1-0 in "Trevor Ariza era" games that don't actually feature Trevor Ariza
PROGRAMMING NOTE: Join us for Purple, Gold and Blue at 12. Just click the show widget on the side of the page.
But more on him in a little. First things first.
The Lakers kicked off their roadie in high winning, high-scoring fashion, posting a 134-114 victory over the Indiana Pacers. The Lakers were short on bodies but made up for it in efficiency, eventually bringing Indiana's scoring fest down to a more reasonable clip. Getting the starting nod at center for the injured Kwame Brown, Andrew Bynum held his own and then some, putting up a double double (17/10) in 26 minutes and even managing to find time to host a blocky party, with Jermaine O'Neal the primary guest of honor. Perhaps the kid was echoing the sentiments of a Laker front office that swatted away Indiana's asking price for him. Perhaps he was just utilizing a tip from Kobe Bryant, who's beginning to develop a "one-syllable relationship" with Drew (which is a good thing). Or perhaps he was venting some emotion over the jettisoning of Brian Cook and Mo Evans, both of whom were tight with several members of the team. Well, if that's how he (and other Lakers) choose to pay tribute to those no longer decorating the box score, Mitch Kupchak should figure out a way to trade a Laker before every game.
And now, as promised, the Ariza thing. About an hour or so before the Indy game, the Lakers completed a trade that sent Brian Cook and Maurice Evans to Orlando in exchange for forward Trevor Ariza. The move took the team for a big time surprise, one that didn't necessarily sit great with the "Friends Of Cookie And Mo" clubs (both of which have a lot of members). Of course, fellas do understand that it's a bidness, so no mutiny is expected. Plus, there must be some comfort felt by Cook and Evans that the Magic could present them with more PT, a commodity growing scarce to both guys. Not to mention more solidification of their roles. For Ariza, however, the job description is already pretty defined. Go out and defend some ballin' small forwards. And one hopes that the ex-Bruin, whose PT in his former situation was also lacking, will champ at the bit to do so. It's the least he can do, considering how Kupchak had to put on a thinking cap to make this complicated trade go down. The deal also opens up a roster space, which could be used on a new big to pick up in Kwame Brown's absence.
Regarding KCAL's delayed broadcasts:
We delay the broadcast because advertisers won't pay us for a game at 4:00 when nobody gets home until 5:30. We are targeting hard working families. A hard working family usually is not ready to watch a game until 5:30 or 6. We could care less about the low-life unemployed people or young students. We have to wait for everyone to get home to get the most advertising dollars and for everyone to drool over our weather anchor Jackie Johnson. Jackie Johnson has been great for our programming and famous people like this Mike T fellow are giving us great ratings.
Sorry that you get the final score by halftime. If I were you I would not channel flip during our broadcast and shutdown your internet access. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Sincerely,
KCAL Executive
Posted by: KCAL exec | November 21, 2007 at 10:58 AM
MAMBA24,
Is there a "I want to see a Skyhook from Bynum Bandwagon"? If not, please start one and I want to be the DRIVER AND PRESIDENT of it. hahaha!!!
Thanks man,
LakersOaf
Posted by: LakersOaf | November 21, 2007 at 11:02 AM
For those of you who are not the true L.A. fans that you should be, even when it comes to your very own High Schools. lemme school you a lil' bit.....just a lil' bit. Remember Ahmir Johnson? You know, he currently plays with Detroit, we saw him last blocking our beloved Bynum's attemped layups the other night. Remember Gabriel Pruitt? You know, the standout gaurd from USC? Remember Hasan Adams? You know, the High Flyer from Arizona Wildcats fame, before he got drafted to the NBA, along with Gab Pruitt? Plus a host of other Blue Chippers that are on their way to the NBA, inluding my younger brother, Ray Reese, who currently plays for Tulsa Oklahoma, another standout Foward who has played alongside Pruitt, Adams, Johnson, and Ariza. All of these players were the Defensive Hallmarks that won Westchester High its 4 back to back Championships which even surpassed the Lakers years in championships back in 2001 to 2005. So basically, we got a Champion in Ariza that will play alongside another champion in Bryant. And of course the coaching of P.J. and his new "Faster" Triangle offense which will benefit Ariza and his numbers, just like its benefiting our bench play to new hieghts. So what you are seeing is the Lakers getting ready for a push at the Championship, not a playoff appearance, not just to get by in the first round. No. they want it all, they want a ring, and defense wins championships. Jordan Farmer is gonna know how to include Ariza for some alley-oops, so dont't worry about that. The only thing we have to worry about is health, just ask K. Brown about that issue.
Yeah, Brian Cook is gone (3ppg, and maybe 2-3 rpg) and so is Mo' Evans (5ppg and 5rpg on a good night), so we lost eight points and eight rebounds off the bench. We got a big plus side in reuniting Jordan Farmar and Trevor Ariza who can easliy put those number's up and then some on defense. This Laker season just got a lot more fun. And its only in L.A.
Lakers win a Title thanks to the trade that brung Trevor BACK to L.A.
Lakers win 60 games this year
Kobe Bryant First team All Defensive/ Bynum 2nd Team All Defensive & Most improved
Jordan Farmar for 6th man of the year
Phil Jackson wins his 10 NBA ring, and marries Jeanie Buss in June (the same month I married my beautiful Wife, Yeeaaaa!!!)
P.E.A.C.E.
P.ositive E.nergy A.ctivates C.onstant E.levation
Posted by: TZA TEE | November 21, 2007 at 11:03 AM
Dang, you guys need an editor.
2nd para, end of the 5th sentence. Wha?
Posted by: J. Walter Weatherman | November 21, 2007 at 11:07 AM
Lotta Laker and Ariza related stuff in David Thorpe Chat- here are all the related questions and comments from the chat for you non-insiders. (And yeah, my question actually made it in!)
Matias, Europe: Hello! One simple question. Can the Lakers keep this up?
David Thorpe: (12:01 PM ET ) One simple answer,
yes.
Norm (Honolulu, HI): Hey David, Javaris Crittenton has not had much playing time yet for the Lakers (not unusual under Phil), but does he have the game to be a star on the team or just a bit player?
David Thorpe: (12:03 PM ET ) I honestly have no idea. No surprise he's not playing.
Dan (Sacramento): it seems Artest days are numbere in Sacto, could the Lakers have picked Areza up to possibly trade him in the future...how does Areza, Brown, Farmer for Artest sound
David Thorpe: (12:04 PM ET ) I think Petrie hopes to keep Artest. But you raise an interesting question.
Rob (Los Angeles, CA): Is Andrew Bynum's development this season enough to get the Lakers past the first round of the playoffs?
David Thorpe: (12:05 PM ET ) Yes.
Winston (La): What does Trevor Ariza bring to the Lakers?
David Thorpe: (12:13 PM ET ) Supreme athleticism.
( I actually got a question answered! Yup, next one is me)
Jeff (Irvine, CA)`: IF Lakers do indeed keep this up, does Kobe get MVP consideration?
David Thorpe: (12:13 PM ET ) I think he'd have to.
Rob (Boston): Where do you predict my Lakers to end the season? Top 4 in the west?
David Thorpe: (12:27 PM ET ) Looks that way now. A trade would change everything.
MC Welk (SLC): Lakers top 4 in the West? We don't think so. Sincerely, Spurs, Mavs, Suns, Rockets, Nuggets, Jazz.
David Thorpe: (12:29 PM ET ) I see it as:
Mavs, Spurs, Suns, Lakers, Nugs, Jazz, Rockets. Neither of our lists are "official".
Dj (Los Angeles): You just became my favorite ESPN writer by agreeing the Lakers are a top 4 team in the West
David Thorpe: (12:33 PM ET ) Yes, together we can rule the world!!
ardalan (lansing, mi): can jordan farmar be a top 5 pg one day?
David Thorpe: (12:40 PM ET ) Not sure about top 5, but definitely "upper echelon".
Josh Ma.: Bynum got off to a fast start last year and then hit the wall around Feb. Do you think he can keep up this pace for a full season? And what do you think of the Ariza for Cook & Evans trade?
David Thorpe: (12:45 PM ET ) Yes, I think he can.
Chris, LA: There are rumors that Jason Kidd will push for a trade, do you see the Lakers going for him again.. Bynum is really improving, don't know what we can put toghether for him. Thanks
David Thorpe: (12:47 PM ET ) I gotta believe everyone will make a play for the human triple double.
matt (San Fran): David, I have a somewhat subjectuve question for you...who do you think is the best athlete in the NBA? I've heard convincing cases for Howard, Lebron, Tmac, and Kobe, but more interesting....Barbosa, NASH, Shaq, and even Bruce Bowen. Care to chime in?
David Thorpe: (12:53 PM ET ) In a decathlon, I'd lean to Ariza, then LeBron.
Posted by: Jeff | November 21, 2007 at 11:07 AM
My first reaction to the trade is that it has a good feel to it. Getting rid of Cook is a plus in my estimation. The guy can shoot but is not outstanding in any other category (although the guys seem to like him). It is obvious but Vlad is a similar player and personally I think Vlad is the better more useful player. Mo - I am kind of indifferent about him being dealt. He didn't do as much as I expected and to me he never really clicked on the floor as a player. I don't think I ever thought - good they are bringing Mo in that will help the Lakers shut someone down. He was an OK player at best in my opinion. I have not seen Ariza play much, but I like what I have heard. An athletic, taller guy that is defensive minded. It is not like the Lakers are lacking scoring options. We need somebody to make T Mac and others work hard to get their shots. If he is as good as advertised - he in combination with Kobe on the perimeter should shore up some of the lay-up drills we sometimes see due to the Lakers defense or the lack there of!
Now if we can keep the squad healthy and get Kwame back to defend certain match-ups or trade/sign a big defensive stopper - then I would love the versatility of this squad.
With all the grief the front office has taken - this I think rates as a good move. Even if Ariza stinks it up or doesn't get off the pine. We got rid of Cook and his bad contract.
Eagleboy
Posted by: Eagleboy | November 21, 2007 at 11:09 AM
Did anyone see the two TOs that were under Kobe's name yesterday?
One was a defensive rebound that #24 pulled down and threw almost the full length of the court WHILE IN MID-AIR. If only LO was expecting it (he was camped at the other end, and just trotting back), that would have been SWEET!
And the other was an intended alley-oop for Bynum that some how hit the rim..
Posted by: hariyahu | November 21, 2007 at 11:13 AM
Hey,
Did anyone else notice this:
http://tinyurl.com/2s34t3
Jason Kidd has opted out of his contract. Second trade that Mike T was asking for? Or maybe
he'd sign for MLE money to play with Kobe next season?
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | November 21, 2007 at 11:13 AM
I guess I am one of the few who is disappointed that Cook had to be traded. For several years he was the best pure shooter on the team, and I always had hope that he would progress. However, this season he didn't seem to be able to get in going, and retrogressed in almost every aspect of his game. Too bad. He seems to have been a very popular individual among his team mates.
Also, where are all those bloggers that wanted to trade Odom and Bynum for O'neal? Seems pretty clear after last nights game why that trade never went down.
Roger
Posted by: Roger B | November 21, 2007 at 11:16 AM
Mike T
What is the secret to your success.
Should one maintain swirling blog controversy or just post a whole lot?
Laker_sth
PS golf weekend? I knew there was something I liked about you.
It's a 2 club wind in LA. Luckyyy.
HAppy Thanksgiving all
Go Lakers
Posted by: Vman | November 21, 2007 at 11:21 AM
TZA- TEE - Is that you, Vic the Brick?
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | November 21, 2007 at 11:22 AM
There's no way you can ever get equal value for a player like Cookie. But Laker mangement, still reeling from the Shaq trade, had to take two steps backwards in a feeble attempt to move forward.
And, because BussKup sat on its hands until Cookie's turgid frustration lowered his trade value and made him a locker room cancer, MoEvans had to pay the price as well.
So now the Lakers, though free of Cookie the Sullen Storm Cloud, are left with pressing questions:
--Who will drain unconscious 13 footers in garbage time?
--Who will periodically grow facial hair and trick fans into thinking that Mel Turpin (http://www.adbpas.com/baloncesto/utah1_archivos/k1zzv5.jpg) lost weight and made a comeback?
--Who will bend at the waist and warmly wave at frontcourt opponents who enter the paint?
Evans departure leaves us wondering as well:
--Who will play fewer and fewer minutes yet incur more and more minor injuries that require all manner of tape and neoprene sleeves?
--Who will provide the NBA with countless opportunities to calibrate new rim-straightening technologies?
--Who will hustle to no end and still somehow let perimeter players get to the rim?
When Cookie signed that 3-year deal, they promised him that Kobe and his ever-improving midrange game that was eating into his shot volume, would be traded. This promise was broken and Cookie had every right to be angry and to demand a trade. He got his trade, and what are we left with as fans? Nothing but a young, outstanding defender with upside and a lightweight contract. Busskup, what have you done to our glorious franchise?
I WANT ANSWERS, PEOPLE! I WANT ANSWERS!
Posted by: East Nyboer | November 21, 2007 at 11:22 AM
Weatherman,
What do you mean we need an editor? We got you, buddy. haha
Thanks for the pickup.
By the way, I was watching my Arrested Development DVD's a few days ago and caught where you got your handle. Very funny reference. Kudos.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | November 21, 2007 at 11:27 AM
Long Time Laker Fan,
Yea. How come this story is not on any big sites? New Jersey is hoping the lakers will finally trade Bynum. I don't think it's happening now.
Posted by: zen | November 21, 2007 at 11:29 AM
Anyone here want to trade Andrew Bynum straight up for Jermaine O'Neal?
I don't think I would take that deal.
Mr. Bynum's future is looking extremely bright. The AB backers have to feel pretty good right now.
Posted by: Andy B | November 21, 2007 at 11:31 AM
Great trade, and this still leaves us with other pieces to consider putting together for another deal. How about a Walton/Mihm package for a sign and trade for Varajeo?
We just got younger, more athletic, brought in anew face to spicen up the team and placate Kobe without trading any of the necessary pieces. I love this move. We also have another roster space. lets get Brown or Webber in here quick!
If Bynum doesn't be careful he's gonna be an all-star THIS year!
And, to celebrate the moment--no spell check for this post, baby!!!!
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | November 21, 2007 at 11:32 AM
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55 WIN BANDWAGON MEMBERS: 8 DOWN 47 TO GO. TONIGHTS GAME IS A GIVEN
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1) LAKERTOM………………..………....(21) TALIQ………………………………………(41) PURPLE & GOLD
(2) MAMBA24…….…………………..….(22) SLO GAL ………………………………….(42) THIRTY2
(3) LONG_TIME_LAKER_FAN……..…(23) DEREK…………………………………….(43) BLACKMAMBA24
(4) JUNO………………………………..(24) NIK KANAN…………………………..…….(44) JUSTIN
(5) GENERIC_ONE……………………(25 AB……………………………………………(45) OutsiderGua
(6) HOBBITMAGE………………….…..(26) LAKER PHIL……………………………….(46) Violater
(7) MARTY……………………………....(27) LAKERLOVER………………………….....(47) UBU2
((8) DAVID WHANG…………………...(28) COMPLEX_BROTHA……………………..(48) Houston Laker
(9) ROKY…..……………………….…..(29) TSPHERE…………………………………(49) JEFF
(10) KEIFO……………………………..(30) WHITE MAMBA24 ……………………......(50) JANAYA
(11) VIOLATER…………………...……(31) LAKALOVA……………………………......(51) Complex Brother
(12) DICE8UP………………………....(32) EASTCOASTJESSIE…………………….(52) KobesBaaad
(13) HUBBIT…………………………...(33) Q WUOR………………………………….(53) JAN
(14) BD…………………………………(34) LAKERAHOLIC…………………………..(54) FAN OF MAMBA
(15) JONNIN IN JAPAN………………(35) TSIRY……………………………………..(55) CBUCK
(16) ALEXINHO17…………………….(36) DREW…………………………………….(56) THE LAKE SHOW
(17) TWOODY…………………………(37) Nestro’s Bistro
(18) KIWI……………………………….(38) BLAZE1BX
(19) FEARLESS WHACK JOB………(39) BZAR
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Members at heart : (57) Bob……………… (58) Faith…………. (59) LakerLover…(60) Issang
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READY TO JUMP ON THE BANDWAGON BUT:
(60) RICK FRIEDMAN - NEEDS APOLOGIES FROM KOBE, FO AND ALL CONCERNED
(61) utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER - WAITING FOR JIM BUSS TO RESIGN
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BYNUM BREAKOUT BANDWAGON
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(1) LakerFaze_________________ (6) LAKER TOM……….(09) WHITEMAMBA24
(2) RDLEE____________________(7) JON KAVULIC …….(10) JANAYA
(3) Violater___________________(8) DEREK………………(11) KOBESBAAAD
(4) RICO TICO________________(9) BENNY BLANCE…..(12) BD
(5) THE_LAKE_SHOW
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Posted by: Mamba24 | November 21, 2007 at 11:32 AM
I just want it noted -- for the record -- after all the Mitch-bashing that has gone on in this space, that he really isn't doing so bad. "Staying the course" (as much as I disagree with that philosophy in the political arena) fits very well here. Mitch has shown commitment to an actual plan and it seems (at this still early-stage) to be panning out. Bynum and LO for JO? COME ON!!! You don't just make changes to make changes. And you don't give up your pieces unless you absolutely have to. Even holding onto Kobe and losing him after 2 years is not such a bad thing. Staying the course here has meant building an exciting team that is growing together and getting somewhere.
Mitch is in the process of building a squad that fits the system (A good system that has purpose and is proven) and a system that has been tweaked to also better exploit and nurture the parts. And now with a couple of additions (another tough body inside and/or maybe another 2) the Lakers may actually make some serious noise. There are still plenty of "ifs" and a few lucky breaks that have to fall our way (as with any team that becomes successful) but isn't it time that some of the contributors on this blog who have taken such efforts to trash the guy to now give Mitch his due? A few props, at least, before you return to trashing the guy?
I am not a Mitch-lover, by any means, but let's at least recognize how difficult this job is. It is not a science and anyone whose comments assume that you can get 10 of these GMs to sit down and consistently look at what is out there and come to the same "perfect" conclusions and, beyond that, consistently make sterling decisions, is deluding themselves. The Logo, himself, had a string of fabulous decisions with LA (along with a healthy striong of luck), but his record in Memphis was spotty. The GM job is as speculative as any other market-based endeavor, but with human parts involved in and influencing every decision, making it even less predictable and mechanical a process. Injuries, bad fits, human relations, the unrealistic expectations of fans, the noise of reporters -- all this can add up to a trade that makes a GM who might have looked like a genius, come up looking foolish.
The "brilliance" of the Cook/Evans/Ariza trade will not be determined for months or even a couple of years. But on the positive side of the ledger -- what we DO know -- is that this trade required focus, creativity, thinking beyond the box (a bit), energy, and gumption. And, depending on how quickly Ariza can adjust to the triangle, to Kobe and the bench gang, and the issue of returning home (as if that is always a good thing!), this may work out very well for the Lakers.
Posted by: t_sensei | November 21, 2007 at 11:35 AM
Jeff,
Yea it's amazing what a difference a year makes. Last year those same people thought the Lakers stunk and they still have the same players as last year. It's amazing how winning changes everything. Now all of a sudden where a threat to Phoenix for the pacific.
I really think the lakers need to win the division this year. It will be the only way Kobe wins MVP.
I want more than ever for the lakers to have home court against Phoenix and win the series.
Posted by: zen | November 21, 2007 at 11:35 AM
Mamba 24
You are the patriarch of the Mamba family so I will have a contrite heart.......I was only joking with Mike T.!!!!!! LOL LOL
Posted by: WHITE MAMBA 24 | November 21, 2007 at 11:38 AM
Mamba 24
You are the patriarch of the Mamba family so I will have a contrite heart.......I was only joking with Mike T.!!!!!! LOL LOL
Posted by: WHITE MAMBA 24 | November 21, 2007 at 11:39 AM
Mamba 24,
Man your Bandwagon section is more popular than Jackie Johnson on KCAL. It seems everyone wants on your bandwagon.
Posted by: zen | November 21, 2007 at 11:42 AM
IMPORTANT REMINDER.. ONLY 60 DAYS LEFT TO VOTE
VOTE NOW AND VOTE DAILY!!
VOTING STARTED ON NOVEMBER 15 AND YOU CAN VOTE EVERY DAY!
MAKE SURE TO VOTE FOR LAMAR, LUKE AND KOBE FOR THE ALLSTAR @ LAKERS.COM AND MAKE SURE TO VOTE DAILY!!
EVERY BLOGGER GO VOTE NOW IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY AT NBA.COM OR LAKERS.COM (DAILY!!)
REMIND EVERYBODY YOU KNOW TO VOTE DAILY EVERYDAY FOR THE NEXT 60 DAYS!
LET THE VOTES STACK TO THE CEILING PEOPLE!!!
**ALSO**
SIDE NOTE FROM TIM-4-SHOW:
"You should add that no one should vote for anyone EXCEPT a Laker. With the All-Star voting, competing players who get votes too would essentially take away the votes we cast for Lamar. In other words, Lakers only + Eastern conference where the votes don't compete against our guys"
VERY GOOD POINT BY TM-4-SHOW.... NOT NECESSARY TO VOTE FOR ALL 5 POSITIONS, JUST SELECT KOBE, LAMAR, AND LUKE AND CLICK TO FINISH UNLESS YOU WOULD LIKE TO VOTE FOR SHAQ ON THE EAST LIKE I DO, HAVE A GOOD ONE PEOPLE
YOU TOO AK AND BK, GO VOTE
Posted by: Violator | November 21, 2007 at 11:47 AM
As Richard Nixon once (almost) said..."This blog won't have Brian Cook to kick around anymore."
Posted by: Laker Seth | November 21, 2007 at 11:48 AM
AK/BK
SHOULD IT BE "OWN"...? " Andrew Bynum held his (own) and then some,.. " ?
Posted by: Spell Checker | November 21, 2007 at 11:52 AM
White Mamba24,
"You are the patriarch of the Mamba family so I will have a contrite heart.......I was only joking with Mike T.!!!!!! LOL LOL"
Good to see you can take a joke. Carry on LOL!
Posted by: Mamba24 | November 21, 2007 at 11:52 AM
AK.BK
no mention of our all white "trash" team that the end of the 4th quarter? (Mihm Vlad Sasha, Coby, Farmar i think. . or maybe it was luke instead of farmar)
i would have thought there would be at least one sly reference to that~
guess you guys arn't perfect
Posted by: joninjapan(incanada) | November 21, 2007 at 11:54 AM
East Nyboer - Great Stuff.. lmao
Posted by: HAB | November 21, 2007 at 11:56 AM
Jason Kidd? Great player at what price?
Farmar is the first quick thinking, waterbug fast point guard the Lakers have ever had contribute at this level. He's making the difference. From what's been said about practice, Java isn't far behind.
The team needs a solid enforcer PF that will guard Andrew's back. LO and Ronny are too fragile. Kwame looks the part but is missing a couple ingredients.
Posted by: Vman | November 21, 2007 at 11:57 AM
t_sensei ,
"The "brilliance" of the Cook/Evans/Ariza trade will not be determined for months or even a couple of years."
Great Post! And welcome aboard if you are new.
Posted by: Mamba24 | November 21, 2007 at 11:59 AM
Brain Cook may not be the most ideal basketball player (being almost 7 feet and doing absolutely nothing but catching and throwing up the ball..) but the guy was part of the team for the last 5 years, he didn't get much PT as it is, now his familiar face is gone from the orgaization for good, have some decency and let him walk out without everybody kicking him in the back.
Posted by: Violator | November 21, 2007 at 12:00 PM
t_sesnei
"or the record -- after all the Mitch-bashing that has gone on in this space, that he really isn't doing so bad"
He and the head of basketball operations, James Buss eh?
It must follow that Jimmy B. was right, 10 guys in a bar could do the job of an NBA GM.
In Isiah's case, 10 wasted guys in a bar.
Posted by: Vman | November 21, 2007 at 12:02 PM
Laker Seth, we'll find someone else (hopefully not Sasha lol).
As for the KCAL game delay, AK and BK you guys know them right? Tell them LA fans don't like it. WE got dvr, tivo, who cares if we come home late?!
As for the game, not a very defensive minded game (100+ points and tons of offensive rebounds) but it got the job done. Spectacularly on our offensive part. It seemed like everytime you turned around someone was making a 3. And most of them said they were playing a little extra harder because of Cookie. Good for them, tonight play a little harder for yourselves lol.
As for Kobe's leadership...personally I think he's always done what he can, I don't see this year as an exception. Still it was nice to get some ink on it. In fact how's this for leadership...with how wacky the refs were, he was sushing LO on complaining to the refs, complaining to the refs! lol. I'm laughing coz he does it all the time, not to mention that touchy feely refs actually benefit him if he drives. Got to love Kob.
Posted by: Faith | November 21, 2007 at 12:06 PM
I dogged Bynum all summer and I'm not about to make him a man yet. I have some criteria.
He has improved and his summer did help him some.
I would say Bynum has grown from a baby to a middle schooler at this point. It's only November.
Now if he's playing this way come Super Bowl time in the first wk of February I'll announce him a high schooler, and if he's playing this way POST MARCH MADNESS I will announce this young big a GROWN MAN.
The same goes for Farmar.
I'll also admit that based on how it's going Bynum and Odom was too much for JO. We had no supporting data to believe that before what we see now but now we see.
Bynum for JO straight up is a no deal cause JO just isn't as healthy as I thought he would be.
Hey if I was wrong, I'll admit it, no problem.
Glad we winning, it's been like a miracle.
Posted by: LakerBake | November 21, 2007 at 12:10 PM
OK, there are seriously people talking about valuing Kwame's contributions more than Drew's at this point?
Really?
I'll be the first to acknowledge that Kwame brings something to the table, but suggesting that it's even in the same ballpark as what Andrew brings, and ultimately more valuable? That's just ludicrous.
If Drew's such a deficient defender, why did JO shoot 4 for 13 last night? If Kwame "protects the rim" more than Andrew, why does Andrew average more blocks? If Kwame "anchors the defense" better than Andrew, why did we hold a team to under 80 points with Kwame leaving the game in the first three minutes?
If you think Kwame Brown is making 10 million next year, I've got a bridge to sell you.
Posted by: SBPimp | November 21, 2007 at 12:13 PM
Violator good post man.
I thank him for all he's done. And I apologize for being too hard on him. Thanks for the memories B Cook and Mo Evans.
Helllooooooo Trevor Ariza!
Incidentally am I the only one jumping up and down that we are now that much more athletic? I have complained in the past that we aren't particularly athletic, but now we're getting there. Good stuff.
Posted by: Faith | November 21, 2007 at 12:13 PM
Spell Checker,
Yeah, it should have been. Thanks for the pick up.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | November 21, 2007 at 12:14 PM
Faith,
Thanks woman, i appreciate it
Posted by: Violator | November 21, 2007 at 12:25 PM
AK (?)
----
Posted by: Spell Checker | November 21, 2007 at 12:29 PM
VIOLATER,
>>>IMPORTANT REMINDER.. ONLY 60 DAYS LEFT TO VOTE
>>>VOTE NOW AND VOTE DAILY!!
Violater, you're leaving out a CRUCIAL part of the voting process. There's a box at the
bottom of the voting page where you can WRITE IN one vote.
Don't just vote for Kobe, Lamar, and Luke. Write in Bynum or Farmar as well. I don't think
they'll win, but it would be good to at least see their names in the list of top 10 vote getters.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | November 21, 2007 at 12:29 PM
Stats for while each player is on the floor, extrapolated from NBA.com's +/-
...................Pts/Min.............Pts/48
Vlad...............2.52...............120.9
Evans.............2.45...............117.7
Drew.............2.38...............114.0
Farmar..........2.37...............113.9
Luke...............2.30...............110.6
Sasha.............2.28...............109.5
Kobe..............2.17...............104.0
Fisher............2.15...............103.3
Mihm............2.12...............101.6
Ronny...........2.10...............101.0
Lamar...........2.05...............98.5
Kwame.........1.99...............95.4
Cook.............1.95...............93.6
...............Opp.Pts/Min........Opp.Pts/48
Lamar.............-1.98...............-95.2
Drew..............-1.99...............-95.8
Luke...............-2.03...............-97.2
Fisher.............-2.05...............-98.2
Farmar...........-2.05...............-98.3
Kwame..........-2.05...............-98.4
Kobe..............-2.07...............-99.1
Sasha.............-2.07...............-99.3
Cook..............-2.08...............-99.8
Ronny............-2.09...............-100.5
Evans.............-2.13...............-102.3
Vlad...............-2.15...............-103.2
Mihm............-2.28...............-109.2
Good to see Drew's good on D. I was surprised Cook was last in offense, too many bricks I guess. Now I'm even more happy about the trade. What else sticks out to you guys?
Posted by: CalLaker | November 21, 2007 at 12:30 PM
joninjapan,
>>>no mention of our all white "trash" team that the end of the 4th quarter? (Mihm
>>>Vlad Sasha, Coby, Farmar i think. . or maybe it was luke instead of farmar)
Well, technically that's not all-white. Jordan Farmar is half black. But still having four and
a half white guys on the floor kicking ass sorta blows Mike T's theory that you can't win
anything with 3 white guys on your team.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | November 21, 2007 at 12:31 PM
t_sensei,
Include the difficulties Mitch has of dealing with the owner's son.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | November 21, 2007 at 12:31 PM
Spell Checker,
I meant you picked up on a typo. Thanks for catching that.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | November 21, 2007 at 12:31 PM
Long Time Laker Fan,
"you're leaving out a CRUCIAL part of the voting process. There's a box at the
bottom of the voting page where you can WRITE IN one vote.
Don't just vote for Kobe, Lamar, and Luke. Write in Bynum or Farmar as well. I don't think
they'll win, but it would be good to at least see their names in the list of top 10 vote getters."
YOU ARE RIGHT, VERY GOOD POINT... I SPACED ON THAT ONE
Posted by: Violator | November 21, 2007 at 12:32 PM
Can I say it again??? Maybe Jimmy Buss and Kupcake are not morons after all... they’re beginning to look like geniuses... there, I said it again... (Just for the record, I had no faith in them, now I’m a believer! haha)
Go Lakers!
Posted by: CLeon | November 21, 2007 at 12:36 PM
No doubt about it--
If this keeps up we'll owe Mitch a big apology. I for one am more than willing to eat crow for Thanksgiving.
Go Lakers!
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | November 21, 2007 at 12:36 PM
Laker Seth,
"As Richard Nixon once (almost) said..."This blog won't have Brian Cook to kick around anymore."
We still have Sasha. Although, even Sasha is looking mighty improved.
WHAT IS GOING ON?
Did Mitch Kupchak slip some HGH water in these so-called "Laker Scrubs"?
Did Phil Jackson use is Jedi powers to give these so called "Laker Scrubs" confidence to become a......... a..... BENCH MOB???!
Did Bynum really see the video? LOL im sure he did. Of course he's going to deny seeing it. But you know he did.
Bye Brian Cook. You will be missed by your teamates the most. However, I'm sure a lot of these fans were ready to see you go. Orlando can use you better, give you the minutes you think u deserve. Mo Evans, see ya brotha. I know you were close to Drew and Kobester but business is business. I didn't see this move coming (not sure if you did). I'm sure you can get the minutes you need in Orlando to continue your career.
Lakers vs. Millwaukee Tonight 5:00PM pacific
GOOOOOOOOOOO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: DEREK | November 21, 2007 at 12:37 PM
IMPORTANT REMINDER.. ONLY 60 DAYS LEFT TO VOTE
VOTE NOW AND VOTE DAILY!!
VOTING STARTED ON NOVEMBER 15 AND YOU CAN VOTE EVERY DAY!
MAKE SURE TO VOTE FOR LAMAR, LUKE AND KOBE FOR THE ALLSTAR @ LAKERS.COM AND MAKE SURE TO VOTE DAILY!!
EVERY BLOGGER GO VOTE NOW IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY AT NBA.COM OR LAKERS.COM (DAILY!!)
REMIND EVERYBODY YOU KNOW TO VOTE DAILY EVERYDAY FOR THE NEXT 60 DAYS!
LET THE VOTES STACK TO THE CEILING PEOPLE!!!
**ALSO**
SIDE NOTE FROM "TIM-4-SHOW":
"You should add that no one should vote for anyone EXCEPT a Laker. With the All-Star voting, competing players who get votes too would essentially take away the votes we cast for Lamar. In other words, Lakers only + Eastern conference where the votes don't compete against our guys"
VERY GOOD POINT BY TM-4-SHOW.... NOT NECESSARY TO VOTE FOR ALL 5 POSITIONS, JUST SELECT KOBE, LAMAR, AND LUKE AND CLICK TO FINISH UNLESS YOU WOULD LIKE TO VOTE FOR SHAQ ON THE EAST LIKE I DO, HAVE A GOOD ONE PEOPLE
**ALSO**
SIDE NOTE BY "LONG TIME LAKER FAN":
"you're leaving out a CRUCIAL part of the voting process. There's a box at the bottom of the voting page where you can WRITE IN one vote.
Don't just vote for Kobe, Lamar, and Luke. Write in Bynum or Farmar as well. I don't think they'll win, but it would be good to at least see their names in the list of top 10 vote getters."
OK EVERYBODY YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO
YOU TOO AK AND BK, GO VOTE
Posted by: VIOLATOR | November 21, 2007 at 12:39 PM
Kobe was caught on cam again in the Big 5 parking lot. A young laker fan with a 24 jersey on asked "when are the Lakers gona trade that tall kid for somebody good". Kobe reply "are you crazy! Nobody gona touch my boy!"
Posted by: 33StraightWins | November 21, 2007 at 12:40 PM