You know, just your typical 10-game winning streak
Another game, another win. Ho hum.
Okay, "ho hum" isn't exactly the proper sentiment, but it's clear that the Lakers have reached a point where they expect to win every time they hit the floor. And why not? They generally do, if a 13-1 February is any indication. The latest notch in the victory belt came Thursday at Staples in a 106-88 win over the hapless (to put it mildly) Miami Heat. After taking the first quarter off against the Blazers on Tuesday, the Lakers learned from their mistake, coming quick out of the gate tonight and finishing the first 12 up by seven. They'd control the flow of the game for the rest of the night. There were moments along the way that weren't particularly sharp, where they settled for too many outside shots or tried to force too many highlight reel plays, but overall there was no question as to who was in charge.
Better still, the Lakers received the sort of balanced production that has become this season's M.O. 43 points off the bench, led by Jordan Farmar's career high 24. Four players with 11+ rebounds. Seven of the eight players who saw some run had at least seven shot attempts, nobody took more than 14. (The eighth, DJ Mbenga, didn't actually shoot in his 2:27.) Up and down the box score, its easy to find good numbers for the purple and gold. Should be plenty to fill up the "Good" category in tonight's breakdown... which comes below, courtesy of AK.
BK
The Good
Kobe Bryant: By Mamba standards, the stats alone won't feel like much to write home about. Then again, 21 points and 8 assists ain't nothing to sneeze at, especially when you factor in some defensive intensity that produced four steals and two blocks, including one seriously sick block of a Matrix throw down that whipped the hizzy into a tizzy as the third quarter closed. Throw in your garden variety "airplane dunk," plus his over the shoulder pass that sparked a Showtime-worthy moment with Luke Walton and Lamar Odom, and one need not worry if The New Jack Bauer will find himself on SportsCenter tomorrow morning.
Luke Walton: He's had his share of struggles all season (most recently a crap effort on Tuesday against Portland). Thus, I think it's safe to say, dude needed a game like tonight's. 9/11/4, plus some steady D and a couple of floor burns. With Smush Parker, Brian Cook and Kwame Brown gone and Odom blossoming as a third/fourth option, Walton has taken over as the blog's go-to goat this season. The debate rages as to whether said criticism is over the top, spot on, or somewhere in between, with a consensus unlikely be reached. But here's one thing I think we can all agree on. With Trevor Ariza's return ETA still a mystery and Vlad Radmanovic at least a game or so from balling, Walton is likely to get more minutes, so he needs to contribute. Not at a superstar level or anywhere close, but one that's clearly and consistently positive. Tonight would qualify.
Jordan Farmar: The second straight game where Taft High's Finest racked 20+ off the pine. The second straight game where his energy often lifted the team during some flagging moments. And the second straight night where he came up with some key steals and generally gummed up the works for an opponent. The kid's been shooting the ball quite well the last couple weeks, which has helped offset the frigid hand of the cat he relieves (see below). Plus, I happened to be sitting next to Cheryl Miller during the game, meaning I got to see her reaction to the side-by-side of Farmar and Reggie Miller for the ear comparison, which was fun.
Laker rebounding: Like Walton and Spinal Tap's amp, Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom's rebounds also go to 11. Ronny Turiaf: An even dozen. All in all, the Lakers outboarded the Heat 55-40. Given how the last few games haven't seen featured much in the way of purple and gold domination on the glass, it's refreshing to see them thoroughly outworking a team to every loose ball.
And for the history buffs out there, the last time four Lakers grabbed 10 or more rebounds was November 9th, 1989 against the Warriors. A.C. Green (16), James Worthy )11), Magic Johnson (10) and Mychal Thompson (10). I'd like to say I remember where I was when it happened, but I was only 17 and living in St. Louis, which I think is a reasonable enough excuse.
The Bad
Derek Fisher: Unlike Walton, Fish didn't manage to shake the cobwebs off a two-point lemon against the Blazers. This time, the "2" not only represented his shooting (as in "2-11" from the field), but also marked his turnovers, which doubled his dime tally. Mid-February and beyond has featured mostly choppy sailing for the Threepeat Club Member. Save his 4-8 night against Phoenix, Fish hasn't shot 50% since Feb. 6 in Atlanta. Fisher has always been a fairly streaker shooter, so I'm not about to freak myself out over this slump. That being said, I wouldn't exactly object to it coming to a halt.
The Lakers' concentration in spots: Truth be told, I'm not coming down all that hard on these hiccups. Yes, guys need to "play hard for 48 minutes," "keep their nose to the grindstone," "their eyes on the prize," "develop a championship mentality," along with whatever other sports cliche you can drum up. I'm not even denying that these sayings are ultimately truisms. But at the same time, these fellas are human and when you're spanking a team as bad as the Heat from the opening tip off, the urge to go into cruise control is understandable. Not saying I condone it, mind you. Wouldn't be in the "bad" column if I did. But the game was never in any danger, so it would be disingenuous to present myself as outraged or anything close.
Riles cutting his media session short before I could ask what the hell is going on with Smush: Save Tim Thomas three seasons ago in Chicago, can anybody recall a player so thoroughly exiled? Is Parker ever gonna be permitted within 500 yards of his teammates again? Is he even allowed within Miami's city limits anymore? Does Mickey Arison wake up every morning and key the Smushcalade out of spite? I'd be lying if I claimed not to find this genuinely fascinating.
The Turning Point
Let's be honest. Does any game where the visitors never lead for one second ever really "turn?"
AK
AUDIO: Postgame sound is generally abbreviated on nights where the team has to travel, and for the most part tonight was no exception. In his comments, PJ talked about moments during the game where the team lost focus/aggression/sense of purpose- "slippage," he called it- but overall he was pleased (certainly with the result). Kind words for Jordan Farmar and the bench in general. Strong play from Ronny Turiaf allowed Pau Gasol, who Jackson said seemed a little sluggish and lacked some of his usual pop, to get some extra rest ahead of Friday night's game in Portland.
Download phil_jackson_2.28 postMIA.mp3
I asked Fish if he could feel the team developing a championship personality, and his answer was interesting. He pointed out that some of the guys don't actually know what it is to be in that place on an NBA team. "Unless you've been a champion before, you can't really know what that is or how it feels. I think guys are excited about what they're doing and want to continue to press forward, but I think we're getting ahead of ourselves in terms of assuming we're going to win a championship just because we're winning right now." Still, he's been around. Does he recognize them? "I think that because of our versatility and depth, the way we score the basketball, the way we've been defending, we do have a lot of the ingredients."
I also asked him what it's like to have to locker up next to "the Spanish Kobe," in Gasol, who has a large media contingent following him around. There have been a few games where Fish has emerged from the shower to find his locker clogged up by media types. There was a lot less traffic when the Critter was his neighbor. Download derek_fisher_2.28 postMIA.mp3
After Tuesday's win over the Blazers, Farmar said he wasn't worried about narrowly missing his career high in points (he had 21), because he knew it would come at some point. Well, he had to wait all of two days. It's clear listening to the audio that he's one confident basketball player right now. Granted, he's always been confident, but after a mini-slump heading into the break, he's been very effective over the last batch of games. Download jordan_farmar_2.28 postMIA.mp3
The laughter at the top of Kobe's clip is in reference to his finger. We don't hear much about it anymore, but it's clear that he wasn't faking it, so to speak. The little digit was wrapped up around a big ol' ice bag as he spoke to us. I think Barkley made mention of it on the TNT broadcast. I obviously wasn't around to hear it, so if someone knows the story, pass it along.
Download kobe_bryant_2.28 postMIA.mp3
BK
Great Roll!
Posted by: Charles | February 28, 2008 at 11:55 PM
I'm getting tired of hearing during every Heat game I watch this year that Wade is hurt.His stats this year are slightly down from two years ago when he was said to be better than Kobe.His defense has never been great.Just like Nash he has to be hidden on D.If anything in my opinion it's his effort that isn't 100 percent not his health.I also don't think he gets the calls he used to get.Whenever Miami starts to win again be ready to hear that it is because Wade is healthy again not because his team improved. I also find it funny that this year people say Kobe is the MVP when his team is loaded but when he lead a team that started Smush,Luke,and kwame to the playoffs two straight years he wasn't.I would vote for Lebron this year who is having an incredible season leading a bad team to the playoffs.
Wade's stats
05-06 27/6/7 50-78-17 11fta
07-08 25/4/7 47-76-27 9fta
Posted by: jf | February 28, 2008 at 11:55 PM
Barkley said "Kobe's finger feels fine on the offensive end" or something to that effect.
Posted by: Elyse | February 28, 2008 at 11:55 PM
So I can start a new tomorrow, or 3 mins from now. I want to leave this for today...
I will repost this tomorrow.
Fire32,
At this point, we must agree to disagree. This website is bigger than our spat. All my points are regarding respect and use of discrepancy on this blog. I am just asking for tact... On the other hand your responses have been about how much better your team is and your opinion and actions here are always justified.
I’ll tell you, I respect some non Laker fan bloggers; not because their team isn’t a threat to the Lakers. (Even though you insist that point with the Kings fan.)It is because I plain and simply appreciate their input.
Remember I said “Trust me, I will gladly compliment once you realize my points.”
I admit, the call for the IP address was extreme. But even KL_Beast - Gunner was called out for using the same email address for posting. That’s all.
At this point, I feel my fourth reply to you has been my fortieth. My Laker family, I apologize for letting this stretch this long.
Best to my Laker Family…
Posted by: Charles | February 28, 2008 at 11:59 PM
Ronny was awesome tonight. I don't know if anyone caught this, but at one point, after getting the rebound over Lamar, he stuck his tongue out at him like a little kid. It's good to see the guys out there having fun.
Posted by: christy | February 29, 2008 at 12:02 AM
BK,
"With Smush Parker, Brian Cook and Kwame Brown gone and Odom blossoming as a third/fourth option, Walton has taken over as the blog's go-to goat this season. "
Gotta be the Big Comment of the Night. Bravo, Brian.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | February 29, 2008 at 12:04 AM
THE LAKERS SECRET WEAPON…
While I am one of the bloggers who believe the Bynum/Gasol/Odom front line is going to be dominating and the best in the NBA, it may end up being the Lakers back court led by Kobe Bryant that propels the Lakers to their 15th NBA Championship this season.
For the second night in a row, the Lakers backup guard duo lit up Staples’ scoreboard. After posting 21 and 12 points to spark the Lakers 2 nights ago, Jordan Farmar and Sasha Vujacic teamed up once again off the bench, this time pouring in 24 and 12 points.
That makes 2 games in a row that the Lakers 3-guard offense, with Bryant playing the 3 to make room for Farmar and Vujacic to play the 1 and 2, has provided the fire power off the bench that sparked the Lakers to another win, their 10th triumph in a row.
All of the injuries to our front court players that have forced the Lakers to go small with 3 guards has ended up giving the Lakers the opportunity to hone another offensive weapon for the rest of the West to worry about. Go big or go small. Choose your poison.
GAME BALL TO FARMAR AGAIN..
Game ball tonight to Jordan Farmar for the second game in row for his career-high 24 points, 4 boards, 3 dimes, 3 steals, and 1 block in his second 24 minute game in a row. Kudos to Kobe Bryant, who scored 21 points and posted 8 dimes, 4 steals, and 2 blocks while orchestrating another dominating victory. Finally, kudos to Ronny, Paul, Lamar, AND Luke, each of whom pulled down double digit boards, passed the ball well, defended with energy, and generally played great.
HOW ABOUT THAT DEFENSE, FAITH?
The Lakers were fired up on defense tonight and played the way Faith has wanted. 12 blocks, 8 steals, contesting every shot, and holding the Heat to 38% shooting and 88 points. It’s easy to win the game when you win every quarter. DOMINATION!
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | February 29, 2008 at 12:11 AM
OMG! The Lakers received Pau Gasol in a trade for Kwame Brown!
I still can't believe that happened.
Posted by: DavyJonze | February 29, 2008 at 12:32 AM
Laker Tom,
It was actually me that did the breakdown, but I appreciate the compliment, as well as the nice words about the "four star(gold star) general post.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | February 29, 2008 at 12:35 AM
Just watched the highlights and I am BLOWN AWAY!!!
Kobe's half court over the head pass to someone who to Odom showed the team gelling. The play where passes went deeper and deeper till they hit Gosol showed the team gelling. Magic.
BTW, don't anyone dare say anything bad about my man, Mr. Derek Fisher. He may be injured. He is going through a dry spell. But he is still constitently fantastic in the long run. Thankfully, we have Farmar and others to pick up the slack. But DO NOT DARE diss one of the greatest Lakers of all time, DEREK FISHER!!
Go Lakers!! GO FARMAR!!! GO FISH!!!
Posted by: johnnyP | February 29, 2008 at 12:42 AM
wow, what a game. love it.... turiaf is a blocking machine. nice passing... over the back... wowowoww.. very nice game...
Posted by: khang | February 29, 2008 at 12:45 AM
HAD TO COME BACK FOR THIS
maybe this is a repost..
you guys seen this?!!?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCiSxbRf0pc
hilarious...i almost cried i laughed so hard.
Posted by: Lakers4Realz | February 29, 2008 at 12:56 AM
"Kobe's half court over the head pass to someone who to Odom showed the team gelling. The play where passes went deeper and deeper till they hit Gosol showed the team gelling. Magic."
That someone was the much maligned Luke Walton. See below.
Good morning, Charles. Good morning, blog family. Great win last night!
I finally get to see the Lakers in person for the first time this season. Suffice to say, I am a wee bit hyped. The team is clearly running on all cylinders, and, seriously, we couldn’t be more due for a win in the Rose Garden. It’s been years, people. The surrounding gleeful needling of Blazermaniacs at the end of each of those painful losses left me with a taste in my mouth not unlike that of spoiled sour cream.
Not tonight.
Keys To The Game From Your Trailblazers Insider
1. Ball Movement: For all those that have been complaining about Luke Walton, I offer you Exhibit A.: The play of the year, the Showtime break from last night’s gorgeous thumping of the Heat in which Kobe’s crazy over the shoulder 40-foot pass is deftly handled and forwarded by Luke to Lamar in stride for the dunk. Sick basketball. Not enough? Exhibit B. His six first-quarter rebounds and the resultant quick outlet passes, which helped us to open a quick double-digit lead. But this is not a polemic on the value of Walton, rather a celebration of the way this team has learned to pass the ball. Even our least talented rotation guy consistently helps the team either to get out and run or to smoothly execute in the half-court. A continuation of this trend is essential if we want to beat a dangerous Blazer team in what I guarantee will be an extremely hostile environment. (I do promise to try my best to initiate an MVP chant for Kobe with Tim’s soda cup bullhorn, whether it gets me killed or not. Unless we badly need the free-throws, in which case I will concentrate on my breathing. See prior posts.)
2. Rebounding: Here’s The Guru’s First Obvious Law of Basketball. If you win the turnover battle and outrebound the opponent, you win. Only a heinous disparity in fouls or incredible three-point shooting by the opponent can possibly do you in. The Blazers will look to slow down the game and limit possessions. Win the possession battle by sending three or four to the boards on every shot. Przybilla’s a beast in there but we can easily win this battle with extra bodies and it’s a good tactic since Portland is incapable of fast breaking -- especially when Jack is playing. The Portland staff keeps statistics on this and, God’s honest truth, they finish less than 10 percent of their breaks when Jarrett Jack is in the game. The emphasis here will be on the half-court, which leads to…
3. Stick to Defensive Assignments: Particularly, the Lake Show must continue the better three-point defense it has been playing of late. They didn’t show it in the last game but Portland is a dangerous three-point shooting team. James Jones is still out, I believe, so that’s a bit of good fortune for L.A. But Blake, Jack, and Webster can stretch the defense plenty, which can be particularly harsh when Roy is playing. If he’s not, we need to stay home on the shooters and we should win in a rout, even if LaMarcus Aldridge (or L.A., as they know him locally) goes for 30, which he easily could since we have nobody who can match up with him when he’s hot. Odom is the best we have but, as we saw the other night, LaMarcus can take him to school. In any case, I believe Lamar’s better utilized elsewhere (more on that below).
If Roy plays, you can give him the three-point shot. He’ll burn you occasionally from deep but to let him penetrate is deadly. He’s a wicked clever finisher around the rim and he will complete the play, find the open man or get fouled every time if you collapse.
4. Contain Outlaw: No that’s not the offensively challenged Bo Outlaw wreaking havoc with dunks, glasswork and midrange jumpers, it’s the Blazers super sixth man, Travis. This is a guy who would make at least one laughable play literally every time he stepped on the court the past couple years. He’s been the master of the missed layup. He’s gangly. And, frankly, he’s not especially bright. I used to say he would never be a serious NBA pro. I have never been more wrong in my analysis of a young player.
It’s analogous to the belief Mitch and Phil have had in Sasha and his subsequent emergence. Coach Nate and Kevin Pritchard had patience with this very raw talent and he’s become a legit sixth-man candidate, a fourth-quarter closer and a weapon feared enough that they almost turned him into Devin Harris in an early version of those crazy Kidd-trade discussions. Travis has learned to play to his strengths; he’s stopped thinking on the court. His shot is less streaky now and he’s confident and athletic. He presents a terrible matchup problem for our second-unit guys. I think Phil needs to play Lamar on him as much as possible.
5. The Third Quarter: The Blazers are terrible out of the gate after halftime this season, the one mitigating factor that is starting to make me lean toward Byron Scott over Nate for Coach of the Year. We have to take advantage of this sluggishness and build up a nice lead heading to the fourth. If not, it’ll be, in the words of the immortal Chick Hearn, “nervous time at the Rose Garden” because the Blazers are one of the best fourth-quarter teams in the league. Look it up.
I’ve been up close for several of their games this season. They are having a tough run lately but they are going to be pumped for this game and they are very dangerous, especially if Roy is back. Nevertheless, I believe that tonight the celebration continues. I’m e-mailing this breakdown to my people to get the good bro energy going. When the game is over, look for my standing ovation of one as the Blazermaniacs file out dejectedly toward their long Max rides home. Listen for those MVP chants too. I’ll be the guy in the gold 32 with the bullhorn made of paper.
Posted by: Jesterguru | February 29, 2008 at 12:58 AM
where would we be with Smush and Kwame..
shudder.
Dwayne Wade..is now.
Wayne WAE.
NO D.....
how anyone can even remotely compare him to kobe's talent is beyond me.
if he is out there..hurt or not..who cares...
Posted by: Lakers4Realz | February 29, 2008 at 12:59 AM
christy,
I know exactly the moment you are referring to, and I noticed it during the game. I remember having exactly the same reaction.
I just LOVE Ronny. His first block was titanic - just tons of effort and a huge vert and swat. Then I looked at the score, and we were up by 15. It's awesome to know that there are dudes on your team who will play exactly the same way whether the game is tied, you're blowing out the other team or you're getting blown out - you know Ronny will be jumping and swatting all the same.
I think everyone here needs to lighten up on Luke. Look, I will be the first to say it - he's playing like garbage lately. But I don't think it's characteristic of him. For whatever reason, he's having a tough year. However, you have to consider that he's only playing the minutes he's been playing right now because Ariza broke his foot and Vlad did whatever to his leg. I think Luke will acknowledge that he's been playing like garbage, if you asked him. But c'mon, this guy is still a Laker. For me, there's a huge difference between someone who's playing badly but is still a great teammate (like Luke) and someone who is an active cancer on your team (Smush). I wouldn't have been so critical of Kwame, had he not had a huge expiring contract that was so instrumental to our team getting better - personally I saw them going for Artest, but I think everyone here will agree that getting Gasol was proof enough of what Kwame's true worth was. If Kwame had three more years on his deal, I would have defended him a lot more, because he was basically a good guy.
So yes, Walton is playing like garbage. Yes, he shouldn't be taking minutes away from guys who are more productive. But rather than tear him down, let's rally around him. Keep the positivity flowing, and it will come back to you.
Posted by: SBPimp | February 29, 2008 at 01:14 AM
HEy FIRE32..
here is one for you buddy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcRnjfUt_Gw&NR=1
D;antoni!..hahaha...mic'd up
Posted by: Lakers4Realz | February 29, 2008 at 01:19 AM
Great game today and no confetti fell too early. The Lakers must realize that they haven't experienced success in Portland for many years. The Blazers community needs this win and just like any small market team the Blazers try to strut their stuff when the Lakers come to town. I predict the Lakers to lose tonight. Yeah that's right I tried hiding it again in this long paragraph. The team needs to focus and not look ahead to Dallas.
Posted by: never | February 29, 2008 at 01:50 AM
TCB
Posted by: man | February 29, 2008 at 01:55 AM
trio,
I'm sorry I wasn't able to predict the score but tonight I predict
101
95
(I'm not telling which team will have those numbers)
Posted by: never | February 29, 2008 at 01:59 AM
Nice job dispatching an inferior team. Lakeshow has gotten pretty good at this lately. The mark of a superior team is taking care of business. Good work.
KOBE FOR MVP!!!
KOBE FOR MVP!!!
KOBE FOR MVP!!!
Posted by: DrewPauKobe | February 29, 2008 at 02:06 AM
Where thank god we god rid of Kwame happens.
Posted by: johnny | February 29, 2008 at 02:20 AM
this is pre-portland game
To listen to the interview with Wafer, click here. To hear the interview with McMillan, click here. And, click here, to listen to the interview with Thompson.
bottom of the page
http://mikebarrettsblog.blogspot.com/2008/02/blazers-lakers-part-ii.html
and the
http://www.nba.com/aroundtheassociation/080228.html
for studs, duds, phil, kobe/wade
and yes,
the pass of kobe is #1 on sportscenter
sorry AK, i did not want to compete, but i was up and the links were already up
roy not playing ...or just their little secret/surprise
have a great day all…
with 12 wins (on sunday), this young teams will scratch the lakers history book ....a preamble to be a champion. i would not call it baby steps, but some steps are always needed ...
Posted by: ZIn Master | February 29, 2008 at 03:05 AM
Farmar the next KOBE....
Posted by: S Viswanathan | February 29, 2008 at 03:43 AM
i didn't like how sasha clapped at jordan to give him the ball. and then sasha made a turnover when trying to pass to luke.
bad machine... bad...
also, didn't stu and joel give him the nickname? why does everyone keep saying that he gave it to himself? did he?
Posted by: wichita | February 29, 2008 at 04:09 AM
We'll see where this team really is this Sunday. If they can take out Dallas, then....wow.
Luke Walton, who has no higher basketball IQ than the average player on the Lakers, played a bit better. But every player stands to have a decent game from time to time (remember, Smush Parker was the 2nd leading scorer for a long stretch for the Lakers...)
Lets see if Luke can string a few good games back to back.
Posted by: troy | February 29, 2008 at 06:16 AM
By the way,
Since Luke did have a few decent baskets and assists last night, you cannot use the tired "he's injured" excuse anymore. Either he can't play well because he's injured, or he can play like he did against the Heat in spite of "injuries".
It's either or...you can't have it both ways.
Posted by: troy | February 29, 2008 at 06:18 AM
How did the Lakers get Gasol without giving up Farmar?
That's remarkable. It's like the Heat not giving up Wade in the Shaq deal.
Thank God other teams were suggesting unreasonable trade scenarios. They could have had any one of our young stars cheap.
We offered Bynum for JO. They wanted Lamar too.
We offered Lamar for JO, they wanted Bynum.
I wouldn't trade Farmar straight up for Kidd right now, let alone Bynum or Odom for JO.
And I want to know--
What team is going to come into Staples in a seven game series and defeat Kobe Bryant and these Lakers? The number teams already is down to five, maybe.
Add in Bynum and maybe two. Maybe.
I love our chances.
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 29, 2008 at 06:47 AM
Excellent game preview by jesterguru! Very nice insight. I hope you have the time of your life at the game, as our Rose Garden woes come to an end.
The talent on this blog very often supercedes what you'll find from "professional" web sites and journalists.
I'm humbled by even posting.
Posted by: 805LakerLove | February 29, 2008 at 07:13 AM
Is this Sasha / Farmar 50% on 3s thing going to continue?
I hope so.
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | February 29, 2008 at 07:37 AM
A couple of comments:
This is aimed mostly at non-local media types, but also to some of the posters here. This has not really been a "break out" season for Sasha, because last year he played pretty well, too. He has been making steady, incremental progress since he came to the Lakers. Give this very impressive coaching staff (who has a proven record of developing players, finding how they best fit in, and winning championships) some credit when they don't give up on someone as soon as you would like.
Overall, the team is playing better now than they were prior to Bynum's injury. That is partly because at this point, Gasol is a better overall player than Bynum (his offensive skills are perfect for the triangle, which offsets Bynum's advantage in rebounding and defense.) At the same time, several other players have picked up their game: Odom's game meshes very well with Gasol's game, and he also benefits from the decreases pressure. Farmar and Vujacic are continuing to improve, and also benefit from the more up-tempo style that the team has been playing lately.
I suspect that PJ will be very careful with how he brings Bynum back in to the rotation. (Several other posters have commented on this, too.)
Posted by: exhelodrvr | February 29, 2008 at 07:38 AM
For the game last night, I will be the first one to commend on Luke Walton's services especially the pass from Kobe to him to LO, a sure two. I would say he was great but not yet excellent. I hope every game is played in this manner, then you won't hear much criticisms here.
What happened to ex-champion Miami Heat? not too long ago Pat Riley was dancing and entertaining the Miami crowd, now he clenched his fist and down, it means we're baaad! Dwayne was only 70% according to sportscasters, in that case how about Kobe? Is he not great playing only with 9 fingers with banged ribs and still going and going, he must be run by bionic batteries, he's no human like Dwayne Wade!
I didn't see Smush on the bench. He must have been given a vacation for having altercation with parking attendant, that one too is a nice life. When he was a Laker, he was paid only for $0.875M run as team's PG for 80 games, all he did was messed up games, raised blood pressures of laker fans, that led to Kobe's rants, divided this blog and put everyone in the organization under pressure to improve. Well, I say Smush was the catalyst (the hero) to all this progress. He was the benchmark in choosing a Laker. It opened F/O eyes never again should they trust journeymen who are devoted to just runnin' and gunnin' w/ no experience to Championship runs. Quoting the title of book of a dictator, "For every tear, a victory."
Tonight is a brand new game with Portland. Lakers will be playing on the road with 8 players and 2 on the bench. Brandon Roy and Lamarcus Aldridge with be playing. The law of probabilities are against the Lakers after winning 10 straight. I sense danger on this road trip, and winning it will test of the mantle of a championship calibre team.
Go forth and play, the hearts and cheers of a million Laker fans go with you all the way.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | February 29, 2008 at 07:39 AM
I probably sound more like an '06 Mavs fan than the long-time Lakers' die hard that I am, but...
Has anyone flagrantly and repeatedly traveled with the rock as much as Wade? Dude makes "The Patrick Ewing" look legit.
I can hear the Ghost of Chick saying "bunny hop in the pea patch!" every single time that Wade makes a move in the paint.
Posted by: The D | February 29, 2008 at 07:41 AM
Random Thoughts: I think one of the keys for this team is that as a group they are all tenacious. Of course Kobe is a killer, but Pau while not that demonstrative seems to have a fire inside - so do Farmar, Fish, Ariza, Sasha and Rony. I think that is why we are seeing them start to control games and push back when the opponent makes a run. If they don't win it all this year they are setting up to become dominant in years to come.
As some have mentioned Kobe getting a team with Smush and Kwame even Cook at times as starters is amazing. Cook is getting a little PT and Kwame and Smush are getting zip playing for two of the worst teams in the league. Maybe Kobe does make players better. Just a thought for those that think of Kobe as a selfish ball hog.
I sure hope Bynum and Ariza - Vlad too - get healthy and can come back with 10 games or so at least. But even with the roster now, they are a threat.
The improvement of the roster - Farmar, Sasha and Bynum etc. sure make Luke look worse. Last year he was an upgrade compared to Smush and Co. but compared to this years squad he is clearly the weakest link of players getting regular pt.
All in all I think Lakers fans should be happy. The team is playing well, is a legit contender and the window for Championships is a lot bigger than any other team in the league. (I do like Portland though once they get Oden they could be pretty scary but I think they will need time since they don't have the Championship experience that the Lakers do.)
All for now.
Eagleboy.
Posted by: Eagleboy | February 29, 2008 at 07:42 AM
jf,
"I'm getting tired of hearing during every Heat game I watch this year that Wade is hurt"
So am I, Dude.. Definitely you are right. I hope everyone knows how to refrain such sentiments to Wade or anybody's player here in the blog..
Posted by: trio | February 29, 2008 at 07:44 AM
I admit, the call for the IP address was extreme. But even KL_Beast - Gunner was called out for using the same email address for posting. That’s all.
At this point, I feel my fourth reply to you has been my fortieth. My Laker family, I apologize for letting this stretch this long.
Best to my Laker Family…
Posted by: Charles | February 28, 2008 at 11:59 PM
Good Morning all.
Charles there is no need to apologise to anyone here. You spoke your mind and stated your opinions. You are entitled.
A troll is a troll even though the troll is a friendly troll he is still a troll. That would be Fire32.
If he is so adadmant about the Funs then post on their blog instead of trying to convert Laker fans to his way of thinking.
Playing nice is sheep wool over wolf's fur.
He says this is the best blog and I agee with him there but thats about it. If he comes to this blog he should refrain from backhanded compliments.
Thats my opinion and I stick by it.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | February 29, 2008 at 07:49 AM
Also, I think that Kobe-Luke-LO all-no-look-break needs to be preserved and entered into every reference book as the definitive description of what basketball is all about.
Just beautiful.
Posted by: The D | February 29, 2008 at 07:49 AM
Never,
No worries dude. Glad to have you back here.. but what's wrong with you now? you sounds different today? Can't tell which Team those numbers now ha?
Go Lakers! Go Kobe!
Posted by: trio | February 29, 2008 at 07:51 AM
wichita -
It's my understanding that Stu and Joel started calling him that tongue-in-cheek, because he called himself that in practice.
Personally I think it's an awesome nickname, not just because of the basketball implications, but because it makes him sound like this tough enforcer or something, and then you see him wearing a hairband and hugging Gasol like they've been cellmates for years. However I wish people would use the full version more, "The Slovene Machine." Much more Ali-esque.
Posted by: SBPimp | February 29, 2008 at 07:53 AM
Good Morning Charles----Good Morning everyone...
Last night was just the type of game I was hoping for---a concentrated effort from end to end...
I really liked seeing Ronny and Pau play together---that needs to happen more---as well as Ronny getting more playing time like he got last night
I think the Lakers finally have that physical PF who rebounds well and is a legitimate shot blocker as well as having the ability to make the mid range jumper---yee frickin' haw!
Positives for Puke: he played about a half a good game--made some of his jumpers (keep practicing brother---cut out the body surfing and live in the gym and shoot mid range jumpers for 8 hours a day or so --body surf after you retire). He also made some great passes and rebounded fairly well. Hopefully he'll chip away at the crappy half of his playing time and keep improving.
I still want to see his contract traded so it will help insure we keep Ronny Sasha and Ariza, but right now we need him to contibute and just not where the good things he does are nulified by the bad---get over the hump Puke, to 60-40 and then keep going from there---the better he can play the remainder of the season, the easier he will be to trade him and his too long contract...
Farmar and Sasha were again excellent--these Lakers have a lot of weapons, and as I have said before, it's just the tip of the old iceberg Captain Smith yee frickin' haw!
Let's get one tonight in Portland--home to folks that enjoy hating the Lakers and one of the most intense Laker hatred mecas in the NBA....
Barkley was choaking on his bile having to say the Lakers were the best team in the West===quality television at it's best...
Have a great day everyone!
GO LAKERS GO!!!
Posted by: Floyd | February 29, 2008 at 07:54 AM
farmars the man, ive always really liked his game now hes showing me why. hope he keeps it up and blossoms in to the next great laker pg.
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | February 29, 2008 at 07:59 AM
Great Game Lakers and great post guys. IF YOU ARE NOT A LAKER FAN PLEASE DON'T POST ON THIS BLOG. We love our team and don't won't to hear any negative stuff about our team.
Posted by: ANTHONY JOHNSON | February 29, 2008 at 08:02 AM
Medical Bulletin Report on ETA of the ff:
1. Vladimir Radmanovic - March 15th (Still taking advantage of the fresh snow pack at Snow Valley.)
2. Andrew Bynum - March 31st (Tired of listening to Kareem's old battles, asked to read his blog as well, edgy in playing with Pau in the limelight, thus, Socks is forgotten)
3. Trevor Ariza - April 30th (He could play by the start of the 2nd round of the playoffs, that is if they could find a strong glue on his broken leg.)
4. Chris Mihm - April or May not sure (Finally, they found the screw on his ankle. He is now on rehab., that's when injuries occur, he exert too much attention on rehab. He will be known as the laker-on-rehab.)
Now that you know the dates, do not ask anymore when will they be available?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | February 29, 2008 at 08:03 AM
AK/BK,
As I see a lot of familiar readers come back to the blog after a brief hiatus, it reminds me of something -- when are we going get some real colors back on this blog?
I still miss the days when it was forum blue and gold! Could we at least include a team logo somewhere?
I know you guys are probably really busy, but I would imagine many of us here would really appreciate it.
Posted by: DK | February 29, 2008 at 08:09 AM
It was reported that the mailman, Karl Malone is being lured to play in the Philippines for Red Bull (beer). That will be great for the PBA league which is the equivalent of NBA there. However, if Malone is serious of chasing a ring, he should make peace with Kobe, hop in to Lakers bandwagon and helped the 2nd unit. He could provide experience and direction to our young guns.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | February 29, 2008 at 08:16 AM
Anybody hear any update on Vlad? I think they'll need him for the game tonight to help out on the longer more athletic Blazers. Anyone else feel that Fisher and Pao are suffering a little without him being on the floor to spread the defense, Odom numbers seem to be a little down as well.
Posted by: Ken | February 29, 2008 at 08:21 AM
Thanks for recognizing JF's high school properly, unlike some writer at the PE.
Wow, talk about total domination last night. PJ said it best when being interviewed by Cheryl. He said something along the lines of, when they are leading and like that they tend to lose focus and mess around.. so he has to put them back on check. (paraphrasing, of course) He guesses thats a coaches role. haha. classic PJ.
There were so many spectacular plays last night, and the fast break behind the back pass Kobe did in the third quarter has to be one of the best highlights of this season. Not to mention that awesome block of Marion's dunk attempt. Wow... 24 more wins to go.
GO LAKERS!
Chris H.
Posted by: Chris H. | February 29, 2008 at 08:30 AM
JustaLakerFan
I appreciate your post bro. I just prefer to close it out now.... Back to Lakers and basketball matters. No use stating points that we as a blog agree with, and one person is insisting on his way.
"Sometimes you can't hit someone with a 10 foot pole."
Regards brother....
Posted by: Charles | February 29, 2008 at 08:33 AM
jesterguru
Very nice post. We be looking for ya.
We could never get our offense going well in the last game.
For a couple of reasons.
1. Odom in foul trouble and on the bench
2. Luke's poor shooting. Portland played off of Luke and clogged the lanes.
Seems to me the refs may have a big say in how the game is played. Portland, quick movement, picks up Lakers fouls. And they are very aggresive in handling Lakers players.
How the game is called may determine the outcome. Not having Radman, the Lakers have to tone down our defense a little.
Not having Roy will hurt the Trailblazers flow over the length of the game. Especially in the 4th.
Portland is motivated by revenge, and they want respect.
The Lakers are motivated by history, and the desire to win a Title.
Both teams will be committed to play hard. The Lakers will win a good game. Blazermania will be put on hold for another time.
Posted by: AN 1 | February 29, 2008 at 08:37 AM
jf,
Getting your numbers doesn't necessarily mean you're healthy. Kobe was playing with a bad knee at the start of last season and was still putting up 26-27 a night and lit up the Clips for about 40 and the Jazz for 50 early in his comeback.
Posted by: Xodus | February 29, 2008 at 08:42 AM
Just want to join the props parade for Farmer who's turning into a terrific 6th man - he has no problem creating for himself even when Kobe's in the game. I think his attitude contributes much to Jackson's willingness to go with a looser, more free-flowing offense - call it turbo triangle.
Posted by: dave m | February 29, 2008 at 08:43 AM