Kung Pau!
Non-sensical title, I know. But forgive me for feeling a little giddy and carefree, because I think the Lakers just did themselves quite right in this Gasol-for-Kwame/The Critter/two first rounders/Marc Gasol/Aaron McKie in name only swap. (By the way, how random is the "Marc for Pau" element? Is there something to this? Do irreconcilable differences exist between the brothers? Is Juan Carlos Navarro buddies with the entire Sly and the Family Gasol, so GM Chris Wallace is hoping that lil' bro can keep the Spanish guard happy, similar to how they brought the dude in specifically to make Pau happy?)
In my opinion, this is a great trade for the Lakers, considerably better than the play for Jason Kidd many fans clamored for. Great a player as Kidd is, the D.Fish and Farmar combo is doing a more than adequate job, making that theoretical swap totally unnecessary. Not to mention impractical, considering the Lakers are already down bigs (Andrew Bynum, Chris Mihm) and forwards (Luke Walton, Trevor Ariza), with Vlad Rad hardly 100% (or playing particularly well). To trade Lamar Odom and Kwame for Kidd does more to make the Lakers even thinner up front than actually address a legit need, even if adding a theoretical Jason Collins (who, ironically, is heading to NJ for the perennially disappointing Stromille Swift, ending a local "Worst #2 pick ever" competition). This deal, however, makes perfect sense. The Lakers pick up some seriously needed size to pick up the slack in Bynum's absence. And some highly skilled size, I might add.
For the time being, Gasol will be the Lakers starting center until Drew returns (which may be later rather than sooner, according to Ric Bucher). Yeah, he's not a huge defensive presence, but frankly, the defense has kinda sucked since Bynum has been out, so to some degree, what difference does it make? They were bound to suffer along these lines no matter who was in, so you might as well go with the better player (and I don't think it's going out on a limb to declare Pau a mite better than Kwame). Gasol can at least provide some inside scoring, a commodity desperately missed since (ironically enough) Andrew got hurt playing against Memphis at Staples on Dec. 15. Fisher told me after the Cavs loss how lacking a traditional big has thrown the offense out of whack, a matter Gasol can hopefully alleviate. He's also an upgrade over Kwame in the rebounding and passing departments, the latter making me think he'll do well in the triangle. The Spaniard on board also allows Lamar Odom to once again operate as a #3/do-it-all guy, decidedly more his comfort zone. I realize that might strike some fans as a frustrating cop out, but putting aside any "bigger and better" dreams and just dealing with reality, as we saw once Drew broke out, you can do considerably worse than LO as a third banana.
Once Bynum returns, he and Gasol become quite possibly the NBA's best frontline, at least on paper. Any shortcomings guarding the paint on Gasol's part are well covered by Drew's improved ability as a rim protector. You have a classic back-to-the-basket center and a power forward who can work down low or hit a jumper. Both require a ton of attention. Both see the floor well and can move the ball out of the post, meaning wide open jumpers from outside. And say whatever you want about LO's shortcomings as an aggressive scorer, but the dude (now playing SF) clearly has skills hitting the glass. When you're now looking at a situation where he could become the team's third best rebounder, it's safe to say loose balls could land often in Laker paws. The trio combines with Kobe (very big by shooting guard standards) to create one hell of a tall lineup. And in a perfect world with everyone healthy, Jordan Farmar, Sasha "Starting to make a believer of the K Brothers" Vujacic, Luke Walton (now in a bench role where he's better suited), Trevor Ariza, Vlad Rad (should he ever start hitting shots again), Ronny Turiaf and Chris Mihm (should he ever regain semi-form) represent some legit depth, size and versatility off the bench. If everything rounds out to form, the Lakers have a roster that could make a nice playoff run.
Any downside? I guess, but not much. Yeah, Gasol's long contract (through 2011) is expensive and he's had injuries, so it could be a long, bumpy ride if things go sour. But there are risks with any trade and the Lakers will be in cap hell for a couple seasons, anyway. If you're gonna go full speed ahead with little flexibility, it might as well be with a young, All-Star caliber PF in the fold. And yeah, Javaris Crittenton could end up a very good player. I happen to think he will. His brief court stints revealed flashes of great athletic ability and skills, plus he's a bright kid with a solid attitude. But as they say, you gotta give to get. And unless the Lakers planned on eventually playing Kobe at the 3 with a Farmar/Critter backcourt, they'd be deciding between the two at some point, anyway. I think they made the right one for now. Could the Critter end up the better player? Sure. But there's no question that Farmar is light years ahead when it comes helping right this second, and the Lakers are playing for the "right this second." If come 2012, they wouldn't mind having Javaris back but have a 15th banner to show for his absence, any retroactive pining is more than worth it.
As for Kwame, on a personal level, I'll miss the guy. He's one of the nicer dudes in the NBA, much less (formerly) on the Laker roster. Very good sense of humor, too. And to some degree, his play went occasionally under-appreciated, in terms of people not always recognizing the importance of his one-on-one post D. But to a considerably larger degree, Kwame was mostly disappointing (or exactly what you expected, depending on your cynicism). In three seasons, he may have improved a bit, but considering this is the level reached, that's not saying much. His offense remained completely unreliable (I doubt I'll ever see another 6'11" cat with less ability to make a layup), his rebounding remained ridiculously spotty, his hands remained stone-like and his feel for the game remained in neutral. Most importantly, Kwame's desire to reach greater heights remained seemingly non-existent. BK and I have always suspected Kwame's awful experience in Washington's spotlight created a desire to blend in before standing out. Maybe that's the case, maybe not. But whether seeking a low profile, blessed with more inherent athletic ability than internal motor or simply not as talented as predicted, Kwame was given a lot of opportunity in L.A. and didn't make it happen. I wish him well, because like I said, he's a very good dude. But to be honest, I'm expecting Kwame to enjoy more barbecue than increased success in Graceland.
Finally, Mom's thoughts on the deal. BK called our Laker lovin' mama and told her the news. Her reaction? She doesn't know who Pau is, but when informed Kwame was being moved, she responded with a matter of fact, "that makes sense." Gotta love Mom's ability to sum things up.
AK
To whomever proposed Artest to L.A., I think it might be lead to lots of talent but Artest may not want to be a #3 option or #4 option. He's too good.
I think the Gasol trade could be the first trade domino league wide!
Josh Smith
Artest;
Jermaine O'Neal
Deng;
Ben Gordon;
Devin Harris;
Shawn Marion;
Iguodala;
Okufor.
Posted by: | February 01, 2008 at 05:41 PM
i can't wait til bynum and ariza to come back.
we might win it all this season.
Posted by: khang | February 01, 2008 at 05:43 PM
jusdeuxit: I did not see your post until after I posted mine. Great minds think alike. You are spot on about Shaq! Lakers with Kobe, Gasol, Farmar and Lamar vs. a broken down Shaq and who knows what else. God must be a Lakers fan!
Posted by: 15cmngsoon | February 01, 2008 at 05:49 PM
This is great news...
the Lakers are preparing for a championship run next season...and 3-4 years in a row...
This is really really good...
Posted by: dice8up | February 01, 2008 at 05:50 PM
Man, kobe's shooting percentage is outrageous... 17-24 with only 1 turnover...
Talking about redemption... and absolute giddiness about PAU?
Posted by: dice8up | February 01, 2008 at 06:01 PM
I am sad to see JC go. He has a high upside. We have a very young team. Lots of upside. We don't need to be spending money on low draft picks. Pau is a perfect fit for the triangle: great passer, unselfish, good 15 -footer. Doesn't hurt that he is a good shot blocker and rebounder. His 1-1 defense isn't up to that of KB, but he is a terrific team defender (like Ervin was). He is also known to be a great teammate and community member. He will give those white girls someone besides Luke over whom to drool.
Mitch played with grit and brains, but his body failed him. He is well suited for his current job. Jerry West isn't dumb you know.
My cheeks are cramping up from grinning so long.
Posted by: Doug Kezar | February 01, 2008 at 06:13 PM
Wow.
I dig the trade. As well as they've played (even in losses they've been competitive), Gasol adds rebounds and defense up front to replace Bynum's production. With a lineup of:
Fisher
Bryant
Walton
Gasol
Bynum
with . . .
Farmar
Vujacic
Radmanovic
Ariza
Turiaf
Mihm (If he can give'em Mark Bryant-esque minutes, holding the fort but not necessarily a force to give Bynum a blow
They'll have one of the deepest teams in basketball. But I still think that to be San Antone, you'll have to BEAT San Antone, and the Spurs have proven their ability to beat more talented teams. Don't discount the Suns or Mavs either, and a team like the Hornets could give'em a go.
Gasol might be their ticket out of first-round purgatory, but there's much to be determined thereater.
Nice move. Isn't it amazing how much smarter Mitch Kupchak has gotten in just 6 short months? LOL!!!!!
Posted by: Peace | February 01, 2008 at 06:13 PM
WHAT A GREAT DEAL..... THE REACTION OF THE FANS AROUND THE WORLD IS VERY VERY GOOD.... WONDERFUL NEWS TO START THE DAY... EVERYONE IS EXCITED.... GO LAKERS..... GO KOBE... YOU GET WHAT YOU WANT, NOW LET THE NBA TEAMS OBEY....
Posted by: | February 01, 2008 at 06:25 PM
now bring it on celts .... :)
Posted by: Farmteam | February 01, 2008 at 06:25 PM
This Laker team reminds me a lot of the 2004 Pistons. That team came out of nowhere to win the championship. They acquired Rasheed Wallace in the middle of the season for peanuts and got Joe Dumars executive of the year and another ring. Good job Mitch. I hope it ends the same way for these Lakers. This time, we'll be dishing it out instead of receiving the beatdown.
Posted by: impakt | February 01, 2008 at 06:35 PM
I am very happy we got GASOL ......and didnt give up any starter ....for the change
Posted by: Farmteam | February 01, 2008 at 06:35 PM
Peace,
Do you know something the rest of us don't?
You didn't include Odom on either of your lineups.
Posted by: Eric M | February 01, 2008 at 06:37 PM
Alright lets first say thank you to Kobe Bryant. For everyone who said they were sick of hearing him cry about no help you can go pound sand. The man is the greatest player to walk the court and he is in his prime. He knows it, Mitch knows it and Dr. Buss knows it, so for us to hang around and rely on young talent makes no sense. So Kobe complains and he makes Andrew work harder and the guy breaks out to be the next best big man. He inspires Farmar to go take some zen basketball and come back an extremely incredible point guard. Kobe's complaining then lights a fire under Buss and Kupchak. And I must hand it to Mitch and Buss for being patient and waiting for the right deal. Trading Bynum would've been foolish. But now were approaching the second half of the season and life as a Laker fan couldn't be better. So thank you Kobe for speaking your mind, now like you said lets walk the walk and go get that championship!!!!!
and P.S. Los Angeles should throw a parade now for Kwame leaving. He may be a nice guy but im pretty sure Bynum in a wheel chair could do a better job.
Posted by: Greg Bono | February 01, 2008 at 06:42 PM
LAKERS CAN WIN THE WEST....
EAST, PISTONS OR CELTICS.....
SHOWTIME II
LAKERS ALL THE WAY
Posted by: | February 01, 2008 at 06:46 PM
Quote of the courtesy of Legendary on Club Lakers:
Mitch is waving the sh*t out of that Magic Wand.
Posted by: 15cmngsoon | February 01, 2008 at 06:54 PM
Quote of the year courtesy of Legendary on Club Lakers:
"Mitch is waving the sh*t out of that Magic Wand."
Posted by: 15cmngsoon | February 01, 2008 at 06:55 PM
mitch if u trade odom and walton for anyone u will get EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR FOR SURE U STILL HAVE WORK TO DO
Posted by: al | February 01, 2008 at 06:58 PM
guys lets not forget that this will boost lakers jersey sales in spain / europe
Posted by: zzidane | February 01, 2008 at 07:02 PM
anyone can confirm how this trade and laker's salary cap situation will affect our chances to renew bynum and farmar contracts?
this is the only downside i'm afraid of...although mitch could trade odom for high draft pick later on to save some salary cap space....
anyone knows the details?
thanks
Posted by: 1331 | February 01, 2008 at 07:04 PM
Well, as an ex-LA resident, I would like to congratulate the entire Laker nation for what is an incredible day. The Lakers now have the most dynamic starting 5 in the whole league, at least on paper. Now it's mesh time......LET'S GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: Dallasguy | February 01, 2008 at 07:11 PM
1331-
It has no effect at all, aside from luxury tax implications. Both Farmar and Bynum will be able to be resigned via Bird rights, which means the Lakers can go over the cap to keep them. The question becomes the luxury tax, which kicks in at a higher level and can be prohibitive for ownership, but I have to figure they did the math on all this, and were prepared to go there.
There's no way Bynum is going anywhere, and Farmar should be around for a while, too. I'd also anticipate them resigning Sasha and Ronny for sure, and perhaps Ariza as well. Like Walton last summer, they really have no ability now to go after FAs beyond the MLE and VE, which given the payroll they might be less likely to use.
We'll see. Either way, they have a very good nucleus set for the next couple seasons.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | February 01, 2008 at 07:13 PM
jusdeuxit,
You're logic is exactly the reason most experts do not evaluate superstar trades for as many as 5 years after they are made because of how long it takes for all the pieces involved to move around.
Getting two all-start caliber bigs for Shaq is a coup! Remember, it was our horrible season after trading shaq that gave us a lottery pick in the first place. That pick is Bynum (if my memory servers me right -- you all know how my memory is...). Then, we picked up Butler (who really isn't being paid enough to have led to Gasol anyway) which gave us Brown whose bloated contract makes Gasol possible.
I see the Logic. Shaq for LO, Bynum and Gasol. In only three years, instead of the decade (or more) all the "doom-and-gloom" fans were predicting at the time.
Plus, our core of young guys gives us a legitimate shot at up to 5 more rings. Shaq, as we all know, only had one left in him.
So, I guess we have to be nice to Mitch, now.
I'm down with that.
--FearlessWhackJob
Posted by: FearlessWhackJob | February 01, 2008 at 07:20 PM
i advocated acquiring Gasol over the desperate Summer on this blog because i thought he'd be a terrific fit in the triangle skill-wise. i'm really glad and surprised that we actually got him! not having to give up Odom [or what was at the time a still raw pre-season project in Bynum] to do it is just fantastic. losing the promising Crittenton sucks but that's how it goes and Marc could still be a contributor. but losing Brown is probably sad only for the locker room atmosphere but they won't miss the frustration of having to actually play in games with him [lord have mercy]. i'm pumped and exited and looking forward to winning again and seeing Pau in Laker colors giving the team an entirely different dimension and depth of ability. god, i hope Bynum doesn't have a serious set back...
this could be a VERY scary Lakers team for the entire rest of the NBA! i hope we start running people over again!
Welcome to LA, Pau!!
GO freakin' LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: leelo | February 01, 2008 at 07:29 PM
Great trade. Of course, now we have to trade walton and mihm for a 1st round. Need a 1st round and cap space.
Posted by: chosen1 | February 01, 2008 at 07:34 PM
This shows that Jerry Buss is the best owner in sports, just look at the Suns. they are so afraid to pay the luxury tax, they would rather take step back than compete. Jerry sees a team that can compete flounder because of a key injury, and does what he has to do to get back on track. Damn the luxury tax.
Posted by: Oscar | February 01, 2008 at 07:35 PM
>I'm just going to throw this out there.
>
>That Shaq trade was genius. It just took a while to kick in. Just think of it >this way:
>
>shaq for odom, caron, and dirt.
>caron for kwame
>kwame for gasol
>
>then, take out all of the stuff in the middle and you get:
>old broken down shaq for odom and gasol.
>
>see. genius. i'm just sayin'
I've always been saying that the Shaq trade wasn't bad at all. The mistake was when they traded Carone for Kwame. Shaq for Odom and Caron was a great, great trade.
Posted by: Dion | February 01, 2008 at 07:50 PM
This was a great trade, but I'd like to see Mitch take one more step.
I agree in trying to trade for Artest. We're overloaded at the 3 now. When Drew comes back, Gasol will play the 4, which will move Lamar to the 3. That means Lamar, Ariza, Luke, and VladRad will battle for minutes at the 3.
I'd like to see Mitch trade Lamar & Luke for Artest & Brad Miller.
This will give us starting lineup of: Fish, Kobe, Artest, Gasol, and Drew
with a bench of: Farmar, Sasha, Ariza, Turiaf, Brad Miller, Vlad Rad,
I know some of you might think that the Maloofs won't do anything to make the Lakers better. But in the long run, this will be in the Kings interest. Artest already said he won't be back after this season. And Brad Miller's contract is holding the Kings back. They would want to trade Miller's contract as well as getting something for Artest.
If I were the Maloofs, I'd make this deal.
For the Lakers, let's break the bank and go for the title NOW!!!!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Freddy | February 01, 2008 at 07:50 PM
The reactions are coming in from all over.
From Springfield, ^&%^**$$, USA
"Oh Yeah!"
- Duffman
PHX biggest fan. "Doh!"
- Homer Simpson
"Ex-cel-lant"
- Monty Burns
"Whaaat"
- Moe Sislek
"Hubba Hubba"
- Gladys Skinner
"Best trade ever!"
- Comic Book Guy
To the PHX Suns - "Suck, suck"
- Maggie Simpson
"Hi-diddle-le-o, neighbors. Its Title-liscious."
- Ned Flanders
To the Spurs - "Ah, Ha"
- Nelson
And to Boston's GM Danny Ainge - "Eat my shorts"
- Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak
Your Los Angeles Lakers - "Marching to the Title, one game at a time."
Posted by: AN 1 | February 01, 2008 at 07:52 PM
Lakers s/d be willing to pay luxury tax. Lakers are the most valuable franchise in the NBA according to Forbes magazine and that is no surprise. There is still a lot of unlocked financial value in the Lakers bec. Buss is not really a global business man. He's basically a local real estate player. See what Manchester United did to globalize their sports franchise and become more valuable than any American sports team. Kupchak has an MBA from UCLA. With Pau, Lakers now have an even bigger European fan base. If used wisely to generate additional revenue, this could more than pay for any luxury tax implications.
Posted by: LakerinBC | February 01, 2008 at 08:06 PM
This deal is good for Memphis because its basically a salary dump and they get Kwame's expiring contract, Crittenton's rookie contract on its first year, 2 first round picks, McKie's expiring contract, and Marc Gasol's rights. This makes them players in free agency and they have more cards in the trade game.
We Laker fans don't have to act so greedy, we just stole Gasol, we don't need Artest, we don't need to trade Odom or Walton. Lets be patient and see how this team gels.
Posted by: Oscar | February 01, 2008 at 08:36 PM
we quietly beat bulls on Gasol race...he is definitely our missing piece to compete for the title...
welcome aboard el matador
Posted by: Farmteam | February 01, 2008 at 08:45 PM
im waiting to see how Gasol's defense works out. I would also say with a lean guy like Gasol onboard that the Lakers should probably retain Mbenga past the current 10-day contract. Kwame was the only guy they had that could neutralize the muscle centers. Its amazing how much people took Kwame's interior defense for granted, even as he was playing injured. That being said,,let's hope Kwame passes the physical...
Posted by: jeffgrotke | February 01, 2008 at 08:57 PM
That is one Crit too many for just Gasol and 2nd round pick. It may look good now but we have seen what happens to Fish when he gets tired and Farmar will not be as good imo as Crit will be. Just just got thin at the point guard position after we had good depth after so many years of finding a good set of pgs. I think we will suffer at the point.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | February 01, 2008 at 04:53 PM
You have to be joking dude,sure you are not related to a certain mike t.
Posted by: White mamba24 | February 01, 2008 at 05:30 PM
No not joking and I am definitely not related to Mike T. I loved the exit for Kwame but hate the exit of Crit with the addition of the other picks and right to Marc Gasol.
When Fish gets tired he misses shots badly and is not as effective on drives. Heck we saw some of that in tonights game.
Maybe you may like the return of Smush or Atkins et al type players, but I don't. Maybe you are Mike T. sure use the same logic as him.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | February 01, 2008 at 09:07 PM
Thanks, Mitch! Lakers vs. Celtics in the Finals! Can't wait.
Posted by: back to the future | February 01, 2008 at 09:23 PM
Thanks, Mitch! Lakers vs. Celtics in the Finals! Can't wait.
Posted by: back to the future | February 01, 2008 at 09:26 PM
JustaLakerFan you are not an ASTUTE lake fan! What makes you think Memphis would TAKE Walton and Vlade!? I don't get all this love for Javaris? A guy who is a rookie not playing most of the games so far! If he is that damn good, how come he was NOT a Lottery Pick? Remember Farmar is no older than Javaris and has a year of pro experience. Frankly, I was not sure why Lakers picked him anyway? I thought they didn't give Farmar enough time to see what he can do. Javaris is fast but so is Devin Harris with the Mavericks and Dallas, after 4 years, is still not sure if he is their long term PG answer! So I say trade the young, EXTRA PG you have for a YOUNG (27) ALL Star PF where you have a hole to fill!
Posted by: Ken | February 01, 2008 at 05:31 PM
I was a Lakers fan probably long before you were even a gleam in your daddy's eye. I have watched the Lakers play since I was a young kid and I will not give you my age I will date myself and tell you I saw the game on TV when Jerry West (Zeke from Cabin Creek) make that 63 foot shot in the playoffs. Where were you?
We traded a small for a big and we did the opposite before and remember the results. Oh if you forgot we traded Vlade Divac for Kobe Bryant. Don't know if JC will ever be KB level but his future was all uphill.
As for his defense he stayed in front of his man when Farmar got beat and the Devin Harris etc did not have his creativity. So don't say I am not an astude Laker fan because I am not in love with this trade as you are. I simply say we gave too much up.
As for JC not playing many games this year that is one of PJs short commings. He did the same to Bynum and made his development slower. Bynum needed minutes and so did JC. They let Farmar play his rookie season and start at the end. JC did not get that pt to get the jitters and rookie experience out of his system. Also he was played out of his position.
I don't know that they would have taken Luke or Vlade but you don't know either if they were offered unless you have some hot line to the FO.
You may disagree with my opinion, but don't ever state I am not an astute Laker fan.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | February 01, 2008 at 09:31 PM
JustaLakerFan
It was really a choice between Javaris and Kobe.
Who would you rather have? The No. 1 superstar of today, or a maybe star of the future.
Memphis wanted JC in the deal. LA needed Pau to surround Kobe with enough talent to win championships for the next 5 years.
Crit may indeed be a star 5 years from now but hey, I wouldn't be surprised if Mitch figures out a way to get him back if that were to become the case.
Posted by: LakerinBC | February 01, 2008 at 09:34 PM
bouya!!!
go lakers!!!
I'll be smiling in my sleep tonight till june
Posted by: berthe | February 01, 2008 at 09:43 PM
NOW TO COMPLETE THE PUZZLE, TRADE FOR RON ARTEST. THAT WILL BE THE DOPEST LAKERS TEAM ASSEMBLE
Posted by: scott | February 01, 2008 at 09:55 PM
hey that means there's another space in the roster.
Posted by: | February 01, 2008 at 10:11 PM
This is the best move the Lakers could make. Better than getting Kidd. I for the life of me I cant understand people's obsession with trading for Kidd. Yeah he's a triple double machine but he also shoots like 35% from the field which is awful for a PG. In all the years he's been in the league he cant work on his J ? He's turned into a malcontent who's only got a few years left at best.
Gasol is perfect for us. He can now play in his comfort zone which is like 15 feet out and facing the basket. His outside shooting gives the triangle great balance and when the man defending Pau follows him out on the perimeter that leaves Bynum in more one on one situations in the paint. Just a great, great trade for the Lakers.
The Lakers were one player away from another title and now they have that player. All there's left to do is win. Mitch has done is job upstairs and now its time for the players and coaches to do their jobs.
Posted by: LakerKev | February 01, 2008 at 10:35 PM
This lineup is better than the Shaq and Kobe team. Not because of the talent, but because there will be a lot less bickering and less drama. If Kobe wins another championship with the Lakers, he will go down as the best player ever. There has never been a player to win a title with a team then have the same team revamp and win the title again.
Posted by: j harp | February 01, 2008 at 10:38 PM
Triangle or no Triangle.........Gasol is for real. very good trade.
Posted by: Dion | February 01, 2008 at 11:24 PM
JUSTA LAKERFAN,,,,,,R U EFFING CRAZY DUDE???? let me just tell ya,,,,your not a laker fan,,,,we gave up too much,,,what r u smoking,,,don't share it with any other lakers fans,,lol,,,,, we gave up maybe's, could be's , and kwame,,,for a proven commodity,,, javaris,,, effing javaris,,, i'm guessing you should probably take your phsyc-meds,,, because your brain is not functioning properly right now,,, i don't care how long you've been a laker fan,,, your just not being real bro !!!!! I say again,,, go lakerlifers!!! besides,,,,i've been a laker fan even when Sedale threatt was our number 1 option so how can i be anything but superstoked as a laker fan,,, I don't care if we traded lamar odom's mamma ,,,,this is a great trade!!!! go mitchy slick,,,,GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: lkrsrunningwild | February 02, 2008 at 12:17 AM
The Lakers aren't done trading. My gut feeling says LO gets moved over the summer to avoid the huge luxury tax hit. Another trade now would mess up the chemistry too much, but I'm betting LO and Walton will be swapped next summer for a veteran looking for a ring. We'll need $ to re-sign sign Turiaf, Ariza and maybe even Sasha. And we'll definitely need $ the following summer to re-sign Bynum.
On a related note, how old is Karl Malone now? Think he can still play a little?
Posted by: five_hole | February 02, 2008 at 12:46 AM
great trade.
no need to trade lamar though. I think that would mess up the teams chemistry way too much in just one season.
Posted by: bill | February 02, 2008 at 01:23 AM
As for Gasol adjusting to the triangle, the Lakers seem to be using their 7 seconds of freedom more....so if they are going to go into a triangle set, that will give him at least 7 seconds to think about what to do and where to do it, and we all know, that if he forgets, there will be alot of help, from Mamba...
I took a look at a phoenix blog and some guy said:
"But it's looking more like the Suns are going to do nothing for this year. (I would have gladly traded Banks, Marks, Pike, Tucker, our trade exception and draft picks for Gasol, which is little worse than LA's offer)"
I would say that that package is way worse than what the Lakes gave up, I think that even Aaron McKie is better now than any of those guys....we gave up alot, but it was worth it. and will be for many years fo parades.
Posted by: tinman | February 02, 2008 at 01:53 AM
Thank you Mitch, for dumping Kwame, if not for anything else! That one alone would make me enjoy Lakers games much more, sparing me the agonies of watching Kawme fumbling the ball.....
Go Lakers! Here comes the championship, at last!
Posted by: henry | February 02, 2008 at 01:56 AM
I would love Artest too. If the Kings are interested in trading him (and they sound pretty damn interested), I'd think they might be interested in trading him for Odom.
I think the Kings need to include a little more to match salaries so we might have to pick up some other player too.
Artest only makes 7.6M! We could pick up someone else's contract they don't like, then waive the person in a worst case scenario. Lamar makes what, like 14M? And salaries have to be within 25%?
Posted by: Benjamin | February 02, 2008 at 03:50 AM
First time posting, long time reader...
Ive watched Kobe come into the league and want to be the best, finally he got what he always wanted... With andrew probably even more.
This is his time, those three championships in the beginning were just the start, he will leave this game with a mark, just like he came in. Andrew is lucky he's getting the mature, more controlled kobe because he will benefit from his knowledge of the game and his ability to focus under pressure> Their limit together is unlimited, and if Pau clicks in the rhythm of things the lakers organization is heading towards a bright future.
Mitch Kupchak deserves every credit that can be given to him, some of it for the moves he carried through, but even more for the ones he didnt... He stayed very calm under a lot of pressure, some warranted but some unjustified, and came out with the right decision almost every time... Counting out the Radmanovic experiment (which is is still yet to be decided) he was right in the last 2-3 years very consistently. Im looking forward to this season, but even more to next because with an offseason together under their belt, and anothe year of Farmar improving like has so wonderfully, the lakers could be in for a wild ride...
Good luck to all the long believeing lakers Fans, who never lost hope, its getting to be so sweet
eatay82 from israel
Posted by: eatay82 | February 02, 2008 at 05:36 AM