no LO

get Fish some more looks, he's been hot.

Heat up Lake show, 8 points is nothing

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 09:51 PM

3rd quarter Houston by 8, we can WIN this! JUST MAKE SURE don't put KWAME AND COOK AGAIN IN THE GAME.

KWAME AND COOK should just play a game of CHESS in the locker room.

Posted by: Staples 24 | October 30, 2007 at 09:52 PM

PLEASE!!!!
DO NOT APOLOGIZE for the ballhog KOBE.
All he does is shoot!

Posted by: KG | October 30, 2007 at 09:54 PM

Posted by: kobelovesjuan | October 30, 2007 at 09:55 PM

"I'd rather have Mihm in the game than Cook."

Wow. That is a rather damning evidence that you are no Brian Cook fan. haha

And you ain't kidding that they could use LO.

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 09:56 PM

"where's Jack?"

He got traded after spending the summer going from one radio station to the next asking to be traded.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 09:56 PM

if the lakers are so deficiant, why arent they putting the rockets best players in foul trouble? why arent they attacking yao?

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 09:56 PM

we can win this...

Posted by: kobelovesjuan | October 30, 2007 at 09:56 PM

i'll never understand the sunglasses inside the arena, especially since the lakers turned the lights down anway

still early. we can do this. just need some O

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 09:57 PM

Reading these posts, I think we have the making of a Brian Cook Fan Club here. L O L !!

Posted by: Rick Friedman | October 30, 2007 at 09:57 PM

i wonder how much difference odom would make when he gets back since these guys are gonna be playing crap defense with or without him. oh and rebounding? forget about it.

Posted by: sixonezero | October 30, 2007 at 09:57 PM

i. just. don't. get. it.

i use the exact same lineup in NBA 2K8 and beat the rockets by 40 at hall-of-fame difficulty with all the sliders adjusted to the CPU's favor. why in the world are we losing?

Posted by: the don | October 30, 2007 at 09:58 PM

Missing a lot of FG's from the Lakers from Farmar, Bynum Kobe just got fouled. Lakers are disorganize with their offense. Rockets still by 8 with a timeout. I know Alexinho Kobe missed a lot of shots but he's the only reliable offense. Who can replace him in offense and defense? C'mon, we should resolve this problem and Lakers have chance to shine with Kobe aboard. IOoops, too much dribbling there by Kobe another hot dog shot. Rockets now by 10.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 09:58 PM

mihm is like a rag doll down there in the block. frickin gimp.

Posted by: sixonezero | October 30, 2007 at 10:00 PM

Trade Kobe, Jimmy B???

Head of basketball operations in fantasy land

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 10:00 PM

I understand there is a new offensive filosophy been used, players are a little rusty and we miss Lamar dearly.Ok.But why the hell we lose all the loose balls?Why no one makes a free throw?No one rebound the damn ball?I don´t like the effort at all and I don´t like Kobe´s expression.Maybe I am impressed with all the talk about a trade, but I sense him a little indiferent.He is trying hard, but I don´t know, something is wrong.But it is the first game, who knows what can happen right?

Posted by: bcb | October 30, 2007 at 10:00 PM

can't blame kobe...nobody's making FG except him...

Posted by: kobelovesjuan | October 30, 2007 at 10:00 PM

Do you guys see on how the last 3 possesions the Lakers offense stalled. Check it out. Bynum and Mihm set some weak ass pics and that keeps the defender on the ball handler.

Posted by: Michael Teniente | October 30, 2007 at 10:01 PM

Just bad bball tonight by the lakers.

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 10:02 PM

This is just like another preseason game w/ uptempo at the start, now it's very individualistic game in 4th as usual lakers are known for either missing shot after shot and committing T/O's. we can be good but the meter says: today we are bad!

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 10:03 PM

LAKERS!!!!!

Just throw the ball inside to BYNUM or MIHM for easy buckets, INSIDE ! WHEN you start KWAME Kobe realizes he has to take more shots and it goes downhill from there.

COOK should be in inactive list and KWAME should only play 15 minutes at as back up CENTER.

Posted by: Staples 24 | October 30, 2007 at 10:03 PM

Way to hustle KOBE. Let the FO know that you NEED REAL HELP.

Posted by: Hugo Boss | October 30, 2007 at 10:04 PM

Nice job by Kobe getting up there to foul Bonzi and prevent the layup. Nothing dirty (all had). And nothing easy.

Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 30, 2007 at 10:04 PM

hey i got an idea. everybody watch kobe throw all kinds of garbage out there.

Posted by: sixonezero | October 30, 2007 at 10:05 PM

Kobe could've thrown it to Bynum like 3 times on that last possession...

instread, he takes 3 difficult shots.

wassup with that?

Posted by: Korey | October 30, 2007 at 10:05 PM

this team looked like it had more life against sacremento...

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 10:05 PM

And I quote..."look how Kobe's working hard out there, diving into the teeth of the defense"

Anyone else?

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 10:05 PM

You can't question Kobe's heart tonight. He's trying to give it his all.

Posted by: Rick Friedman | October 30, 2007 at 10:05 PM

the SPURS-BLAZERS game earlier is more fun to watch than this...

Posted by: kobelovesjuan | October 30, 2007 at 10:05 PM

Kobe's playin' as hard as he can.

Again, guys are spectating. Can we get Fish a 3?

Posted by: Vman | October 30, 2007 at 10:06 PM

Great, another shot over Luke. Nice adjustment Phil.

Posted by: Faith | October 30, 2007 at 10:07 PM

Wow the Lakers are losing..what a surprise..hey BK is this the worst case scenario? Or is it going to be when the Lakers go to Phoenix and get slaughtered..only by 20 of course lol..hope I'm wrong :-)

Posted by: Drew | October 30, 2007 at 10:07 PM

if Kobe wants help, he needs to use his other players.

I appreciate the effort, but it's effort wasted.

Him going one on everyone frustrates everyone ESPECIALLY when he isnt making shots.

Posted by: Korey | October 30, 2007 at 10:07 PM

Kobe is missing shots but he works hard for the shots. Hate him or love him He is the only offense out there. Rockets by 14.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 10:08 PM

kobe has the ball, everyone freezes...

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 10:08 PM

D-FISH!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: kobelovesjuan | October 30, 2007 at 10:09 PM

lo is out and it looks a lot like b4 asid from kobe and his games off no one else is doing jack, the team doesn't look so deep now !!!! Fisher, Mihm I don't know Kobe will shake it off and come back to form. I don't know about those othere lakers though.

Posted by: vi lakerfan | October 30, 2007 at 10:10 PM

Why the heck isn't Kobe passing the goshdam ball?!?! I've had all I can take of Kobe playing 1 on 5! This is gonna be a looooooong season.

Posted by: utzworld - THE BANNER HOLDER | October 30, 2007 at 10:10 PM

and I know Kobe is getting FTs, but damn it, on a fast break pass the ball to the streaking player beside you KOBE!

Posted by: Korey | October 30, 2007 at 10:10 PM

a little more effort from the rest of those guys would be nice.

Posted by: sixonezero | October 30, 2007 at 10:11 PM

Coach Doug just pointed out lakers are shooting 38% on FT's missed 15. Thats the difference out there. Those are the fundamentals learned during summer and preseason.

Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 30, 2007 at 10:11 PM

no movement on offense

no passes

even on breakaways.

i think kobe said he's not passing for the rest of the month... if that's the case, then senor kobe... you better start making your shots

Posted by: CBuck | October 30, 2007 at 10:12 PM

BRING IT ALL OUT KOBE! ALL YOUR ANGER OUT!

Posted by: Staples 24 | October 30, 2007 at 10:12 PM

i like how doug collins is saying that all this kobe crap is weighing down on the rest of team. he might as well have spelled out C A N C E R.

Posted by: sixonezero | October 30, 2007 at 10:13 PM

what the hell is kobe doing!?! see what us kobe haters dont like, crap like that. that why everyone stands when kobe plays. he gets an atitude, kobe is the one man show. just bullsh-. this is absolutely pathetic display of leadership. best way to beat the lakers is to frustrate kobe.

Posted by: the WOLF | October 30, 2007 at 10:13 PM

Best thing tonight has been KOBE'S DEFENSE. Who said he can't win defensive player of the year????????????????

Posted by: wow | October 30, 2007 at 10:13 PM

KG,

Kobe has as many assists as anyone. More steals. More points.

Y'all are never satisfied. He plays defense. He scores. He passes
and you still b!tch. Can you not be satisifed that he's playing
hard instead of dogging it. Maybe you're KL in disguise ...

Posted by: hobbitmage | October 30, 2007 at 10:14 PM

CBuck,
thanks for seeing what I'm seeing.

watz the excuse for not passing the ball up on breakaways?

Posted by: Korey | October 30, 2007 at 10:14 PM