Loss avenged
It's rare in the NBA to witness a true, wire-to-wire blowout. The sort of thing where, like in a baseball game that sees one team score 16 runs in the third, you know the thing is over before the halfway mark. Well, that's what the Lakers had tonight, in their 122-93 win over the Hawks at Staples. The game was almost disturbing in its one sidedness. LA finished the first half up 73-37, and it would have been more had Josh Childress hit a miracle three to close the half for Atlanta. The Lakers had nine steals, and forced the Hawks into 19 times in the first 24 minutes. Game, set, match.
Never has a game gone into "Taco Watch" so early. Had they sent out the phalanx of LA Times writers in the house- that's me, AK, Mike Bresnahan and Helene Elliott- to play the second half, I still think the home team would have won.
In a game like this, there isn't much to break down (it was, as the kids like to say, all good), but we'll do it anyway. Click below for more.
BK
The Good:
- Everyone who touched the floor in the first half. Kobe had 19/3, plus five steals. Lamar Odom was a monster on the glass, ripping down 12 boards to go along with 10 points. That's a first half double-double. Vlad Rad was 5-7 from the floor, good for 10 points. Pau Gasol made a good impression, finishing the first two quarters with 17 points on four FGs and nine FTs. The second unit was solid, moving the ball well, passing and cutting hard. If anything, they were guilty of trying too hard to share the ball. The carnage was as follows:
-LA out rebounds Atlanta 27-16
-LA out shoots Atlanta 54.2%- 35%.
-LA out steals Atlanta 13-4.
-LA takes better care of the ball, nine TOs vs. 19 for Atlanta.
-LA gets to the line 21 times, vs. nine for Atlanta.Meringue doesn't get whipped this bad.
- Lakers fans. The atmosphere in the building to welcome Gasol to town was fantastic. Fans were loud, enthusiastic, and involved as the Lakers built their massive lead. Then, like everyone else (including the Lakers) they got bored in the second half... until Coby Karl gave them a reason to explode into a frenzy of cheers and applause after a huge, Dwight Howard-esque dunk. Then they started chanting "Coby, Coby, Coby!" Nice touch.
- Chemistry. The Integration of Pau continues with pretty stellar results. It's really impressive to see how well he fits into the offense, and it's clear how much Kobe loves playing with him. Their two-man game is developing rapidly. Both players are smart, they both move the ball and move well without it. Meanwhile, LO, totally liberated from any need to score, has become more aggressive on that end, driving relentlessly and not settling for long distance jumpers. And he's crushing people on the boards. Had he played a full 40, LO could have finished with a 20/20 night.
- Interesting Stats: Given that the Lakers actually outscored the Hawks 25-24 in the fourth, much of it with Karl and DJ Mbenga on the floor, it'll be interesting to hit 82games.com and find out if the Lakers are, in fact, a better team with those two play extended minutes. Fire up the Lenovo machine, we've got a minutes controversy on our hands!
- Domination: Biggest lead- ATL (2), LAL (41). Lead changes- 1. Times tied- 2. That would be 2-2, and 4-4. After that it was all purple and gold.
The Bad: The Lakers were up nearly 40 points at the half, worked through 24 minutes of garbage time, and everyone left with tacos. I'm leaving this category blank.
Audio: Obviously, the mood was pretty light in the locker room after it was over. There really wasn't much to talk about, since the game was so lopsided. Interesting stuff from L.O., talking about his game since Gasol has arrived. It's clear he's far more comfortable with his new role. Ironically, liberating him from having to shoot has helped Odom become a more efficient scorer. He's attacking the hole with greater regularity, and has found the freedom to play in a way that best suits his makeup. D-Fish echoes that sentiment in answering questions about L.O.
Regarding the Phoenix game Wednesday in the desert, Fish noted that the typing types will probably put more emphasis on the result than it merits, and Kobe refused to take the Shaq bait. I know he'll downplay these big matchups, and that often he cares more than he lets on. But in this case? I think Kobe's absolutely, 100% over getting geeked up to play the Big Fella, at least any more than he would any other big star around the Association.
- Coby Karl (who played two games today, one with the D-Fenders, another with the big club, and makes a well-deserved appearance in the postgame wrap): Download coby_karl_2.19 postATL.mp3
- Lamar Odom: Download lamar_odom_2.19 postATL.mp3
- Derek Fisher: Download derek_fisher_2.19 postATL.mp3
- Kobe Bryant: Download kobe_bryant_2.19 postATL.mp3
BK
Words from Pau:
Between Pau Gasol making his debut at Staples and the interest he'd generate with the Spanish speaking media, I expected to see a few more reporters on hand tonight. But good lord, was there a crush of bodies tonight, a swarm I don't expect to see decreasing anytime soon (unless Pau gets traded in the next 48 hours). A lot of Gasol's questions were in Spanish, and considering I barely passed Spanish I in college (and was told "no mas" upon trying to enroll in Spanish II), I'm not really the ideal interpretor. My girlfriend is fluent, so whenever she gets a spare moment from time to time this season, I'll ask her to translate a little copy. But for now, here's what Gasol said in English (and for those curious, his command of the language is basically flawless).
On making his Staples debut
"I'm excited and honored to be here and have these fans and have my teammates that I have now. It's a pretty big deal for me."
On the energy provided by the crowd
"They gave us a lot of energy. The way we came and the way we played defense. In the first half, especially. It was pretty impressive. Obviously, the crowd has a lot to do with it and we were able to build on it and have these kind of games more often, especially at home."
On what it was like to get such a big reception from the crowd, having never actually played for them before
"It was great. It makes me feel very privileged and happy to be here. I look forward to playing many more games here at Staples, because it's a special place. And when the crowd gives you a standing ovation, it definitely feels special. It was a great feeling tonight."
On there being so much more media in L.A. than Memphis
"Obviously, it's a little bit different than what I've been used to in Memphis (laughs). But that's part of it and I love being successful. I love winning. And I love being in this situation, so that's just part of it. That's just one thing that I'll have to get used to. But things are going well. Things are going well and I look forward to it.
On making any changes, if at all, to his game upon joining the Lakers
"Well, I think this style that we're playing fits a little more my game than I was (playing) in Memphis a lot this year. It's a position that I'm comfortable, that I'm productive and I want to continue to be productive and performing well. That's why I was playing well. But at the same time, when it comes down to it, it's just a matter of playing basketball and doing what you know out there. I know how to play this game so it comes out pretty easily."
AK
bring on the snaq!
Posted by: tp | February 19, 2008 at 10:53 PM
Still wanna trade Lamar? C'mon get serious people....
Posted by: fabian | February 19, 2008 at 10:57 PM
Repost
check this out: San Antonio plans to make a move for an upgrade
http://www.broadbandnewsnet.com/newsmanager/anmviewer.asp?a=4450&z=1
Posted by: trio | February 19, 2008 at 11:04 PM
No more Trade pleaseeeeeeee..
Posted by: trio | February 19, 2008 at 11:05 PM
REPOST
J.A. Adande asked some players over the All-Star break who they would like to see win a championship, besides themselves.
The most popular answers were KG and Steve Nash.
Excerpt:
Tim Duncan: "Can I go with nobody? That's not an option? Honestly, I wouldn't mind seeing Phoenix do it. Steve's been incredible for many years. He just hasn't been able to get over the hump for one reason or another. As good as he is, I'd love to see him win it."
...
There was one notable abstention in the voting: the ultra-competitive Kobe Bryant. "If it ain't us, I don't care," Kobe said.
End of Excerpt
Kobe is DA MAN! "if it ain't us, I don't care".This is the attitude that brings home the title! Maybe this is why only Kobe and Timmy are the few main guys who have multiple rings, their first instinct is that they don't want anyone else to get a title but them.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | February 19, 2008 at 11:07 PM
Fabian-
I think it was reasonable to hope that Lamar be traded pre-Gasol. Now? Not so much. Actually not at all.
Lamar is not a scorer- his strengths are rebounding, defending, and passing. He is so much more effective when the team doesn't need him to do things he can't consisently do - namely, hit outside jumpers, hit mid-range shots, create his own shot with the shot clock winding down, score 20 pts a night.
It's about filling a role, and Lamar couldn't fill the role he's been asked to fill the past two years. This new role fits him nicely. Although it still seems like he picks up a charge every game.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | February 19, 2008 at 11:15 PM
Jerry West's interview on Fox tonight should be required viewing for anyone connected to the NBA. Brilliant.
How lucky is the city of Los Angeles to have had the Logo and Wizard of Westwood? Icons.
Posted by: Vman | February 19, 2008 at 11:16 PM
As much as I want the Lakers to beat the Suns tomorrow night, I have to repeat this mantra to myself all day tomorrow before the game "No matter what happens, its's just one game. No matter what happens, it's just one game. No matter what happens, it's just one game."...
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | February 19, 2008 at 11:23 PM
The bad side of this team....
With the improved play, Jack in the Box may run out of tacos.
Or worse, bankrupt that big round headed guy.
Posted by: otherLakerTom | February 19, 2008 at 11:25 PM
Shaq feels he is very important. What a travesty.
He is the most arrogant center of his generation.
I hope he'll get dunked on by any laker tonight.
Posted by: KOBEPAU'S DREW | February 19, 2008 at 11:29 PM
Can you name another team in the league that has a player the quality of Lamar Odom as a 4th option?
We wanted Lamar to be the next Pippen, he's turning out to be a combo version of Horace Grant/Robert Horry, that works for me.
Posted by: laker4life | February 19, 2008 at 11:31 PM
The media should get off the Shaq wagon...honestly the way hes played the past 3 seasons he's borderline old news.
Only reason I could see trading lamar is if we have salary issues and Pau-Andrew work really well on the floor together. Dude makes a ton of money.
Tonights game made me so proud to be a Laker fan. Chanting the pastiest 3rd string guy's name as he dunks in the fourth. Booing an opponent from a 5 or 6 year old rivalry while hes on a completely different team...it's good to be a laker fan...wish I could afford tickets.
Posted by: Justin N | February 19, 2008 at 11:38 PM
Only complaint after an overall perfect game:
what's up with our commentators focus on how horrible the Hawks were playing as opposed to how dominant the team that pays their salary was tonight?
I do believe the home team D caused some of those turnovers.
Posted by: Vman | February 19, 2008 at 11:41 PM
Anyone know what the record is for a halftime lead?
I researched and found out the largest halftime lead in a playoff game, which is 40.
Posted by: theDude | February 19, 2008 at 11:45 PM
AK,
Nice job on the breakdown. Do you know anything about rumors of a trade possibly between the Knicks/Cavs/Lakers? Chad Ford on ESPN.com brought up the possibilities. Please let me know what you or BK know about this and who the Lakers might be looking to move next and for who. Thanks.
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | February 19, 2008 at 11:52 PM
BK-
"Had they sent out the phalanx of LA Times writers in the house- that's me, AK, Mike Bresnahan and Helene Elliott- to play the second half, I still think the home team would have won. "
I dunno, you may have held on, but Josh Smith would have certainly posterized a few of you.
haha, good stuff as usual.
Posted by: Gabe | February 19, 2008 at 11:59 PM
Let's hope Kobe's Pau.. er paw doesn't bother him much and he can produce like he has tonight.
As for Shaq, well, it would have been SOOOOOOOOOOO much more fun to welcome him here with Bynum healthy.
Posted by: harold | February 20, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Nemaia,
Glad you liked the breakdown, but BK actually wrote it, not me. As for Chad Ford item, the link heading was weirdly phrased. I can see why you thought it was about a potential LA-CLE-NY trade, but it's actually an article about every team and happened to list those ones as separate entities (i.e., talk about the Lakers, Cavs and Knicks). And in a nutshell, Ford thinks the Lakers are done dealing. For what it's worth, I agree. I doubt we'll see any moves before Thursday.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | February 20, 2008 at 12:05 AM
Still wanna trade Lamar? C'mon get serious people....
Posted by: fabian | February 19, 2008 at 10:57 PM
uhm, NO! Not now, not at this point. He's playing well. I think we could use him come playoffs, unless he starts being inconsistent again.
Posted by: KobeByPau | February 20, 2008 at 12:05 AM
I really hope the Lakers don't make anymore moves unless it makes us better than we are right now. Artest would definitely make the Spurs or Nuggets tougher if he goes to either one. Of all the recent trades, Pau seems to be the best fit with Korver second at Utah.
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | February 20, 2008 at 12:07 AM
I'm so glad we didn't trade Bynum for Kidd. Mavs gave up a lot for Kidd so we'll see how it turns out. Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | February 20, 2008 at 12:11 AM
Nemaia,
Glad you liked the breakdown, but BK actually wrote it, not me. As for Chad Ford item, the link heading was weirdly phrased. I can see why you thought it was about a potential LA-CLE-NY trade, but it's actually an article about every team and happened to list those ones as separate entities (i.e., talk about the Lakers, Cavs and Knicks). And in a nutshell, Ford thinks the Lakers are done dealing. For what it's worth, I agree. I doubt we'll see any moves before Thursday.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | February 20, 2008 at 12:05 AM
AK,
Thanks for the info. I think we're fine with who we have right now. Good job BK with the breakdown. Have a good night K Bros. now on to Phoenix!!! Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | February 20, 2008 at 12:15 AM
THREE RANDOM THOUGHTS:
1)The Lakers trade for Gasol was LAR-CE-NY.
2)Man, seems like another West contender is going to get better if they add Artest (SAS and DEN have been mentioned as destinations). Can somebody ask the Kings to please send him out East? Sigh.
3) You know how Shaq always says he "raised" some young guard (Penny, Kobe, DWade)? Well, doesn't it seem like, in fact, it's Kobe that "raises" centers? I mean, Kobe got the ball to Shaq where he needed it - even Phil Jackson agrees that Kobe basically won an All-Star MVP for Shaq by setting him up. Then Kobe made Kwame look like a servicable center - witness Phoenix playoffs. I'll bet Kwame never reaches those "heights" again, if you can call it that. Then Kobe worked well with Bynum, getting it to him in his sweet spots for dunks. And now you see Kobe with Gasol, putting him in positions to succeed. I don't mean to imply that Kobe "made" any of the aforementioned players, but he sure does enhance the performance of a center!
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | February 20, 2008 at 12:22 AM
Denver getting Artest would make them alot tougher. If this were baseball, we would just sign him to keep them from the Giants...
What an incredible game. Lamar has to stay. PERIOD
We have the chemistry right now and giving up all those boards to get Caron does not sound like the best move right now. I understand the "J" and the defense are better than Lamar, but Lamar passes and rebounds better and is here, and in sync (no not the band)with the Boys.
Let's shut D'antoni up. Phil was trying to say something nice about him and amazingly ended up calling him a great tactician. Yeah,..Ok Phil. Whatever you say. Let the sleeping dog lie.
1st place in the Pac Div today
Kobesbaaaaaaaaaaaaaaad (and he is)
Posted by: Kobesbad | February 20, 2008 at 12:24 AM
memo to Lakers:
please stay home oh the Funs shooters.
Posted by: sixonezero | February 20, 2008 at 01:57 AM
Can we officially start calling Kobe "Badfinger" now?
I LOVE that all-star quote from Kobe. "If it ain't us, I don't care." All I have to say to that is, "F*** yeah, Badfinger. Time to ROLL!"
Anyone else feel like a kid waiting for Christmas? Bynum is like the Red Ryder air rifle, and Ariza is that really cool toy that you got in your stocking that you forgot about asking for because you were so focused on the Red Ryder, but turned out to be a whole lot of fun, nonetheless.
I am so impressed with Vlad Rad lately. He's listening when Phil asks him to put it on the floor - he's dunking on people, he's rebounding, playing some defense - I know a lot of folks around here are down on Wild World, but personally I'm rooting for him just because he seems to really, really want to be here, and seems willing to change his game however he's asked to do so.
Nice to see Luke string together a couple of decent games. He's been playing like such garbage lately, and while he's definitely deserved the criticism, he's another guy I genuinely root for, because he clearly gets how much of a privilege it is to be a Laker.
Looking forward to further domination of the Suns Wednesday. Peace to the Nation.
Posted by: SBPimp | February 20, 2008 at 02:35 AM
During the rather boring (except for that sick dunk by Coby) fourth quarter I was thinking of nicknames for DJ Mbenga. So I came up with:
M.B.E.
The Most (m)Benga Ever cuz he really hasn't done much to earn any other kind of nickname, he's the only (m)Benga I know of which makes him the most ever, and it kinda pokes fun at Shaq's M.D.E.
The Suns game should be a lot more interesting in the fourth so I won't have any time to bother you all with other lame nicknames.
Go Lakers and let's welcome Shaq to his new team the way we just did Mike Bibby by handing his lazy, creaky hipped ass a loss. Tie the Suns for first, make them doubt their trade, and set them up for potential losses to Boston and Detroit.
Posted by: thedropper | February 20, 2008 at 05:11 AM
Last night was a tuneup for tonight. Hopefully thewell-oiled Jaguar will choke when they put in diesel fuel. Look who's #1 in Hollinger's meaningless rankings?
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/hollinger/powerranking
Posted by: mel | February 20, 2008 at 06:43 AM
That was a good old fashioned whooping, sure it was the sucky Hawks on the road who didnt bother showing up.
I can see why Kobe was so adamant of not having the surgery when the lakers have to play teams like the Hawks! Me AK and BK could have beat them last night with Faith at center and Mike T at PG.
Tonight is the real test, cant wait to see the game.
Posted by: Laker Lover | February 20, 2008 at 07:42 AM
Amazing_Happens,
You know, now that you put it that way. Kobe can take as much credit for making centers as Shaq can for making wing men. Especially since Shaq didn't win any rings pre-Kobe. And, if we win again in the next few years, the same will have be said about Pau.
Plus, two years ago, we all thought Kwame might have finally gotten out from Jordan's shadow. And, darn it, didn't Kobe continue to feed the dude the rock right up until the fumbler was traded?
Heck, Kwame probably cost Kobe 2 assists per game while he was here.
Kobe raises centers. I like the sound of that.
Also, Shaq does equate Kobe as one of the best passers he's ever played with. Funny how he didn't mention Wade when he was asked that question...
--FearlessWhackJob
Posted by: FearlessWhackJob | February 20, 2008 at 07:45 AM
Can someone post the Lakers material from the Hollinger chat? There may also be a Chad ford chat. Is that in insider too? If so, can we post?
Lamar is playing really great, but isn't this at the power forward position? What happens when he's at small forward and nowhere near the basket to get rebounds?
If he's playing small forward and still crashing the boards won’t he be leaving his man open?
I didn't see the game, but I assume he was playing power forward. I'd like (would have liked) the Lakers to play Lamar "Doom" Odom (great nick, whoever penned it) at small forward before the trade deadline so we can get a sense of how his game will evolve away from the basket...but, alas, and probably for the best, the deadline is tomorrow, and I hope the team doesn't trade him. Let’s keep this core together, see how it plays, then talk trade after the season.
If I'm the Lakers and I was undecided about trading Odom I would have played him some with Turiaf at PF and Odom at SF. Did that happen at all last night? Did Odom play any SF?
And, I hope San Antonio doesn't add Artest. But they have over 10 million in expiring contracts, so we'll have to wait and see.
Kobe...just give him the MVP right now. It's his. He has the heart of a... (Which animal has an 8 chamber heart? I remember one of them having one...or was it a cow with a 4 chamber stomach?...) anyways, Kobe must have multiple chambers in some organ, because the guy is just a crazy good leader, and you only have those qualities when you have...uh...extra chambers.
OK...great win.
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 20, 2008 at 07:56 AM
mel,
It's nice to see us on top of Hollinger's Rankings. While they certainly don't mean everything they are a useful tool. Remember last season when he released his rankings and the SAS were on top and everyone was like WHAT?!! Phoenix and Dallas are the best teams. Then Lo and behold the Spurs were hot entering the playoffs and went on to win the whole thing.
Posted by: Xodus | February 20, 2008 at 08:08 AM
If the game is close tonight, my bet's on Mbenga to come in for Hack-A-Shaq time. Wouldn't that be a hoot!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | February 20, 2008 at 08:14 AM
How many days has it been since the Gasol trade?
Still, I'm stunned. I'm not as amazed as when the newscrew said "there is a NEW heavyweight champion" after the Tyson / Buster fight, and I'm not as amazed after Gibson hit a pop fly out that floated out of Dodger stadium for a World Series game win, but I'm amazed--really, really amazed.
I just didn't think Mitch had it in him. Then--walla--out of nowhere, because him him--Mitch--the Lakers went from a so so, mid of the mill, one stud team to world beaters.
That quickly the franchise was rebuilt. It took the West 800 years to rebuild itself after the fall of Rome (there's a pun here, something like and it took the Lakers only 5 years to rebuild after the fall of West)...
That's what having a champion like Kobe does. Just add a few quality sidekicks and boom! You're rebuilt! This is the crucial, irreplaceable importance of (soon to be MVP) Kobe. You have a guy like him, and then add water and spare parts and Boom! Champions!
Look at the Bulls. Great spare parts, no Kobe, middle of the pack.
Just amazing.
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 20, 2008 at 08:24 AM
It was one thing for y'all to witness that on TV. But watching first hand as I did...WOW!
That was not a basketball game - that was a PARTY! The only thing missing was Dancing Barry!
otherLaker Tom: "With the improved play, Jack in the Box may run out of tacos."
They ran out of friggin coupons!!! So I have to buy my lunch today! BOO-HOO!!!!
Posted by: utzworld - THE BANNER HOLDER | February 20, 2008 at 08:49 AM
People. I am a Lamar fan. But c’mon, we all want to keep him when he has a good night. What I see is a dude that is terrible under pressure, where he defers, fumbles, or shoots an air ball. His defense is not outstanding, it's just good. His teammates cover for him more than him helping him. Is he like Horry? Yes, just without the clutch shooting.
Look at the last two Laker dynasties. You had FIVE starters and at least two subs that wanted to destroy you. L.O. is just cool, laid back. He is a nice dude that wants to buy everyone in the club champagne while others on the team are busting their rumps working out everyday to get better (Bynum / Farmar / Kobe). What's that saying about......? (Nice guy's finish last).
YES, we have one of the greatest closers of all time in Kobe. But in the playoffs, defenses are geared at stopping team’s strengths. The Pistons and Spurs have been successful because they posses multiple threats. You got a young dude in Bynum that is yet to be battle tested. Same with Pau. Kobe and Fish are proven warriors. What has Odom done? The Lakers are one player away from being a Dynasty.
If and ONLY if you can get value by trading L.O. then I'm all for it. Do it this week, or in the off-season. Do it before he shoots another brick with the clock running down or leaves Tayshaun wide open for a game winning three.
Or, if you like seeing a deer in the headlights at crunch time...keep him. All of his tendencies will shine bright on the big stage. I will say no more. These things will come out when the playoffs are here. I will gladly and humbly apologize if my words are proven wrong.
Posted by: Lakers 24 365 | February 20, 2008 at 08:51 AM
Xodus,
LOL. Of course they're meaningful when we're on top!
Posted by: mel | February 20, 2008 at 08:53 AM
THIS GAME MEANS NOTHING TO ME.....................
So what we smashed the HAWKS.........
The real test is today..........
If I was KOBE i'll call a meeting gather the troops.........
tell them to wipe that smile off there face an get ready for tommorow..........
That's what a leader would do.......
2 Guy's needs to step their game up today for the LAKERS to win..........
1) Lamar..........because he's playing aginst AMARE......
he cant be scared of him like he was last year...
2) PHIL JACKSON.......
his rotations are the key .........
any wrong combo of players that's ball game.
this is the game we should play GASOL an RONNY.......together.
The little time ronny played against amare played him well......
9 RINGS.........LAMAR.........It's time to step your game up.
COMPTON
Posted by: COMPTON FINEST | February 20, 2008 at 08:54 AM
"During the rather boring (except for that sick dunk by Coby) fourth quarter I was thinking of nicknames for DJ Mbenga. So I came up with:
M.B.E.
The Most (m)Benga Ever cuz he really hasn't done much to earn any other kind of nickname, he's the only (m)Benga I know of which makes him the most ever, and it kinda pokes fun at Shaq's M.D.E.
Posted by: thedropper | February 20, 2008 at 05:11 AM"
Shouldn't it be mB.E.?
Posted by: akr_68 | February 20, 2008 at 08:57 AM
wesjoe,
If Jackson wants to, when Bynum returns, Lamar can still get his minutes at PF, with Gasol splitting time between C and PF. (All three of them could get 32 minutes per game.) If they keep getting reasonable play out of the "SF by committee", I think that would be the best route to take.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | February 20, 2008 at 08:59 AM
wesjoenixon,
I came across an article last night (LA Times?) where Shaq was using reverse psychology, complimenting Jackson. Calling Kobe the best in the game. Real BS.
But get this, he calls out Chamberlain and your pal, Jabbar! He says they talked to him once or twice. "I don't know why they don't talk to me". (Maybe cuz one's residing in the Great Beyond?)
There was a quote from Jabbar.
I thought of you and your autograph. lol. Regardless of your experience, I'll take Jabbar's word over Shaq's just cuz everytime he opens his mouth he vomits BS.
Posted by: mel | February 20, 2008 at 09:04 AM
We keep that intensity on the defensive end, we'll be on top of the West very very soon!
And I wanna see Coby Karl posterizing Shaq tonight!! hahaha Who knows!!
Posted by: Ando | February 20, 2008 at 09:04 AM
Mel
Thanks for the link. I went to the comments section of the report and had to laugh at the comments for todays suns/Lakers game.
My favorite was "no more long hauls for the Diesel, only short runs with a light load".
Most comments were pro Laker.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | February 20, 2008 at 09:09 AM
How many blowout wins do the Lakers have? They mop the floor with teams. In the past 2 years, they had a problem with teams they should beat. This year year, they demolish them, no matter who's injured. Can't wait until tonight.
Posted by: wondahbap | February 20, 2008 at 09:16 AM
K Brothers,
Can you post Gary Vitti's cellphone number so I can call him every 10 minutes extolling the virtues of liquid sea minerals and Vitamin D for accelerating repairs to bone, joint, and ligament injuries?
Thanks.
I so looking forward to tonight's game.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | February 20, 2008 at 09:24 AM
wondahbap,
10 wins by more than 20 points.
Confidence will be a factor tonight. If the Lakers are confident, it'll be no problem. They must get off to a fast start. One of those 10 blowout wins was at the Whatever They Call It Nowadays Arena in Phoenix.
Lakers are also playing for 1st place and the season series. They're downplaying it, calling it just another game. To Kobe, it's anything but.
Playing last night was good. No rust tonight.
Go Lakes!
Posted by: mel | February 20, 2008 at 09:28 AM
Folks, the Hawks or hawkless are a good team, in fact they beat the Lakers during the road trip and doing fairly well in the standings in the East. However, there was this trade. Bibby, the team's PG is still at a lost with their system and the missing parts spell the the difference. More than that, the Lakers are great with their movements both in offense and defense.
In fact, this is the equivalent of Showtime in the 21st Century that we have been accustomed with in the eighties. The similarities are: constant fast breaks, ball moves around, all starters move like the parts of a clock in a synchronized fashion, the 3rd Q becomes the final quarter because the advantage becomes insurmountable, they play in a different league and a league of their own.
This team will be scary when Drew/Ariza come back. However, D/A will adjust in a few games just like Odom and Vlad adjusted when they came back from injuries. One of the reasons why Kobe opted not to go for surgery, it could discrupt his rhytmn. (Remember Magic when he returned playing, he could not return his former self.) Basketball in NBA is a continuous motion and it has to be productive not just standing around or letting others do the play like Walton is doing. Another thing is the psychological fear that the injury may happen again so their movements are measured. This is danger on Drew and Ariza's long vacation.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | February 20, 2008 at 09:32 AM
Does anyone have a link to Coby Karl's dunk? I missed the game. =(
Posted by: observer | February 20, 2008 at 09:34 AM
I think Lamar is our MVP tonight.
It makes sense.
With Gasol pulling Shaq away from the basket with his 15 foot jumper, Lamar goes against Amare to get rebounds, and we all know Lamar is going to out-rebound that guy.
What will this mean? That Lamar plays better defense than Kwame? Probably. I still see that 20 something rebound Amare got against Kwame in last years playoff game.
That ain't happening tonight, not with Lamar in there.
So...this is where O-doom makes his money. This is the money game for him. Lamar Vs. Amare…can’t wait.
Bring it on...and BTW it's on ESPN high def 360*.
BTWx2, South Bend Indiana finally (might have) the 21st century coming to town. One of our local restaurants is a finalist for Gordon Ramsey's "Kitchen Nightmares"
Yeah baby. Look for me on TV if it happens. And, unlike Britney--I'll be wearing underwear!
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 20, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Thanks, Fearless. Kobe is like a center farmer. He cultivates them, feeds them, takes care of them. And then sells them for their meat.
Also, hate to be a downer, but I think that we all should remember that we are just one loss away from the cockaroaches. They are lurking here, ready to pounce on any negative news. Should they decide to come out, let's try to ignore them, yeah?
I always hear those little cucacarachas in the cracks, but they're not coming out because the lights are so bright right now.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | February 20, 2008 at 09:38 AM
SHACK "GREATEST CENTER IN LAKER HISTORY" O'NEAL VS. GASOL
RAJA HAS TWO GOOD PINKIES
PENNY, KOBE, DWADE - GRANT HILL TO BECOME NEXT AND BY FAR THE BEST SF/SG SHACK CARRIES TO A FINALS
Posted by: Shacks back | February 20, 2008 at 09:39 AM
Will be a great game tonight.
However, in recent years, the Suns have been the hump the Lakers cannot get over. No matter how the regular season plays out. The Suns always send your Lakers fishing in the end. This year looks to be no different. We had the edge on you before the trades, and we still have the edge on you after the trades.
Regular season is good, but post season matters, and you Lakers vs Suns post season record is nothing to brag about.
Good luck tonight!
Go Suns!
Purple Reign (purple and orange)!
Posted by: Tom7264 | February 20, 2008 at 09:39 AM
random thoughts from last nights game
1.Vlad rad had a steal, he stole the ball!
2.Vlad Rad has really good abs
3. There is such a thing as karma that's why Bibby is with the Hawks now..**evil grin**
4. Coby Karl dunked and he made Fisher dance, we had some really bad seasons but things are finally looking up :)
Posted by: Elle | February 20, 2008 at 09:41 AM
Though, admittedly it doesn't mean much.
Look who's favored to win tonight:
http://scores.espn.go.com/nba/preview?gameId=280220021
Go Suns!
Posted by: Tom7246 | February 20, 2008 at 09:42 AM
Jon,
I found the source of these mysterious "sea minerals"...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vD--1jZT-Ps
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 20, 2008 at 09:45 AM
Well lakers fans must feel good to finally be talked about as possibly getting past the first round this year! I do have to say that I like the Suns chances tonight. GO SUNS!!!!
Posted by: Shaaaaazam! | February 20, 2008 at 09:46 AM
"I'm Coby Karl, I'm George's son......BEYATCH!!!"
Posted by: Jeff | February 20, 2008 at 09:50 AM
Open Letter to Jon k.
Thank you sir in backing me up last night on certain rebellious elements on this blog on their constant hammering and bellicose attacks on my flesh and blood Luke Walton.Luke is playing on arthritic and bad ankles,let us as fans come together and support him and stop the proselytising of slander,and start loving my boy.Even some of the senior bloggers here have tried to pass venom and stoked the fans of hate.Thank you again Jon on keeping some here on check.
Posted by: Bill Walton | February 20, 2008 at 09:50 AM
"Comments are moderated, and will not appear until they've been approved"
Thats got to be the most boring job ever!
Posted by: NoWinForYouTonight! | February 20, 2008 at 09:54 AM
Lakers are going down tonight! Gasol is a cream puff and wont be able to handle Amare. Be prepared to be posterized Gasol!
Posted by: NoWinForYouTonight! | February 20, 2008 at 10:02 AM
Oh no...lost post!
Time for the lost post poem.
Ode to Lost Post
By Wes Nixon
Ode to lost post.
I wrote you real good
But technology made you go bye-bye.
I was saying...
It's good to be underdogs....
http://tinyurl.com/38e49l
This game reminds me of the Lakers Portland game in Phil's first year when both teams were tied, on long winning streaks and first place in the Western conference was on the line...
Bring it on...
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 20, 2008 at 10:11 AM
"Comments are moderated, and will not appear until they've been approved"
Thats got to be the most boring job ever!
Posted by: NoWinForYouTonight! | February 20, 2008 at 09:54 AM
Unless, of course, you take advantage of the situation like the Brad Pitt character in "Fight Club" at the theater job...Muahahhaha...
A little splicing goes a long way...
Go Lakers.
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 20, 2008 at 10:14 AM
Listening to local Arizona sports talk regarding tonight's game, the question currently being asked fans is "what would be a success as a result of tonights game?" The most common answer (from the Suns perspective) is not getting dominated on the boards as well as winning.
Just thought I would pass that along.
I personally would expect for the Lakers to WIN. This Laker team is complete, deep and on a tremendous roll. I wont totally dismiss the fact that the last few opponents weren't the best, however, we dominated them (as great should do). Not to mention the fact that we were dominating while on a long road trip and dominating immediately after the all star game.
As another blogger mentioned, I am glad to see VladRad step up and not just sit behind the arc but actually attack the rim.
I think a BIG key for tonights game will be Pau's ability to hit the mid range jump shot. Assuming Shaq gaurds Pau, if Pau can hit the J, then that should force Shaq out of the paint. As I think about this I can't help but get excited thining about what this team will be like when Bynum and Ariza come back. GO LAKERS!!!!!
Posted by: dpk | February 20, 2008 at 10:20 AM
Mr. Bill Walton,
The difficulty with Luke's game is not his arthritic ankles but his decision making. Perhaps, his high IQ becomes disadvantage that his passes are too complicated to catch. Did you see the pass he made to Farmar in a crowded lane, while Farmar is on the move and there were three Hawks out there? it's good that nobody caught the ball and it went out of bounce. Then, Luke's constant passing becomes a ritual that opponents will just leave him free since he won't make any attempt to the hoop but to look for the pass. His shooting is dismal because he lost his shooting touch more concerned on his ankle than making the shot. That's NCAA level, don't you think so? In that league, you have plenty of minutes to waste so just pass the ball first. Mr. Bill Walton, you played the Championship level with Portland and Celtics have you ever figured your son excelling with those teams.
Therefore, it's good that Jon K is a decent fan who would not thrash any Laker player. We want your son to succeed but it has to come from him. Make good decisions, practice more often and avoid public contact until his image has improved in this blog. This blog is a good barometer of his progress. As a fan, do we enjoy putting down a Laker player?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | February 20, 2008 at 10:21 AM
Suns fans,
I don't buy your optimism at all...
I can feel the Suns shivering right now. Like rain on a sunny day, you're being deceived by your own senses; that hat shinning sun is just useless, pretty, window dressing today...
Sorry guys...
This one's for you:
http://tinyurl.com/3dyeo4
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 20, 2008 at 10:22 AM
Isn't it amazing to hear random Suns fans and even sports reporters change their opinions of the Shaq trade based on comments he makes in the media. What the heck do you expect him to say?? Obviously he is going to say that he will bring a ring to Phx. But what was the initial concern that everyone had when they heard about the trade?? Wasn't it Shaq's durability? Hmmm, being he hasnt played a game yet would make me concerned if I was a suns fan (which I am NOT). I didn't realize championships were won in the media.
I'll take the Lakers chances on the court vs. the Suns chances in the press as far as winning the title goes.
Posted by: dpk | February 20, 2008 at 10:28 AM
As I continue to listen to this ridiculous AZ sports talk show, I dont understand why people think that if a person(s) doesnt have a lot of playoff experiance, then their team wont win the title that year.. Eddie Johnson was just interviewed and he was saying the Pau hasnt won a playoff game, Bynum (if he can even be healthy) is only 20 years old an is inexperienced.
Doesnt anyone rememebr the year that the Lakers (with Shaq, Kobe, Payton and Malone) lost to Detroit?? Detroit didnt have a bunch of seasoned folks and definately not seasoned compared to who the Lakers put on the court.
I can just hear it now that if the Suns do lose tonight, the excuses will be "oh Shaq still has to get accustomed to his new team" or "oh the Suns are just getting back from the break and were cold".. WHATEVER.. Pau had to learn a much more complex triangle offense compared to what Shaq has to do.. and Pau has been tremendous..
The Lakers dont necessarily NEED to win the game, but wow the Suns psyche would be shot, and the Lakers confidence would just continue to grow that much more.. How long until tip off??
Posted by: dpk | February 20, 2008 at 10:41 AM
Shaq feels he is very important. What a travesty.
He is the most arrogant center of his generation.
I hope he'll get dunked on by any laker tonight.
Posted by: KOBEPAU'S DREW | February 19, 2008 at 11:29 PM
And the Big Lazy wonders why Wilt and Kareem didn't talk to him. It's because they know a hypocrite when they see one. And he also disrespected them in his usual "greatest" BS. What a loser!
Posted by: SamII | February 20, 2008 at 01:25 PM
I saw Kareem interviewed on Channel 5 this morning and was asked about Shaq's comments. He said he did not know where this came from. When Shaq was with the Lakers Kareem was not employed by Lakers. Kareem said if he ran into Shaq in public that he would always go and say hi. So he did not have a clue where Shaq came up with his comments.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | February 20, 2008 at 02:39 PM