Stuck inside of Staples with the Memphis Blues again
For those unfamiliar with the reference, time to shore up your Bob Dylan collection. And for those unfamiliar with the reference but nonetheless feel them same blues, then you must have watched last night's 114-111 to the Memphis Grizzlies. It was one of those nights where, save Kobe Bryant's explosive showing to grace the box score with 53 points, not a ton went right. A flu/bad ass cold-like bug had stricken Lamar Odom (who managed to rack the rare 11/11 assist/rebound double-double, but struggled to put the ball in the hoop). Derek Fisher entered the fray just having discovered news of a partially torn tendon in his foot, an ailment that would normally take about 6-8 weeks to heal up, but Fish will be a gamer and play through it as much as possible. The team struggled to hit often wide open shots. There was also a matter of defensive lapses that allowed 60 Griz points in the paint and far, far, too many triples launched (45 in all, a franchise record). Throw in the failure to get a play off with .9 seconds left for a game-tying, overtime inducing three-pointer, and it wouldn't be shocking if "The Artist formerly know as Robert Zimmerman" dropped by today's practice to gain a little insight for his next misery-centric ditty.
aDirk and the Weekend dime compare "MVP" notes. Both reached the same conclusion for a current #1: Congrats are in order for Dan Gadzuric. Kidding. Either party went with Kobe. The scouts (or at least a few of them) would agree.
When it comes to John Hollinger's list of the best NBA players that are ineligible to be elected President of the United States, Pau Gasol is 6th best and Ronny Turiaf 25th.
Greg Oden says he's viewed differently (and by "differently," he means "more importantly") by the Blazer franchise than Von Wafer. That's a little presumptuous if you ask the folks at Lakersblog.
When a player takes 37 shots and comes out as aggressive as Kobe did,it's hard for his teammates to get in any type of a rythym. At halftime they interviewed Pau Gasol and he made a similair comment about teammates getting cold if one player is taking majority of the shots. This is how they end up not stepping up in the 4th quarter because they have rarely touched the basketball throught the game.
Posted by: kelly | March 29, 2008 at 11:17 AM
The Lakers could have used Kwame Brown out there tonight.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | March 29, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Listen reprobate liberal minds
Your glorious Lakers shell go down in flaming defeat when the Big Cactus SIr Shaq and Amare will dominate your bigs in the paint even if the big goofy bynum or Gasol come back my boy Steve Nash will run circles around your Point guards what who Derick whats his name he is slow as sludge and with that injury in his foot you boys are in big time trouble and far mar is not adequate Steve and barbosa will make him look stupid Walton is a gimmick your bench strength is showing its real weakness anyway enough is enough my prediction Phoenix Suns will sweep the Lakers if they meet in the play-offs and will hang a NBA Banner in our arena morons. Your team is fake and weak. hahhahaha
Posted by: Steve nash | March 29, 2008 at 11:25 AM
Steve nash, you're a Suns fan and you are calling us morons? Haaaaaaaaaaaa!
Posted by: Elle | March 29, 2008 at 11:40 AM
kelly,
Actually what Pau said was that some other guys are going to have to start scoring because you can't win if only one guy is scoring.
Posted by: Xodus | March 29, 2008 at 11:41 AM
Apparently there's a shortage on punctuation marks in Phoenix.
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | March 29, 2008 at 11:42 AM
Ummm... I know it's totally beating a dead horse, but... maybe somebody could get Derek Fisher some Dit Da Jow? Maybe?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | March 29, 2008 at 11:48 AM
Thanks AK for the Bob Dylan songs, I belonged to that era the same is true with with stoic coach PJ. The problem with Jackson, he is always sending messages, forever a teacher not a shepherd who'd care for his sheep. You can't trust this baby boomer with your daughter or expect your rookie son play under his tutelage. He will only insist on what he thinks best, displays his 9 rings to show his omnipotence on the b'ball court.
Dylan is an idealist during his time, he rebelled against the war while Jackson is a cunning and pragmatic idealogue who will ride with a superstar accomplishments but can also leave anyone out there 'hang and dry' immersed in disappointments.
While other coaches suffer with the team, concerned with the sagging morale after losing series of games, in the case of PJ, he does'nt really care. He only works only for himself because he has answers to all kinds of b'ball problems i.e. anything that will prop up the image of Phil Jackson.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 29, 2008 at 11:55 AM
Kobe ball... thats what will hold the fort down...
no more 3pt contests with Fisher, Sasha, and Farmar.
Enough is enough.
If these guys want to be one-trick ponies, then let's let limit the amount of tricks they get.
If they dont want to create EASY close opportunites or dont have the skill set to, then let's just unleash Kobe, let him score 50+ for about 5 straight games and then when Pau gets back lets go back to basics...
It might be the only way...
Posted by: Korey | March 29, 2008 at 12:05 PM
I am again finding myself questioning Phil Jackson's coaching--it seems he demonstrates a lack of coaching in most games (ie: substitutions, use of time outs, play calling,etc.)---I hope beyond hope that the timing is right for when Jackson leaves Byron Scott is available--Scott will no doubt want to coach the Lakers, and will not be such a passive participant on the bench.....
We might even get to see an inbound play that doesn't involve the dreaded stack.....
Pick and roll may become part of our daily venacular.....
And defense will become THE priority.....
As long as Jackson keeps playing Puke and making comments about his play that are all but opposite of what I am observing, I will continue to have my doubts about Mr. Jackson.....
This off season needs (at the very least) a Puke trade, and a Rad trade may also be necessary, especially if Jackson isn't going ot play him anyway---I would like to see him play more and either prove his worth or confirm his trade liablity....
I think we need to keep Ronny at all costs--and have the feeling deep in my gut that Farmar and Sasha should also be kept----Puke (and his contract) definitly has to go, with Rad (and his contract) at least being serious considered for a trade....
With all our core players and with perhaps one more key addition, as well as a key substraction (see above Puke lovers), AND WITH NO MAJOR INJURIES (pray to whatever basketball Gods you know), next year should start our dynasty.....
I really don't see them winning it all this year, but am looking forward to hopefully a nice run in the playoffs and the rest of this season.....win or lose, this team is still fun (well most of the time anyway) to watch and indeeed still warrant my undying support, just as have all the Laker squads I have watched and rooted for during the last 42 years....
STILL A GREAT DAY TO BE A LAKER FAN !!!
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | March 29, 2008 at 12:05 PM
Regarding the MVP race...
Kev Garnett can't be a front-runner because he's not even the MVP of his own team (Pierce is).
LeBron's Cavs team record isn't good enough. Also, he blew it by hanging out with rappers and posing with that white woman on Vogue.
McGrady and his Rockets are just a passing fad.
That leaves Chris Paul. He has better numbers all around than Kobe and his team has a better record. Lets just hope that the MVP voters respect Kobe's age versus Paul's.
Kobe has hurt himself by allowing his team to lose to inferior teams and because he's been complaining too much to the refs.
Bottom line, the remainder of the season will decide whether or not Chris Paul or Kobe Bryant is this year's MVP. As of now, it's a 2-man race with Paul slightly ahead of Kobe.
Posted by: troy | March 29, 2008 at 12:09 PM
Open Letter to J.W. Weatherman
You have a funny and weird name Mr.Grammer Police.
Apparently there's a shortage on punctuation marks in Phoenix.
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | March 29, 2008 at 11:42 AM
Posted by: Steve nash | March 29, 2008 at 12:12 PM
Jon K,
>>> Okay, before some person tries to press my easily pressed buttons and calls me a Troll (Rick Friedman--By the way, when I get back to L.A., I am personally coming to your front door and having words with you!), let me make some things clear.
1. We are making the playoffs.
2. This is still my favorite team since Showtime.
3. We will reach AT LEAST the Western Conference Finals this year.
4. The sky isn't falling.
Dude, we agree that the sky isn't falling. Now, about coming to my front door and having words with me, let's just go out for a beer. Talking a little trash now and then is supposed to take the edge off things. Lord knows we were all on edge last night watching that debacle unfold. But the game is over. If the players held onto things the way you do, sometimes, they couldn't make their way out of the locker room and play the next game. Hey, I think you're a quirky dude and we each find the other somewhat misguided on occasion, but I find you to be a passionate Laker fan and that's a good thing. The first round's on me.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | March 29, 2008 at 12:19 PM
Steve Nash...the one who had his ankles broken by Rondo in Boston.
Posted by: drew | March 29, 2008 at 12:24 PM
PSLAKERLOVER. Thanks for tickets again man!!! The game, while an inexcusable loss, was still a great time!!! There will be a Party...oh yes...there will be...
GOOD MORNING LAKER NATION.
I'm still...drunk...or...something. WTF? When did we get to Disneyland? The rides look like fun, but...in the end...it's just a dressed up circus. "The Main Attraction" looked great except for the 1 in his 53, 10 and 1 performance. 1 assist...are you freakin' kidding me? Well I guess if nobody is makin their shot, nobody gets the rock. Sasha looked like a clown lobbin' up all those 3's. (4 for 14) I'm sure you heard me on the TV yellin' at him after every one. Rad Vlad was the leader of the side show with a space cadet like performance with 3-8 and 1-3 behind the arc. LO was right behind him...LO...LOL is what I was thinking all night. His performance alone would have been worth the trip. Why the heck was he chuckin' up 3's? He was soooo off...he looked like he only had 1 eye!! damn sideshow freaks!!!! Fisher is the newest addition to the freak show. With his new injury, he'll look like Quasimodo runnin' up and down the court. Ronny...typical of sideshow performers...started out interesting, then kinda got bland at the end. Farmar and Walton...I guess they are the Siamese 3 headed alien here...you see it, you acknowledge it, you snicker and you keep on walkin' while takin' an exceptionally large drag off the pipe as you do. The thing I hate most is sometimes the rides are closed...WTF? we needed some D and once again Ira "DNP" Newble stepped up to the task. (Said with a stoner tone in the voice...) "Hey man, have some money...sit there...look cool...peace!" Can't bag on Coby too much, PJ don't like the new acts so much. Wait, yup, I did it, I saved the best for last. Mbenga...wow, great energy and effort. I'll take his FG% every night(2-3) but he was the end of the circus. Every time you wanted to stop watching, he managed to draw you back in with yet another foul. It was a train wreck, I couldn't stop watching!!!!
Well, After the laugher I think I need a day to drink away the hangover and sit by the pool today. I will post pics soon. I got a great one with Stu, I was soooo happy to meet him! He is the nicest guy in the world and would give you the shirt off his back if he could. Unfortunately for me the pic I took with him ended up with me looking like a crazy pirate but...oh well, what can you do?
In the end, the circus was fun to go to, but when I left, I just wanted to see the clowns again to make me smile before I go.
LakerMan 420
Posted by: LakerMan 420 | March 29, 2008 at 12:27 PM
Repost:
Diary of an NBA player (to be named later)
I have played basketball for 15 years... Grade school.. High School (where I was a star)....College (where I was a star), NBA (got drafted, must be pretty good). I practice all summer, play all season, practice at scheduled practices, even on my own occasionally.
Game time, I get to the game early, practice a little while. I come back on the court about 45 minutes before game time. "Did I mention I am in great shape" I do some light practice just before tip off.
Game is on. I am running, jumping, (just got a rebound, yes). Time out, sweet, needed a breather. OK game back on, working up a nice sweat now. Open in the corner for a wide open three. Damn, didn't get the ball. Whatever next time I will get it. Still sweatin' feeling good. Open again, pass it to meeeeeeee. Damn didn't get that one either, whatever, back on defense. Steal, awesome. Coming down the wing now, setting up in my spot just behind the line. Double team on Kobe, sweet, pass it my way man. Here it comes. Step back, breathe, let it fly. BRICK.
DAMN I MUST HAVE BEEN OUT OF MY FRIGGIN' RHYTHM, IF ONLY I HAD SHOT THOSE LAST TWO THREE'S I AM SURE THIS ONE WOULD HAVE FALLEN.
"Insert laker perimeter player here ______________"
Yeah Kobe's fault again, right.....
Posted by: pslakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 11:57 AM
Posted by: pslakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 12:28 PM
...funny how late in the season, we endure the "worst loss of the season" but in a matter of days that one is usurped by the "worst loss of the season, no really... this one was 10 times worst."
lamar odom brought up the dreaded "C" word in postgame... uhhh, 70 games in we're still having chemistry problems?
what's up w/ this team?
Posted by: CBuck | March 29, 2008 at 12:31 PM
Never take a Troll at his word
TROLL MAN RETURNS
I was nearly dead after the Utah game, but with so many pathetic showings by the Lakers since, I have been restored to even greater powers.
It use to be the faithful Laker bloggers that needed to feed me but that is no longer the case. It's the once high and mighty Lakers themselves that now feed me. No longer do I need you.
Just a few reasons on my resurrection
Phil Jackson, where to start? How about when your team doesn't play any defense to put in a player who is actually known for his defense. Why sign a player to a 10 day contract and not play him, especially after losing games left and right. LMFAO.
Let's see, you have injuries, and are not using your bench, instead you prefer to play Kobe and LO to exhaustion.
Mr. Nine Rings gets outcoached night-in and night-out and everyone turns a blind eye and excuses him because he has won championships (with great talent only).
To top it off was Jim Cleamons telling us (yesterday at halftime) that we needed to share the ball. It seems to me if Kobe is the only one making 50% of his shots let him keep shooting, I'll take that all night. Isn't Cleamons the defensive coach, why yes he is. Here's a thought, hey Jimmy, how about coaching some defense some year, some month, some day, some instant. you worthless piece of dog manure.
The Bench Mob exposed, just keep shootin 3's. I love the excuses that when Pau and Bynum get back they'll be better. News Flash, make yourselves better.
Luke and Farmar have a secret pact to keep the ball away from Kobe (PJ is in on it too) but Kobe is to smart for that.
There's more to come later
Thank you Laker player and coaches for feeding the Trolls
LONG LIVE THE TROLLS
Posted by: Troll Man | March 29, 2008 at 12:39 PM
When a player takes 37 shots and comes out as aggressive as Kobe did,it's hard for his teammates to get in any type of a rythym. At halftime they interviewed Pau Gasol and he made a similair comment about teammates getting cold if one player is taking majority of the shots. This is how they end up not stepping up in the 4th quarter because they have rarely touched the basketball throught the game.
Posted by: kelly | March 29, 2008 at 11:17 AM
It all depends on how you interpreted Pau's comments. He may have meant that it's great that Kobe is scoring, but others need to help Kobe by hitting some of their shots. Blaming Kobe constantly for the other players shooting woes and inconsistency is becoming redundant and old. I've seen games where Damon Jones hasn't played the entire game until the final minute of a tight game and he hits a three off a LeBron assist. I mean there are so many examples that would smash the argument that the other players are "cold" because Kobe was shooting too much. There's enough blame to go around, including the coaching staff for the past two games.
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | March 29, 2008 at 12:44 PM
Repost from previous thread:
To illustrate my point from earlier about Kobe's passes not turning into assists, I just did a little research. Translation, I watched the game over on DVR and counted every time Kobe passed to open player who missed shot.
12 passes to open shooters that would have resulted in assist. 12!!!!!! One shot went down at the 3:06 mark of 4th quarter !!!!!! And that was the 8th pass by Kobe, meaning the first 7 were all misses.
at 50% shooting, Kobe should have had 6 assists.
For some perspective: For Chris Paul to get 20 assists at that ratio he would have to pass 240 times to open shooters.
Hmmmmmmm yeah Kobe's fault again, right, got it.....
Posted by: pslakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 12:45 PM
Apparently there's a shortage on punctuation marks in Phoenix.
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman
One thing theres no shortage of in L.A right now is EXCUSES.
C,mon guys you seriously didn't see this coming, ever since pau joined your team you guys became a offensive minded squad.
BTW, the Steve nash blogger sounds like one of your own, trying to play devils advocate.
Posted by: Fire32 | March 29, 2008 at 12:46 PM
Open Letter to J.W. Weatherman
You have a funny and weird name Mr.Grammer Police.
Apparently there's a shortage on punctuation marks in Phoenix.
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | March 29, 2008 at 11:42 AM
Posted by: Steve nash | March 29, 2008 at 12:12 PM
First,it's GRAMMAR, not grammer. Second, the name comes from a TV character. Third JUST HOW BAD IS THAT CANADIAN EDUCATION STEVE?
Posted by: pslakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 12:48 PM
Hello Mr. troll man. I will do the honours by re-posting your post. Thanks pal we will take over this blog...hahhahahahahaahha
Never take a Troll at his word
TOLL MAN RETURNS
I was nearly dead after the Utah game, but with so many pathetic showings by the Lakers since, I have been restored to even greater powers.
It use to be the faithful Laker bloggers that needed to feed me but that is no longer the case. It's the once high and mighty Lakers themselves that now feed me. No longer do I need you.
Just a few reasons on my resurrection
Phil Jackson, where to start? How about when your team doesn't play any defense to put in a player who is actually known for his defense. Why sign a player to a 10 day contract and not play him, especially after losing games left and right. LMFAO.
Let's see, you have injuries, and are not using your bench, instead you prefer to play Kobe and LO to exhaustion.
Mr. Nine Rings gets outcoached night-in and night-out and everyone turns a blind eye and excuses him because he has won championships (with great talent only).
To top it off was Jim Cleamons telling us (yesterday at halftime) that we needed to share the ball. It seems to me if Kobe is the only one making 50% of his shots let him keep shooting, I'll take that all night. Isn't Cleamons the defensive coach, why yes he is. Here's a thought, hey Jimmy, how about coaching some defense some year, some month, some day, some instant. you worthless piece of dog manure.
The Bench Mob exposed, just keep shootin 3's. I love the excuses that when Pau and Bynum get back they'll be better. News Flash, make yourselves better.
Luke and Farmar have a secret pact to keep the ball away from Kobe (PJ is in on it too) but Kobe is to smart for that.
There's more to come later
Thank you Laker player and coaches for feeding the Trolls
LONG LIVE THE TROLLS
Posted by: Troll Man | March 29, 2008 at 11:25 AM
Posted by: Steve nash | March 29, 2008 at 12:48 PM
Fire 32,
"You have a funny and weird name Mr.Grammer Police."
Grammer! What a dumb ass!
Posted by: | March 29, 2008 at 12:51 PM
Understatement of the year from Faith:
Well that sucked.
lol.
Posted by: Faith | March 29, 2008 at 12:52 PM
The panic in the Laker blogger folks shows real weakness the minute something goes wrong with your beloved team the cannibals start eating each others remains castigating each other and the Laker players for not coming up and meeting the challenge.This is why your ilk the ~Laker Nation~ is so hated and despised around the world is because of your spoiled and impediment nature towards your team ,it borders on the ridiculous and ludicroius.Maybe it is the year round heat or basking in the liberal bastion of Los Angele's that makes the laker ilk so weak. I will pass you on a tip instead of cannibalising your players like Walton Sasha,Vlade,Lamar the whole Laker team rally around instead of crucifying.
Posted by: steve nash | March 29, 2008 at 08:50 AM
Posted by: Steve nash | March 29, 2008 at 12:55 PM
lol Faith. Indeed it did.
Posted by: Xodus | March 29, 2008 at 01:10 PM
Regardless of how Kobe played, or whether he got his teammates involved, the fact is they scored 111 points, which should have been more than enough to beat the grizz. the lakers problem is that they are obviously feeling sorry for themselves, they've finally thrown up their hands at all the injuries that's befallen their team, and now are just going through the motions.
the lakers are not even trying on defense anymore, that's a tell-tale sign of apathy. as far as they're concerned, asking them to deal with all those injuries and still play basketball is too much. anybody else think this team, right now, looks like the team that gave up last year?
hopefully the lakes can still make the playoffs, but I'm having my doubts that the lakers will get anywhere this year. for a season that was so promising, it's disappointing to see it implode like it has the past 3 years.
Posted by: PC | March 29, 2008 at 01:14 PM
Steve Nash,
You know nothing about Laker Nation, so we'd appreciate it if you didn't try to characterize us as spoiled or anything else. Now go back to your living room, pop in your 1992 Suns team video so you can say "Hey, at least we made the Finals that one year."
Remember what Chuck said: "God wants us to win the championship."
Posted by: Xodus | March 29, 2008 at 01:14 PM
Guys, what in the Hell has happened. I go on a camping trip and the Lakers loose two games to terrible teams. I thought we were goingt to go up 2/1/2 on Phoenix. with 9 left. Basically we blew it. Now we're looking at the 5 spot with no home court. Plus phoenix will win the Pacific again. Un Believable.
CrzyFan
Posted by: CrzyFan | March 29, 2008 at 01:23 PM
Steve Nash,
"The panic in the Laker blogger folks shows real weakness the minute something goes wrong with your beloved team the cannibals start eating each others remains castigating each other and the Laker players for not coming up and meeting the challenge."
This not panic, we just tell it like it is. We love our team and care for it. When we see there is something wrong, we contribute to right the ship. Let freedom rings. If there is anyone who would panic, it would be the fans of Phoenix Suns. You never experienced to be a NBA Champion. Suns are forever bridesmaid till the end of time.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 29, 2008 at 01:44 PM
Why is everybody ignoring what was so obvious...There was a Conspiracy to throw last night's game away to the Grizzlies. Either PJ does not want to go into the playoff as number 1 seed in the WC, or someone in the Laker organization had a substantial amount of money involved in sports gambling!!
Things that did not add up:
1. D-Fish suddenly claimed that he has tendon but will play thru it. When did this happen? How come the trainers are allowing him to play and risking further injury?
2. Odom does not appear to be sick. Why did PJ sat him out for so long and then re-inserted him during the critical minutes to take the long three? Did you see Lamar's smile after the miss?
3. Koby came out shooting like there was no tomorrow and did not get any of his teammates involved in the game. He knows better than that.
3. There was hardly any defense, despite the fact that everyone including my grandmother knew that that was the problem with the Lakers in the last 10 or so games!!
Now, you don't think that the guy with the 9 rings could not get these boys to play a little bit of defense?
4. How about Ronny? I have never seen him missed so many shots under the basket!
5. Everyoneat Staples Center knew that the 3's were killing the Lakers. So did PJ do something about it? Absolutely nothing! Nyet!! Instead, we hoisted the three like it was a 3 point contest. If it were not by design, how come PJ did not do anything about it?
When Mbenga was playing better than the starters, something is going on. When so many strange things happened contrary to common sense, there has to be another reason.
My stand is there was a conspiracy to lose the game with Memphis. The Zen Master played a joke on all of us!!!
Relax, you guys. Don't worry!!!
Posted by: Robyn | March 29, 2008 at 01:48 PM
On a boston or spurs team or any team with PHIL not coaching(if thats what you guys call it)
P.J- wouldn't of got an extension
FISHER- wouldn't start
LAMAR- limited minutes at first, but during the course of the season with all his disappearing acts and bone head plays, most likely end up as a bench player.
VLAD- used more with a smart coach who knows how to use his players( what did he make a pass at jeanie)
SASHA, WALTON- garbage time players eventually getting waived
MIHM- released along time ago
RONNY- used off the bench, but minutes would probably increase b/c the dude can play, has heart and wouldn't have phil or kobe breathing down his neck which in turn play more relaxed.
MBENGA- used for 6 fouls and garbage time
KARL- used the same, maybe for another year or so.
FARMAR- used in 3point plays only, but not to run the offense.
IRA- Defensive focused player would definitely get SOME pt.
Leaving only three players deserving of a championship, well 4 if you throw in Ronny.
Your coach is the problem, oh and the teams you guys keep playing too are the problem. Their coach and players feel/ smell your coaches and players weaknesses. I feel bad for Kobe he's under P. Jackson's spell.
Posted by: Fire32 | March 29, 2008 at 01:49 PM
Why is everybody ignoring what was so obvious...There was a Conspiracy to throw last night's game away to the Grizzlies. Either PJ does not want to go into the playoff as number 1 seed in the WC, or someone in the Laker organization had a substantial amount of money involved in sports gambling!!
Things that did not add up:
1. D-Fish suddenly claimed that he has tendon but will play thru it. When did this happen? How come the trainers are allowing him to play and risking further injury?
2. Odom does not appear to be sick. Why did PJ sat him out for so long and then re-inserted him during the critical minutes to take the long three? Did you see Lamar's smile after the miss?
3. Koby came out shooting like there was no tomorrow and did not get any of his teammates involved in the game. He knows better than that.
3. There was hardly any defense, despite the fact that everyone including my grandmother knew that that was the problem with the Lakers in the last 10 or so games!!
Now, you don't think that the guy with the 9 rings could not get these boys to play a little bit of defense?
4. How about Ronny? I have never seen him missed so many shots under the basket!
5. Everyoneat Staples Center knew that the 3's were killing the Lakers. So did PJ do something about it? Absolutely nothing! Nyet!! Instead, we hoisted the three like it was a 3 point contest. If it were not by design, how come PJ did not do anything about it?
When Mbenga was playing better than the starters, something is going on. When so many strange things happened contrary to common sense, there has to be another reason.
My stand is there was a conspiracy to lose the game with Memphis. The Zen Master played a joke on all of us!!!
Relax, you guys. Don't worry!!!
Posted by: Robyn | March 29, 2008 at 01:49 PM
I forgot who asked, but part of the reason Newble isn't yet getting any PT, beyond the fact he hasn't really played in 40 days, is that he also hasn't had a chance to practice with a full team. No chance to learn even the basics of the offense, or build any rhythm on the other end.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | March 29, 2008 at 02:10 PM
You are a moron what a dummy and mind your own buisness lame.
"Insert laker perimeter player here ______________"
Yeah Kobe's fault again, right.....
Posted by: pslakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 11:57 AM
Posted by: Steve nash | March 29, 2008 at 02:12 PM
Jon K, I want to assure you that Rick Friedman is not a troll nor have the panacea that the sky is falling.
Rick Friedman, I want to assure you that Jon K is a Laker fan first before the Clippers but he is a full blooded Los Angelino and he would die in a mortal combat than relinguish his love for the Lakers.
Troll has been an overused word. You have been captivated by the diablos that come to this blog, now you're accusing fellow Laker fans just because u dissent their opinions.
LET FREEDOM RINGS. This is a blog where people meet, converse and exchange ideas. Don't let the recklessness of youth spoil the established camaraderie.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 29, 2008 at 02:16 PM
Who Said iam from Canada
First,it's GRAMMAR, not grammer. Second, the name comes from a TV character. Third JUST HOW BAD IS THAT CANADIAN EDUCATION STEVE?
Posted by: pslakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 12:48 Pm
English is my second language and my homeland is Moscow,Russia...United States is a great country..Sports is entertainment.
Posted by: Steve nash | March 29, 2008 at 02:25 PM
Xodus,
"You know nothing about Laker Nation,"
Yes, he does. He knows that he didn't make the cut!
Posted by: exhelodrvr | March 29, 2008 at 02:27 PM
Great post Floyd,
I had the same thoughts myself. Byron Scott is a Laker and would take this team to new heights because he is a player's coach, not an arrogant attention seeking front runner that is living on a reputation. Phil Jackson has won with loaded teams built by someone else. Scott has been with the Hornets less time than Phil has been with the lakers and have built 2 teams, the nets and Hornets into winners and jackson has not gotten it done with this laker team. You have to motivate, not mulipulate and denagrate your players. Byron Scott for laker coach.....
Posted by: 70slakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 02:38 PM
Good Morning Laker nation!
I say morning because I just woke up from a bad dream. I dreamed that I went to my first Laker game, and they lost to Memphis......................
PSlakerfan,
Man you rock! how many times can I tell you that? I had a fantastic time at the game. With the people sitting around us, making it feel like I was at a game with the bloggers. The people were great, The atmosphere at the game was phenomenal, I had an out of body experience, lol. Seriously man thanks so much for the tickets.
Lakerman420 and I had a few beers, a few dogs, and I got bombarded by the candy sales man- probably because he knew we were stoned.
We got some pretty cool shot glasses, and I got a hat. We saw Stu Lantz and got some pictures of us with him.
Chants in our section turned tward "We want Kwame" or "Kwwwwwwaaaaaaaaammmmmmmmmmmeeeeeee"
Grizzlies wouldnt even play him with 9 seconds on the clock and a lead........
Kwame fr Luke trade?
Luke had a good game for him, he doubled the number on his jersey in points.....but thats pretty sad that I only ask him to get as many points on his jersey.
Hey Luke------KOBE TOLD YOU TO CALL A TIME OUT ....WHY DID YOU PASS THE BALL???????
How many fouls did Crittinton have on Kobe?
Ok done....we lost, it happens, I cant get mad- Lakerman420 told me last night "A true fan stays till the end of the game, win or lose."
A true fan will watch Sunday's game with a smile on her face hoping for the victory.
I will have a very serious problem if the Clippers beat Memphis though.
Pslakerfan, I know, Im beating a dead horse, but thanks again!
GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!
Simi Laker Girl
Posted by: Simi Laker Girl | March 29, 2008 at 02:52 PM
Good Morning Laker nation!
I say morning because I just woke up from a bad dream. I dreamed that I went to my first Laker game, and they lost to Memphis......................
PSlakerfan,
Man you rock! how many times can I tell you that? I had a fantastic time at the game. With the people sitting around us, making it feel like I was at a game with the bloggers. The people were great, The atmosphere at the game was phenomenal, I had an out of body experience, lol. Seriously man thanks so much for the tickets.
Lakerman420 and I had a few beers, a few dogs, and I got bombarded by the candy sales man- probably because he knew we were stoned.
We got some pretty cool shot glasses, and I got a hat. We saw Stu Lantz and got some pictures of us with him.
Chants in our section turned tward "We want Kwame" or "Kwwwwwwaaaaaaaaammmmmmmmmmmeeeeeee"
Grizzlies wouldnt even play him with 9 seconds on the clock and a lead........
Kwame fr Luke trade?
Luke had a good game for him, he doubled the number on his jersey in points.....but thats pretty sad that I only ask him to get as many points on his jersey.
Hey Luke------KOBE TOLD YOU TO CALL A TIME OUT ....WHY DID YOU PASS THE BALL???????
How many fouls did Crittinton have on Kobe?
Ok done....we lost, it happens, I cant get mad- Lakerman420 told me last night "A true fan stays till the end of the game, win or lose."
A true fan will watch Sunday's game with a smile on her face hoping for the victory.
I will have a very serious problem if the Clippers beat Memphis though.
Pslakerfan, I know, Im beating a dead horse, but thanks again!
GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!
Simi Laker Girl
Posted by: Simi Laker Girl | March 29, 2008 at 02:52 PM
Some of talk about Kobe arguing with the ref being the reason he will not win MVP. Not true. He does need to leave the officials alone but, we all saw J Rich blatantly push Kobe in the back and get a wide open layup under the basket. Why didn't the refs see it? It wasn't as if the ball was on the other side of the floor. It was on the same side of the floor for the post entry pass where the push occurred. Million of viewers and over 19,000 fans saw it but 3 refs didn't? The capper of the play is, it could have been a key defensive stop momentum wise. Momentum is everything in these games. The reason why kobe won't win the MVP is there are a lot of excuses to give it Chris Paul and LeBron james whos name shouldn't even be mentioned because he plays for the 13th best team in the league depite his scoring number of 31pts. Kobe led the league at 35pts his team was better than 13th in the league, he didn't win MVP. Its also so very disrepectful to other players like Garnett, Duncan, Stadiumiare and even McGrady whos teams are playing great basketball to not be mentioned before LeBron James for MVP. Make LeBron earn his way, don't just give him the award.
Posted by: 70slakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 02:57 PM
Robyn,
It's all about that 1st round matchup. Phil is no dummy. He knows that after the azz-beating the Golden State Warriors (hoovering around the 7/8 seed) have handed the Lakers this season, and the job they did on the Mavs last year, he doesn't want to see them 1st round. And since "underdog" teams play well against the Lakers, I'd say Phil is looking to avoid a 1 or 2 seed. If he can get the 4 - 6 seed, I think Phil would be happier.
Posted by: troy | March 29, 2008 at 02:59 PM
pslaker fan,
Thanks so much for the insight. You are a true fan of basketball. I made a simular comment on the Live thread last night. I saw at least 8 missed 3 point shots in the last 3 minutes of the game between Sasha, Farmar and the last 3 point shot of game taken by Odom. Thanks for stating the facts. Kobe has given his team ates easy looks all year and should average at least 8 assist a game.....
Posted by: 70slakerfan | March 29, 2008 at 03:04 PM
Rick Friedman,
Okay. Well, enough. I'll have that beer.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | March 29, 2008 at 03:22 PM
Let's hope order is restored within this team soon as the playoffs approaches. The head coach with the hefty salaries and a free pass from any coaching related mishaps, needs to step up and rectify the problems. Back to basics with motion offense and physical defense, and less on-court spectating and transition defense. Let's work harder for points than settling for Fool's Gold in the three-point shots. There's no substitute for good old-fashioned hard work, blood, sweat and tears. Diversify the offense to include dribble driving penetration in the paint or dish-off to the open man underneath the baskets for high-percentage points or drawn fouls. Head man, feel free to espouse more these and less of stagnant jumpshooting game. Also, feel free to mix some time-out calls when the game is on the line rather than when it's already been lost. The lack of energy and focus from the players are partly the result of the head man himself, who hadn't shown much throughout his tenure with the Lakers. The dispassionate style and laissez faire regime of the head man may have something to do with the team's undisciplined habits -- suspect free throws, turnovers, pick-and-roll, second-chance opportunties for the opposition. Unfortunately the head man is a mainstay in this organization, which Bill Sharmin and Jerry West helped build to global prominence. With the head man soon becoming Jerry Buss' son-in-law, there's a strong possibility of him sticking around for many more years.
Posted by: Rollo | March 29, 2008 at 04:07 PM
Apparently there's a shortage on punctuation marks in Phoenix.
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman
----------------------------------------------------------
But there's no shortage of PUNK-tuation in the land of the Puns.
Posted by: MiloRambaldi | March 29, 2008 at 05:14 PM
DON'T NEED TO LISTEN TO SOUND BYTES. IF A PLAYER DON'T PASS THE BALL, IT'S SIMPLE...TEAMMATES ARE NOT GOING TO PLAY DEFENSE.
JUST FOCUS ON THE SHOT ATTEMPTS.
This is the Kobe of last season. Only difference is he's going have the MVP Title instead of the scoring title.
ANOTHER SEASON GOING BY AND THIS GUY STILL DOESN'T HAVE A CLUE HOW TO PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL.
D.Fisher G - (2-7)
K.Bryant G - (19-37)
L.Odom F (1-7)
V.Radmanovic F (3-8)
R.Turiaf C - (3-10)
BYNUM, GASOL, ARIZA. DOESN'T MATTER. THIS GUY HAS LOST THE PLOT FOR 5 YEARS IN NOW RUNNING.
THERE IS NO WAY ONE PLAYER SHOULD TRIPLE THE AMOUNT OF SHOT ATTEMPTS OF THE REST OF THE TEAM UNLESS YOU ARE BALL HOGGING AND HAVE LOST TOTAL DISREGARDS FOR THE CONCEPT OF LEADERSHIP AND PLAYING TEAM BASKETBALL.
Absolutely, DISGUSTING!
THEN WE LOSE TO MEMPHIS. LOL!!!!
Posted by: Gunner | March 29, 2008 at 05:31 PM
repost
DON'T NEED TO LISTEN TO SOUND BYTES. IF A PLAYER DON'T PASS THE BALL, IT'S SIMPLE...TEAMMATES ARE NOT GOING TO PLAY DEFENSE.
JUST FOCUS ON THE SHOT ATTEMPTS.
This is the Kobe of last season. Only difference is he's going have the MVP Title instead of the scoring title.
ANOTHER SEASON GOING BY AND THIS GUY STILL DOESN'T HAVE A CLUE HOW TO PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL.
D.Fisher G - (2-7)
K.Bryant G - (19-37)
L.Odom F (1-7)
V.Radmanovic F (3-8)
R.Turiaf C - (3-10)
BYNUM, GASOL, ARIZA. DOESN'T MATTER. THIS GUY HAS LOST THE PLOT FOR 5 YEARS IN NOW RUNNING.
THERE IS NO WAY ONE PLAYER SHOULD TRIPLE THE AMOUNT OF SHOT ATTEMPTS OF THE REST OF THE TEAM UNLESS YOU ARE BALL HOGGING AND HAVE LOST TOTAL DISREGARDS FOR THE CONCEPT OF LEADERSHIP AND PLAYING TEAM BASKETBALL.
Absolutely, DISGUSTING!
THEN WE LOSE TO MEMPHIS. LOL!!!!
Posted by: Gunner | March 29, 2008 at 05:34 PM