1-0 in games where Mom co-blogs
As a matter of fact, the fans always get tacos when she's in the press area and sticks around for the live blog, as was the case in tonight's 116-99 win over the Nuggets. And these happy developments provided Mom and Lakers fans quite the blast. To say the least, it's something of a tenuous period for the Purple and Gold, given how Trevor Ariza's recent foot fracture has combined with Andrew Bynum's "Subluxation Heard 'Round the World" to cause worries of deja vu all over again for the Lakers. After all, the team's hot '07 start was derailed by injury, so why wouldn't the same happen again with the injury bug apparently still carrying a grudge? Well, the Lakers seemed determined not only to thwart a historical repeat, but didn't even go into "Carry us, Kobe" mode doing it. Five Lakers chucked the rock more times than the New Jack Bauer, the same number of guys (Kobe included) that hit double figures. Obviously, this won't (nor should it) be the case in every go around, but the box score could serve as a statement of sorts. These Lakers are better equipped, mentally and physically, to weather this storm, and as a team.
The breakdown is below.
AK
THE GOOD
Derek Fisher: At least for one night, Andrew Bynum's scoring was picked up, and then some. 28 points. 6-7 from behind the arc, including four makes on four attempts in the third frame, a barrage that helped swing a sputtering momentum back in L.A.'s favor. As I've said many times, I've thus far grossly underestimated how much Fish's play would make a difference this season. Tonight would be one of those occasions demonstrating how off I was.
Lamar Odom: Three assists were all that prevented LO from a trip-dub, but there's very little complaining involved with a 15/11/7 effort. Actually, I suppose one could quibble about going 33% from the field (4-12), but Lamar made up for it with nine trips to the stripe, a septet of which were good. All the mark of an outing with an aggressive mindset, which is so key for Odom.
Kobe Bryant: The first half features only two attempts (both good), six points, five assists, and a Laker lead of 10. The third quarter features six more dimes, four running in back-to-back-to-back-to-back fashion over fewer than two minutes, helping the Lakers bump a dwindling Laker lead from four back up to digits. By the time the dust settled, Kobe had taken only seven shots to rack his 17 points, involving his teammates the entire way while never seeing his influence on the game's flow decrease. Games like these truly demonstrate The Mamba's ability to put a contest on a string.
Kwame Brown recovering from the bad experience against Phoenix: The "Is booing okay?" debate has been discussed to death by now, so I'm not looking to spark Round 1438. But it was nice to see both fans give Kwame some love during the player intros (all kidding aside, a clean slate of sorts needed to be expected by then) and Brown play as if the fiasco never happened. It also helped that there were no missed chippies and he snagged a season-high 11 boards. Mom in particular was very happy to see Kwame bounce back in reputable fashion, as the boo birds of last Thursday struck her as fairly heartbreaking. While Phil Jackson didn't appear blown away by Kwame's night, he praised some "moments" on Brown's part, whether a couple of early dunks or being active in the glass eating department. "He got involved in the game and lost himself in it and that's what's important."
Jordan Farmar and Ronny Turiaf combining for 30 off the pine: With the rotation now "Britney Spears' skirt short," it's imperative that bench players step up and prevent the load from falling too heavily on the starters. Ronny and Jordan did just that.
Coby Karl getting some PT against his old man's squad: Save his converted technical free throw, the game won't strike the uninformed eye as much to write home about. But despite airballing a three ball (his only attempt) and sailing a bounce pass into the stands about two feet from his dad's mug, I have a feeling it's a game people will never tire talking about.
Getting to do this with Mom: Not to sound like a big softy, but it really was a good time. Mom is a huge Lakers fan and spent the entire game bouncing up and down in her seat and reacting with great enthusiasm. Besides, it would have never dawned on me that court mops would sell huge on QVC. Mom notices these things.
THE BAD
Outside of a dicey third quarter where the game was knotted at 77 before the Lakers reblew the doors permanently open, not a whole heck of a lot, really. Yeah, you'd like to see do more of the lead expanding that happened in the final frame, but at the same time, this is a team playing without its second best player (Bynum) or perimeter defending specialist (Ariza), with a brand new big (DJ Mbenga) while two others (Chris Mihm and Vlad Radmanovic) sit on the shelf, plus Kwame Brown, Sasha Vujacic and Luke Walton all not operating at 100%. In cases like these, you'll sometimes have to disregard a lack of continual neck stepping and just take the win.
THE TURNING POINT
Those threes late in the third from D.Fish and Farmar (all assisted by Kobe) that put the Lakers back in the driver's seat. From there, they never rode shottie.
AK
Mom,
I never enjoyed a game thread so much!
AK,
I think your brother's been Wally Pipped!
Posted by: mel | January 22, 2008 at 12:20 AM
OK, a couple of things have officially got to stop.
First of all, can we please stop piling on Kwame. Lord knows that I've been something of a critic of his through my well-documented opposition to Mike T's insane posts, but when push comes to shove, this guy's a Laker. I want him to do well, because then our team does well. I also want him to do well because he seems like a genuinely nice guy, and more complex than his exterior would suggest. Let's face it - he's ain't Drew, and he's never going to be Drew. Let's just show this guy some love, keep the expectations real, and hunker down and see if we just can't pile up some wins while #17 gets healthy.
Second, enough already with the doom and gloom crap. This is still a damned good basketball team, one capable of completely dismantling a team with a winning record in the West, which is more than you can say for New York or Miami. I mean, have any of you predicting season's end actually WATCHED these guys play this year? We're still deep. We're still talented, and we still have Kobe running the floor. Basically, I see this team as much the same as last year's, but with Fish instead of Smush and a much-improved Farmar and Sasha. Minus the injuries, last year's team was pretty damned good. We can move the ball, we can defend, and we have the finest closer in the game. So none of this "We'll be lucky to sneak in as the 8th seed" crap.
And finally, can we PLEASE stop bagging on Lamar. I can't believe how many posts I read yesterday about Lamar and his "cursed" feet, how we needed to ship him out, how HE was the one who actually invaded Iraq, how he assassinated Kennedy and then shot Oswald to shut him up, yadda yadda yadda. This guy has shown more grit and heart than practically anyone else on the team, and has genuinely stepped up when called upon - remember when everyone said it would take him a while to round into form after his off-season surgeries? We're just seeing him return to where he was last year before he got injured, and that's a consistent high teens scoring, low teens rebounding, and a long defensive presence to boot. This guy plays through pain, he never complains, he doesn't get into ridiculous ego contests with Kobe, he can literally guard every position on the floor, he sucks up rebounds like they're made of cocaine-covered ecstacy... can we PLEASE all agree that he belongs on this team and stop suggesting that he be shipped out because OTHER PLAYERS TRIPPED OVER HIS FEET?!!?!?!?
OK, if we can just agree on those three things, I will be a much happier camper - as will, I suspect, many true Laker fans who read and participate in this blog.
Let Love Rule!
Posted by: SBPimp | January 22, 2008 at 12:35 AM
Phil really earned his money tonight. Running the offense through Kobe in the post was a brilliant game plan. Denver had no choice but to collapse on him. But he is such a great passer that he really made them pay for the double and triple teams. I expect to see much more of this while Andrew is out. The Spurs will be a tougher test because their guys are more diciplined then Denver but still, if you dont collapse on Kobe in the post he will kill you there to. It should be a good game.
MH
Posted by: michael h | January 22, 2008 at 12:45 AM
good win
Posted by: bill | January 22, 2008 at 12:47 AM
Nice bounce back game from Kwame. Nice to see Mbenga have an impact on his first of 10 days.
Posted by: joedub | January 22, 2008 at 12:49 AM
What it is.
Posted by: p0s1t1v3 | January 22, 2008 at 01:01 AM
let me add another goods:
Kwame only had two turnovers and both of them came from offensive fouls against Camby...
Pretty great for Kwame who we mostly refer as 1st draft pick with stone hands.
and btw, boy oh boy, i love Kobe more after this game...it shows a lot of his trust and leadership...
Posted by: 1331 | January 22, 2008 at 01:02 AM
AK,
The Bad:
Luke Walton, the guy has no confidence in his shot, 4 pts, 5 rebs, 3 assts and 1 TO in 26 minutes. And his defense is horrendous....
If they would want to win in San Antonio, Luke should increase his aggressiveness.
Posted by: NONZKI | January 22, 2008 at 01:08 AM
Blog it, Mama Kam!
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | January 22, 2008 at 01:11 AM
Great win and team effort. Banga was a nice surprise too.
Posted by: Critical Beatdown | January 22, 2008 at 01:22 AM
Great win! Lakers kept their composure even after Denver overtook them for a little while, and proceeded to blow the game open. Let's hope the good team play continues in the Texas two-step coming up.
Posted by: batman | January 22, 2008 at 01:50 AM
Just heard that Jermaine O'Neal plans to sit out the rest of the season to recuperate from injury. Kupchak and the Lakers dodged a bullet there bigtime, considering how strong the clamor was last summer to trade for him in this blog. Even JO was dropping hints of being traded to LA. But then, lucky (?) for all Laker fans, Kupchak doesn't ever read this blog anyway!
Posted by: batman | January 22, 2008 at 01:59 AM
WOOHOOOO!!!! WE WONN!!! WE WONNN!!!!!
What say the Kobe Haters Now? We don't need him ? because he didn't have to shoot 40 times?
Posted by: Gilly | January 22, 2008 at 02:15 AM
Althou, it is odd all these players getting injured :S It sucks !! I mean, next thing u know it's the Lakers Bench warmers versus the other teams benchwarmers.
Hope Carmelo gets well soon too, cuz i loved the competition on top of the west.
NBA, where injuries happen :S
Posted by: Gilly | January 22, 2008 at 02:17 AM
GO LAKERS GO!!!!!!
WHEN BYNUM RETURNS WE WILL BE UNSTOPPABLE!
Posted by: Alexinho17 | January 22, 2008 at 02:48 AM
KOBE FOR MVP! MVP! MVP!
Posted by: Tsiry | January 22, 2008 at 03:57 AM
Well, I guess we could ponder that the Nguggets defense is atrocious and that they lost Carmelo, given that they are as injury prone as the Lakers.
So although it's a good win, it's not THAT signifcant.
But what the heck!.
Hey, we just swept Denver and proved we can still avoid Kobe-ball and play at least .500 until our guys are back from injury.
One gotta be proud of the Lakers right now.
Posted by: Allan | January 22, 2008 at 04:32 AM
AK/BK
WIth the win, I believe we may be tied with PHX for the best record in the West. Since the rules do not allow D'Antoni to coach the All-Star game two years in a row, does this mean that Phil JAckson will most likely be tapped to coach the squad?
Also does that increase the chance of another Laker (Odom) on the team?
Posted by: Adam | January 22, 2008 at 05:48 AM
AK/BK
WIth the win, I believe we may be tied with PHX for the best record in the West. Since the rules do not allow D'Antoni to coach the All-Star game two years in a row, does this mean that Phil JAckson will most likely be tapped to coach the squad?
Also does that increase the chance of another Laker (Odom) on the team?
Posted by: Adam | January 22, 2008 at 05:49 AM
I will admit I was and still am a little weary of this team w/the injuries,but I am impressed w/the resilance they showed, maybe a luke,kwame trade for big ben and sephalophia will help us get that 'chip?!
Posted by: | January 22, 2008 at 05:50 AM
Kwam did what was asked of him. He grabbed 11 boards I saw some hunger on the glass he snatched a couple away from teammates, I hope he keeps that fire on the glass there isn't a guy stronger than him in the league.
He was doing a little swim move past Camby to get a couple offensive boards I hope PJ is in his ear to do that everynight.
If he is active and hungry on the glass like that and can develop a mean streak as an intimidater he would be a top 10 center. He can pass a little an excellent man on man defender and if he rebounds like that he would have atleast got the respect back from his peers.
As far as the Campy and Martin blow-by's I credit that to coming back from injury "THAT' play doesn't happen last year you know he can stick with a guy
Posted by: vizardronin | January 22, 2008 at 06:01 AM
LTLF,
"I'll bet he makes the rookie challenge this year. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if he's the starting PG for the sophomores."
OK... aaaaannnddd?
You do realize Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Baron Davis, Nash, Iverson, etc. will be holding down the All-Star PG spots for years right? Not to mention Roy will start making them eventually too.
Nothing against Jordan, I like him. But I dont see a All-Star game in him ever.
Glad that he's in the rookie challenge though...
Posted by: Korey | January 22, 2008 at 06:59 AM
Michael T.
I am 100 percent positive that a. God does not care who wins basketball games and that b. He doesn't appreciate you calling his children dumb and stupid...
And being a person that has the name Michael, which means of or like God, you should be more forgiving and less critical of those who do not share the same point of view as you.
And you made that post on MLK day. Way to go! I forgive you though!
Michael aka -MJCMAN32
Posted by: MJCMAN32 | January 22, 2008 at 06:59 AM
Well so far i will take my foot out of my mouth on Lamar and Kawame, they had nice games. Wow did the Fish really step it up, the leader we have been looking for and thanks to your mom the lakers need all the help they can get.
GO LAKERS AND TROJAN BB
Posted by: pk-in-the-mesa | January 22, 2008 at 07:00 AM
Hello,
You forgot to mention Mbenga. Two rebounds and two blocks in what was it, four minutes. Also, I thought Crit played well. He is the only person, other than Koby who can really create his own shot. When the offense is stagnant because of the zone he should definitely be in the game. All in all this game was actually fun to watch. I think it was because of the proficient distribution of the ball by Koby and others.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Minu | January 22, 2008 at 07:07 AM
AK- Sasha may not be 100 percent but it didnt prevent him from taking 10 shots, so the injury cant be that bad.
I understand the lakers are short handed but Sasha hurts the team more than helps the team and his defense is making Faith go loony.
Fisher and Farmar made 9 of 15 3s, thats how the lakers won. Thats 27 points.
Posted by: Laker Lover | January 22, 2008 at 07:09 AM
Make that 8 shots for the machine
Posted by: Laker Lover | January 22, 2008 at 07:10 AM
AK,
"With the rotation now "Britney Spears' skirt short,""
Remember, it's not the shortness of the rotation, it's what's underneath!!
Posted by: exhelodrvr | January 22, 2008 at 07:20 AM
Last night's game was good. I read the Associated Press line that almost implied that because Anthony goes down, the Lakers win. I'm sure he would've had an influence on the final score, but we were still up by double digits. I don't want to make too much of a win, but I don't want folks taking away from it either.
Posted by: Island_Gamer | January 22, 2008 at 07:26 AM
A few thoughts:
I think we are seeing Kobe revert back to player he was during the championship years. He scores when he needs to and sets the table for the others when that is what the defense is allowing.
Kobe has put his mind back to being a better/more consistent defender.
D. Fish cannot be more valuable to this team. I think he is one of the main reasons Kobe has been playing so well. Kobe has confidence in him and Fish gives the other guys’ confidence as well. Sure the team could be more consistent but even the bad games don't seem as bad this season.
I think Fisher is the guy that has the clout to pull Kobe back in if he strays too far from the team concept. Fisher is just an all around good influence on the team and while he won’t shoot lights out every night, he will be good for a handful of wins that the Lakers might not otherwise get.
Kwame getting booed the other night may have been the best thing to happen. Sure it hurt the Lakers for that game because Kwame being the mental case he is let it get to him. But the way the guys rallied around him, got the ball to him could wind up helping the team in a long run. The Lakers can play well with Kwame – like they did last year but we can’t have Kwame go into a shell and
And finally I wish Mike T. would just shut up with this calling everyone that doesn't agree with him stupid. Seriously Mike - grow up. Just because people don't share your Kwamecentric view of Lakers basketball it doesn't mean they are stupid. We get it Kwame is not 100% like a few other guys on the roster.
Are you a Rhodes scholar? Do you have an off the charts IQ? Did you graduate from an Ivy League school or top tier University? Even if the answer is yes no one cares! Please show a little humility. Stick to facts and logic to argue your case, if the best you can come up with is "You are stupid" go somewhere else and post. The truly great don’t run around telling people how great they are; people TELL THEM how great they are. Your basketball acumen is debatable but I certainly don’t see a lot of posts from bloggers hailing your greatness. Then again according to you we are all too stupid – which would beg the question. Why do you even waste your time with us idiots? Surely by now you realize none of us are smart enough to come to your point of view that Kwame is a basketball god so why not just leave??????
Eagleboy
Posted by: Eagleboy | January 22, 2008 at 07:28 AM
Good win.
But, for once I'd like to say that those who point out that the Lakers are undefeated when Kobe scores < 20 pts. need to refrain from letting the tail wag the dog. They don't win those game BECAUSE Kobe scores < 20. Kobe scores less then 20 BECAUSE they are so handily winning those games already.
That's all I got.
--FearlessWhackJob
Posted by: FearlessWhackJob | January 22, 2008 at 07:35 AM
I bet the tacos were extra tasty last night - that was a scrumptious win.
Kobe is just plain scary when he's in keep 'em guessing mode. His body language seemed to taunt the Nuggets, saying something like, "O, Denver...where's the ball? where's it going?.. Up your @$$, that's where!"
Also, I don't care who you are, it feels good watching Fish drain those high-arcing, momentum-creating J's.
Thanks to Momma K for blogging us to a terrific win.
Posted by: The D | January 22, 2008 at 07:36 AM
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TUESDAY (JANUARY 22, 2008)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TODAY IS – BRING BACK THE REAL KOBE BRYANT DAY.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Force is Iin balance as it should be. To all the wonderful fans who attended the game and
gave Kwame an ovation, I say Kudos to you. McGarnagle and others may have started something
and we may get that potential that everyone has been waiting for Kwame to reveal yet. Any time we can
defeat the Denver Nuggets handily and Kobe only takes 7 shots then surely this is our year.
ROLL CALL
(1) FAITH, MIKE T. TALIQ, Edwin Gueco ,, KEIFO, Wolf, Q WUOR, CLEON,
EASTCOASTJESSIE, MAMBA24Fan4Life, Fan of MAMBA, WhiteMAMBA24, Hmrhed
BlackMAMBA24, Afro_Joe, LAKERTRUTH, Kiwi, Wow, Peace, JCooL, David Whang,
AdamKiley, LakersryDeordie, ANGRYLAKER, TSIRY, ELLE, TIM-4-SHOW, tha_ SHOW,
TheLakeShow, WESJOENIXON, BAYWOOD, SBPIMP, utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER,
CaliKing, Rick Friedman,Thirty2, EXHELODRVR, ) JANAYA,CBUCK, DAXMDD, The D
GENERIC_ONE, TWOODY, JJ, Ajax, MITCHELL., LAKERTOM, Charles, BZAR, JUNO,
NEVER, LakaLover, Bynumite, LakerDogerDieHardInUpStateNY, Chucky.L.Ohnio, The Cat,
Sead94, LeftField, JOREMA, VMAN, Korey, Xtro, MCGarnagle, Gugy, GDChild, Laker4Life,
BLKTHGHT06, WONDAHBAB, KL BEAST, FearlessWhackJob, MARTY, JANDRO, LAKERFAZE,
PhxLkrFAN, PRINCE, AKRASIAN, TexasLaker, BOB, EagleBoy, JR., Zakee, KOBES T., ZEN,
Purple & Gold, TSPHERE, t_Sensei, Tully Moxness, KobeRocks, David Peterson, centralk,
FKILLAH, CYRUS(Ventrilquist), BOYSOY, Swettual, Andrew Z, LAL Fan, Brandon C.,
Kinglakernidas, HUBBIT, GREEK DUDE, BRONXLAKERFAN, RespectMyAuthorith, Hariyahu,
LAKER_STH, KobeFromManilas, RAY RAY, HOBBITMAGE, BONEZ, SARCOCOP,Staples24,
Bobby, COMPTONS FINEST, MIGUELINHO, MAN, KSANDHER, HYP117, TUKLAW, CDUB0512,
MRBARNEYDANGLES, BENJAMIN, MJCMAN32, PFUNK36, Christopher Lewis, SOCALIFE,
HAL9000, Michael J, Michael H, Michael A., ALEXINH017, VIOLATER, KIKOS_DAD, GINO, FATTY,
LAKERGURL, LEELO, CRITICAL BEATDOWN, BLAZE1BX, SIMONE, PAUL LEE, Jay EL, SocalSpider ,
WEAVE MAN, JON KAVULIC, Tajluck, NEMIA_FALETOGO, Caesar, BERKLEYLAKER, Dice8Up DION,
KARL, CRAIG, MITCHELL, B4HOOPS, RYAN, JR, Dascilla, tellitlikeitis, Nik Kannan, GABE, SEAN P.,
HanSoulFood, HollywoodJack, HAROLD, RICO TICO, DREW, NESTROSSBISTRO, LAKERAHOLIC, LAKOBER, SLO GAL, Linda Pineda, Jay Jay, TaosHum, DEREK, CHITOWNLAKER, RealityCheckTime,
CORNER J., wiZo, MagicShaq, HugoBoss, OSCAR, RDLEE, RealityBites, LakerLarry, Bucky,
Guy, LakerLifer, C.S. Jova, Tripgame3, SIXONEZERO, HOUSTON LAKER, Todd BATTLES
JONINJAPAN(INCANADA), LT Laker Fan, , KATE, TROY, Mainor, East Nyboer
JEFF, ANDY B., SwanWorld, PUPLE&GOLD_4EVA, Benny Blanca, CS in Virgina
TIM IN SYDNEY LakerBake, JMan, Mfeige, Jennifer, Any_One_mouse, 10milliondollarZen,
Shiva, Laker_Hopeful, LakerDawg, RDANEEL, PHIL JACKSON, KOBE BRYANT, MARC GASOL,
SUN YUE, JORDAN FARMER, RONNY TURIAF, V. RADMANOVIC, LAMAR ODOM, DEREK FISHER,
TREVOR ARIZA, LUKE WALTON, KWAME BROWN, ANDREW BYNUM, COBY KARL, CHRIS MIHM,
JARVIS CRITTERTON, LARRY FULCHER, SASHA VUJACIC, TEX WINTER, JERRY BUSS
ALL TOGETHER NOW:
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS THE WINNERS OF 14 NBA TITLES
THE TEAM WITH THE BEST WINNING PERCENTAGE IN NBA HISTORY
THE HOME OF WILT, KAREEM, GEORGE MIKAN, SHAQ, MAGIC, KOBE,
ELGIN BAYLOR, THE LOGO(JERRY WEST), PAT RILEY, JAMES WORTHY,
SILK, COACHED BY THE 9 TIME TITLE WINNER PHIL (9RINGS) JACKSON
AND NO ONE WILL EVER CONQUER OR DIVIDE OR CONQUER
Posted by: mAMBA24 | January 22, 2008 at 07:36 AM
Great win, we need it so badly. By some sources, Fish now shooting 46% from 3pt. I don expect him to have 20+ games all time Drew is out, but 15-17 average would be nice to have. We need a lot of people to step up they game under circumstances we have now. It would be nice to get one out of this Texas trip.
Posted by: LAL_Fan | January 22, 2008 at 07:38 AM
Let me address this first before other blogger start blogging about it and start to piss me off.
There are people that are going to start saying things like "why doesn't Kobe play like this all the time" or "if kobe was playing like this all the time, then we would be a much better team" and etc.
People KOBE will always pass the ball if guys are making shot!!! And I am sorry to say this because I am a die hard laker fan, but there is no way that any team can be prolific as we were last night from the arc. 11-25 (44%), that being said I believe that we should do away with the doom and gloom, we have Kobe, Lamar and Fish, if Kobe is worth his salt ( I believe he is) then the lakers will be much better than the pundits believe. I mean come on, we played horrible vs phoenix and they beat us by 8 in a game we had if Diaw didn't hit that jumper to put the lead back to 6. I see the lakers going 13-7 or 14-6 in a twenty game span (already 2-1).
Thanks for your time,
P.S we spend so much time pretending to be sports analyst that i believe we miss the excitement of the game.
THE GAME LAST NIGHT ROCKED !!!!!!!!!!!!
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: purplehaemoglobin | January 22, 2008 at 07:49 AM
Let me address this first before other blogger start blogging about it and start to piss me off.
There are people that are going to start saying things like "why doesn't Kobe play like this all the time" or "if kobe was playing like this all the time, then we would be a much better team" and etc.
People KOBE will always pass the ball if guys are making shot!!! And I am sorry to say this because I am a die hard laker fan, but there is no way that any team can be prolific as we were last night from the arc. 11-25 (44%), that being said I believe that we should do away with the doom and gloom, we have Kobe, Lamar and Fish, if Kobe is worth his salt ( I believe he is) then the lakers will be much better than the pundits believe. I mean come on, we played horrible vs phoenix and they beat us by 8 in a game we had if Diaw didn't hit that jumper to put the lead back to 6. I see the lakers going 13-7 or 14-6 in a twenty game span (already 2-1).
Thanks for your time,
P.S we spend so much time pretending to be sports analyst that i believe we miss the excitement of the game.
THE GAME LAST NIGHT ROCKED !!!!!!!!!!!!
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: purplehaemoglobin | January 22, 2008 at 07:50 AM
(I'm not going to say anything about the whole Mom thing.)
Well, it seems that Kobe has learned the Nefarious Foot of Lamar technique and wisely decided to use it against the enemy instead of his own teammates.
Good thinkin' Kobe! Way to keep your eye on the prize!
NO MVP! NO PEACE!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | January 22, 2008 at 07:51 AM
Well, K Brothers.... it is nice to see that you love your mother. We all should, I suppose.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | January 22, 2008 at 07:54 AM
I'm so proud of KOBE and the way he played.
He cut down on the three pointers and played like MAGIC JOHNSON which is what this team needs right now while short handed.
That was a sensational and mature performance by KOBE.
Awesome, the stuff of greatness!!!
Posted by: Lakerbake | January 22, 2008 at 08:05 AM
NOW THAT WAS FUN TO WATCH!!
I like being entertained like that. A few points that stood out to me.
1) Kobe was incredible. Dominated the game without taking many shots. One of the better games I've seen Kobe play.
2) I applaud Kwame Brown's effort. In the third when Camby and the Nuggets went on a bit of run you could see that Kwame had run out of gas. That's obviously to be expected with a still busted ankle and not in game shape. It was nice that he ran out of gas due to being very active when he was on the court. We're not asking for Wilt Chamberlin, just effort and energy from #54.
3) Lamar Odom continues his aggressiveness and that's going to be a very games in the W column for the Lakers when the dust settles. He needs to focus a bit more on finishing at the rim, but if he keeps up the aggressiveness, I could care less.
4) I thought PJ coached a very good game, using timeouts at good times and experimenting with line-ups and rotations to get whatever he could out of this depleted line-up.
All around a fun game to watch and another statement game by these Lakers.
Posted by: Andrew Z | January 22, 2008 at 08:07 AM
By the way, Laker Nation, I'm really glad that Kwame Brown was cheered at introductions to the game. Made me proud to be a Lakers fan again.
Very good.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | January 22, 2008 at 08:08 AM
Fearless Whack Job,
"That's all I got. --FearlessWhackJob"
And all you got is just what we needed. Thanks
Posted by: mamba24 | January 22, 2008 at 08:11 AM
Man, that was a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful game.
Not only that, but I am now first place in my fantasy league~!!!!
What a beautiful game. If we play like this everyday we win everything.
GO LAKERS!!!
oh and finally Lamar showing something out there!!!!
Posted by: David Whang | January 22, 2008 at 08:12 AM
coming up for the lakers...16 of their next 22 games on the road
lakers will go 13-9
heard it here first
Posted by: mike | January 22, 2008 at 08:12 AM
Michael T.
"I am 100 percent positive that...God does not care who wins basketball games"
Posted by: MJCMAN32 | January 22, 2008 at 06:59 AM
I'm not so sure buddy. If Satan really is a Celtics fan...then, well, there you have it.
Wes
Posted by: | January 22, 2008 at 08:15 AM
Jon K you've done it again!
NO MVP! NO PEACE! NO MVP! NO PEACE! NO MVP! NO PEACE!
NO MVP! NO PEACE! NO MVP! NO PEACE! NO MVP! NO PEACE!
NO MVP! NO PEACE! NO MVP! NO PEACE! NO MVP! NO PEACE!
NO MVP! NO PEACE! NO MVP! NO PEACE! NO MVP! NO PEACE!
Posted by: mamba24 | January 22, 2008 at 08:17 AM
Jon K.,
"Well, it seems that Kobe has learned the Nefarious Foot of Lamar technique and wisely decided to use it against the enemy instead of his own teammates"
Haha.. man I almost woke up the gf cracking up to that joke... very very funny....
MAN IM SO HAPPY GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: David Whang | January 22, 2008 at 08:22 AM
AK,
DFish has helped the Lakers and his absence has hurt Utah. Don't think the Jazz would have waived him if they knew the impact of their action.
Sam Smith of Chicago Tribune says Lakers should trade Kwame Brown and Vlade Rad for Ben Wallace. That's a hoot! Wallace is owed $29 mil after this season and can't score or shoot free throws better than Kwame. In addition, Vlade provides size AND outside shooting.
Trading Caron Bulter was a good trade because the Lakers needed size in the middle. Kwame gives them that.
Folks need to lay off Kwame.
Optimistic about beating the Spurs & Mavs.
Can't afford anymore injuries though.
Bet Mitch is receiving offers for Farmar & Sasha ...
Zakee is the man with insightful and thoughtful posts.
Posted by: Todd | January 22, 2008 at 08:22 AM
Eagleboy,
Love your post, man. I think part of the reason Mike T not going anywhere but this blog, very simple one - no other blogs like this one, with all the fans around the world and only other option for him just create his own and start post over there, I'm just wondering, how many "smart" people going to read it.
Posted by: LAL_Fan | January 22, 2008 at 08:42 AM
Early on during a moment of relative quietness, a male fan's baritone voice resonated throughout the Staples Center sellout crowd of 18,997.
"I love you Kwame," he yelled.
I BET THAT WAS MIKE T :)
Posted by: Gilly | January 22, 2008 at 08:44 AM
Well that's one way to beat the injury bug, unleash it on the opposition.
Here's wishing for an '08 in which the injuries are kept at a minimum leaguewide, in otherwords I want our full team to beat the crap out of the oppositions full team. Anything else and it just takes away from the fun n games.
Anyone going to be in new orleans? Lakesblog reunion anyone?
Posted by: Taliq | January 22, 2008 at 08:47 AM
I have to say that there is nothing better than being a Laker fan...
I have league pass and get to watch every other team play and I find them to be flat out boring. We are very lucky as fans to get to watch this team perform night in and night out.
Watching the Heat - Cavs game was just brutal. Both teams are very boring and Wade and Lebron are WAY overhyped.
I know that alot of people hate the triangle offense, but when executed properly, it makes the game very enjoyable to watch. Watching Lebron and Wade run a 1-4 set or pick and roll every time down the floor is not fun.
On another note, It will be utterly RIDICULOUS if Kobe is not this years MVP.
He is on a whole different level than anyone else. I know he won't win it but when every player, coach and former player say he is the best player on the planet, shouldn't that mean something?
What makes him better than Nash, Nowitski, Wade, and Lebron is that he does it on both ends of the floor.
Lebron comes close but he is still not at that level.
Last night was a joy to watch Kobe read the defense and pick it apart with such precision. His game is evolving but it is because his teammates have improved immensely!
GREAT POST EAGLEBOY!!! KUDOS and well said!!!
Posted by: MJCMAN32 | January 22, 2008 at 08:56 AM
Who is Michael T.?
Posted by: NYCLAKER | January 22, 2008 at 08:56 AM
Here's the difference between last year and this year:
last year, after a slew of injuries, the team fell apart and players gave up (except Kobe)
this year, after a slew of injuries, the team came together and players refuse to give up (especially Kobe)
With Mom, and a different vibe, this is shaping out to be a special year.
Posted by: lone star laker fan | January 22, 2008 at 09:10 AM
SHOE BEE DOO BE DOOOO:
I TOLD YOU KING KWAME WAS GOING TO REPRESENT. MY MAN OWNED THE BOARDS LAST NIGHT SO YOU GUYS BETTER BACK ON UP.
I AM DOING A STUDY ABOUT THIS AND I WILL POST IT IN 7 WEEKS TIME.
THIS LAKERS TEAM IS WAY BETTER OFF WITH KWAME BROWN STARTING AND GETTING MORE MINUTES THAN YOUNG AND INEXPERIENCED BYNUM.
THOSE OF YOU THAT DONT LIKE KWAME JUST DONT UNDERSTAND BASKETBALL.
Posted by: Stranger in the Night | January 22, 2008 at 09:11 AM
purplehaemoglobin - you said Kobe will pass if guys are making shots.
By that logic- Kobes teammates should NOT pass to kobe when he is having an off shooting night.
Let me ask this- do Nash , Magic and Lebro to name a few stop passing to the open guy because they are "not making shots"?
The correct basketball play is to pass to the open guy for an open shot. Every coach will tell you that.
And if I have to hear Kobe "trusts" his teammates another time I am going to vomit. What if it was the other way around- that Kobes teammates didnt trust Kobe to pass them the ball when they were open?
Lastly- name me another MVP who was ever accused of "not trusing his teammates".
Posted by: Laker Lover | January 22, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Yeah, as a belgian I am happy to see you like DJ Mbenga (he has a Belgian passport AK en BK)! :)
He is very strong player, and I hope, as fan of the lakers, he will help the lakers in this short period ! :)
Btw: I follow this blog daily, and it's a great place for lakers- fans !
Good Job AK en BK !
btw2: Kobe for MVP !
Posted by: MBENGA | January 22, 2008 at 09:49 AM
"Spectacular game by Kobe"
TNT announcers and even Barkley chimed in over and over again
Everyone saw that but one person who was assigned by the LATimes to cover the game, Bresnahan. Did you read his take?
He must have been more interested in eating his popcorn, drinking his Coke, and watching the Lakers Girls. Can't blame him for the last one.
Kobe carried the team in a way I'd love to see more often. He killed Denver. Just toying with them.
SAS game is going to be more interesting if the Lakers play with that intensity.
Fun game to watch.
Posted by: AN1 | January 22, 2008 at 09:50 AM
THIS LAKERS TEAM IS WAY BETTER OFF WITH KWAME BROWN STARTING AND GETTING MORE MINUTES THAN YOUNG AND INEXPERIENCED BYNUM.
THOSE OF YOU THAT DONT LIKE KWAME JUST DONT UNDERSTAND BASKETBALL.
Posted by: Stranger in the Night | January 22, 2008 at 09:11 AM
Please somebody give stranger in the night some infra red gargoyle.
Hello blog,
Love it when we're winning everything looks great, now let's keep the momentum going. Mamba 24 what about a: " NEVER LOOK BACK, KWAME" bandwagon. Let's encourage and cheer the man no matter what. He's a Laker and we shold be cheering Lakers.
It's nice to see KB54 bounce back from the previous game booes. Anyone knows if he's still going to keep working with the Captain? Seems like Kareem get goods out of post young players.
Mamba from the east coast
Posted by: Mamba24Fan4Life | January 22, 2008 at 09:52 AM
lone star laker fan,
"With Mom, and a different vibe, this is shaping out to be a special year."
Mom will do it every time. She shoots a mean 3 pointer also.
Posted by: mamba24 | January 22, 2008 at 09:56 AM
Lakerville, the job is not completely done until we beat the two texas teams: Spurs and M'vericks. It's OK to celebrate for a while but it's time to go back to practice courts because tomorrow is another big day. San Antonio is a good defensive team, while Kobe is becoming an all around player, those kind of passing may not be always work well with other veteran teams who know how to seal other players. As someone said, Fish was great last night, not so great last Thursday, some other players have to be ready to take huge responsibilities and not be too dependent on Kobe & Fish. Winning against Nuggets did not solve the absence of Bynum and Ariza, there is still a huge void in the Laker lineup. Popovich knows these current weaknesses of the Lakers which is the post, he will send his greyhounds, Parker & Manu attack the Centers and if our Centers and forwards had difficulties in stopping Camby then Duncan is a much bigger threat. They are the Champs and 4xChamps in a span of 10 years. I'm not saying there is no solution to Duncan but you can't leave everything to luck that Spurs are pushovers similar to Nuggets because we have a point advantage against them in the standings. Kobe and PJ know that the road to Championship will be in Alamo. Luke has to step up, Sasha has to make those threes and Critt has to contribute in points because these are road games there are no more fans cheering: "we want tacos." but noisy and boisterous texans.
With the adjustments made by PJ plus huge contributions of Fisher and Farmar and the presence of a back up MBenga, we have a chance of spoiling the Spurs on the road.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | January 22, 2008 at 09:57 AM
----------------------------------------------------------*
* NEVER LOOK BACK kWAME - BANDWAGON *
*---------------------------------------------------------*
(01) Mamba24Fan4Life - Driver and owner
(02) Mamba24 - Riding shotgun
Posted by: mamba24 | January 22, 2008 at 09:59 AM
STAT OF THE DAY
In 82 games for the Utah Jazz all last season, Derek Fisher had 12 games in which he made mulitple-three pointers.
In 33 games for the Los Angeles Lakers this season, Derek Fisher already has 9 games in which he has made multiple three-pointers.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | January 22, 2008 at 10:09 AM
MJCMAN32,
I'm 100% certain god doesn't exist. Of course, Mike T. is still misguided.
As for the game, I'm still first chair on the cut or trade Walton bandwagon, who's with me?
Posted by: me | January 22, 2008 at 10:14 AM
Early on during a moment of relative quietness, a male fan's baritone voice resonated throughout the Staples Center sellout crowd of 18,997.
"I love you Kwame," he yelled.
Rumors that the male voice was Mit T have not yet been confirmed.
Posted by: Laker Lover | January 22, 2008 at 10:15 AM
We should not get too excited as the Nuggets are not the best defensive test for the "new" after Bynum Lakers. SA and Dallas coming up will be a better test.
Still it was great to see the Lakers pass the ball last night like they did during the win streak. Kobe was outstanding and the guys hit their shots (Fisher!!)
I was hoping Bynum was not the only reason they could pass like that. There was reason for concern after the Sonics and Suns performances.
Kwame played better but you still have to wonder is Jelani McCoy (now with the D-Fenders) would not be a better option.
But could the Lakers pay a guy 9 million to just sit?
Posted by: Andy B | January 22, 2008 at 10:17 AM
Stranger in the Night,
We needed that report yesterday.
Posted by: zen | January 22, 2008 at 10:22 AM
This is what I like to see! Whenever key players get injured in San Antonio, they still find a way to win and keep the ship afloat until the key player(s) return.
That is what the Lakers did last night. They never did that last year. They fell apart last year. Of course, melo getting hurt helped the Lakers a little bit. But it was still a sign that this year's team is better than last year's..
Remember last year we lost Odom.
We still have Odom, Fisher, and an improved Farmar.. We won't collapse like last season.
Posted by: zen | January 22, 2008 at 10:25 AM
Also, if Tony Parker can make an all-star game, so can Jordan Farmar. I think they are similar players.
Posted by: zen | January 22, 2008 at 10:27 AM
Also to clarify, Farmar is no Tony Parker YET. I'm just saying in a few years...
Posted by: zen | January 22, 2008 at 10:28 AM
"Early on during a moment of relative quietness, a male fan's baritone voice resonated throughout the Staples Center sellout crowd of 18,997.
"I love you Kwame," he yelled."
Mike T., you went to the game? I know that was you ... you dont have to act!
Posted by: Korey | January 22, 2008 at 10:29 AM
Can we stop comparing Nash and LeBron to Kobe. Different players, different positions, different systems and different coaches with vastly different approach to the game. Let everyone be who they are. Kobe is shooting guard, this what he does better, shoots in volumes. I'm not asking him to take 40 shots every game, at the same time we can not expect him to take 7 shots per game either. Denver starts double team him every time he touches the ball, guess what? Kobe is not first time experience defense like that, it was a matter to recognize it and find open shooter or cutter rolling to the basket. We also can not expect Fish put up numbers like yesterday every game, same true for Farmar. San Antonio not going double team Kobe, they going to put Bowen on him with a single coverage.
Posted by: LAL_Fan | January 22, 2008 at 10:30 AM
MJCMAN32
I'm sure God doesn't care about the score of a basketball game. But God is very concerned about how people are being treated. But I guess your mind just doesn't want to acknowledge that because if it's true, and it is, you would have to SHUT-UP!
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | January 22, 2008 at 10:40 AM
When Kobe is willing to pass the ball, this team is pretty tough to beat.
Kwame Brown could be the second coming of Ben Wallace if he just stays within his game, concentrates on rebounding, blocking shots, and DUNKING THE BALL WHEN HE GETS THE OPPORTUNITY! Remember, he's still getting healthy. He does not possess the hands or the offensive moves Bynum does (not many centers do), but wow, what a 1-2 punch at center for the next 10 years if they can sign him to a reasonable contract at the end of the year.
Lamar Odom is an all-star waiting to happen. If he makes the team, what a great boost to his confidence for the 2nd half of the season it will be. He's also just starting to round himself into mid-season form.
Good tests this week on the road in TX.
Posted by: Bruzer | January 22, 2008 at 10:41 AM
That was agood win, last year when the guys began to get hurt there was a diffrent feeling around the Lakers which is not there now. Is it that Kobe finally trusts his teammates or is it that they finally figured out that they are good enough to play alongside Kobe?
Also does anyone know who the cameraman that was in the lockerroom was? I need to send him/her a gift for that awesome Derek Fisher shot.
Posted by: Elle | January 22, 2008 at 10:44 AM
Interesting article on Chris Webber:
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/sixers/2008-01-21-obrien-webber_N.htm
Posted by: exhelodrvr | January 22, 2008 at 10:51 AM
Mike T.
"But I guess your mind just doesn't want to acknowledge that because if it's true, and it is, you would have to SHUT-UP!"
Mike what happened to the kinder gentler Mike you promided us this year
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 22, 2008 at 10:54 AM
Edwin Gueco,
"Lakerville, the job is not completely done "
That's right Edwin, we have to keep our eyes on the prize.!
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 22, 2008 at 10:58 AM
Laker Lover: "purplehaemoglobin - you said Kobe will pass if guys are making shots. By that logic- Kobes teammates should NOT pass to kobe when he is having an off shooting night."
Actually, he's just showing an understanding of how Kobe acts, not how he "should" act. He's not saying, everyone should do this. He's saying, this is what Kobe does. So your logic doesn't follow. If his teammates had Kobe's mentality, they wouldn't pass to him if he's not confident in his shot. But they don't have his mentality.
"Lastly- name me another MVP who was ever accused of "not trusing his teammates"."
Michael Jordan when he won his first MVP in the late 80s.
Posted by: lakers_sth | January 22, 2008 at 10:58 AM
Mike T. how do we rally know there is a god?
Posted by: Elle | January 22, 2008 at 10:58 AM
Lakerf STH,
""Lastly- name me another MVP who was ever accused of "not trusing his teammates"." Michael Jordan when he won his first MVP in the late 80s."
Thank you sir!
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 22, 2008 at 11:02 AM
Zen,
I believe you are right about Farmars potential. I also feel JC can be that one other slasher that can create his own shot playing behind the Mamba.
Have a good one!
Peace
Posted by: Charles | January 22, 2008 at 11:04 AM
Elle,
We don't, but there's no reason why we need to broach such a serious subject on a Lakers blog. Especially not with individuals who believe Andrew Bynum is being punished for the actions of bloggers he'll never meet.
I think that gets funnier every time I write it. I don't think I've ever seen someone so out of touch with reality.
Posted by: Xodus | January 22, 2008 at 11:07 AM
Great win last night...Good team ball and more importantly....Dj MBENGA....
The guy is like a spark plug....I think he will get a second 10 day contract but once thats up he will need to signed or let go ..I would like to see him stay....
For everyone that wants Webber go read the article at real gm and what he said to Jim Obrien on his first day...This guy is a sook....I dont do low post....and he didnt practice for the whole season...Give me DJ MBENGA any day .....
A little news from Oz.....the Laker scouts are back again this week to watch Nathan Jawai...and Joe Ingles.....Jawai is expected to late first round...6,9 280 pounds.
Posted by: Thirty2 | January 22, 2008 at 11:08 AM
lakers_sth,
People forget that about Michael Jordan since he won so much in the 90's. People act like Michael Jordan was the patron saint of NBA basketball. Growing up in the 90's I loved watching Michael play, but this is a guy who verbally abused Bill Cartwright and Horace Grant, punched Steve Kerr in practice and had several people saying in the 80's that he would never win a title.
Posted by: Xodus | January 22, 2008 at 11:11 AM
"But God is very concerned about how people are being treated".
Oh Yea? He's done a great job with Osama Bin laden.
Posted by: ochotimes3 | January 22, 2008 at 11:13 AM
Mamba24,
"Mike what happened to the kinder gentler Mike you promided us this year"
Yeah, I second the observation of Mamba24. People with great basketball minds don't lose their cool. Why don't you start the KJ that's Kwame's Journal. It is a story of a player on rehab with a big heart still playing eventhough he is sick so as not to disappoint his fan on the blog.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | January 22, 2008 at 11:13 AM
I was encouraged by what I saw last night from the team with regards to the adjustment in how they're using Kwame. Setting him up to succeed rather than fail. They didn't put him in situations where he'd have to play beyond his ability and therefore wasn't in a position to hurt the team. That's the way to use him.
Posted by: lakers_sth | January 22, 2008 at 11:16 AM
How hypocritical Mr. T -
You spend countless hours criticizing everyone involved with the Laker organization except Kwame. You wrote lengthy Jackson Journals, blamed Jordan, Kobe, PJ and Doug Collins for Kwame's lack of development. You have speculated, misquoted and made up stories to help try and solidify your meaningless drivel.
Telling us that Phil he does not know how to coach, or how YOU are the solution to Kwame's problems or that "Kwame has problably slapped Kobe" is irresponsible.
I will no longer respond to you not b/c you have told me to shut up but rather I choose to take the high road and not argue with an ignorant, uneducated fool....
PS : Jackie Johnson thinks Kwame sucks too!
Posted by: MJCMAN32 | January 22, 2008 at 11:18 AM
EX,
I guess you are right with regards to C-Webb. His ability could not match his acid tongue and expectations. I would rather have Coby Karl willing to learn than a past due star who wants a job description of his job and future fringe.
Let's gut it out with the present line up and hopefully Bynum and Ariza would be as determined and courageous when they come back in 8 weeks.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | January 22, 2008 at 11:18 AM
Thanks lakers_sth:
I am in no way superioir like Kobe Bryant on the basketball court, but when it comes to my job, i believe that I am better than most, when it comes to crunch time at work, i want to be at the forefront of the project, if this cannot be done, i want to make sure that i am assisting the person that I believe has the greatest competency outside of myself. However, if that person is not up to par at that moment, I have to fight the urge (and most times) lose to "takeover". This is not a basketball thing with Kobe, it is an "alpha" thing, Micheal has it, Kobe has it, Magic has it (believe me, magic was taking those shots down the stretch), Bill Gates has it, Politicians have it (each believes that they are the answer), I have it. If an individual does not posses the "alpha" personality, then they will never understand Kobe. I understand what he is going through, I take my situation and magnify it 10000 times infront of 20000 more people and I can have an inkling of what it takes to watch your team lose when u deeply believe that u can "take over" and get the job done. Supreme talent is a blessing and a curse oftern translated by the result in the Win/loss column for most athletes, sadly it is not so for Kobe.
IT'S A DAMN SHAME !!!!
Posted by: purplehaemoglobin | January 22, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Elle,
"That was agood win, last year when the guys began to get hurt there was a diffrent feeling around the Lakers which is not there now."
This year they were improving very noticeably as the season progressed, last season that wasn't the case.
Also, Bynum should be back to 100% this season, the team knows they will be getting back a player who was playing at an All-Star level the last month, with enough time left to get momentum back heading into the playoffs.
So all the have to do is hold on for a few weeks; they have a lot more to look forward to than last season. Throw in the fact that the core of the team is more experienced than last year, have played together for another year, and tougher mentally.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | January 22, 2008 at 11:22 AM
Wes -
That was funny! I must agree with you!
Living on the east coast, all I hear about is the Red Sox, Patriots and now Celtics...
That is why, when the Lakers win their next title it will be even sweeter!!
Plus, PJ will pass Red with the most championships!!!
Posted by: MJCMAN32 | January 22, 2008 at 11:23 AM
HAPPY 81 ANNIVERSARY, KOBE FANS!
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | January 22, 2008 at 11:24 AM
Hey last night was a gret big time win. National Tv..another chance to fold for Charles Barkley to talk crap, but they got it done. I also liked the very beginning of the game, because the Nuggets came out hot shooting with Carmelo, AI and martin all shooting very well. But the Lakers responded thanks to Fish and Lamar getting to the rack.
Today was a big win in the scope of things because it's one of those steal games that they have to win if they want to keep pace for victories. Honestly, I hope nobody gets mad if the Lakers drop to the Spurs and/or Mavs this week. I have a feeling that Phil really played to win last night's game like it was urgent. For example, he kept Kobe in the game with his 4 fouls with almost the whole second half left. I think that was purpose because he knew they HAD to win this game.
Overall great win for the team, Fisher proved out to be a real veteran by leading his team from the get-go. Odom also played very well and his swoops to the rim are always fun to watch. I think Odom really benefts from a guy like Fisher who is willing to take big shots. Fisher took a lot of low percentage shots, but he took the responsibility to take them, and that sets an example for Lamar. If Fish can do it, so can I. Kobe played amazing and if he doesnt win MVP its a travesty.
But also, Jordan Farmar is stepping up his game too. THe Lakers must have had like 45 points from the PG position. Thats a difference from last year huh? And what can you say about Turiaf? Hes awfully athletic, which I think he improved over the summer. he can really jump, because hes not that tall but can get a hand on the ball. Even Sasha hit a big shot.
I am concerend about Luke Walton because he was getting destroyed on D but it was Carmelo, so perpahs not a big deal.
Great game, great effort and did you see Kobe smiling so much? He knew that last year this was a game the Lakers would have choked, but this year's team is differet thanks to Fish
Posted by: The Lake Show | January 22, 2008 at 11:28 AM
Observations:
Kobe passed the ball so much because he was consistently being double-teamed - sometimes even when he didn't have the ball. Denver's strategy, obviously, was to stop Kobe and take a chance on his teammates not being able to step up. Wrong decision.
Most of our recent lop-sided victories have come about because of Fisher. He has put up some amazing 1st quarter stats recently, one exception was the Phoenix game. I can't help but worry about what happens if he cools off.
Mbenga does not look like a serious backup center candidate. Maybe as a 3rd option, but not as the second center. He has some talent, but who knows how long will it will take to make a serious contribution. Right now, he looks good for maybe 5-10 minutes a game. I really felt that we needed someone with more experience.
Roger
Posted by: Roger B | January 22, 2008 at 11:30 AM
Turiaf
Odom
Kobe
Fish
Farmar
I sure hope this is the lineup Phil goes with in the 4th quarter till the calvary arrives. If Phil goes with this group which seems to bring a lot of energy to the floor there is no reason why they can't at least get 1 on this Texas 2 Step.
Posted by: BD | January 22, 2008 at 11:31 AM
By the way, Lamar Odom still cannot hit a a jumper from the 15-17 foot range with any consistency.
Just something to think about. Please practice the J, Lamar.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | January 22, 2008 at 11:32 AM
Of course I didn't go to the game.
I have cable to watch games.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | January 22, 2008 at 11:35 AM
Edwin -
HAAAAAAAAA!!! "not to disappoint his fan on the blog" Nice!
Posted by: MJCMAN32 | January 22, 2008 at 11:35 AM