Here comes the Sun(s)
I was going to start this news/opinion post by saying that perhaps the least important thing about tonight's game at Staples against the Suns (7:30 pm, TNT) will be the final score. That, of course, is ridiculous. The point of the game is to win, so obviously it matters, especially given the potential importance of the game down the line in terms of clinching a head-to-head tiebreaker (should that sort of thing come in handy around playoff time). But notwithstanding my suppressed flair for melodrama, the larger point I was planning to make still holds: Tonight provides great opportunity for the Lakers to show the rest of the league- and themselves- that they're capable of performing at that top o' the conference level we've all come to know and love without Andrew Bynum. It's pretty clear at this point how I think they need to play to get 'er done, so that Kobe was talking Wednesday about finding that early '06 rhythm, where Kobe was a force but his team contributed, too, was certainly encouraging. Bryant correctly acknowledges it could take a few games to get there, but that those games are on the brain is a great sign for a team confident in its skills thanks to a 17-3 run over their last 20 games.
But back to the winning/not winning thing: If the Lakers play a strong, confident, (at least reasonably) well played game and lose- yes, it's a possibility, especially given how annoyed the Suns must be after losing to the Clips on Tuesday- they'll still make their point (at least to me). Ironically, if they lean on Kobe to take another 44 shots, even if 24 comes through and buries 26 of them en route to a win, larger questions will linger (at least for me). And of course, it's all about proving things to me, right?
It's still just one game, part of a larger process, so fans (and media) shouldn't freak out no matter what happens, but as far as either fueling a little more paranoia or starting to ease some minds, this game could go a long way towards doing both. Should be fun!
BK
The Suns, after frustrating playoff results over the last couple seasons, seem to have a new attitude about the regular season, trying to find that balance between worry, motivation, and cruising. For Bynum, after hurting his knee Sunday night there was some worry, and now he's got plenty of motivation to rehab and get well (no cruising, dude). For those among us without an M.D., Gary Vitti broke down Bynum's injury after practice on Wednesday, explaining both what happened and how he can heal. Beats any episode of "House."
On the personnel side, the Chris Webber rumors aren't going away, perhaps reaching "when" as opposed to "if" status. Exacerbating the need for another player is the news that Vlad Radmanovic, whom the Lakers had hoped would start practicing this week, will be on the shelf for at least another couple weeks.
Good Morning Bloggers and K Bros!!!
Posted by: Charles | January 17, 2008 at 08:46 AM
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(JANUARY 17, 2008) - A DAY TO LIVE IN INFAMY – LAKERS EXTINGUISH THE SUN
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TODAY IS - NO BASHING UNLESS IT’S THE SUNS DAY!!
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The Force is still. There is a hush in Laker land as all await a meeting of the Ttitans.
The Blog begins to sizzle in anticipation. Just remember To win the title you have to knock
the champ out. You aint going to win no decisions. Tonight the Lakers must not just beat the
Suns, but destroy them ruthlessly thoroughly and completely. The entire NBA will be watching
this game tonight and the Lakers must send a message that there is a new Sheriff in town that
goes by the name of the Freakin LA Lakers. Hide the woman and children and take no prisoners.
THE LAKERS ARE BACK JACK!
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THE LAKERS DESTINY BALLAD
The time has come, the day is here
Get ready fellow bloggers and have no fear
We have prayed long, We have prayed hard
Tonight your prayers will bring a passing of the guard
Tonight you will see an event to delight and stun
The Freakin LA Lakers will extinguish the Sun
History comes full circle and the Lakers get their due
When you finish reading you will know this is true
There was a Bulls Team people said had no chance in 91
They said the team was to inexperienced and much to young.
So just what did this young inexperienced team do.
They beat a great Laker team for the title and the coach was you know who
They were coached by 9Rings, Yes our 9Rings you see
Back then 9Rings was NoRings, That’s right the Lakers started his dynasty
Now 9Rings once again leads another inexperienced Band
Led by a superstar who is compared to who, Mr. Michael Jordan
Do you see all the coincidences well I’ll make it plain to see
To decipher the Lakers future just consider the number 3.
9Rings won 3 titles with the BULLs, then won 3 titleswith them again
And what did he do with the Lakers, he won 3 titles my friend
A couple more 3 ‘s I will add to the plate
9ring won 3 3Peats this is more than just fate
In the playoffs from the Suns the Lakers won 3 games in a row
If they win tonight it will be 3 in a row once more
And finally let me give this odd little fact
It just happens to be year 3 of 9Rings contract.
I say all of this in a spirit of fun
So you see it is destined that we destroy the Suns
So if it is cloudy be happy and have fun
For it will mean that the Lakers have extinguished the Suns
And with that I must go and buy 3 bottles of Ale
To toast my Freakin Lakers as they give the Suns Hell
All right Laker fans tonight I want you to yell so hard that that you wake
The dead and they salute your Team. I want nothing but POSITIVE posts in
support of a great team and arguably THE GREATEST BBALL PLAYER
AND GREATEST COACH OF ALL TIME. Keifo I’ve put the house, the car
The dog it’s all on the line for the game tonight. Tomorrow I will either be
Rich and happy or broke and sad. But win or lose there is one thing that
I will always be and whats that you ask? That is a FREAKIN LA LAKERS FAN.
LETS GET READY TO RUMBLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLE
ROLL CALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL
(1) FAITH, MIKE T. TALIQ, Edwin Gueco ,, KEIFO, WOLF, Q WUOR, CLEON, EASTCOASTJESSIE,
MAMBA24Fan4Life, Fan of MAMBA, WhiteMAMBA24, BlackMAMBA24, AFRO_JOE, LAKERTRUTH,
Kiwi, Wow, Peace, JCooL, David Whang, AdamKiley, LakersryDeordie, ANGRYLAKER, TSIRY, ELLE
TIM-4-SHOW, THA_ SHOW, TheLakeShow, WESJOENIXON, BAYWOOD, The_D, SBPIMP, DAXMDD
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER, CaliKing, Rick Friedman,Thirty2, EXHELODRVR, ) JANAYA,CBUCK
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
Gunner24, GINO, FATTY, LAKERGURL, CRITICAL BEATDOWN, LEELO, 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, Caeser, Obel, 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, Chris H. Lincoln Laker, Reggie
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
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I KNOW WHO I AM BUT WHO ARE WE ?
You do know it’s game night? Who are we?
This is the Suns versus the Freakin LA Lakers you know?
WHO ARE WE???????
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 US
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 17, 2008 at 08:49 AM
Charles,
"Good Morning Bloggers and K Bros!!!"
Good Morning Charles. YOU MADE IT, YOU WERE THE
FIRST ONE CONGRADULATIONS! LOL!
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 17, 2008 at 08:54 AM
Trust in teammates is NOT fickle. You dont stop trusting them after they miss 3 shots in a row. If they stopped trusting Kobe after he missed 3 in a row, then Kobe would hardly be trusted at all this year. How many 33% shooting nights has Kobe given us this year already?
The point is, even if it means you lose one more game than you would have lost if Kobe didnt go off for 48, in the long run, the trust in the teammates will win you many more. If the Lakers get used to Kobe shooting 40 shots a game, then they wont know what to do when Drew gets back. Theyll all be used to watching Kobe shoot, and wont have any rhythm as the season comes to an end. Not to mention, Kobe will get used to the 50 point games, and wont want to give those up.
The sad thing is, little teenie boppers will read this and say: OH, youre such a Kobe hater. And anyone with half a brain will know that Im not a Kobe Hater at all, Im a Laker Lover.
Posted by: Adir | January 17, 2008 at 08:54 AM
Mamba - How many Red Bulls does it take to have that much energy at 8 in the morning? That is impressive.
I hope Kobe takes 50 shots and buries 45 tonight in a Lakers win, if only to hear the arguments about how the team is not being involved.
That said, they definitely can't play defense like they did in Seattle, or they will be on the wrong side of a blowout.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | January 17, 2008 at 08:55 AM
BK,
I get what you're trying to say. A good loss will be a moral victory.
Around the Horn was so irritating two days ago. They all thought that the world was flat and that the Lakers were headed toward the edge of it. Jackie MacMullin (sp?) was the only one to drop a nugget. When Bynum comes back they have a chance to make it out of the west. He's that good.
I'm peeved with Stein's chat right now. He didn't elevate the Lakers because they were 4-0 with a loss...OF BYNUM.
He said that he takes injuries into consideration. I think it should be wait and see. Who's to say the streak will end? Likely it will, but it's more likely that the Lakers will not completely fall apart.
The Lakers will find their rhythm and find it fast. They've had a taste of elite basketball and they want it back.
I am disgusted that the Hornets tore apart the team we barely beat. I'll rationalize it by saying we beat the Sonics up and they were on the road.
Posted by: mel | January 17, 2008 at 09:00 AM
hey bk, nice try on making this game seem not so important..
sorry bro, but its the freakin suns. lets stick it to them. go get em kwame! ( i believe.. i believe damnit )
Posted by: tp | January 17, 2008 at 09:05 AM
"Apparently Webber would rather play for a contender in LA than a team like the Miami HEAT who are no longer an attractive option considering their record."
Man, I can't believe it, but this is one time that I miss KLBeast and his buddies, who loved to say that no one wanted to play in L.A. because of Kobe. It wasn't Kobe, it was that L.A. wasn't a contender. There is a big difference. Back then I would say that players would want to play with Kobe if the Lakers were contenders, but that was just my observation. Now there's evidence this is true.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | January 17, 2008 at 09:08 AM
Luke...may the Triangle be with you...feed the Triangle, Luke...
PJ-Won-WithKobe
Posted by: CornerJ | January 17, 2008 at 09:11 AM
BRING BACK EDDIE JONES!!!
WOOOOOOOOOO!
I'll be riding this turbulent ship!
Wooooooo!
Bring on the Suns!!!
i predict we're going to lose today..
Posted by: never | January 17, 2008 at 09:11 AM
Nothing like a little Mamba24 in the morning to get me fired up!!!
Seriously, you should bottle that, Mamba, and sell it.. I'd be the first in line.
We really need this win tonight and I, personally, don't care how we get it. Would
I prefer a well-balanced team attack? Of course! But if we need a little Kobe-ball
to get us through the night (and the next 4 or 5 games), SO BE IT! We'll have
plenty of opportunity against the Leastern teams to play team basketball.
WE NEED THESE WINS TO PROVE A POINT!
C'mon Lakers! BEAT THEM DOWN!!!
Posted by: Bzar | January 17, 2008 at 09:13 AM
LAKERS JOB JAR - Thursday January 17, 2008
1. Beat the Suns with a decisive Win
2. All available energy in the Universe to focus on Bynum's recovery.
3. Commitment to Defense
4. Balanced Offense
4. Sign C-Webb
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | January 17, 2008 at 09:16 AM
Man, Kwame has lost a lot of confidence. Not that he was very self confident in the first place.
But he really is hurting the offense. And his timing seems to be very off on the defensive end too.
I really hope it doesn't get ugly tonight.
GO LLLLLAAAAAAAAAAKKKKKKKKEEEEERRRRRRRRRSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Outsidergua | January 17, 2008 at 09:19 AM
Webber's New Home? The Los Angeles Lakers were rocked by the knee injury to Andrew Bynum. While eight weeks sounds like a long time, the franchise is just happy the damage was not nearly as serious as it could have been.
The timeline for Bynum's recovery is padded to make sure Bynum is completely sound before returning. Don't be surprised if he's not itching to get back on the court in five weeks or so.
In Bynum's absence the Lakers appear close to signing free agent Chris Webber.
Word is that the Lakers have reached out and a source close to the situation says that Webber has responded positively. While he still is going through the motions of courtship, there's a good chance he ends up a Laker in the coming week.
Webber had a long list of teams that he was supposedly in negotiation with but the Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic have both publicly made indications that he's not a consideration. Apparently Webber would rather play for a contender in LA than a team like the Miami HEAT who are no longer an attractive option considering their record.
With word breaking that Vladimir Radmanovic may be out a couple more weeks (ankle), the Lakers certainly need the help. Webber can play either power forward or center. LA only has 14 on the roster so waiving a player is not an issue.
While the Lakers are still awaiting Webber's decision - it looks like it's just a matter of time before he joins the squad.
The Lakers have also contacted PJ Brown - who fits the defensive mindset the team has forged this season - but he's still holding out to see what the Chicago Bulls do at the deadline. Brown could end up prospering from a sign-and-trade for a lot more should the Bulls actually trigger something big. Whether they do or don't is immaterial - it's in Brown's best interest to wait before accepting the league minimum the Lakers have to offer.
Posted by: Botsoy | January 17, 2008 at 09:25 AM
Ah the Mamba24!!!!
Posted by: Charles | January 17, 2008 at 09:26 AM
I don't get it. When Vlad Rad sprained his ankle, the Lakers said it was no big deal. What's this out a month for a slightly sprained ankle? Is this the Lakers downplaying injuries again?
Posted by: zen | January 17, 2008 at 09:30 AM
Also, How can the lakers sign someone for the rest of the season when they are over the cap? Do the Lakers have to release someone? Or is there some injury exception?
Posted by: zen | January 17, 2008 at 09:31 AM
MESSAGE To MIKE T,
In the beginning of the year I said Bynum would have to sit out 20 games to see the true value of Kwame (laugh). Well, now Mike T gets his wish.
The fact is, I hope he is right because I am a Laker fan. I want the Lakers to succeed, and I just don't see it with Kwame Brown as the starting center because opposing teams are not afraid of him. In the triangle offense, a better offense is their best defense. The Lakers don't have as good an offense when Bynum is not there. I don't think Mike T and others get that.. Defense starts with good offense.
I hope Mike T is right...I want the Lakers to win.
Posted by: zen | January 17, 2008 at 09:37 AM
Lamar Odom wanted to be an allstar this year. Well guess what buddy? NOW is your chance to make your case! We need a #2, are you going to put up 20 points today and then disappear into the woodwork for the next 2 weeks or are you going to step up and become a REAL #2?
I have a question, perhaps somebody should ask Lamar this question... uh, how do you beat the Lakers? Answer: You let Kobe shoot as much as he wants which takes the other players out of the game. Pretty simple, huh? Yet... this is what happens EVERY TIME. It's like messing with a 'tard. He takes the bait EVERY TIME, meanwhile everybody else goes cold and then you are left with either A. Kobe goes on a streak and you win or B. Kobe goes cold and you lose and in both cases, none of the other Laker players develops any confidence in their game so the same thing is virtually guaranteed to happen in the next game and the game after that...
Lamar, put up some numbers or shave the star off your head.
Posted by: TaosHum | January 17, 2008 at 09:39 AM
BK "Don't shoot Kobe!"
I know what you mean and I'm all for it to start the game. But if guys start missing shots, what then? Keep pounding it to the players who miss or does Kobe start jacking up shots. I like team ball but when your team is missing, I figure Kobe's got the best chance of making those shots.
I say, Kobe, if you're making them and your teammates are constantly missing them, keep on shooting 'em. Kobe knows the world is watching for "selfish Kobe" so he'll go out of his way to involve teammates.
Terrible news on Vlad, I was hoping he'd be back soon and shore up the front and add shooting power. Any news on The Machine?
My prediction tonight, it's going to be a well balanced attack. Fisher will have a great game if he can make the shots. Beating Phoenix's game plan means going at Nash and wear him out early. Even if Fisher can't connect on his shots, still go at him hard.
Then when Marcus Banks comes in to sub for Nash, put the Suns away.
Posted by: Bynumite | January 17, 2008 at 09:42 AM
Anybody know what time the game comes on and if it's on national T.V.? I'm out in Texas, and I wanted to find out if there was a way that I could watch the game out here (instead of repeats of the Cowboys Insider).
Go Lakers!
And good morning to you too Charles!
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | January 17, 2008 at 09:45 AM
Good read to start the day BK
But didn't you mean the opposite regarding C Web when you typed -
"perhaps reaching "if" as opposed to "when" status."
Posted by: AN1 | January 17, 2008 at 09:45 AM
BK - how centric of you to espouse a team-oriented style of play in the name of proving things to you, haha. I'd have to disagree with your point though. I'm contrary that way. While I'd ordinarily go with the team thing, and acknowlede that it's brought us to where we are in the season, things change and adjustments have to be made. With Andrew, Vlad and (probably) Sasha out, we need more points. I'd be truly happy to see everyone else step up equally. If it doesn't happen however and Kobe feels the need to drop 50 on the Suns, then so be it. Right now, I don't care how we win, I just want the victory. With the standings so compacted, statistical advantages become very important.
There's an oft-mentioned analogy - of putting your foot on the opponent's throat to seal a win. I think we need to step on Phoenix's throat tonight, whatever it takes.
Dave M
Posted by: dave m | January 17, 2008 at 09:46 AM
1. As put so eloquently by Mamba24 – Let’s represent today Laker Nation!
2. Read the article about the Suns and how they are fighting having to "cruise through he regular season". Earth to the Suns – you have won NOTHING – the 02 Lakers could cruise, the 93 Bulls could cruise, the 95 Rockets could cruise. You will be going on a cruise come May/June - right out of the frickin’ playoffs.
3. Repeat after me Laker Nation:
I, state your name, do solemnly swear, that I am a self respecting Laker fanatic. I do not question how we win as long as we win. I do not propose half-baked trade scenarios unless I have researched the salary cap implications or I am half-baked. I do not listen to artificially thick hared talking heads who want to divide and conquer Laker Nation for ratings!
So help me Wilt Chamberlain.
Later ...
Posted by: HmrHed | January 17, 2008 at 09:48 AM
Show em whatcha got, Lake Squad!
Posted by: utzworld - THE BANNER HOLDER | January 17, 2008 at 09:52 AM
Kobe's got to feel like he's breathing pure oxygen after gasping for air.
Kobe, Fish, Farm heat up
Hot team wins.
GOOOO Lake Show
Posted by: Vman | January 17, 2008 at 09:54 AM
Could a Laker win tonight start a nuclear meltdown in Valley of the Sun?
Lose to the Lakers with out Bynum just might do it.
Would love to see it.
Go Lakers!
BD
Posted by: BD | January 17, 2008 at 09:56 AM
My word for D'Antoni, Nash and the rest of the Suns is "hubris". They're talking like a team that's won a couple of titles rather than the team that a lot expected to win the title but they fell short. Give me a break. Nash commenting on the newfound success of the Lakers and Hornets is ridiculous. It's clear that he thinks they've been successful when what they've really done is fail to meet expectations. Perhaps Kobe and Derek should comment on what Nash needs to think about in order to get done what really needs to during the "real season".
Posted by: lakers_sth | January 17, 2008 at 09:57 AM
Don't we have more than the veteran's minimum to offer any potential FA signings? I thought it was more like 1.8M$ or whatever was left after signing DFish.
I prefer PJ Brown to Webber.
Let's ramp up the intensity on defense. That's what will tide us through till Drew get back.
Posted by: hariyahu | January 17, 2008 at 09:59 AM
An then came the Holic..with bottle in hand..start slangin my brew at those funny suns fans..Steve Nash is a freak..his hair is a wig..Diaw looks cracked out with a Handyman wig..Amaris a punk and he plays his part...there locker room stinks..smells like breakfast farts..The Matrix is whiney he wants to be loose..to join up wit Kobe cuz we got the juice..D'antonis a crybaby..wana know how...his theme song should be BOOM CHACA WOW WOW..there team is in shambles and oh what a sin..to watch Trevor ariza posterize them again!
Posted by: Lakeraholic | January 17, 2008 at 10:03 AM
From the LA Times article:
"He had some teammates who came out shy," Jackson said. "If you really give Kobe the latitude and you're bashful about shooting the ball, he's going to take up all the rest of the shots."
I've posted this before but PJ's perspective on how to play with Kobe is that you need to be confident. If not, he can sense it and will compensate for it. It's like when one parent is too lenient, the other naturally becomes more strict to balance things out. Kobe's teammates don't need to be as talented as he is - they just need to be as ready to play and attack as he is. Case in point, during the Seattle game, Ariza had gotten a steal and was leading a fast-break. Rather than finishing (or trying to draw a foul) or passing to closest teammate, he instead waited for Kobe, who was way behind the play and passed back to him at the top of the key behind the 3 point-line. It's not like Kobe demanded the ball in that situation - he got deferred to and took the shot. That's going to happen in that situation 10 out of 10 times.
Posted by: lakers_sth | January 17, 2008 at 10:04 AM
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* CALM DOWN DOWN DON’T PANIC BANDWAGON *
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(01) AN1 – Owner & Driver
(02) MAMBA24- Riding Shotgun
(03) CHUCKY.L.OHNIO
(04) JOHN K.
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* GET WELL SOON BYNUM BANDWAGON *
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(01) ALL LAKER BLOGGERS - Owner
(02) MAMBA24- Driver
(03) KEIFO- Riding Shotgun
(04) tha Show – Security
(05) BYNUM BELIEVER – Chaplain
(06) RICK FRIEDMAN - Enforcer
(07) JEFF – Fan of the Baby BEAST
(08) CHARLES – Peace
(09) HmrHed - All Nails beware
(10) Utworld THE BANNER HOLDER
(11) XODUS –
(12) The CAT
(13) LAL_Fan
(14) Y-UR_Kidding
(13) Chucky.L.Ohnio
(14) PhxLkrFan A real true Fan
(15) JOHN K.
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* SIGN CHRIS WEBBER BANDWAGON *
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(1) THE CAT – OWNER AND DRIVER
(2) MAMBA24 – Will assist Webber with his crutches
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 17, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Oh and BK -- "when" is more likely than "if", I believe you have it the other way in your open.
Posted by: HmrHed | January 17, 2008 at 10:08 AM
Lakers will win tonight! Mamba wil unleash his venom. LO will be aggressive in scoring and rebounding. Fish will stop Nash. Kwame will suprise a lot of fans tonight.
Posted by: xtro | January 17, 2008 at 10:14 AM
Caliphilosopher,
It is 7:30 pacific standard time. Have a good one sir!
Posted by: Charles | January 17, 2008 at 10:21 AM
Kevin G.
I have a question. Why is it or have Laker nation forgot before Kwame got hurt last year We where winning and we didn't know what Bynam could do as a full time starter. Now Kwame is back and it's like Kobe thinks the team can rebound.. Why does Kobe have no confidence in Kwame? I hope Kwame has a good game against the Suns, but I do hope he does not want to come back to the Lakers. He needs to go to a city where they WANT him and his price tag, because the last time I checked, there are not many True big men and we have 2 good ones and yes Bynam has better offence then Kwame, but thats because Kwame thinks Defence 1st, the reason he can not catch the ball because he is surprised he is getting passed the ball.
Kobe is like Gilbert Arenas in DC. Ball hogs, Kobe passes to Bynam not Kwame.. Watch how Kobe does not pass when Kwame is looking but he excepts this dude with little hands to 1, Block out, that means look up at the rim and guard your man. 2, clear the lane then catch.
Bynam looks for the ball then moves he is a great offense of player and Kwame is Defense, but Kwame has always wanted to be a scorer but he's been playing behind Jordan and now Kobe..
Please let Kwame go to the Clipper or somebody we will see acouple times a year and I bet a Health Kwame will shut down Bynam.. we will be looking at Bynam having like a 10 p 8 reb nite.. thats ok but Us Laker fans we dont want OK, we want GREAT...... wow I got a feeling Kwame is not going to want to play in LA. I'm here in DC and this dude got rode his whole time here and now in LA... He is a polite man and he does not complain but he does use what he has and that is the option to Play for another team.. so let hope he want to play and not just play....
Because at the end of the day this dude will still be rich and he will get his 9 mil from us and what ever else he wants from another team...
Like it or not there are not many Bynams or Kwames in the League... and we have them both but running 1 out of town....
Go Lakers....
Posted by: Kevin G | January 17, 2008 at 10:22 AM
HmrHed,
" I, state your name, do solemnly swear, that I am a self respecting Laker fanatic.
I do not question how we win as long as we win. I do not propose half-baked trade
scenarios unless I have researched the salary cap implications or I am half-baked.
I do not listen to artificially thick hared talking heads who want to divide and conquer
Laker Nation for ratings! So help me Wilt Chamberlain."
BRAVO!!! KUDOS! EXCELLENT! HmrHed YOU ARE THE MAN. I bow low
to a master. Man your post just keep getting better and better.
LakerHolic,
"Amaris a punk and he plays his part...there locker room stinks..smells like breakfast farts..
The Matrix is whiney he wants to be loose..to join up wit Kobe "
D@mnit LakerHolic it looks like I'm going to have to start taking rhyming
lessons from you. LOL! You are in fine form my friend, fine form!
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER,
'Show em whatcha got, Lake Squad!"
I echo that BANNER HOLDER : 'Show em whatcha got, Lake Squad!"
IT WOULD APPEAR THAT LAKER NATION IS READY TO RUMBLLLLLLLE!!!!
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 17, 2008 at 10:27 AM
Here comes the Suns, so confident that they will win this time since the Post Tormentor is gone. They just brushed aside Kwame, laughed & mocked at him for he's no good Center with oily hands and crosseyed, however the Italian Emperor D'Antoni miscalculated the Spirit of Lakers, deja vu.... Game 3 of the past playoffs is revived because the assumed scrubby players will deliver their ultimate best.
The mighty emperor of Little Italy in Phoenix never exepected the energy and spirit exhibited by the remnants of Bynum's Lakers. Without the young Goliath, they'll manage their way out from those freaking threes and nasty Nash. Finally, the two time MVP is getting old while the younger Lakers PG's are now surfacing from their infancy, still rough but manageable to keep up with the Nashty tricks and consequences. (Do we need to offer these PG's in the market again? Got to be kidding to voice that as a proposal, they're acquired through blood, sweat and tears after numerous rants and insults in the blogs. We don't want to be reminded of Smush Parker and Tierre Brown!!! Javaris and Jordan or J&J are the Lakers' future and Fish will be the mentor. No trade options on these guys please!)
Will the Lakers be victorious tonite? Let's see, they will be playing in our own turf. Lakers may have been adjusting with Bynum's absence in Seattle but since he's in rehab for the next few weeks, LO, Walton and Kwame have decided to share their best games.
My parting words to them: "Not all NBA players had the opportunity of wearing Purple and Gold, (look at those jerseys at the Staple rafters Wilt, Elgin, Jerry, Magic, Kareem, James, Gail and the Minneapolis Lakers) There is history, tradition on those uniforms, be proud of being a Laker, you got to have Courage, Determination and Perseverance in changing YOURSELF and seize the moment - WIN."
I predict Lakers will win after two OTs by a squeaker from Kwame. To all fans, have faith on your team. To all visitors, respect our forum and be courteous in your posts when addressing to # 1 team of the Western Conference.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | January 17, 2008 at 10:30 AM
lakers_sth,
I think that's a very good point, and again it's been illustrated by Bynum and Fisher so far this year that Kobe goes to those who will play with confidence and aggression. When that does happen, when the other guys do exhibit that mentality, the Lakers are a much better team.
Posted by: Andrew Z | January 17, 2008 at 10:31 AM
Amazing happens,
"How many Red Bulls does it take to have that much energy at 8 in the morning? That is impressive. "
Thanks Amazing but it's not Red Bull. That's called Laker fanatacism. I love
The Lakers and love The Lakers Blog Family. I'll take that over Red Bull
anyday. LOL!
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 17, 2008 at 10:35 AM
TP,
"sorry bro, but its the freakin suns. lets stick it to them. go get em kwame! ( i believe.. i believe damnit ) "
NOW THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT!! THE SUNS ARE GOING DOWN!!!!!
Posted by: Mamba24 | January 17, 2008 at 10:38 AM
I am really looking forward to the game tonight. Can't wait. Hope we catch the Suns thinking they have an easy game without Bynum in lineup and we just don't win but bash them.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | January 17, 2008 at 10:43 AM
Kevin G,
We had a healthy more confident Brown during the 26-13 mark last year. Kwame is not 100% and is out of shape.
Posted by: zen | January 17, 2008 at 10:50 AM
Lakers are going to do it tonight!
They're going to show the whole NBA-verse that we can still play without Bynum. Our dynamics will change, but we'll learn to adapt and pull together to get the victory. If we can do that and if Bynum comes back healthy and gets a month of regular season playing before the playoffs hit, I have no doubt that we will get to the finals this year!
We're dangerous. The Lakers know what needs to be done. Tonight will make or break the team.
Y-UR_Kidding
Posted by: Y-UR_Kidding | January 17, 2008 at 10:52 AM
lakers_sth,
where did read about nash commenting on the Lakers and hornets success?
We must all pull together. I like the fact that Kobe spoke of beating the Suns in 2006. Let's do it. Fight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Charles | January 17, 2008 at 10:54 AM
In terms of tonight's game, make Nash a scorer and his teammates will become less effective b/c they're not involved and will get out of rhythm. It's been proven over and over to be effective. Don't go away from it. Offensively, I'm a little weary about the pound the ball inside philosophy, especially if Kwame doesn't get some calls. Every miss might as well be a turnover and fast-break opportunity the way PHX plays (some of Kwame's misses clang so hard off the backboard they're like outlet passes). Taking care of the ball and shooting high-percentage shots will limit that.
Posted by: lakers_sth | January 17, 2008 at 11:00 AM
I know some of you may think this is way ridiculous. But I was wondering what the deal is with the Knicks' Jerome James..Seems he has either been injured and or in Isaiah's doghouse since becoming a Knick. I do recall, however, that a few years ago when the Sonics were in the Playoffs, he faired very well. I am wondering if he'd be a good fit in our system..Constructive thoughts anyone???
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | January 17, 2008 at 11:09 AM
Mamba24,
"THE SUNS ARE GOING DOWN"
Definitely agree. By nature the Sun always sets in the West. It will never rise here in LA unless there will be a Midnight Sun or Solar Eclipse. No doubt about it, there will be no Sun tonight, of course, because it's an evening game ... LOL!
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | January 17, 2008 at 11:11 AM
tonight i will not sitdown until we ,not make the first bucket but, till we force the suns to call a time out because our benchmob just went on a 12-2 run on them
chucky .L. ohnio
Posted by: chuck .L. ohnio | January 17, 2008 at 11:11 AM
Man i think Webber and Ariza would be perfect on the court together.
Posted by: Bret | January 17, 2008 at 11:15 AM