There may be more than one way to skin a cat
But tonight didn't feature one of those methods.
Any team can go out and do the expected. It takes a special one to consistently shock the world. The Lakers have done just that, almost exclusively for the good, for most of the '07-'08 season. Running their way to the top of the Western Conference. Swinging a trade for Pau Gasol. Losing on their home court by 13 to the 25 win Charlotte Bobcats. What, you thought all the shocks had to be positive? Nope, Wednesday night in their 108-95 loss to the Bobcats at Staples, the L.A. pulled a fast one on everyone who assumed this would be an easy win (presumably, that includes the Lakers themselves, judging by their faire play), and not only gave away the game, but all important position in the ludicrously crowded Western Conference. AK has the breakdown below, which given that they just lost by 13 to one of the worst teams in the league (I mentioned that, right?) is light on "Good," heavy on everything else.
BK
THE GOOD
DJ Mbenga: It ain't often the guy gets a chance to even play enough to be a candidate for this section, much play well enough to land here. But in limited minutes, Mbenga arguably played the best of any Laker out there. 2-2 from the field. Four boards. One very nice dime to set up a Luke Walton layup. He also poked away a post entry from Jason Richardson, which led to a trip to the stripe for LO (both converted). Throw in the solid post presence in spots and it was a nice showing for the man often referred to as "Tacos."
I've seen about a million different versions of the "Why didn't Phil play Mbenga more?" question posed to me and BK. We didn't get a chance to ask Phil (his postgame was, to say the least, brief), but my guess at his explanation would be, in a nutshell, that the player in question is DJ Mbenga. Yeah, he played well, but with a player of his limited abilities, the returns typically become more diminished the longer he's out there. I realize the irony of pointing this out on a night where he was 100% from the field, but for the most part, he leaves you playing four-on-five offense. And his court stints were always during situations where the Lakers were playing catch up, meaning it's tough to leave him on the floor for too long. Could he have played a few more minutes? I guess, although they didn't really lose any momentum gained from his fourth quarter PT until four minutes after he sat. Bottom line, Mbenga's PT had little or nothing to do with them losing, despite his nice showing.
Lamar Odom: The string of double-doubles dies by just a rebound (18/9), but LO deserves mention here for not only playing a solid (and at 7/10 from the field, proficient) game. A lot of time spent close to the basket and with only one (made) exception, resisting the three ball fever that overcame a lot of his teammates (more on that later). In a game where quick, wild play persisted at a rate that would have made the Warriors blush, LO was often the guy looking most under control and following what I imagine was the game plan.
Um... er... the corned beef sandwiches for the media dinner: Yeah, it's a reach, but that would be required to fill out the good during this night. Plus, we're talking corned beef sliced right off the slab. Sauerkraut. Some quality rye bread or onion rolls. In my particular case, habanero mustard sauce. Good stuff, Maynard
THE BAD
Laker ball movement and shot selection: I felt at times like I was doing research for my upcoming book ":04 Seconds or Less: My Season in the Media Section with the Chucking and Chucking Los Angeles Lakers." I can't even count the number of times the ball went up from 20-feet out or further after one pass, tops. Eight of the Lakers' 20 assists came in the first quarter. From there, many stretches ensued where fluidity and motion became non-existent. BK and I were joking that Sasha Vujacic (3-8) and Jordan Farmar (1-4) appeared to be engaging in a three-point shooting contest during the fourth quarter. PJ apparently found this less amusing than us, since JF got a rather unceremonious yank after a rapid-fire 24-foot miss. But in fairness to the young guards, they were hardly the only guys catching the... wait for it... boo-bomb-ic plague. The Lakers hoisted 27 in all from distance, connecting on only 8. Vlad Rad: 1-5. Kobe: 206. D.Fish 0-3. Maybe it's just me, but I've got a nagging feeling that's a hair too many long balls than what's traditionally considered ideal.
Kobe Bryant: He didn't play particularly well (8-22 shooting, three turnovers, too much iso and some D that he'd likely rather forget), but his composure was even worse. That first technical appeared to come after he was complaining about a no-call from two or three possessions previous, which put him in the refs' bad graces. Meaning kicking the ball to the ref, even lightly, would be enough to nab a quick second T and the early shower. The Mamba's now sitting on fifteen technicals, meaning it's an automatic one-game suspension upon receiving the next. That's just not smart on Kobe's part. Whether or not he was arguing a valid case is irrelevant. Even if Kobe had gotten legitimately screwed, he also racked these T's in a game where the Lakers down 13 with under four minutes to play and a push was looking less than likely. Forget stupid. It's actually wasteful, especially in a situation where you've got so little leeway down the road and the final outcome is basically a given. A player can pick up a technical foul so easily, even in situations where he's not bitching at the refs. Frustrating and embarrassing loss or not, he needed to do a better job keeping his cool.
Defense: All aspects of it. Those 50 points in the paint? As Clark Griswald told his son, "Nothing to be proud of, Russ." But for what it's worth, the Lakers were equally bad defensively the further they moved away from the basket. The Bobcats shot 46% from downtown, with at least a trio apiece from Jason Richardson, Gerald Wallace and Matt "I'm literally in the game to do nothing else, so why not guard me in downtown?" Carroll. As for the stuff that happened in between, the Cats' overall percentage was 50%, so that stuff went down pretty smooth, too.
Energy: From the opening tip on, anything resembling a pulse came in spurts and usually ones that weren't particularly long. The last few minutes of the first quarter. The opening minutes of the fourth quarter. Maybe another few possessions here and there. But for the most part, there was more "pooped" in the Laker step than "pep," and if you're offering the "fifth game in seven days" excuse, don't bother. "This is what the NBA is all about," insisted Odom in the locker room. "Playing a lot of games. So no excuses. They deserved it. They played better than us tonight."
No argument here.
AK
Those of you looking for insight from Phil Jackson on what exactly went wrong tonight will not find it in his postgame press conference. I'd type it out- wouldn't take long- but it's actually more fun to listen to (Download phil_jackson_3.26 post CHA.mp3). Shortest presser of the year.
Regarding the T that got Kobe tossed, I believe the official ruling was that Kobe kicked the ball at/to the ref (depending on who you ask, I guess). I missed the play and will have to see the film. I talked to a couple people, and while most agree that it was probably harmless, a couple security guys who had a good angle seemed to think, at least based on appearances, that Bryant might have goofed up. Still, it wouldn't shock me if Kobe and the Lakers appealed the T, hoping to get it reversed. But given how he's racked them up this year, it also wouldn't surprise me to see said appeal get denied.
One thing we all agreed on? When you're sitting on 14 T's for the season and already have one in the game, it's probably a better idea just to hand the ref the ball.
BK
I don't have a problem with Kobs getting tossed at all. He was frusturated, it was a crap game, and he wanted the team to know that he isn't just gonna be okay with these poor effort performances. It shows passion and competivness, he hates to lose, its gonna happen. My question is, does the 16 foul thing apply in the playoffs, or does it start fresh?
Posted by: Gabe | March 26, 2008 at 11:36 PM
who cares about the #1 seed? It's meaningless this year, all the teams are good, anyone can win in any round.
who cares about one loss to the bobcats? they also beat the Celtics in Boston earlier this season. It happens, it's the NBA. We're now 27-5 against sub-500 teams.
who cares why PJ took Mbenga out of the game? He's the coach. He makes thousands of decisions a year, and he must be doing pretty well considering their record.
who cares what a bunch of big-baby "the Lakers aren't winning every game" fans say? wah wah, go change your diaper.
We're tired. We're shorthanded. We may even be overperforming considering our talent and experience levels, and certainly considering who's actually on the floor. Anybody who knows anything about NBA basketball cannot reasonably think this team should be playing better over the course of 82 games, all things considered.
The Lakers will be fine.
Posted by: drewpaukobe | March 26, 2008 at 11:40 PM
What people don't seem to realize is that this lowly Bobcats team met a blazing Boston Celtics team twice earlier this season. The results? the Bobcats lost in the very last last moment by a score of 95 - 96 to the Celtics in their first meeting on Nov. 24. In their next meeting on Jan. 9 the Bobcats pounded the Celtics and shocked the Boston crowd by handing the Celtics a 95 - 83 whipping. They beat up on Boston on its own home floor by 12 points!
The lesson here is that you can never take an opposing team for granted, whether it's a team above 500 or below. Just ask Boston.
Posted by: Johnson | March 26, 2008 at 11:44 PM
Charlotte has lost six of seven, and the one win came against Miami, so it might not count.
The moral of the story? This shouldn't be a nail biter down the stretch.
BK
March 26, 2008 in Pregame Update | Permalink
Posted by: unsound lakers | March 26, 2008 at 11:56 PM
I didn't see the game, but I already know the most important stat;
The Lakers are 0-1 in games on days where the KB's "NowLive" webcast gets cancelled.
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | March 26, 2008 at 11:57 PM
Does anyone out there hear me when I say that Phil J. should be blamed. Is he never at fault? Does he only get the credit for wins but never credited for the reason for the losses. Injuries and excuses need to be put aside. It is his job to get the team mentally prepared. If the team starts of slow, his job is not to just sit back with his legs crossed on the bench. He should call a time out and make the necessary in the game adjustments (watch Popovich with the Spurs for an example). You shouldn't need superstars (Gasol, Bynum) to come up with a defensive game plan and play good hard defense to stop the BOBCATS. Face it, Phil J. needs to be held accountable. I don't know how many more times I can here him talk about lack of offensive execution in games where the team gives up 115+ points. Hello, wakeup, it's about the defense!
B. Bryant
Posted by: B.Bryant | March 27, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Once again, it's a disappointing loss in such a crucial situation that have people's scratching their heads. With the Western Conference race so tightly contested, 2-3 losses in a row will knock the team out of home court advantage.
And once again, CP3 proved why he's the MVP of the league this year. Even though CP3 shot poorly tonight (5-17), he was still able to rack up a ridiculously number of assists. That's why I've said Kobe's chance of a MVP award is dwindling. Kobe's effect on the game is beginning to evident. He's a volume jump-shooter. If he makes his shots. Great. But if he isn't, is he playing great defense. No. Is he setting up teammates for open looks? Obviously not enough. So what exactly makes him so indispensable? Lamar's value to the team right now is much much greater (rebounding). If the Lakers just ran the triangle like it was intended, what skillset does Kobe bring to the table? Kobe's not a great shooter. Not a great catch and shoot player. Not a great 3-pt shooter. Not a great mover without the ball. Not a great passer. What exactly does he bring? His leadership? His decision making?
Kobe's decision making within the game is mind-numbingly appalling. He takes way too many shots out of the context of the offense by dribbling down the court and jacking up a 22 foot jumpshot before teammates can set up which if he misses, which is usually the case, it results in long rebounds (which the Lakers can't afford right now with Bynum and Gasol out) and the other team has an easy transition basket.
Kobe's decision making is again called into question when he commits turnovers at crucial points of the game either by over-dribbling (B.Davis (GS) and J.Richardson (CHL) both easily stole from him) or trying to make the perfect pass (Lakers were on their last run in the 4th when Kobe stymied the run with an ill-advised pass to Lamar).
Another of Kobe's decision making follies is doubling or helping out on defense way too much. Teams have been exploiting his defensive deficiency by cutting baseline resulting in layups. Since Kobe's defensive positioning is off, it puts the bigs on team in a bind as evidenced tonight on several occasions when Odom and Turiaf tried to cover. It's ok to funnel your player to your bigs but it's not ok when the player isn't even making an effort to get over the screen. Due to Kobe's poor defensive positioning, he has to recover to his own player which made him foul 2 players taking a 3 that resulted in 4 point plays.
Do you know who leads the league in technicals? Ron Artest? Nope. Rasheed Wallace, the perennial winner? Nope. It's Kobe Bean Bryant. He got torched by Richardson tonight. Fouled Carroll which resulted in a 4-point play. Felt the need end the game right then and there. Didn't matter if his teammates felt their efforts on the court deserved a response from their supposed leader. Didn't matter that the game was still within striking distance. It's all about him. It's all about the petulant "leader". It's this type of action that has his teammates pondering Kobe's inability to lead by example.
Look, we're all diehard Lakers fans. It's disheartening to see the team rest on the shoulders of somebody that clearly has what it takes below the shoulders. It's like the oven is on but nothing is baking inside. The examples provided above show one common theme.
The common theme is the flaw in Kobe's decision making process. Whether it be on the court (been in the league 12 years, supposed best player in the league, documented antics above), or off the court (Colorado, Venting about your employers to anonymous fans in parking lot, getting surgery without the team (your employers) knowing, etc).
Now, at the end of the day, do you expect somebody with such poor decision making skills to be leading you? His questionable antics are beginning to wear thin considering he's barking louder than his bite. This is team's best opportunity to finally get home court advantage throughout the Western-side of the bracket. Where is the leadership? Where is "doing whatever it takes to win?"
Bryant's right though. It's time to STFU and walk the walk. Maybe he needs to heed his own advice.
-Jeffs Aho
Posted by: Jeffs Aho | March 27, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Once again, it's a disappointing loss in such a crucial situation that have people's scratching their heads. With the Western Conference race so tightly contested, 2-3 losses in a row will knock the team out of home court advantage.
And once again, CP3 proved why he's the MVP of the league this year. Even though CP3 shot poorly tonight (5-17), he was still able to rack up a ridiculously number of assists. That's why I've said Kobe's chance of a MVP award is dwindling. Kobe's effect on the game is beginning to evident. He's a volume jump-shooter. If he makes his shots. Great. But if he isn't, is he playing great defense. No. Is he setting up teammates for open looks? Obviously not enough. So what exactly makes him so indispensable? Lamar's value to the team right now is much much greater (rebounding). If the Lakers just ran the triangle like it was intended, what skillset does Kobe bring to the table? Kobe's not a great shooter. Not a great catch and shoot player. Not a great 3-pt shooter. Not a great mover without the ball. Not a great passer. What exactly does he bring? His leadership? His decision making?
Kobe's decision making within the game is mind-numbingly appalling. He takes way too many shots out of the context of the offense by dribbling down the court and jacking up a 22 foot jumpshot before teammates can set up which if he misses, which is usually the case, it results in long rebounds (which the Lakers can't afford right now with Bynum and Gasol out) and the other team has an easy transition basket.
Kobe's decision making is again called into question when he commits turnovers at crucial points of the game either by over-dribbling (B.Davis (GS) and J.Richardson (CHL) both easily stole from him) or trying to make the perfect pass (Lakers were on their last run in the 4th when Kobe stymied the run with an ill-advised pass to Lamar).
Another of Kobe's decision making follies is doubling or helping out on defense way too much. Teams have been exploiting his defensive deficiency by cutting baseline resulting in layups. Since Kobe's defensive positioning is off, it puts the bigs on team in a bind as evidenced tonight on several occasions when Odom and Turiaf tried to cover. It's ok to funnel your player to your bigs but it's not ok when the player isn't even making an effort to get over the screen. Due to Kobe's poor defensive positioning, he has to recover to his own player which made him foul 2 players taking a 3 that resulted in 4 point plays.
Do you know who leads the league in technicals? Ron Artest? Nope. Rasheed Wallace, the perennial winner? Nope. It's Kobe Bean Bryant. He got torched by Richardson tonight. Fouled Carroll which resulted in a 4-point play. Felt the need end the game right then and there. Didn't matter if his teammates felt their efforts on the court deserved a response from their supposed leader. Didn't matter that the game was still within striking distance. It's all about him. It's all about the petulant "leader". It's this type of action that has his teammates pondering Kobe's inability to lead by example.
Look, we're all diehard Lakers fans. It's disheartening to see the team rest on the shoulders of somebody that clearly has what it takes below the shoulders. It's like the oven is on but nothing is baking inside. The examples provided above show one common theme.
The common theme is the flaw in Kobe's decision making process. Whether it be on the court (been in the league 12 years, supposed best player in the league, documented antics above), or off the court (Colorado, Venting about your employers to anonymous fans in parking lot, getting surgery without the team (your employers) knowing, etc).
Now, at the end of the day, do you expect somebody with such poor decision making skills to be leading you? His questionable antics are beginning to wear thin considering he's barking louder than his bite. This is team's best opportunity to finally get home court advantage throughout the Western-side of the bracket. Where is the leadership? Where is "doing whatever it takes to win?"
Bryant's right though. It's time to STFU and walk the walk. Maybe he needs to heed his own advice.
-Jeffs Aho
Posted by: Jeffs Aho | March 27, 2008 at 12:01 AM
WHAT?
but my explanation would be, in a nutshell, that the player in question is DJ Mbenga. Yeah, he played well, but with a player of his limited abilities, the returns typically become more diminished the longer he's out there. I realize the irony of pointing this out on a night where he was 100% from the field, but for the most part, he leaves you playing four-on-five offense. And his court stints were always during situations where the Lakers were playing catch up, meaning it's tough to leave him on the floor for too long. Could he have played a few more minutes? I guess, although they didn't really lose any momentum gained from his fourth quarter PT until four minutes after he sat. Bottom line, Mbenga's PT had little or nothing to do with them losing, despite his nice showing.
AK
Posted by: you got to be kidding me | March 27, 2008 at 12:08 AM
strategy game from PJ.
he wants to prepare the team for challenging opponents like Memphis on Friday.
Posted by: ZIn Master | March 27, 2008 at 12:09 AM
Maybe we thought we were still playing the Warriors because Jason Richardson was on the court. I really don't know what the big deal was about Kobe kicking the ball because he's done it a couple of times, soccer style. The amount of three pointers taken was more about trying to get back into the game all at once instead of chipping away at the lead with higher percentage shots and attacking the basket. Time to move on to the next one, seems like PJ has(quick interview followed by quick exit).
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | March 27, 2008 at 12:32 AM
The last 2weeks is supposed to be the stretch run before the playoffs. When teams want to have the forward momentum going into the playoffs. Looking at the last 10 games played, of all the top 9 WC teams, Lakers are looking the worst at 5-5. Everybody else is at 6-4, or 7-3, with NO the best at 8-2.
Tsk, tsk - that doesn't look too good even though we have the excuse of Gasol out 8 of those last 10 games. Still, we s/d have beaten Kitty Cats even without Pau.
Lakers still have the best remaining schedule of all the top 9 WC teams though so I expect them to get at least #2 seed and still have a chance at #1.
The 3rd to the last game of the season will be versus Hornets in Staples. That might turn out to be the biggest game of this regular season for the Lakers because the #1 seeding c/d depend on that game.
I expect Kobe to play out of his mind on that game. Like this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nH-0gLhqpJg&feature=related
Like a lawyer giving his closing argument in the courtroom, the Lakers game versus the Hornets will be Mr. Bryant's closing argument to the jury to decide on whether he gets the MVP or not.
Posted by: LakerinBC | March 27, 2008 at 12:37 AM
4AM here. Can't sleep. Too sick.
Thought to myself, "I may as well get up and check the scores to see how the Lakers pulled off a comeback."
I am disappointed to say the least. Now I have a headache. Urgh.
What the hell?
By the way, $75,000 treadmill or not, it just doesn't seem like the Lakers training staff is doing an exceptional job right now.
I'm going to try to go back to bed.
Weird mojo tonight.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | March 27, 2008 at 01:07 AM
May be hard to admit, but Kobe is a sore loser. Looks like he doesn't know how to take a defeat graciously. He must learn how to take this only to prove that he is worthy of an MVP award. Just my 2 cents.
Posted by: 2 cents | March 27, 2008 at 01:37 AM
Jeffs Aho--
"Do you know who leads the league in technicals? Ron Artest? Nope. Rasheed Wallace, the perennial winner? Nope. It's Kobe Bean Bryant. He got torched by Richardson tonight. Fouled Carroll which resulted in a 4-point play. Felt the need end the game right then and there. Didn't matter if his teammates felt their efforts on the court deserved a response from their supposed leader. Didn't matter that the game was still within striking distance. It's all about him. It's all about the petulant "leader". It's this type of action that has his teammates pondering Kobe's inability to lead by example."
-----------------------------------------
Of all the things written about KB, this one I will entirely agree with. I'll never question his heart, ability or desire. At times, I do question not only what's between his ears, but what his priorities are.
The leader of the team should realize when to put up and when to shut up. Speak volumes with your game; not your mouth. Especially to the refs.
A poor comparison I know, but when I compete on the ten pin lanes, I love going up against someone with a temper. More often than not I'll kick their ass because I let them beat themselves with their temper.
Posted by: MiloRambaldi | March 27, 2008 at 02:26 AM
Kobe needs to play better.
Posted by: joey numbers | March 27, 2008 at 02:37 AM
I think the amount of games this team has played short handed has finally showed its effects.
The Lakers need to reload right now as anyone can see that the team has to rely too much in inconsistent players such as Walton, Radmanovic, even Fisher.
So we need this freaking injury thing to go away for good because we without injuries would be battling the Celtics for the best record in the league.
Anyway the only good thing that the regular season still can provide us is the healing of our injured players.
Other than that, let the palyoffs begin!
Posted by: bcb | March 27, 2008 at 04:04 AM
Watching that game was like drinking too much whiskey and knowing that if you could just puke you'd feel much better for it in the morning but you pass out before you make it to the bathroom and then you wake up realizing you did puke but now you're laying in the middle of it and the girl you brought home (whose name you don't even know) has disappeared with your BMW and your wallet.
I need another drink!
Posted by: thedropper | March 27, 2008 at 05:03 AM
CANT WIN 'EM ALL...
WHAT MATTERS MOST IS HOW THE TEAM RESPOND TO SUCH HUMILATION....
THANK GOD THE CELTS BEAT THE FUNS...
PURPLE & GOLD BABY!!!
Posted by: juanman888 | March 27, 2008 at 06:36 AM
I said when I blogged yesterday, that the Bobcats game had the makings of a "trap game" -- damn did I call that one or what??
Anyway, the team PISSED me off with their cavalier, blase, lethargic, nonchalant, attitude and style of play..There are no OFF GAMES, every game is important..That is why I like the way Boston approaches each game, each opponent, they did drop two in a row recently, but they mostly go into every game with that killer instinct generally just seen in the playoffs..Besides, we should be protecting our home court regardless of who we play.
Anyway, I am not playing any players in specific to the Bobcats game, we just weren't interested in that game all the way around and played like it. I just hate it when I feel like I have wasted my $$$ on this LEAGUE pass and stay up til the wee hours in the morning only to have the Lakers play like the Heat and lose! Inexcusable..
Anyway, I am done..
NEXT game please.
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 27, 2008 at 06:38 AM
Aaaaahhhhhhh I am so pissed today! Stay out of my damn way people. I can't believe the Lakers let this one go. They didn't come out to play last night at all.
Now I'm concerned with Kobe's technicals. One more and he gets an automatic suspension and we CANNOT afford that in the playoffs.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | March 27, 2008 at 06:55 AM
BLOG POLICE aka (THE TROLL PATROL)
and/or those who feel the need to rip one (deserved) a new a..hole
Feel free to add a name to the list
01) "Pig" Miller oink oink
02) Jon K
03) : (nameless blogger)
04) Long Time Laker Fan
05) Mamba24
06) Evil Cartman
07) JustaLakerFan
08)
09)
10)
I love you guys
Posted by: Evil Cartman | March 27, 2008 at 06:56 AM
Jeffs Aho,
You wrote a lot of crap,
My response:
re: And once again, CP3 proved why he's the MVP of the league this year. Even though CP3 shot poorly tonight (5-17), he was still able to rack up a ridiculously number of assists.
wrong. you're comparing two different positions. pg's as
a general rule have more assists than sg's. apples vs.
oranges. please compare Kobe's numbers to another
sg's. Also, CP3 has Peja, former 3-pt contest winner,
David West, all star, & Tyson Chandler. The game *I*
saw, showed Farmar & Sasha shooting 3's. and missing
them.
you also wrote: He's a volume jump-shooter. If he makes his shots. Great. But if he isn't, is he playing great defense. No. Is he setting up teammates for open looks? Obviously not enough.
Have you noticed how many double teams Kobe faces?
CP3 doesn't face as many double or triple teams. Once
again, compare apples to apples not apples to oranges.
His teammates got open looks. Maybe if they had made
more he wouldn't have tried to be as aggressive. The
quotes by Wallace were interesting: "Get the ball out of
Kobe's hands." J-Richardson shot the ball 28 times.
Kobe shot 22. That's 5.1 a quarter. Roughly 1 every 2.5
minutes which is roughly 1 every 4 or 5 possessions.
12 ft attempts which means he drew a foul on ~ 6
possessions. He's trying to get to the rim. If you take
away the ft's and give him 3 of those shots he's shooting
50%. Is there any sg who has averaged over 50% for
a season?
You're bitching about Kobe's decision making process
when he's the #1 or #2 candidate in the MVP and the
Lakers are sitting in the #2 position in the WC with
*BOTH* Bynum &&& Gasol out?? Not to mention the
defensive SF Ariza ...
Let's be clear about this:
Last summer, NO ONE in the league wanted any of the
lakers except for Bynum. Quotes from Phil/Mitch
substantiate this. Outside of Kobe, no one on the
Lakers has been an all star except for Gasol. He's
hurt and not playing. The top *THREE* centers for
the Lakers are not playing right now. Kobe has a
sprained ankle, stiches in his face, and an injured
shooting hand. D-Fish, Farmar, Sasha, Vlad & Lamar
are having career or close to career years, Kobe's
shots are down, his efficiency is up, he's #2 in the
scoring tittle race, and the Lakers are #2 in the west
......... and *YOU* are BITCHING ABOUT HIS DECISION
MAKING PROCESS????
I'm going to be delicate and say .... you're ungrateful.
Why don't you put this where it belongs? On the Lakers!
Vlad was 1 of 7. D-Fish was 2 of 7. Farmar was 2 of 7.
Sasha was 4 of 11. *27* 3 pt shots were taken and Kobe took 6. Missed 3's lead to long rebounds which
we didn't get. This relates to Lamar falling from 20
rebounds against GS to 9 rebounds last night. I repeat.
Put this loss on the "Lakers" not on Kobe and stop
being ungrateful. or ... Maybe you should go root for
Shaq and the suns.
only took 6.
Posted by: hobbitmage | March 27, 2008 at 07:16 AM
That game is destined to played on endless loop in the Hall of Suckitude.
Posted by: The D | March 27, 2008 at 07:28 AM
HELENE ELLIOTT
Home is no refuge, as loss reveals what's missing
Helene Elliott
So, the Lakers can beat the Mavericks at Dallas, end the Utah Jazz's 19-game home winning streak at Salt Lake City, prevail in overtime at Golden State and can't beat the sagging, out-of-the-playoffs Charlotte Bobcats at home? >>
The above says it all for me.
I hope everyone is right in saying that the Lakers will be alright when the troops return.
However, if the Lakers do not win the Western Conference Finals upon their return, this blog will implode with talk about not having home court advantage as a result of not winning certain games.
It's going to be interesting.
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | March 27, 2008 at 07:33 AM
Good morning everyone,
Somehow we have to pick ourselves up today. I'm waking up feeling like I have a hangover and a distorted memory of a game that couldn't possibly be as bad as I remember it. Oh! It was that bad. And I didn't drink a quart of Thunderbird; I just wish I did instead of watching the game.
Let's put the onus on the Starting 5. Sorry. There was no Starting 5. Just Lamar and four impostors. This group is supposed to set the tone and rhythm of the game. Sorry, again. That's right, they did. Just the wrong tone and rhythm.
Jump on Sasha and Jordan all you want. They were just trying to get the Lakers back in the game, and for a few moments at a time they did, including when they were joined on the court by DJ Mbenga.
It's just that every time the Bench Mob got into the game, the lack of defense and poor shot selection of the Starters had allowed the struggling Bobcats to see a hoop as big and wide as the Gulf of Mexico. Do you remember anyone except Jordan with the guts enough to take the ball into the paint?
Ok, I've vented. There's been no restraint from venting since the opening buzzer Wednesday night. Can we all feel better now that we've vented? Let's re-focus, just as the team has to do. They know they let themselves down. Now it's time to reconstruct the Lakers' game as they know it can be played. With 49 wins, so far, they've exceeded the expectations most of us had before the season began.
There's still time to regain the top seed and bring home the Championship. It all starts today. Let's do it Lakers!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | March 27, 2008 at 07:35 AM
Zin Master: love your comment and I feel bad for Memphis as they will be on the receiving end of PJ's wrath on the team today. Practice session should be awesome and the interviews as well. Who's going AK or BK?
PJ's interview was awesome - seeing it was even better.
I just re-read the technical/suspension rule and didn't realize it was so harsh. Next one he is suspended but for every one after that another game suspension w/o pay. That is pretty bad. And I don't know how KB24 is going to make it all the way through the playoffs without at least one suspension. Not good. I hope D-Fish can use his calming power to keep KB24 in line for the rest of the season....just another layer of Laker intrigue.
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | March 27, 2008 at 07:47 AM
Kobe took his team out of the system(even Stu mentioned it)by not passing the ball and then the Lakers had cut the lead at the start of the 4th quarter(if they were so tired,how were they able to do that?) and Kobe returned and the game was over....Kobe is NOT an mvp and the longer this season goes on he will prove that himself....
Posted by: neil | March 27, 2008 at 07:50 AM
Why do other teams really likes to play hard against the Lakers in Staples. felton and richardson were doubtful before the game. but they played great. Can we change the starting line up . Let's say
PG- Farmar
SG- Kobe
SF- Vujacic
PF- Odom
C- Turiaf
Posted by: Botsoy | March 27, 2008 at 07:55 AM
Is PJ using the same strategy of D'Antoni? I guess those two guys are in love with each other.
Those two coaches are using poorly their bench! Why did PJ took Mbenga out when he was one of the reason the Lakers erased the bobcat' s 12 point lead?
He's the only coach in the league who doesn't see how (un) productive Luke Walton is. I personally think Luke is just another version of Kwame Brown.
PJ throws Luke back in every crucial point of the games and as result, those games that appear close, automatically becomes a reality loss.
Gosh! Did Newble sign a 10 day contract with this team???? 10!!!!!!!!! days and PJ is not even using him to see his real potential!
Come playoffs the starting five of this team will be real tired because PJ is not making good decisions with them.
You have a thin team and you've Newble, Coby Karl and Mbenga on the bench and you prefer to use Luke Walton who out of 72 in only 1 games did something positive and it was in a meaningless game against the seatle!
POINTS TO LOOK AT:
Let the bench play when they're really playing well! In two games PJ made stupid decision (Sacramento and Bobcats)
Newble is in a 10 day contract use the guy for God sake!
Kobe Bryant is taking to many stupid shots and making several poor decisions with the ball! making turnover after turnovers
Sasha is shooting like he's practing! Rushing shots and running with ball from side to side like crazy and forgetin his teammates in several 2-1, 3-2 situations.
Fisher is shooting too many 3's and is not finishing properly around the rim and its embarrassing for a guy who is in this league for 12 years now.
Ronnie: This guy is playing great but is passing up too many shots and gets discouraged when misses a shot or a layup on the offensive end.
Posted by: classic | March 27, 2008 at 07:56 AM
"Dairy Queen Ice Cream" Ladies and Gentleman!!
Posted by: The Head-Mbenga | March 27, 2008 at 07:57 AM
"Kicking the ball"
I see a lot of Suns games here in Arizona. Steve Nash is always entertaining the crowd with his 'soccer kicking' of the ball. Sometimes he does it in anger when a call doesn't go his way.
What I've never seen is Steve getting a T for doing it.
Kobe should not have gotten a T for his kick, but, doing it so soon after a T was not a good move. Once a Ref is opened up to delving out T's, it gets a lot easier to dish out a few more.
Now Kobe has put him and the Lakers more at the mercy of the Refs in the next three weeks. And as we know, some Refs are salivating at the chance to show no mercy to Kobe and the Lakers.
I understand his frustrations for the lack of calls for being hacked on one end, and been sited for touch fouls on the other end, but........
Posted by: Fairweather Lakers Fatty | March 27, 2008 at 07:58 AM
Bloggers have stated the MVP means nothing; it's about winning the championship.
Bloggers have stated the number one seed means nothing; it's about winning the championship.
And I agree with the above.
However..........
To become an NBA champion, you must have "positive" momentum at the end of the season.
Losing 3 of your 5 last games (and home games no less) is not positive momentum.
The Hornets are dangerous.
We beat them by nearly 30 with Drew so when he returns (along with Pau and Trevor and Chris) problem solved.
And I disagree.
New Orleans is playing with more confidence (remember, that blow-out victory was over 2 months ago).
Man, I hope everyone on this blog is right.
I hope when the troops come back all will be well.
I hope when the play-offs starts, the current players will become focused because the regular season seem to be boring them.
We shall see.
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | March 27, 2008 at 08:02 AM
Bloggers have stated the MVP means nothing; it's about winning the championship.
Bloggers have stated the number one seed means nothing; it's about winning the championship.
And I agree with the above.
However..........
To become an NBA champion, you must have "positive" momentum at the end of the season.
Losing 3 of your 5 last games (and home games no less) is not positive momentum.
The Hornets are dangerous.
We beat them by nearly 30 with Drew so when he returns (along with Pau and Trevor and Chris) problem solved.
And I disagree.
New Orleans is playing with more confidence (remember, that blow-out victory was over 2 months ago).
Man, I hope everyone on this blog is right.
I hope when the troops come back all will be well.
I hope when the play-offs starts, the current players will become focused because the regular season seem to be boring them.
We shall see.
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | March 27, 2008 at 08:02 AM
I think the lakers are over confident being in their homecourt
Posted by: rob canada | March 27, 2008 at 08:04 AM
In my opinion, one more T on Kobe and you can expect Lebron or Chris Paul to go home with the MVP award. Kob's whining is the one really irritating remnant of his supposed selfishness, though I'm sure he thinks of it as part of his role as team captain and motivator. He may not realize that it only motivates the refs to exert their authority over him.
Otherwise, I think it's a symptom of something else, something we all feel. Frustration with not seeing the bodies we need coming back. In the first two games without Pau (including the one when he went down) the Lakers didn't know how to adapt to new configuration which took them out of their very effective inside-outside routine with Pau. Then they made adjustments, including Ronny posting up and handling the ball inside trying to mirror Pau's game to a certain extent as well as Lamar playing more aggressively in Pau's spots. But it wasn't entirely natural for anyone and turned out to be a bit wearing, especially when other teams got an inkling of how to deal with it. I think a lot of the defensive breakdowns in the last four or five games are due to spending more energy than is normally required on offense. They just don't have that spontaneous ability to read the opponent's offense and adjust their rotations in time (losing some expected length around the hoop also upsets things).
But I think the hardest thing is the waiting for GODOT (Gasol Or Drew Or Trevor), who just like in Beckett's play never appears, but everything hangs on him.
ESTRAGON:
Charming spot. (He turns, advances to front, halts facing auditorium.) Inspiring prospects. (He turns to Vladimir.) Let's go.
VLADIMIR:
We can't.
ESTRAGON:
Why not?
VLADIMIR:
We're waiting for Godot.
ESTRAGON:
(despairingly). Ah! (Pause.) You're sure it was here?
VLADIMIR:
What?
ESTRAGON:
That we were to wait.
VLADIMIR:
He said by the tree. (They look at the tree.) Do you see any others?
ESTRAGON:
What is it?
VLADIMIR:
I don't know. A willow.
ESTRAGON:
Where are the leaves?
VLADIMIR:
It must be dead.
...
BOY:
(in a rush). Mr. Godot told me to tell you he won't come this evening but surely tomorrow.
...
ESTRAGON:
We are happy. (Silence.) What do we do now, now that we are happy?
VLADIMIR:
Wait for Godot. (Estragon groans. Silence.) Things have changed here since yesterday.
ESTRAGON:
And if he doesn't come?
VLADIMIR:
(after a moment of bewilderment). We'll see when the time comes. (Pause.) I was saying that things have changed here since yesterday.
ESTRAGON:
Everything oozes.
...
Yes, in this immense confusion one thing alone is clear. We are waiting for Godot to come—
ESTRAGON:
Ah!
...
VLADIMIR:
You have a message from Mr. Godot.
A DIFFERENT BOY:
Yes Sir.
VLADIMIR:
He won't come this evening.
BOY:
No Sir.
VLADIMIR:
But he'll come tomorrow.
BOY:
Yes Sir.
VLADIMIR:
Without fail.
BOY:
Yes Sir.
Silence.
...
ESTRAGON:
Oh yes, let's go far away from here.
VLADIMIR:
We can't.
ESTRAGON:
Why not?
VLADIMIR:
We have to come back tomorrow.
ESTRAGON:
What for?
VLADIMIR:
To wait for Godot.
...
Doesn't that sound like the announcements we've been hearing about the injuries? This has to be affecting the team pyschologically. GoDoT, we need you.
Posted by: Tsphere | March 27, 2008 at 08:04 AM
Gabe, I'm with you on that one.
Posted by: Tsiry | March 27, 2008 at 08:08 AM
Jeff Asho
"The common theme is the flaw in Kobe's decision making process. Whether it be on the court (been in the league 12 years, supposed best player in the league, documented antics above), or off the court (Colorado, Venting about your employers to anonymous fans in parking lot, getting surgery without the team (your employers) knowing, etc)."
Are we supposed to take you seriously with a silly comment like that?
You were 'trying to act' like an unbiased observer until you gave it all away with that pp.
Kobe's been eating teams alive with brilliant decisions all year, to the tune of he's the leading candidate for MVP. A real fan of the NBA and the Lakers knows and appreciates that.
It must really hurt you to see Kobe and the Lakers doing so well. Enough so for you to waste your time inventing up such a sad piece.
My advice to you is to turn your TV off this year, not read the papers, and distance yourself form the Lakers. If you are this troubled already, it will only get worse for you as the Lakers and Kobe continue to be honored by going far into the playoffs.
Maybe the best 'decision' you could make for your emotional health.
Posted by: An 1 | March 27, 2008 at 08:14 AM
60 WIN BANDWAGON CRASHES, BURNS!
In an unexpected and clearly avoidable incident, the Lakers "60 WIN" Bandwagon crashed and burned last night as three of it's four wheels successively fell off in 12 minutes intevals, according to eyewitnesses. The eyewitnesses also reported a Bobcat running form the scene.
Authority spokesman Norm Nixon attributed the incident to complacency. Spokesman Stu Lantz added that overconfidence, a lack of focus, and a lack of commitmnet to team defense contributed to the incident. There were no serious injuries reported, although the coveted home court advantage was compromised. Phil Jackson labeled the incident "inexplicable" and "irrational", citing poor decision making, and left the scene abruptly with no further comment.
A spokesman for MB24 Banwagons, LLC, manufacturers of the bandwagon, assured the public that the bandwagon had passed all inspections during construction and announced that "55 WIN" onwer/driver Laker Tom and "2008 Champoinship" owner/driver Andrew Z are being notified to bring their bandwagons in for a major tune up in an effort to prevent similar future breakdowns.
Posted by: toad | March 27, 2008 at 08:21 AM
GOOD MORNING CHARLES.
IT'S GOING TO TAKE A LOT TO BE ENTHUSIASTIC TODAY.
I THINK I'LL SAVE ROLL CALL FOR TOMMORROW.
Posted by: MAMBA24 | March 27, 2008 at 08:29 AM
Shaq said Kobe is the MVP!!!!!!!!
This wasn't going to be one of those KG-for-MVP columns - again - but Shaquille O'Neal gave me no choice. There had to be better occasions for Shaq to weigh in on the looming MVP race - and to purposely and emphatically reject the notion that Kevin Garnett might be a worthy candidate. Not after KG schooled the Suns' mighty Amare Stoudemire in the second half of last night's 117-97 laugher, finishing with 30 points, 6 assists, and 2 blocked shots in 34 minutes.
more stories like thisBut Shaq being Shaq, well, he isn't going to dodge the issue. So when asked for his thoughts on the MVP race, O'Neal didn't hesitate.
"The Kobester," he said, referencing his old teammate and occasional foil, Kobe Bryant of the Lakers. "He's an assassin, with LeBron [James] coming in right behind. After that, I really haven't been paying attention."
Posted by: Botsoy | March 27, 2008 at 08:32 AM
Just like I predicted, our record during this stretch sans Gasol/Bynum will rest on Vlad Rad's point production. Last night he scored 3.
As my formula goes: Vlade scores less than 15 = Laker loss. Again, this formula is only for games absent Gasol/Bynum.
Further, If Vlade averages less than 10 points for the remainder of the year = No Championship.
Just wait and see.
Posted by: Adam | March 27, 2008 at 08:34 AM
For the handful of SoCal readers who are not loyal Toby Keith fans, here's an alternate song offering:
"Sixteen T-Spots: A Puppy's Remorse"
(Sung to the tune of The Sound Of Music's -"Maria")
It's very nice to sing along while watching the movie.
He climbs a tree and scrapes his knee
His tights have got a tear
He waltzes on his way to games
And whistles on the stair
And underneath that noggin'
He really doesn't care
Just hand the ball directly to the ref-ef.
I'd like to say a word in his behalf.
Man-child-makes-me-laugh!
Chorus:
How do you solve a problem like the Mamba?
How do you catch a hog and pin him down?
How do you find a word that means the Mamba?
A flibbertijibbet! A will-of-the-wisp! A clown!
Many a thing you know you'd like to tell him
Many a thing he ought to understand
But how do you make him see?
He'll never be MVP!
Until he starts behaving like a man!
Oh, how do you solve a problem like the Mamba!
How, do-you-hold-a-Mamba-in-your-hand?
When I watch him I'm confused
Out of focus not bemused
And I never know exactly where he is
Unpredictable as weather
He's a flighty as a feather
He's a darling! No, he's farting! He's just dumb!
He'd out pester any pest
Drive Garnet and then Artest
He could throw a whirling dervish out of whirl
He is gentle! He is wild!
Megalomaniacal! And in style!
He's a headache! He's an angel! He's a girl!
Chorus:
How do you solve a problem like the Mamba?
How do you catch a hog and pin it down?
How do you stop the Weather-Man from whining?
Impossible you say? It's never OK! He frowned!
Many a thing you know you'd like to tell him
Many a thing he ought to understand
But how do you make him play?
Not always to have his say?
How do you turn a child into a man?
Oh, how do you solve your problem with S-a-c-r-a-m-e-n-t-o?
How-do-you-hold-that-16th-Moonbeam-in-your-hand?
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | March 27, 2008 at 08:40 AM
Observations from last night while rooting around in my pen:
1. Kobe Bryant is both an offensive weapon, and a killer of the offense at the same time. There were more occasions than I could count last night when Kobe took ill advised shots. Many of them came in the first half before the game was out of reach.
2. Phil is a real stickler for his rotations. Players typically know when they are going to see minutes and they like that. Phil can't control their performance on the court though, so it's interesting that he doesn't free wheel more often and ride the truly hot players. He really should've stuck with Mbenga in the fourth.
3. Ronny is looking timid on a lot of occasions and causing turnovers because of it. He'll need some serious work on his off-the-dribble game in the offseason. Take the shot Ronny.
4. Luke Walton gets entirely too much playing time. I can't wait for Trevor to get back and take those minutes that Walton is getting. His mistakes are becoming more and more glaring.
5. Jordan Farmar has really fallen off in March. He and Sasha were having great seasons up until this month. Sasha is still able to pull together good games, but Jordan hasn't had a really good one in a while.
6. I can't wait for the other 1/3 of our team to return. It's just been an unbelievable stretch for the Lakers since December, but things really are starting to look bad. The players are clearly tired and getting really drained from trying so hard to maintain position while two of their best players, and their sixth man are out. Not to mention a skilled 7 footer that would be coming off of the bench.
7. Why isn't Newble playing again?
8. Dammit.
9. I hate the Funs so much, that I'm actually less disappointed that the Lakers lost, simply because they've lost two in a row.
10. The Hornets beating the Cavs wasn't too special. Last second shots go in about half of the time.
11. Meh.
Oink Oin . . . Oh goodness . . . I think I just threw up in my mouth a little when I thought about rooting for the Celtics last night.
Pig
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | March 27, 2008 at 08:43 AM
Kobe should control his temper and stop complaining at referee every time he thinks he got fouled.
Posted by: tommyd | March 27, 2008 at 08:45 AM
Nemaia,
"I really don't know what the big deal was about Kobe kicking the ball because he's done it a couple of times, soccer style"
That's the result of his constant complaining. The refs get fed up with it, and will give him a "cumulative T". Not the most professional way for them to handle it, but it's human nature, and Kobe knows better. He needs to handle himself more maturely in that respect. Fisher is a perfect example - pretty rare that he complains (at least in the demonstrative fashion that Kobe does), and he ends up getting the benefit of the doubt on calls.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | March 27, 2008 at 08:47 AM
Good Morning Charles---Good Morning Everyone.....
Well it was real nice of the Lakers to show up for the Bobcats lay up drill and be practice bodies---what gracious hosts we are......
This for me was one of the most depressing losses this year---but it still is only one loss and we were short handed blah blah blah....
Positives For Puke: well he played about as well as the rest of our team-----and his gaffs gave me some much needed comic relief.....only 27 years left on his contract....
I really wanted to see Mbenga play more last night---can't really fathom why he didn't...I still think he looks more comfortable on offense than Kwamr did......
I also can't fathom why the Bobcats don't have a better record than the Celtics.....they seem to have a lot of talent.....maybe it's their moniker....isn't intimidating enough perhaps......
They don't even have anyone on their team with any notable physical attributes to question or make fun of---what's up with that?
Their jerseys maybe---what color are they????
No one---and I mean absolutely no one-- hates the Celtics more than I---that is one truth in this universe that I know just as sure as I am about gravity---I even hate them more than I hate Sammy Davis Jr., and believe me that's saying a lot....
When I have the time I will post a disertation on why my hatred runs so strong and deep--but then again maybe it wouldn't fit on this blog, and the length and depth of my declaration would cause the entire internet to crash....
STILL A GREAT DAY TO BE A LAKER FAN !!!
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | March 27, 2008 at 08:51 AM
TOAD:"A spokesman for MB24 Banwagons, LLC, manufacturers of the bandwagon,
assured the public that the bandwagon had passed all inspections during construction a
nd announced that "55 WIN" onwer/driver Laker Tom and "2008 Champoinship" owner/drive
r Andrew Z are being notified to bring their bandwagons in for a major tune up in an effort to
prevent similar future breakdowns."
LOL! POST OF THE DAY!! just what we needed TOAD! LOL!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | March 27, 2008 at 08:52 AM
AN1:"My advice to you is to turn your TV off this year, not read the papers, and distance yourself form the Lakers. If you are this troubled already, it will only get worse for you as the Lakers and Kobe continue to be honored by going far into the playoffs. Maybe the best 'decision' you could make for your emotional health."
NOW THATS, WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | March 27, 2008 at 08:54 AM
AMEN!
BLOG POLICE aka (THE TROLL PATROL)
and/or those who feel the need to rip one (deserved) a new a..hole
Feel free to add a name to the list
01) "Pig" Miller oink oink
02) Jon K
03) : (nameless blogger)
04) Long Time Laker Fan
05) Mamba24
06) Evil Cartman
07) JustaLakerFan
08) All The Mamba's
09) All The LakerGirls
10) Not Mike T.
Posted by: MAMBA24 | March 27, 2008 at 09:01 AM