Switch!
Something the Lakers didn't do all that well Sunday in their 104-92 loss to the Rockets in Houston, but a trick at which the K Bros. are quite adept. I'm heading back this morning to LA while AK will board a plane to Dallas. That means short links this morning, and we'll try to add as much as we can through the early part of the day. It's fair to say that the Lakers struggled with Houston's tight D and the serious confidence with which they're playing (you'd feel good about yourself, too, if you won 22 straight games) as a game that started to get away from them early eventually got away late. It was a good test for the Rockets, and they passed with flying colors. A massive day from Rafer Alston, who shot the Lakers out of the game at every opportunity. Meanwhile, for the Lakers a mini-slump (two games, folks, step back from the edge) isn't all that surprising given the injury to Pau Gasol and a tough road trip. But there's more to it than that, says D-Fish (for more on this, listen to the audio from yesterday's game-- excellent stuff as always from Fisher).
More to come over the day. Call this a morning snack.
UPDATES ADDED BELOW:
Much of this, like the Fish material in the last link, is in the
audio, but LO points out here that the Lakers need to do a better job
recognizing what's working offensively at given points in the game.
Though Odom didn't say it explicitly, but between you, me, and the lamp
post it was pretty clear he was frustrated that he didn't see the ball there more often. But as PJ points out, Odom has to be more assertive as well.
Kevin Ding's game story at the Register.
Much of Houston's success Sunday can be chalked up to Shane Battier's work on Kobe Bryant. Down in Houston, they're saying the talk of the streak somehow lacking legitimacy- honestly, how can anyone question 22 in a row in the NBA?- needs to stop.
The loss drops the Lakers back to second in the WC, a game ahead of the four- four!- teams in the conference with 44 wins.
With the Gasol injury, the Lakers are heading the wrong direction in the SI.com Power Rankings.
BK
Morning snack? I lost my appetite :(
Posted by: Gilly | March 17, 2008 at 05:17 AM
Sad to say but, were part of the streak....
Posted by: lakersgameboi | March 17, 2008 at 05:19 AM
I think it's more important to have upward momentum during the last 10 games of the regular season going into the playoffs. The Lakers will probably go 0-4 on this road trip unless Dallas and Utah have particularly bad games. Dallas will be primed bec. they lost the last game in Staples.
In a way, if the Lakers fix the details now that stem from lack of effort, lack of mental focus and lack of good communication in Team D, it will greatly help them to that finishing kick in the last 10 games when Gasol, Mihm and even possibly Bynum will be back.
This is just the trough before we catch the wave for that stretch run.
Houston in contrast peaked at the wrong time and will going downhill as the playoffs start. It's like buying an Internet stock before the market starts to slide downwards.
In contrast, the Lakers are all upside. It couldn't ppssibly get worse (as long as they stay away from any more stepping on each other's feet!).
Posted by: LakerinBC | March 17, 2008 at 05:22 AM
BK,
From the other thread:
You wrote: In my mind, the critical point came with about four minutes left. He misses a jump shot, then misses a layup, Sasha gets a shot in between, he turns the ball over on the next trip. Odom has a dunk on the wing. Kobe then launches a terrible three, misses a jumper on the next trip, then a layup before Phil sits him down because the game was out of hand.
My response: So you're saying b/n the 4:15 & 2:39
mark. You've just told me that Sasha & Lamar are
trying, so I don't get how he sucked the energy out
of everyone else. Please explain. You're counting a horrible 3 against him when the Lakers are down
by 12 and there's less than two minutes left? Umm...
Isn't a *superstar*, aka the best player in the NBA,
aka known as one of the best clutch players currently
playing, "supposed" to take shots down the stretch?
Let me ask a different question. The Lakers are down
by 12 against a HOT team who is shooting the lights
out. How are the Lakers going to get back in it? Please
don't give me fiction. Who, on the Lakers, are you
*EXPECTING* to hit big shots and get us back into it
when we don't have Gasol/Bynum on the floor
demanding a double team?
I think this is a CLASSIC case of villanification. [ I hope
you like my new word. :) ] If he passes to anyone
else and they miss the shot, everyone then says why
are you passing the ball? Kobe, as the leader of the
team, *NEEDS* to have the ball in his hand and needs
to take the shot. [ See LBJ in last years playoffs for
an example. ] If he makes the 3, he's the MVP. If he
misses he's a "goat" & a ballhog.
The thing I don't see you talking about is the Lakers
defense and rebounding during that time.
Why are the Lakers down by 12? If you take a look at the stats from
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=280316010
The numbers look pretty similar except for the 3-pt
shooting. Oddly enough, the Rockets took 10 more
3's than we did and made 7 more 3's than we did.
You did notice that our bench got outscored 59 to
27 didn't you?
*My* perception: A quick look at the personnel on
the floor, shows that the team playing yesterday
was almost the exact same team as last year when
we got crushed by Phx. We didn't have a #2 scorer
last year and we lost. Without a #2 scorer this year
we'll lose.
Who were you expecting to step up and get
Gasol/Bynum type numbers yesterday?
Posted by: hobbitmage | March 17, 2008 at 05:31 AM
BK,
from: http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/7917328/
Rockets-make-all-the-right-moves-to-extend-streak?MSNHPHMA
What the Lakers didn't do:
Crowd Rafer Alston on high screen/rolls. Too often L.A. defenders went under screen-and-rolls, failed to have their bigs step out, and were late in switching, leaving Alston too many open looks from downtown.
Make coordinated rotations on the Rockets' screen-and-rolls. Kobe, for example, was guilty of five botched rotations.
Make the shots they had to make. Among Kobe's 22 misses were six layups. In the clutch, the Lakers were 1-for-4.
Take advantage of their opportunities. For the Lakers, the key play of the game came with 5:27 remaining. The Rockets led 88-84 when Odom missed a pair of free throws. From there, Houston was off on a 12-2 run and the game was over.
One can correlate Rosen's observations with: The
Lakers no longer have an all-star caliber center. The
Lakers didn't play great defense. The Lakers don't
have a #2 scorer.
Posted by: hobbitmage | March 17, 2008 at 05:49 AM
Another interesting tidbit. Lamar said during post game interviews that he would've liked the ball more since he was dominating Luis Scola down in the post going 7-10 today.
Curious how Bryant, a player with supposed high basketball IQ, couldn't recognize what was working down low and proceeds to jack up 33 shots.
Bryant said later that he will go back to the gym and work on the arc of his shot. Really? It took him 33 shots to realize that his shots weren't falling today? Yet he proceeds to fire every chamber in his gun like there's no tomorrow?
Here's an idea Kobe. Instead of saying things like, "I can score whenever I want", "I take what the defense gives me", "I can make in-game adjustments on the fly", WHY DON'T YOU DO IT INSTEAD OF JUST SAYING IT?!?!?!?
Walk the walk!!! TALK IS CHEAP!!!
-Jeffs Aho
Posted by: Jeffs Aho | March 17, 2008 at 06:06 AM
Pau, get well soon. Lakers come home and get right for the playoffs.
This will be the most important teaching stretch for the rest of the regular season. The lessons are related to teamwork, defensively especially, effort and communication. The NBA regular season is for working these issues out so that your matchup weaknesses individually can be minimized by teamwork. So, the bench and the remaining starters are going to get some good practice. Having the poor defense masked by great offense is not helpful in the long term.
Man, Derek Fisher is so straight forward and concise in his answers to tough questions. When he answers reporters, you really get an answer. Unlike Kobe who says that the team just needs to work harder. Fisher says they need to communicate better on defense as an entire team.
Posted by: markythearky | March 17, 2008 at 06:07 AM
Good morning, Laker Nation!
Tough loss last night, but Houston played well, and, quite frankly, The Banger Mbenga ain't no Andrew Bynum.
Things will be okay.
The sky is not falling.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | March 17, 2008 at 06:26 AM
ALLEZ LAKERS!!!
Posted by: | March 17, 2008 at 06:44 AM
Good morning all.
Fish has not said anything new which has been said before on this blog and elsewhere. Just in another way. Correct the things (small things ) would be step up their game. Bad free throws and possesions would be another but here I think we call it the same.
Turnovers have been a bane all season. Not something new.
I kinda disagree with the waiting part as we are waiting but agree we need to step it up.
The D part is the big problem but that goes right back to your bigs out. The perimeter players have to leave their men to go to help the post because we are short there.
A kick out to other teams perimeter players opens them up. Try playing running up and down court then play follow the ball between post and perimeter. It will tire anyone out as game progresses.
The solution for stop gag is to get termporary help at the 5 (McCoy) and use the last big you have MBenga.
Long term get players better conditioning programs offseason and do yoga. If it worked for Kareem irt is worth a try.
Next get a taller faster point guard. Dam I wish we still had Crit.
As for the rest of view I think beyond those problems we still have a talented team and can compeat. Step it up and bring in help on the short term.
Well still need more breakfast tidbits.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | March 17, 2008 at 07:03 AM
WOW............
THE FIRST........
Posted by: COMPTON FINEST | March 17, 2008 at 07:19 AM
As Frankie used to say, R-E-L-A-X!
Take a step back and look at the big picture, the Lakers ARE going to make the playoffs. Until then, there's NO need to panic. It'll be a whole other season once it comes.
Let's see how the team plays with a complete lineup.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: knowing is half the battle | March 17, 2008 at 07:47 AM
It's good to hear that the swelling is down in Pau's ankle. And Fish is absolutely right, we haven't executed very well since the second Miami game.
I think a lot of that has to do with falling in love with our own press clippings. I haven't seen fire from this team in a while. We're beginning to coast a little like the 00-02 teams did and we can't have that when we have yet to win anything. And with 3-4 key players missing, no less.
Posted by: Xodus | March 17, 2008 at 07:51 AM
BK
i can't believe u r supporting fisher. he is a great politician. but never does the walk. (please do not take it as a personal attack).
i'm waiting for some excellent stuff on the court.
at the same time he and farmar DID NOT stop any pointgard in the past 2 weeks. it is not about communication, not about fine details, not about not having pau. they r terrible defenders.
how smart a player has to be to put a hand in front of a 3 point spot up shooter. t-mac played poorly, being tired, and they were still trying to help out when was not necessary. sasha was half a court away in the 4th when bobby jackson was waiting in the right corner for the pass and had all the time to extend the lead to 10 points.
he is old, never being a good defender,neither is farmar. at least they shoud stick with the 3 point shooter.
t-mac was on the bench and the lakers were outplayed buy a bunch of D-league players. and one on a 10 day contract.
they should be all ashamed how they played.
the rockets are not good, but they play with effort, hard and even after 0-14 shooting in the 3rd, they never give up. farmar let alston 2 times free and he got his confidence back, t-mac got 2 in a row, same with bobby jackson.
they defended for 10 minutes.
and the sad part is that the press asks the type of the questions that already imply and excuse coming from the players. and especially from the coaches.
maybe you should do a clemons part 3 and 4 where he can give us some great insight, not about the history of the lakers, that is branded in the books already, but mostly what his defense book contains. looks like empty pages, or if there are any notes, it's hard to read them because they are glued on the side.
yes even in full force, they could have lost all the 4 games. and no big deal. i think is more the way how one looses the game. yes you can play very well and the other team makes a few extra shots or stops. that's why it is a game and there is only one winner. but the lakers r making all stars out of pavlovici, gibson, all the portland point guards, and now the new addition, alston. looks like a little bit of a problem.
Posted by: | March 17, 2008 at 07:57 AM
Kobe did have a terrible game yetserday. We didn't lose because of him and that's not what BK is saying. Kobe took some shots in the fourth that he should only take when he's hot (and even then it's a bad shot, but you live with it.)
The bigger problem yesterday was our old nemesis the pick and roll and leaving three point shooters open all day. We went under the screen every time with Alston, which makes no sense. Especially when he's hot like he was last night.
Posted by: Xodus | March 17, 2008 at 07:59 AM
For all the trolls that come to this sacred site your end time is coming ditto that suns,rockets or any other wannabes.Phil will have us peak at the right time towards the end,when we get are stormtroopers back Gasol,Bynum ,Chris Milm and possibly Trevor during the play-offs we cant be stopped it dont manner omg with Gasol AND BYNUM patrolling the paint NBA banner number 10 hahahaha trolls.
Posted by: WHITE MAMBA24 | March 17, 2008 at 08:06 AM
Compton has been right all along about Vlad.
Vlad did an excellent job on T-Mac yesterday.
Our Lakers could take notes on how to play defense from that Rocket's game...
Cheer up everyone. Here's the way I see it:
There's no way the Lakers are falling out of the playoff picture.
Seeding is mostly irrelevant when we're healthy
The regular season means nothing, we should know that more than anyone.
We weren't going to get home court against the Celts anyway, and now we do not have homecourt against the Pistons, whoop de doo.
The real season begins in a month. Let's see how it shakes out then.
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | March 17, 2008 at 08:11 AM
No sense in playing the blame game, bottom line we didnt get it done either side of the basket..Gave up open shots all game, went under screens, instead of staying on top, let Bobby Jackson go off, and Rafer of course, and McGrady made shots when it mattered, so they got the W..Time to move on...
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 17, 2008 at 08:17 AM
As much as ESPN would like to shine the spotlight on
T. Mac or anyone that can step into it, they're just a TEAM playing hard and smart on both sides of the ball.
The Lakers are as flat as Kobe's jumper right now but there are bright spots and the team will be fine from any playoff position. In the interest of good mental health, I suggest using your DVR judiciously.
Posted by: Vman | March 17, 2008 at 08:28 AM
Some of the comments continue to make my head spin.
First, about communication. Did the active members of the squad just meet each other for the first time on Sunday? Unless I've missed something, this team has been playing together for awhile. Clearly they were out of sync with each other, but good communication should be a habit by now.
Second, all the knocks on DJ Mbenga. The guy's spent most of his Laker tenure on the pine. Yet he played substantial minutes in the third quarter, when the team had its greatest success against the Rockets. Think about how much more he can contribute when given a real opportunity to get in the flow. He may not be an All-Star, but he's got something to offer.
Kobe has to find a way to trust his team mates even when they're not at their most effective. If Kobe can give himself a whole game to get it together, a miss here and there isn't reason enough to become the ball hog he was on Sunday. This far into the season, he also doesn't still have the legs to play all 48 minutes. Sunday was not his finest hour in an otherwise MVP season.
Unlike most of the other posters in the past 24 hours, I still believe the Lakers are capable of winning the next two games and wrap-up the road trip at .500, going 2-2. I'm far from a pollyanna, as some of my previous rants may demonstrate. But if the Lakers are to attain a Championship this year, they need to show that they can learn from their mistakes, and finishing the road trip strong, even without Gasol, is one way to do so.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | March 17, 2008 at 08:31 AM
and speaking of SWITCH,
Was anyone else on their game enough yesterday to make the switch to catch Tiger's incredible finish?
Happy to say, I switched just in time from my team, to my man TIger, and was able to finish the day only half miserable.
Posted by: Vman | March 17, 2008 at 08:36 AM
Good Morning to all. I sincerely apologize for my horrifying troll oriented outbursts last evening. I was venting. I don't like feeding the trolls, however I do like their tasty meat.
Yesterday was a prime example of what a depleted roster will do for any team. A few points.
1. Stop comparing the Lakers to the Rockets and Celtics when it comes to injuries. Those other teams are/were only playing without one of their players for short stretches. The Lakers have been missing Bynum, their leading rebounder and shot blocker, for 29 games. Gasol replaced him and they went 15 - 4. Then he went down and they've lost two in a row. The Lakers are also missing two role player in Mihm and Ariza. So the comparisons the trolls are making are ludicrous.
2. This is a young team that we're seeing on the floor right now and it shows. We have all been spoiled by the maturity of the team over the season, but forget the Jordan is only a second year player, Rony a third year player, and Sasha a fourth year player. They will all still go through rough stretches.
3. Not the only team struggling. The Spurs won ten games in a row, then promptly have lost 5 of their last six games and face some more tough ones ahead. Utah lost to the Nets over the weekend. The Hornets were blown out by the Pistons a game after they best the Lakers. This new and improved NBA is no joke. Let's not forget how unusual the Rockets recent success is, as impressive and noteworthy as it might be.
4. The Rockets are winning a lot of games right now. It's tough for any team to do what they've been doing over the last two months. Good for them. They have been playing hard and deserve it.
I'll bring the rain on the troll nation again after the next game. I like playing with them. Even though they're ugly and smelly. I Love being a Laker fan, if nothing other than how much other teams hate my team and its players. Don't be so jealous trolls, just because your team hasn't won as many titles or had as much success as ours. Take it out on your owner, not us.
GO LAKERS!!
Pig
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | March 17, 2008 at 08:37 AM
Houston's still a one and done team come playoff time when every team is even steven again. Them winning streaks mean nothing in the big dance. Enjoy the streak, Rockets.
Posted by: xtro | March 17, 2008 at 08:38 AM
bad luck is bad luck is bad luck.
first we have a below average center, chris mihm, go down.
then our up and coming, sky's the limit potential center, andrew bynum goes down.
so we make a deal for gasol.
and guess what happens, he also goes down.
western conference opponents better get their licks in now, because when (ok, if) the lakers get (and hopefully remain) healthy - we can contend for a title.
i find it very difficult to critique my team when 3 centers are down. two of which are game changers.
Posted by: tha show | March 17, 2008 at 08:57 AM
I hope Houston enjoyed that early xmas present from the league.
I lost a lot of respect for the NBA yesterday. I found that game to be extremely stacked against the Lakers in many ways, I don't appreciate contests that don't give both sides a fair chance to win.
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | March 17, 2008 at 09:11 AM
bad luck is bad luck is bad luck.
first we have a below average center, chris mihm, go down.
then our up and coming, sky's the limit potential center, andrew bynum goes down.
so we make a deal for gasol.
and guess what happens, he also goes down.
western conference opponents better get their licks in now, because when (ok, if) the lakers get (and hopefully remain) healthy - we can contend for a title.
i find it very difficult to critique my team when 3 centers are down. two of which are game changers.
Posted by: tha show | March 17, 2008 at 08:57 AM
Well said Tha Show and props to Pig Miller for his points.
I just want to add that with 3 bigs out that changes the dynamics of the team drastically from what it was built around. Take out those three and all others have to change their game and style. When the engine is missing parts it may still run but will sputter. Just need to go a few miles until parts added back. Then gun it for main goal, CHAMPIONSHIP.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | March 17, 2008 at 09:14 AM
Jeffs Aho,
You wrote: Another interesting tidbit. Lamar said during post game interviews that he would've liked the ball more since he was dominating Luis Scola down in the post going 7-10 today.
Curious how Bryant, a player with supposed high basketball IQ, couldn't recognize what was working down low and proceeds to jack up 33 shots.
My response:
Coach Phil Jackson suggested that Odom act more forcefully if he wants the ball more often.
"He's kind of a non-presence out there with a great deal of stats and does a terrific job on the boards," Jackson said. "But he's not the guy that goes out there and asserts himself in the offense and there are times when it's opportunistic. He just takes advantage of the things that come his way."
Would you care to comment on the basketball IQ of Phil Jackson? Kobe
would be the first person to tell you he didn't have a great game. Phil
would be the second and I would be the third. However, I'm not going
to fault him for giving it his BEST & actually ASSERTING himself and
TRYING to win. That's why he's Kobe!
Truth be told I would like it if EVERY LAKER went into the gym and
worked on their shot. I would also like it if Phil worked on defense
more. If our role players shoot in the playoffs like they're shooting
right now, and don't communicate on defense, like they're not
communicating right now, we'll be out in the first round.
Go Lakers!
Go Kobe!
Posted by: hobbitmage | March 17, 2008 at 09:15 AM
Pig,
No need to apologize, brother.
This blog has caught a bad case of Trollitis over the last few weeks. Someone has to eventually say "Enough!"
Step One: Wound the Troll.
Step Two: Let the Troll Starve to Death.
The only cure for Trollitis.
Anyhow, I'm worried we may go 0-4 this trip, but it's okay. It's not great, but it's okay. The rest of our schedule is highly favorable and with each day we come closer to having our team back at full strength.
I don't care if we're the eighth seed in the playoffs. If we're at full strength, then we're the team to beat.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | March 17, 2008 at 09:18 AM
Morning, all.
It's tough the day after a loss but they should learn from it. There's a hole in the middle right now, no offense to Ronny cuz he's really doing the best he can under the circumstances, but everyone has to step up their game. They have to challenge shooters and improve their D. I don't know if it's just me but I've noticed that the bench performance has regressed. They seemed to have lost their confidence in games where the starters are struggling. Everyone has to get their mojo back and play smart. There are still 16 games left. Play hard and smart!
Go Lakers!
Posted by: SamII | March 17, 2008 at 09:24 AM
Good Morning All.
For some reason since we have been injury laden the last 2-3 years, I am not on a major panic. (Maybe I am just used to it.) We have made the playoffs the last two years and I mainly hope we have our team healthy and ready to go. As far as playoff positioning, that is really out of our hands and we can only hope for the best.
Have a good one guys.
Posted by: Charles | March 17, 2008 at 09:33 AM
GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD MOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRRRRNNNNNNNIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNGG
LAKER NATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well well well, we didn't fair so well yesterday. OH WELL, not the end of the world. Yes Kobe looked like ... shooting the ball, but everyone has a bad stretch. Time for some introspection from the team. Nothing serious, just a pow-wow (or Pau-wow if you prefer.) They need to get on the right track again. It will be difficult on this trip, but do not fear in 1 months time The Laker Nation will be all smiles again as we roll into the playoffs and roll over the western conference!!! We got to believe!!!!
LAKERS 4 LIFE BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LakerMan 420
Posted by: LakerMan 420 | March 17, 2008 at 09:34 AM
Jon,
I'm happy if the Lakers win one game out of the next two. I'm with Rick, they CAN win both, but I'll be happy with one, and I won't be suicidal if we goose egg.
Rick,
You must understand that our offense is nothing without the threat of Kobe Bryant. Battier played him better than Bowen ever could yesterday. It was impressive. But, even though the Lakers run the triangle, it's still fairly ineffective against pressure defense without forcing some dishonesty from the other team. Yesterday, the Rockets were able to play Kobe straight up and they were able to stay at home against everyone else. Well, typically, when you play Kobe straight up, he'll take what the defense gives him... but yesterday was a display of tentative passing (to guys who were barely open) and hard nosed defense on Kobe. In other words, he tried to make them pay but was unable to do so.
I hear what you're saying, but we can't really call it "ball hogging" when his ultimate goal is to open up the offense. The problem is, he couldn't do it yesterday. That's why having a second option out there helps. Even a 13 ppg guy named Bynum, when combined with the most potent offensive player in the game, will open up opportunities for EVERYONE.
I certainly agree with what you're saying. All I'm pointing out is that Kobe was hoping those shots would fall so that Houston would double team him... he seemed almost out of place yesterday when Battier played him straight up and held him down.
Battier put on a clinic on how to shut down Kobe.
Never thought I'd type those words. Maybe it will be motivation for "next time"
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | March 17, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Rick Friedman,
The way I have observed, Kobe is still hurting on his pinky and he's avoiding it when playing defense or going to the hoop. He's being doubled and crowded in the post so he could not execute well as he did it in the past. However, in the 3rd Q, he was directing traffic and using MBenga as a screen and possible P & R or pass it to Fish in fact at the end of 3rd, he was telling DJ what to do next time? however he never got back to the floor. DJ played good minutes but he's still a work in process with those missed FT's and 3 secs. if he will have more playing on short minutes with Kobe, LO, Vlad I believe he'll be productive in the middle. He has to be with big guys because he's more of a tap-the-ball rebounder but definitely a huge figure there in the post. I suggest that he plays against Daimpier, at least neutralize the big man of Dallas and prevent those alley hoop pass from Kidd.
Fisher is getting all the set shots but not Vlad, the latter has few touches. Have you noticed these Euros, they're fond of jump shots and set shots less dunkers, if they can only go to the hoop often and fish for foul, we can use their free throw line shooting as an edge. Our problem is PG defense, F & F lost Alston from multiple screens or pick and pop while ours missed their several open shots inside and outside.
Lastly, whether Pau was in the lineup, it was really difficult to play on the road against quality teams and a motivated team like the rockets who were competing with history.
With regards to trolls or new names that popped up every now and then, our fellow oldtimers are stressed out on their posts, the best treatment is to leave them alone. The more you entertain or play with their baits, the greater the attention. If you have a schizoprenic friend who loves to talk at will, what do you do? Nothing, that's a part of the treatment by just being normal and tolerate his ways. However, when it becomes personal and below the belt attack, I lose my patience too.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 17, 2008 at 09:39 AM
Good morning crew!!
All I can say is this...
21 out of 30 free throws... you've got to be shi**ing me!!!
With this kind of poor shooting, we'll NEVER make it out of the first round!!
Posted by: keifo | March 17, 2008 at 09:49 AM
Good morning fellow Laker fans. Lakers all day, everyday!!! While it would be great to have the top seed, the Lakers will be a threat when fully healthy regardless of what seed they end up as.
Even though Kobe had a bad game yesterday, I don't think anyone on here still wishes he had that surgery on his finger. Can you imagine not having Kobe, Andrew, Gasol and Ariza during this stretch? Does anyone still think we would've been able to stay afloat if Kobe decided to have surgery? Lakers will be every team's nightmare once we're at full strength. Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | March 17, 2008 at 10:02 AM
Jon K
"I don't care if we're the eighth seed in the playoffs. If we're at full strength, then we're the team to beat."
That's the truth and nothing but the truth.
This won't kill us so it will make us stronger... barring more injuries. (it's important we pay homage to the injury bug god).
Posted by: Vman | March 17, 2008 at 10:13 AM
Jon K
Switching the subject but I had my mom check into Di Da Jow for her ailing ankle. I have sister looking into it who works in China and is there now.
Just checking, have you ever heard of negative reactions from it?
Posted by: Vman | March 17, 2008 at 10:17 AM
lakers will be fine, we are missing two of our three best players right now. i would like to see boston play without garnett and allen, they would stink too. im just not worried at all, it just these stupid injuries. when healthy we will be a force.
one thing i dont like is the complacancy on this team. some lakers seem to act like they've already won the championship. the fire isnt there like it was when pau first joined the team. i want to see the lakers come out and play with some fire, blow out the bad teams and beat the good ones. we have the talent, but do the others besides kobe have the drive?
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | March 17, 2008 at 10:18 AM
Vman,
(it's important we pay homage to the injury bug god).
Lol!
Posted by: Charles | March 17, 2008 at 10:27 AM
Kobe did a very poor job recognizing which teammate had the mismatch and had there offense rolling. He is supposed to be a high IQ basketball player.
Yesterday Lamar was clearly the guy who had the mismatch and he was getting high percentage shots with ease and dominating from the low post. Kobe for some reason gets in these personel battles when guys give him problems on defense and he wanted to prove to Shane Battier that you can't stop me.
4th quarter all Kobe was looking to do was have a teammate come out and set the high screen so that he could maneuer himself in position to try and score. He was not looking for Lamar at all.
Posted by: kelly | March 17, 2008 at 10:28 AM
mrbarneydangles,
"i would like to see boston play without garnett and allen, they would stink too."
Look no further than last year's record; they had the worst.
Great point.
I also think you raise a good point about the team lacking fire. I think they actually did have some fire yesterday, but the rest of the time... what you'll see if this continues would be an outcry by Kobe and Phil (but mostly Kobe). Sometimes Kobe is too nice... if a guy is slacking and the team is losing, they will hear about it (in a kind, gentle way)
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | March 17, 2008 at 10:30 AM
Charley Rosen mentioned in his article:
"it must be noted that Battier face-guarded Bryant on virtually every jumper. The last time I looked at the rule book, face-guarding was illegal."
Does anyone know if it is really illegal? If it is, why didn't the refs call it?
Posted by: SamII | March 17, 2008 at 10:32 AM
man, the lakers ran into a buzzsaw yesterday. a flat out buzzsaw. i really don't think they have had as much of a chance to watch houston play during the streak. rafer was insane. some people losing their composure yesterday, but a lot of good discussion this morning. I know that most of our problems come from injuries, and it doesn't make much sense to say what the lakers are missing or expect the players that are left to be what they aren't. I do have a longer term worry, though, and that's our guard play.
dfish is a great presence and a veteran leader, but he can't play man defense on the best for a whole game anymore, nor should he. is farmar just having a soph slump, and getting tired legs, or is there an actual issue here? what does the summer FA market look like? anybody have any comments and/or insight?
and what is the long term plan for Vlade? i'm not sure that phil has ever been happy with him, but do they feel comfortable playing him 20-30 minutes? his defense is not too bad, but how useful is a 3 pt specialist who can't shoot a good percentage on 3's coming off the bench? I know we might be stuck with him for a while for salary reasons, but i'm curious if anyone knows what upper management is thinking.
AK/BK, anybody?
Posted by: phred | March 17, 2008 at 10:41 AM
SamII,
You'd expect a guy like Rosen (who has had quite a successful career as a coach) to know better. It's only illegal when guarding a guy who's off the ball. In other words, you can't put your hands over his eyes when there's a pass coming, or something like that. It has nothing to do with an offensive player shooting the ball.
I think Battier's tactic will spread like wildfire. It was extremely deliberate, every time Kobe shot the ball, the hand went to the face and not the ball. Excellent D.
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | March 17, 2008 at 10:45 AM
one thing i dont like is the complacancy on this team. some lakers seem to act like they've already won the championship
mrbarneydangles
Hey I've said that before also.
Posted by: Fire32 | March 17, 2008 at 10:50 AM
As a fan (whom values defense above most) you can’t help but be concerned about our glaring holes in defense, in rebounding, in general effort. I mean perimeter defense really?! They couldn't recognize who they're covering, and who not to leave open? They couldn't be bothered to challenge shots?! Ugh.
Then again, a perspective is needed. We are missing a legit 3 defender in Trevor Ariza (most of all), a great shot blocker in Andrew Bynum, not to mention an offensive powerhouse in Pau Gasol (offense is sometimes the best defense). Once the full picture takes shape, then we can really judge our team. Unfortunately, the only picture becoming clearer is one of health, or rather lack of it.
Still gotta have faith. Sigh.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Faith | March 17, 2008 at 10:52 AM
also
'villanification?'
vilification is a perfectly good word that already exists, really. (smiles broadly to show he is only gently kidding his fellow blog-posting-person)
Samll, if charles rosen defends kobe in any way, shape or form, it must be gospel. that guy makes neil and gunner look calm and objective.
Posted by: phred | March 17, 2008 at 10:54 AM
OMG!!!!!
MR. LAMAR ODOM THE MAN WHO CAN BE #2 SCORED WAKES UP SUDDENLY AND COMPLAINS IN THE MEDIA THAT HE IS NOT GETTING THE BALL IN THE POST AS IF HE WAS DOING THAT EVERYGAME.. LAMAR WAS NEVER ON THE POST EXCEPT FOR 3rd QUARTER. HE WAS LURKING ON PERIMETER MOST OF THE TIME. HE GOT THE STATS BUT HE NEVER ASKED FOR THE BALL..
DIDN't LAMAR MISSED 2 FREE THROWS IN THE POST?
HOWEVER, HOW DO PEOPLE KNOW THAT LAMAR WANTS BALL WHEN HE IS NOT AN OFFENSIVE MIND PLAYER WHO LIKES TO ONLY DISTRIBUTE BALL AND CREATE PLAYS FOR THE OTHERS...
SASHA GOT BLOCKED ON A STEAL FASTBREAK BY WHO ALSTON THE SHRIMP?? THAT IS A EASY 2 BUT HE MISSED IT BIG TIME.. THESE ARE THE SMALL THINGS FISHER IS TALKING ABOUT...
WHAT WILL KOBE DO.. PASS THE BALL TO WALTON WHO CANT SHOOT EVEN IF HE IS OPEN? WHO IS THERE TO COUNT?
Posted by: Disgruntled, Frustrated Laker Fan | March 17, 2008 at 11:01 AM
Tim-4-Show
Thanks, it makes sense that it's illegal on a guy that doesn't have the ball. I also thought Battier's defense was great yesterday. He worked his @ss off just following Kobe around. Then again, Kobe was off his shot and he usually makes those even with a hand on his face. Here's hoping he has a better shooting night next time.
Posted by: SamII | March 17, 2008 at 11:04 AM
tim-4-show,
i know you live in colorado, what did you think of the nuggets game last night? crazy stuff, i think the espn guys said it best...if you had the sonics plus 51.5 you were still a loser haha. im hoping just as bad as you that the lakers play the nuggets in the first round so a)we can go to the games b)beat the nuggets fans because they suck and they hate us haha.
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | March 17, 2008 at 11:11 AM