A word on the Agent Zero rumor
I love rumors as much as the next guy. They're fun, allow people like me to play Fantasy GM, and otherwise pretend to be productive while there's real work to be done. But even by that standard, the rumor that the Lakers are interested in bringing in Gilbert Arenas this offseason seems particularly dubious, and makes so little sense it's actually worth commenting on.
"A high-ranking Western Conference executive with knowledge of the situation has told Pro Basketball News that both the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers plan to "strongly pursue" Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas this summer. Arenas is signed through 2009, but has said he will exercise the early termination option in his contract and become a free agent... if the Lakers and Clippers push for him as much as expected, it's likely to result in a sign-and-trade."
If that's the case, the Lakers may be willing to part with forward Lamar Odom and guard Derek Fisher, and/or a few bench players, according to the source (Odom's contract expires at the end of next season)."
Right.
The Clippers I get. That works for them, and given
the potential turnover in their roster the Arenas-in-red-white-and-blue
rumors will be flying this summer. There could be some meat on that bone. But the Lakers? Beyond the idea that I can't
imagine Jerry Buss (or any owner, really) would shell out for a fourth
max/near max player, from a basketball standpoint, does this sound at all plausible? Unless Arenas is going to truly become a pass first PG, is he
really the guy the Lakers need? How many basketballs will they be
allowed to play with? (By the way, if the answer is more than one, they should probably do the deal. Huge, huge advantage offensively.)
There's just too much redundancy between Kobe and Arenas in their respective skill sets for this to make sense. The idea is to build a great team, not put together a video game squad. With a core of Kobe, Bynum, and Gasol, the Lakers will have plenty of star power. They'll need to find the right mix of role guys to make the rest work. Maybe Odom is a part of that long term. He certainly seems to like life with Gasol in the lineup, and there's no reason to think he'll be any worse once Bynum comes back. Either way, swapping him out for Agent Zero isn't the right way to go.
I say this, of course, despite knowing how much easier my life would get by having Arenas available for quotes on a daily basis, so you know I must be serious.
BK
I think its safe to say this is indeed a rumour, because as past history has proven, any moves the Lakers make always come out of nowhere.
Good Job Mitch...........
Posted by: GO Rakers | March 18, 2008 at 11:05 AM
DO NOT WANT
Posted by: samski | March 18, 2008 at 11:07 AM
AK
My prevoius point exactly..........how many basketballs would they need on the court at one time? It makes no sense except for the quotes and blog ink he'd bring.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: toad | March 18, 2008 at 11:10 AM
This is a bunch on bull. Arenas is a great player but he's definitely not a pass first player and that just doesn't work with the triangle. Not to mention that we have one of the youngest and most talented teams in the league right now and we'll be competing for many more years. With all the good teams getting older (Spurs, Celtics, etc.) we can become a dynasty team. We don't need Arenas!!
And by the way, there is no way in hell we trade Fish to any team for any player and I don't care how old he is. What he brings in terms of leadership on and off the court is something we can't buy with 3 Arenas's. We're a young team and we need Fish's leadership.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | March 18, 2008 at 11:13 AM
*______________________________________________*
Tuesday March 18, 2008 The Force is slightly off balance
The Lakers are not in 1st Place & Dallas awaits Not Good
*______________________________________________*
Good Morning CHARLES - Good Morning COMPTONS FINEST
Good Morning TALIQ Good Morning LAKERTRUTH
Good Morning EXHELODRVR Good Morning “PIG” MILLER
GOOD MORNING LAKER NATION!!
GAMMMMMMMMMMMME DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY
NO PREDICTIONS NO COCKINESS PUT YOUR GAME FACES
ON AND JUST GO OUT AND SEEK AND DESTROY.
*___________________________________________________*
* NOTE *********
The roll call will be on vacation until the playoffs unless there is
an urgent need for a rallying call before then. Bandwagons will
remain unchanged, additions and submissions whenever
requested.
_________________________________________________*
*
And Now Introducing THE BENCHMOB :
(03) Trevor Ariza (05) Jordan Farmar (01) Coby Karl
(10) Vladamir Radmanovic , (28) Didier Ilunga-Mbenga
(21) Ronny Turiaf (08) SashaVujacic (4) Luke Walton
*
Now The Starting Lineup For The 14 TIME WORLD CHAMPION LA LAKERS:
At center number 17 ANDREW BYNUMMMMMMMMM
At forward number 16 PAU GASOLLLLLLLLL
At forward number 7 LAMAR ODOMMMMMMMMMM
At guard number 2 DEREK FISHERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
At guard number 24 KOOOBEEEEE BRYYYANTTTTTT}
*
ROLLLLLLL CALLLLLLLLL LAKER NATION SOUND OFF: JON K., DELILAH
*
(1) FAITH, JC, KEIFO, THA_SHOW, VMAN. JJ., CHARLES, BOB, EDWIN GUECO
TALIQ, WESJOENIXON, MIKE T, ZAKEE, CLEON, SBPIMP, TAOSHUM, TSIRY
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TSPHERE, JANAYA, RDLEE, ELLE utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER
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HUGOBOSS, COMPLEX_BROTHA, GENERIC_ONE, HOBBITMAGE,THE_D. JOON
FIRE32, GIANTSQUID, TOAD, , BOTSOY, 33 STRAIGHT WINS, JOON ,TAOSHUM,
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YOU EVER NOTICE ? AKR68, PW, FIRE32, LAKERFAN, MAMBA#5, MEL, CBUCK
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*
ALL TOGETHER NOW:
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS THE WINNERS OF 14
SOON TO BE 15 NBA TITLES. THE TEAM WITH THE BEST
WINNING PERCENTAGE IN NBA HISTORY. THE HOME OF WILT
KAREEM, GEORGE MIKAN, SHAQ, MAGIC, KOBE, ELGIN BAYLOR,
THE LOGO(JERRY WEST), PAT RILEY, JAMES WORTHY,
BOB MCADOO, "BIG SHOT ROB HORRY" GAIL GOODRICH
THE LEGENDARY SPORTSCASTER CHICK HEARNS .
COACHED BY THE 9 TIME TITLE WINNER PHIL (9RINGS) JACKSON
& OWNED BY THE BEST D@MN OWNER IN SPORTS DR. JERRY BUSS
AND THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN EVER DEFEAT OR DIVIDE US IS US
Posted by: MAMBA24 | March 18, 2008 at 11:14 AM
Mamba,
We need to start the WE DON'T WANT ARENAS bandwagon and you can put me up there first.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | March 18, 2008 at 11:20 AM
Isn't Gilbert Arenas a defensive specialist?
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | March 18, 2008 at 11:20 AM
There are enough balls to go around. Arenas has as good a drive and kick game as any. He's been more drive and shoot out of necessity, but we do forget that he has played college ball at a very good program. I'm sure there's a point guard in there somewhere.
As for chemistry with Kobe, Kobe only wants to see that you fight back or press as hard as he does. Gil does that. Additionally, he's as approachable a person as any, so the I don't think the locker room would be divided or anything.
Financially and roster-wise, I'd have to see what we give up. But I am not against this trade. Kobe can drive and finish, Gil can drive, finish, or pass, and Gasol or Bynum can pass and finish as well. It would be an upgrade from our current guards (except for Kobe of course).
If there is any truth to it, I don't see why not. We need as aggresive a point guard we can find, one who has the confidence to play with Kobe. As much as Gil is a shoot-first PG, he's still a point guard as opposed to short guys like AI that are shooting guards first.
Let's not forget that Kobe wanted Baron Davis here too. B Diddy and Gil have similar mentalities.
Posted by: #4 | March 18, 2008 at 11:30 AM
Wow, that would be incredibly stupid. I think Arenas brings a lot ot the table, but this is one of the teams it wouldn't make sense.
Now, the Clippers, you're right, that would make a lot of sense. Especially if they can keep Brand, that line-up would be pretty good.
Posted by: Michael A | March 18, 2008 at 11:31 AM
Its a good idea considering Kobe might opt out next summer. But it will be a good fit for the Lakers though. If they are going to fail to in the first round again, maybe Mitch might think about it.
Arenas ($11,950,400) and Darius Songalia($3,942,000) for Odom($13,248,596) and Sasha Vujacic($1,756,951) might do it.
Possible first 5 next year
PG- Arenas
SG- Kobe
SF- Ariza
PF- Gasol
C- Bynum
reserves Fish, Farmar, Radmanovic, Walton, Mihm, Turiaf, Karl, Songalia
Posted by: Botsoy | March 18, 2008 at 11:32 AM
arenas thats a NO.........not with the triangle.
allez lakers!!
Posted by: | March 18, 2008 at 11:32 AM
*______________________________________*
WE DON'T NEED AGENT ZERO BANDWAGON
*______________________________________*
(01) EAST COAST JESSIE - Owner & Driver
(02) MAMBA24 - Riding Shotgun
Posted by: Mamba24 | March 18, 2008 at 11:37 AM
mamba 24,
could you add me to roll call? i was on a different one but not this one. i was listening to ice cubes roll call yesterday and thought of you and the blog.
as far as arenas, i hope he goes to the clippers, it will make them entertaining with agent 0, al thornton, and oj mayo (hoppefully they draft him). we dont need another scorer, 3 stars is PLENTY, 2 was plenty when we had shaq.
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | March 18, 2008 at 11:37 AM
And how about the fact that we would NEVER trade Derek Fisher? Given the fact that he came back because of his daughter's situation, I think he's the most untouchable player on the team.
Posted by: Tangerine | March 18, 2008 at 11:39 AM
The triangle asks that each player be a threat to score. It doesn't ask for a point guard to run things. He would fit in the triangle because he's not as timid to take the shot and more importantly, make the shot.
I think we have to get away from assuming that the triangle needs those glue guys for it to run right. It needs players to be able to use the structure. Therein lies its strength, really. Space enough for gifted players to operate, movement and spacing for those who cannot create shots for themselves.
Posted by: #4 | March 18, 2008 at 11:39 AM
Does anyone know if he still has his blog? I wonder what Gilbert thinks of these rumors.
Posted by: #4 | March 18, 2008 at 11:41 AM
*_______________________________________*
WE DON’T NEED AGENT ZERO BANDWAGON
*_______________________________________*
(01) EAST COAST JESSIE – Owner & Driver
(02) MAMBA24 – Riding ShotGun
(03) SAMSKI – Director of Security
(04) TOAD - Director Defense
(05) MICHAEL A. Director Planning & Analysis
Posted by: Mamba24 | March 18, 2008 at 11:42 AM
Brand and GA on the Clips makes for a monster squad.
GA as a Laker would be incredible! But, it won't make enough financial sense.
Plus, Mitch's moves aren't revealed until they are already consummated. The fact that this got out (if true) means that it is a dead issue.
--FearlessWhackJob
Posted by: FearlessWhackJob | March 18, 2008 at 11:47 AM
Clyde had his Terry Porter and Isiah had his Dumars...
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | March 18, 2008 at 11:48 AM
*_______________________________________*
WE DON’T NEED AGENT ZERO BANDWAGON
*_______________________________________*
(01) EAST COAST JESSIE – Owner & Driver
(02) MAMBA24 – Riding ShotGun but wavering
(03) SAMSKI – Director of Security
(04) TOAD - Director Defense
(05) MICHAEL A. Director Planning & Analysis
(06) MRBARNEYDANGLES - Director of Staples Center
(07) TANGERINE - Reports directly to Mitch
Posted by: mamba24 | March 18, 2008 at 11:53 AM
I'm starting to lean toward maybe looking into the possibility of considering to think about the benifits of cashing in on the Lamar chip after the season...
Maybe...
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | March 18, 2008 at 11:53 AM
Ugh! Hibachi?? No thank you!!! There isn't room for that guy and his ego on the team plane, let alone the team.
...just...ugh. Plus, we never should have given up Fish in the first place. Now we'll consider doing it again?
Another reason I just thought of that this doesn't make sense--isn't Fisher here for his daugher's health? What kind of ***holes would Lakers management be by trading him??
Bottom line -- not happening.
Posted by: Luke | March 18, 2008 at 11:54 AM
Hmmm...I really don't think that this has any chance of happening. But, I do think that if he is committed to doing what it take to win a championship, which I'm not sure he is, Arenas' skill set is more or less irrelevant.
"Pass first" and whatnot are irrelevant when a team is genuinely committed to winning. We have a good enough coaching staff that we can utilize all sorts of skill sets to get it done. And talent rules the NBA as long as there's no locker room cancer. He and Kobe would be fine if they both just want to win. Obviously if Zero only wants media exposure and doesn't work hard or whatever, there would be huge problems.
That said, unless we can really steal him (and we'd have to, because others will likely offer more), I'm not sure that this would make us much better. Especially considering Lamar's recent good play; and better passing, size and rebounding; and the fact that on paper we're the best team in the league when healthy anyway.
The idea of trading for a tough defensive 3 seems more in line with our needs. Unless Ariza makes a leap in the offseason, or we just stick with Lamar who is hugely above average as the fourth best player on any team in the league.
Blah, blah, silly rumors.
Does anyone else feel like tonight may be our best chance to win on this road trip?
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Cameron | March 18, 2008 at 11:54 AM
Not a good fit for this team. I agree with Gil's ability to take on the challenge of playing with Kobe, but his skills are not complementary, unless he takes a reduced role. I do like the fact that he has a sweet stroke and can fill it up on any given night.
Maybe I'll change my mind, but right now it just doesn't seem like a good idea.
Pig
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | March 18, 2008 at 11:55 AM
Agent O in Hollywood, he'd never pass that up... Be it the Lakers or the Clips. He'd make that move, question is will either team be knocking on his door in a few months? I think it comes down to how the Lakers finish the season and how deep they go in the playoffs. Another quick exit and YES Mitch will be working the phones, if we do well there'd be no major logic to ship out L.O. for anyone. I'm sure L.O. feels some pressure to wrap this year up with a BANG!
Posted by: LakerFaze | March 18, 2008 at 11:56 AM
Mamba24 - no more roll call until the playoffs???!! Not good - not fair - not POSSIBLE!!!!!
PLEASE - explain what's up!!!
WE NEED ROLL-CALL - gets the juices flowing on game day!!!!
Don't deprive us of our morning invigorations!
Mamba24
Roll call to go for awhile
Please say it ain't so
Posted by: justanothermambafan | March 18, 2008 at 11:57 AM
im getting antsy for tonights game, we really need to come out hot and play tough defense. i dont think kobe will let us lose 3 straight games. i just hope his shot isnt flat tonight. were going to come out blazing.
also, im confused on when gasol is comming back. ive heard hes just missing this road trip and ive heard he missing two weeks. im going to the game against golden state on sunday, hes most likely not going to be playing huh?
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | March 18, 2008 at 11:59 AM
Luke
I'm a huge D-Fish fan for more than a couple reasons. But hanging on to Fisher to pass on Arenas is like Keeping Luke Walton and passing on Lebron James..
Faze
Posted by: LakerFaze | March 18, 2008 at 12:00 PM
I don't see it happening, and if there was a possibility, I still wouldn't do it. Not because of Arena's talent, but because that he has such a man-crush on Kobe, it could turn into the NBA version of Talented Mr. Ripley. I wouldn't be surprised if he would try to wear the number 8. Watch your back Kobe!!!
:P
Posted by: Lakers Legacy | March 18, 2008 at 12:02 PM
The best rumor of them all
AGENT ZERO - A LAKER WOW....I adore you Mr. Kupchak.
Guaranteed - 70 wins
Fisher
Kobe
Arenas
Gasol
Bynum
BOOM. let us celebrate the parade now for June 2009!!!!!!
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 18, 2008 at 12:04 PM
Ooops, I missed that part wherein Fisher is included in the deal. Can we just include Luke instead, he's much taller and with a higher IQ than Fisher? Silly, but again it is just a rumor.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 18, 2008 at 12:08 PM
JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN:"- no more roll call until the playoffs???!! Not good - not fair - not POSSIBLE!!!!!
PLEASE - explain what's up!!!"
We don't want to peak before the playoffs. So when
the playoffs come it will give us that extra burst we
need. LOL!
*_______________________________________*
WE DON’T NEED AGENT ZERO BANDWAGON
*_______________________________________*
(01) EAST COAST JESSIE – Owner & Driver
(02) MAMBA24 – Riding ShotGun but wavering
(03) SAMSKI – Director of Security
(04) TOAD - Director Defense
(05) MICHAEL A. Director Planning & Analysis
(06) MRBARNEYDANGLES - Director of Staples Center
(07) TANGERINE - Reports directly to Mitch
(08) LUKE - Route Director
Posted by: Mamba24 | March 18, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Lakerfaze - it's got nothing to do with nostalgia. Do YOU wanna be the one who tells Fish "Hey, thanks for the great year, and all, glad you gave up money to come here and take care of your daughter, but we're gonna trade you so we can get a better PG. Hope you can still get good cancer treatment in Washington, D.C."
yeah, that's what I thought.
Posted by: Luke | March 18, 2008 at 12:11 PM
Thank you #4, my sentiments exactly. How many balls will we need? Well, how many do Melo and A.I. use? Just one, I believe. And the critics said the same thing about that pairing.
The only problem - the freaking Clippers. With Magette and Brand opting out and Baldie already gone, Sterling will be at Agemt O's agent's office the moment Gil opts out with his check book wide open.
So, clear away whoever to make salary cap room for Agent O. With Arenas and Kobe, Gasol, Bynum and Ariza, that's an NBA Championship lineup.
Posted by: lotecq | March 18, 2008 at 12:17 PM
*_______________________________________*
WE DON’T NEED AGENT ZERO BANDWAGON
*_______________________________________*
(01) EAST COAST JESSIE – Owner & Driver
(02) MAMBA24 – Riding ShotGun but wavering
(03) SAMSKI – Director of Security
(04) TOAD - Director Defense
(05) MICHAEL A. Director Planning & Analysis
(06) MRBARNEYDANGLES - Director of Staples Center
(07) TANGERINE - Reports directly to Mitch
(08) LUKE - Route Director
(09) Director - of Watching Kobe's back
Posted by: mamba24 | March 18, 2008 at 12:19 PM
This is a question I have to have answered:
Vlad held McGrady to 1 basket thru 3 quarters and then didnt even play again until junk time, which makes me wonder why Vlad cant get anytime in the 4th? If he's good enough to start why isnt he good enough too finish? He was part of that terrific run they had in the 3rd, then nothing???????????????????????? Somebody please ask Phil why?
Posted by: Ken | March 18, 2008 at 12:23 PM
also....we already have a homegrown pg from LA...FARMAR, future starting pg of the lakers YEA
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | March 18, 2008 at 12:25 PM
Mamba24 - oh, I get it now! You're mirroring the actions of PJ himself - keep the team balanced until playoffs & then LET IT ALL HANG OUT!!!
Same with us - keep us balanced but on the edge, and when the playoffs get here - WATCH OUT!!!!
LOVE IT - thanks!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | March 18, 2008 at 12:27 PM
If his Knee is OK, it wouldn't be bad to have someone else on the court who can get a shot whenever they want.. He would be a good #3 scoring option..
You have to remember that Phil and Tex believe the triangle offense is what wins championships. They believe that having a "little better" than average defensive team with great offense is what wins in this league. Why do you think the Lakers have ALWAYS been bad at the pick and roll in the Phil Jackson era? It's not always the players...I believe it's made to be a perceived weakness and then when the Lakers make adjustments (when it counts), the team has no other weakness to go after because they were so fixed on our pick and roll weaknesses.
The coaching staff puts a major priority on some defense, but it's mainly the offense they are concerned about because they feel it can't be stopped when you have talented offensive players.
Just like Kenny Smith said, "Last time I checked, the team that wins scored more points then you."
So why haven't the Phoenix Suns won anything? Because they played no defense at all. Like I said, you need to be a little above average defensive team and a great offensive team. The only teams Phil Jackson had that put more of a priority of defense was the Bulls and that was only because they had 3 great defensive minded players on that team. Defense is secondary to his offense..
Posted by: zen | March 18, 2008 at 12:29 PM
You're the best Mamba. Good to see I have some riders.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | March 18, 2008 at 12:33 PM
JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN:"You're mirroring the actions of PJ himself - keep the team balanced until playoffs & then LET IT ALL HANG OUT!!!"
J.A.MAMBAFAN, THANK YOU! That is what I was trying
to say but you expressed it so much better.
Posted by: Mamba24 | March 18, 2008 at 12:35 PM
Arenas, a.k.a. Agent Zero, is high on breaking opponents down one-on-one, but low on team chemistry. We need more low-key, business-minded players with single purpose of playing competitive basketball. All of the tabloid or histrionic stuff that Arenas is known for would be something the organization can eschew, because of the disruption to the team concept. Team-oriented guys like Lamar and D-Fish are rare commodities in the Association, and it would be judicious for the front-office folks to refrain from making such alleged trade.
Posted by: Rollo Tomassi | March 18, 2008 at 12:37 PM
DALLAS MAVS WILL BEAt L.A DOWN
Posted by: DALLAS_TX | March 18, 2008 at 12:37 PM
Arenas is one of my favorite basketball players. Heck, my rec league basketball team last season was named "Hibachi!"
But I agree that we don't need him on my favorite TEAM. I hope he lands with the Clips. That way, I can finally wear my Gil Arenas Arizona jersey!!
Posted by: Wasabi | March 18, 2008 at 12:38 PM
EAST COAST JESSIE, ANY BANDWAGON YOU DRIVE
WILL ALWAYS BE FULL.
*_______________________________________*
WE DON’T NEED AGENT ZERO BANDWAGON
*_______________________________________*
(01) EAST COAST JESSIE – Owner & Driver
(02) MAMBA24 – Riding ShotGun but wavering
(03) SAMSKI – Director of Security
(04) TOAD - Director Defense
(05) MICHAEL A. Director Planning & Analysis
(06) MRBARNEYDANGLES - Director of Staples Center
(07) TANGERINE - Reports directly to Mitch
(08) LUKE - Route Director
(09) Laker Legacy - Director - of Watching Kobe's back
(10) WASABI - Director of Recruiting
(11) ROLLO TOMASSI - Director of Payroll
Posted by: Mamba24 | March 18, 2008 at 12:47 PM
The only thing the Lakers need to add to their roster is
Dit Da Jow.
Posted by: Vman | March 18, 2008 at 12:48 PM
aadd me to the dont need em bandwagon.
Posted by: new jersey steve | March 18, 2008 at 12:50 PM
That's what I'm saying Rollo...just a few more seriously defensive minded guys who can shut down other players when we need them to. We've got our offense down pat...just need some additional defense and we'ree good to go.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | March 18, 2008 at 12:50 PM
And how about the fact that we would NEVER trade Derek Fisher? Given the fact that he came back because of his daughter's situation, I think he's the most untouchable player on the team.
Posted by: Tangerine | March 18, 2008 at 11:39 AM
sorry, lakers r not playing got the "Humanity Award"–see, fish, ronny, karl .... winning an NBA title is about business
And by the way, there is no way in hell we trade Fish to any team for any player and I don't care how old he is. What he brings in terms of leadership on and off the court is something we can't buy with 3 Arenas's. We're a young team and we need Fish's leadership.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | March 18, 2008 at 11:13 AM
for the past 2-3 weeks, fish just jacked up shots beyond the arc penetrated and got blocked. how many assists. if you consider his post game lame political excuses and no D, that's indeed leadership. it looked good at the beginning of the season but this team evolved and the standards r different. the only evolution fish had is in age. much older and slower?!
and yes, i do not like arenas. just another clown. or punk. read his immature blogging. and 50+ games statements. still waiting.
Posted by: | March 18, 2008 at 01:03 PM
I can't wait for the NBA offseason. It's going to be so sick. Here's what should happen:
Brand opts out of Clippers. Signs with the Heat. The Heat draft either Rose or Beasley. I'm guessing the Heat dont get the 1 pick because of luck. They get the second pick. That means they get Rose.
PG Rose
SG Wade
SF D. Wright
PF Haslem
C Brand
The Grizz probably get the top pick and draft Beasley.
PG Conley
SG Miller
SF Gay
PF Beasley
C Milicic
Then they trade Conley, Miller to Portland for LaMarcus Aldridge.
Grizz
PG Crittenton
SG Gay
SF Beasley
PF Aldridge
C Milicic
Portland
PG Conley
SG Roy
SF Miller
PF Outlaw
C Oden
Gilbert Arenas on the Clippers. Then they draft OJ Mayo.
PG Arenas
SG Mayo
SF Thorton
PF Kristic (sign through free agency)
C Kaman
That's a team I'd watch. If I cant afford Laker tickets, then I'll catch a Clippers game with that line-up.
The Magic sign Corey Maggette, after their expiring contracts dissappear
PG Nelson
SG Maggette
SF Turkoglu
PF R. Lewis
C Howard
Then in moves that wont happen, but would be pretty sick if it did
The Sonics draft DJ Augustin, sign Shawn Marion
PG Augustin
SG Durant
SF J. Green
PF Marion
C Wilcox
Then the T'Wolves draft Russell Westrbook and make a run at Okafor
PG Foye
SG Westbrook
SF Brewer
PF Okafor
C Jefferson
Posted by: The Lake Show | March 18, 2008 at 01:18 PM
Fish is currently enjoying the best season of his career in terms of scoring, shooting, three pt %, and people actually think he is a bad player. How fickle fans can be.
Hey Mamba,
I think it's time for my first official bandwagon request. I'd like to start the "Andrew Bynum will be referred to as simply THE BEAST from now on" bandwagon. Maybe I'll get some hangers on. Maybe not. That's what I'm calling him from now on.
He is a Beast. I can't wait to get him back, and oh man . . . next season is really gonna be fun.
Pig
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | March 18, 2008 at 01:18 PM
I'd rather get Ron Artest in the off season than Agent Zero.
Posted by: xtro | March 18, 2008 at 01:21 PM
Arenas is not a clown or a punk. Hes just having fun being an NBA player, which sorry people is not life or death. Its a game. Second...how many athletes you know take time to write a blog?? Something that takes some skill or ability to write???
Im tired of some people who just run their mouths attacking athlets. Just like people who diss Vince Carter. Did you guys know that Carter chose to attend his college graduation even though it meant barely making to Game 7 of the eastern conference playoffs? People say he has a bad attitude or he's whack or whatever...but im sorry thats the biggest coolest thing any NBA player has done in the decade. In my book and it should be your book too...nothing Kobe has done will ever top the move made by Vince Carter.
Posted by: The Lake Show | March 18, 2008 at 01:21 PM
best video game squad ever:
PG kobe.
SG caron butler (via trade of odom to washington)
SF Ariza
PF gasol
C bynum.
Posted by: KOBYKARL.COM | March 18, 2008 at 01:27 PM
Mamba...
What's up wit that... I'm not on the "roll call" anymore??
Posted by: cdub0512 | March 18, 2008 at 01:29 PM
I sort of now agree with the blogger who noted that Mitch has developed an M.O. of sorts wherein he has been practicing the element of surprise in terms of personnel changes.So it truly would be out of character to hear rumblings about Arenas and the LAKERs, like now... I have got to believe right now the suits are more so focused on THIS YEAR and getting our guys back healthy so we can truly compete in the playoffs....
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 18, 2008 at 01:30 PM
I love the Lakers so much, but when we lose I tell you, I, for one, cannot stand to come on to the blog and read anything about the team, especially negative. That's including the blog and def no Sportscenter or NBATV..No way..I am too heated and then I get madd that I have stayed up sooo late (I am on the East Coast) to watch and only have them lose! But yeah, I will wait a day or so or until the next game & try and get revved up for that one, but I seriously cannot stomach all the back&forth when we lose..I just be like, lets move on and not talk about it..I guess i am a sore loser..But hell, it hurts to lose..I can just imagine how the players feel as they are the ones on payroll! lol
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 18, 2008 at 01:34 PM
Jump to Philly for a few, and the whole thing comes pretty near unglued --- wtf?
I'm just glad it was not Lamar's foot that took down Pau or we'd have the pitch forks out.
Damn these games are important ... we need this in the worst way. Can anyone voodoo Dirk into a pretzel?
4 games separate 1st and 8th ... I'm a reck over here!
Posted by: HmrHed | March 18, 2008 at 01:36 PM
lotecq, I suspect Brand will still be a Clipper next year. Unless Stirling loses his mind again.
Posted by: Michael A | March 18, 2008 at 01:39 PM
I'd rather they go after Brand.
Posted by: SamII | March 18, 2008 at 01:51 PM
Ooops... I spoke too soon... forget Brand, they already have Pau. Arenas just does not fit in with the team they're trying to build... he's not a pass-first PG. I'm satisfied with Farmar at the moment. After all, he's only in his second year. If they could upgrade at the SF position, that would round out the team.
Posted by: SamII | March 18, 2008 at 01:56 PM
Mamba... add me to the - WE DON’T NEED AGENT ZERO BANDWAGON!
Posted by: keifo | March 18, 2008 at 01:56 PM
Hoping the Clippers can get him. Hoping the Lakers can stay away from him.
Posted by: Johnson | March 18, 2008 at 02:01 PM
Check One Check Two!
Charles in this motha! Sorry guys for the late afternoon post.
Pig all good man...
Mamba24, Thanks always for the roll call.
As far as the Agent 0 pick up. it would be more of a glamor move that chemistry move. If you take a look at an older Iverson trying to blend with Mello, it hasn't resulted well in the playoffs. I would be scared of the lack of ball movement.
If they were to trade Fish, I would hope that DC some facilities can accommodate Tatum's condition, unless she would be in remission. Otherwise, this is a business.
I would love to sign an athletic defensive minded 3 that can shoot on the perimeter. But we would have a crowded bunch of tweeners for the 3-4 spots. (Walton, Vlad, & Lamar)
Have a good one brothers and sisters...
Posted by: Charles | March 18, 2008 at 02:06 PM
http://tinyurl.com/2w64kf
Sorry if you guys have read it already!
Posted by: Charles | March 18, 2008 at 02:08 PM
smush got a shout out in todays daily dime on espn.com....as the worst performer last night. hahahaha
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | March 18, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Gilbert is great, but he's a gimpy playa. Don't sign him and keep Fisher. Agent Zero can make shots but he can't make a complete season!
As for Kobe, I've never seen anyone play such effective D on him as shane battier. Can the lakers sign him? They need some defensive help.
Is anyone else seeing the irony of Gasol? Kobe apparently wanted to run his own team so Shack had to go...Kobe then had no success running his own team, while Shack won a title with the closest thing to MJ, Dwade.. So now Gasol (and maybe bynum) are giving the lakers a viable center to run the offense through, instead of kobe.
Chris Paul is the MVP, with Nash a close 2nd. In terms of pure worth to the team, as they are both distributors.
Posted by: BUTLER | March 18, 2008 at 02:13 PM
mamba24 - hey, we've been missing you on azcentral. You were on all the time it seems, when your team was on a roll. You kept saying that the parade route was already planned for downtown LA. C'mon back!
Posted by: BUTLER | March 18, 2008 at 02:16 PM
Mamba24 - I'm with Pig - put me on the "Bynum will now and forever more be known as THE BEAST" bandwagon. I'll bring the liquid sea minerals and dit da jow just in case of any future mishaps.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | March 18, 2008 at 02:16 PM
Present for the roll call today and present when it returns at playoff time.
And, Mamba, I don't know if you listen to Dan Patrick ever but you can add Reginald Aloicious Miller to the Lakers championship bandwagon.
Posted by: Jesterguru | March 18, 2008 at 02:20 PM
Pig Miller,
I think they gave the Beast name to Dwight Howard. Would you consider Baby Beast for our Baby Bynum? LOL
Posted by: SamII | March 18, 2008 at 02:33 PM
HAS LOS ANGELES BECOME THE BALL HOG CITY?
GOT ONE BALL HOG IN KOBE AND NOW WE ARE TRYING TO GET ANOTHER ONE?
BYNUM, GASOL, AND OTHERS WILL NEVER SEE THE ROCK IF WE HAVE TWO HOGS RUNNING WILD IN STAPLES.
Just ask Denver how they are doing with Melo and A.I. ball hogging every night. May not even make the playoffs!
Posted by: Gunner | March 18, 2008 at 02:36 PM
BK,
No! this is no rumor!
I saw Jerry Buss riding the tea cups at disneyland yesterday, and he told me that "it was definite" that Arenas is coming to La La Land. He then proceded to finish his cotton candy, gave his number to the 19 year old chick working the popcorn machines. He then said "greek dude, let the public know what I have told you, they must know."
That is my recollection. There might be one or maybe two slight exaggerations, but for the most part, it is all true.
Posted by: greek dude | March 18, 2008 at 02:44 PM
BK: "How many basketballs will they be allowed to play with? (By the way, if the answer is more than one, they should probably do the deal...)
You know, until you said that, I never really gave it a thought, but can you imagine how entertaining that would be, even if it was just a charity game? If Team 1 had the ball, imagine the Globetrotter-esque weaves it could do with two balls. Then think of the chaos when both teams have the ball. Who's the designated defender(s). This would be amazing. Then, I now I'm just getting giddy and selfish, picture Medvedenko and Wafer in the mix.
Sign me up for a sizable donation to the charity that can sponsor such a game.
Posted by: Marty | March 18, 2008 at 02:44 PM
Michael A,
You can forget Elton Brand! He already has his bags packed for Miami. Guaranteed!
Posted by: zen | March 18, 2008 at 02:45 PM
Yummy! Arizona troll meat. I love locally grown livestock.
"the closest thing to MJ, Dwade"
HAHAHAHAHA!!!!!! That might be the smartest thing anyo...wait no it's the SILLIEST thing I've ever read on any blog ever! The next time DWade leads the league in scoring while taking a team of D-Leaguers to the playoffs, he might begin to approach maybe being in the same conversation as Kobe, and is certainly a long way from being in any convo considering MJ.
"Chris Paul is the MVP, with Nash a close 2nd. In terms of pure worth to the team, as they are both distributors."
I'll concede that Paul is a candidate, but your statement about Nash is as purely homer as it can get. You must have only local stations available under the bridge you live beneath. Perhaps your troll cable only tunes into Fox Sports AZ? Steve Nash is averaging the worst turnover to assist ratio in his career, and his team is currently 5th in the conference. There are at least four other candidates in just his CONFERENCE that deserve it more, let alone the entire league.
Go back to AzCentral blog and play with NEJey and all of the other Funs trolls over there.
MMMMMMMMMMMMMM . . . . . . Tasty!
Pig
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | March 18, 2008 at 02:46 PM
It is hard to develop a basketball player and turn them into Arenas, Kobe or Gasol. They are a dime in a dozen. Once you find a good shooter, it is easy to teach him how to defend because he is aware immediately of his responsibilities. Judging Arenas on his superstar at Wizzards is a wrong premise because if he joins the Lakers, he shares the ball with Kobe, Gasol, Bynum, and/or a nimble PG not named Farmar (Farmar is a mere 2nd stringer at this time), I believe that is the dream of any coaching staff. You can devise multiple strategies with talented players. This like possesing the USMC Elite Force, Navy Seal or the US Army Delta Force. They are the creme de la creme' of NBA players. This is an OLYMPIC line-up. Defense will come by natural instincts and learn during the preseason.
Secondly, Arenas is local Southern Claifornia product. This blog will just have to reintroduce with our local talents. With regards to the concern of him as a ball hog, shoot first before pass, not in sync with Kobe -- forget those intrigues, you're jumping to conclusions and playing as an armchairCoach. Leave those minutiae to their coach, PJ. He can easily teach them the mission but he can't teach basketball ability to effectively score a point. Showtime Lakers are back with that line up
1 Arenas/Farmar or Karl
2 Kobe/Sasha
3 Ariza/Vlad
4 Gasol/Turiaf
5 Bynum/Mihm or Mbenga
Mamba24, no need of bandwagon to separate the believers from non-believers. The non-believers will just watch the parade on TV. lol!
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 18, 2008 at 02:46 PM
I really like Agent Zero, but I think BK makes a very valid point. Redundancy of skills does breed a great team. It kind of sucks that this rumor came out as it did in the sense that it cannot improve Lakers team chemistry. Few people perform better with the Sword of Damocles hanging over their head.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | March 18, 2008 at 02:47 PM
Dwight Howard's nickname changed when he put on that cape during the dunk contest.
Look . . . Up in the air . . . it's a bird . . . it's a plane . . . no . . . it's SUUUPPPPPPPEEEERRRRMMMMMAAAAANNNNNN!!!
That's Dwight Howard.
Young Andrew on the other hand . . . will be dominating like THE BEAST that he is whence he returns.
Pig
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | March 18, 2008 at 02:49 PM
I think the Wiz have realized that they play better as a team without one guy dominating the offense - Id have to think the Wiz would want a PG in any trade not Odom but since Odom can run the offense why not.
And there is no reason to think Kobe couldnt play with Arenas or vice versa, unless one or both of those players are selfish players and not willing to play team basketball. On the other hand, does this mean the Lakers arent convinced that Kobe will opt out?
Posted by: | March 18, 2008 at 02:51 PM
hahahaha where was gunner during the first half of the season. pops out of nowhere...haha
Posted by: greek dude | March 18, 2008 at 02:52 PM
BK- He certainly seems to like life with Gasol in the lineup, and there's no reason to think he'll be any worse once Bynum comes back
Actually there is reason to think Odom will be worse if Bynum and Gasol are starting and he has to move to SF, that experiment failed earlier this year and Odom was moved back to PF. Granted you can argue Odom was injured but Odom has been more successful in recent years playing PF not SF.
Posted by: Laker Lover | March 18, 2008 at 02:54 PM
AK/BK,
did you guys ever get a response from Cuban?
How will you cover the game tonight with the ban in effect?
Posted by: Lakers Legacy | March 18, 2008 at 03:01 PM
Luke
Again, I love D-fish, he's a players -player!
I like your loyalty but if Dr. Buss put Kobe on the trading block why and the heck would you think that Derek Fisher is un-touchable? True the Lakers have always taken care of their own. Mitch, Magic, finally Kareem (after years) but in the end you make money from winning. You can not run a business and continue to be productive with the stance of emotion. D-Fish isn't broke, you make me want to believe that he can't afford health care making millions per year. As I remember he left to Golden State to make somewhere close to 14 mil a year? More than we've ever paid him... I'd love to see him retire a Lakers but the fact is that may not happen, it definitely won't be a decision made on issues away from basketball.
Posted by: LakerFaze | March 18, 2008 at 03:08 PM
zen - on 9 rings winning philosophy,
If what you say is true, why does 9 rings only seem to call timeouts on defensive mistakes?
Personally I dont think there is one formular to winning- the lakers 3 peat team was an average at best defensive team with a major inside presense on offense.
Part of that depends on how "defense" is defined. There are only a handful of lock down defensive players who can contain a great offensive player. Rebounding is just as important, if not more, part of "defense" as well as team defense. Kobe is a good man on man defender but his help defense has been poor lately and its hurt the lakers.
By the same toke, it iritates me when an announcer says 59 points is too many to give up and it was due to poor defense. Maybe it was better offense and hustle plays by the other team. The best a defender can do is make it tough for the offensive player shooting, short of blocking the shot or fouling, so the offense has the advantage over the defense.
Posted by: Laker Lover | March 18, 2008 at 03:12 PM
Laker Lover-
In my mind, I think with Odom it has less to do with where he plays and much more with what's expected of him. With those guys in the high and low post, he can attack, hang back, run the floor, crash the boards, whatever. The one thing he won't have to do is shoot with regularity. He might, but it's that he doesn't have to that matters. Like in Butch Cassidy, when Sundance says to the poker playing cowboy that thinks he's cheating that he'll go, as long as he asks him to stay. As long as you don't ask LO to provide a lot of O, he might do it anyway.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | March 18, 2008 at 03:22 PM
Hey there Laker Nation! Another great Lakers game tonight. This one we will win. Kobe and the rest of the team are probably a little pissed off now. Gonna watch on the big screen tonight!! GO LAKERS!!!
IT'S TIME TO WATCH THE LAKERS AND DRINK A BEER, TOKE A BOWL AND SCREAM AND CHEER!!!!!!!!!!
LAKERS 4 LIFE BABY!!!!!!!
LakerMan 420
Posted by: LakerMan 420 | March 18, 2008 at 03:34 PM
THE BEAST it is! Sign me up for that bandwagon! lol
Posted by: SamII | March 18, 2008 at 03:34 PM
Just say NO to Agent 0
Posted by: LakerMan 420 | March 18, 2008 at 03:35 PM
BK- He certainly seems to like life with Gasol in the lineup, and there's no reason to think he'll be any worse once Bynum comes back
Actually there is reason to think Odom will be worse if Bynum and Gasol are starting and he has to move to SF, that experiment failed earlier this year and Odom was moved back to PF. Granted you can argue Odom was injured but Odom has been more successful in recent years playing PF not SF.
Posted by: Laker Lover | March 18, 2008 at 02:54 PM
I think that i a misconception. He played fine but HAD to move back to PF because of our injuries at the 4 at the time.
At the 3 LO can dive more and get easy baskets and create a mismatch for opposing 3.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | March 18, 2008 at 04:48 PM
If the lakers lose tonite, and the Suns win, we're looking at even steven. Shack is reportedly licking his chops at the prospect of facing the lakers, and with Amare exploding right now...well, home court will be very important. Very important.
Posted by: BUTLER | March 18, 2008 at 04:54 PM
I don't know about cred of rumor on GA but if true I have open mind. At 3 I like LO Odom but at 1 GA would be great. Toss up. Kobe played on Olympic team and health permitting will play during Olympics.
Kobe has shown he can share the ball with a court of all stars. No reason he can't do so in NBA. Another thing to look at is it would create less predictable player who can take the last shot. Or when you need a shot. Double Kobe and leave Pau, Bynum or GA open. Double team any of the others who do you leave open? Tough decision and will make interesting off season. But I also was the one who said Mitch plays his cards close to the vest and we usually don't hear about these things until after.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | March 18, 2008 at 04:56 PM
how could people NOT want Agent 0?
Farmar needs to play back up still. I love the guy, but let's face it: Arenas is a superstar already. Ray Allen moved to the Celtics to have a diminished role as well, why can't Arenas? Championship fever will hit LA and with yet another viable 3 point threat (and off the dribble, and a great penetrating point guard), this will be the triangle on Crack.
If Dr. Buss is willing to pay, who are we to say otherwise?
Posted by: Alec | March 18, 2008 at 05:50 PM
NO TO 0. We don't need a chucker.
Posted by: cvlfan | March 18, 2008 at 09:10 PM
This trade does no good for the Lakers... We need a quick defensive guard and an defensive minded small forward... that's what will complete us for a long haul of championship runs...
Arenas does not solve our point guard need.
Posted by: | March 18, 2008 at 09:10 PM
Agent Zero ain't gonna happen for LA, because everyone knows you don't do dumb stuff like trade away a Pau Gasol for a Kwame Brown. (or a Caron Butler for a Kwame Brown - ha ha)
Hey- wait a minute - bright idea!
If Mitch can pull this one off - he should. Superstars win championships in the NBA. PJ is the best coach at getting superstars to play together - heck he even managed the Shaq-Kobe feud to 3 championships! (And almost got a 4th if Malone had not gotten injured in the 04 playoffs)
Lakers s/d trade any combo of 2 players not named Kobe, Bynum, Gasol and Fish for Agent Zero. So it means LO plus probably a perimeter player like Sasha or Farmar (I doubt if they'll take Coby Karl instead, GMs may be dumb, but not that dumb!).
So the starting lineup next year could be:
PG-Fish
SG-Agent Zero (Arenas plays more like a 2 than a 1)
SF-Kobe (24 loves playing SF)
PF-Gasol
C-Bynum
If opponents are now scared of us having LO as our 4th best player, they'll be pissing in their pants at the thought of that lineup.
Bench:
PG-Farmar or Sasha (remember Sasha was drafted as a PG)
SG-Ariza
SF-Radman
PF-Ronny Turiaf
C-Mihm
11th man - Luke
12th man - Sun Yue (for the Chinese market dollars so Buss can afford to pay for the luxury tax)
13th man - Coby Karl
14th man - Mbenga
Posted by: LakerinBC | March 19, 2008 at 12:43 AM
I say no to this Agent Zero...if we are going to do any kind of sign and trade, it should be with the Hawks to get Josh Smith.
Posted by: 90s Laker Fan | March 19, 2008 at 05:26 AM