That Kobe Bryant fella: He'll probably stick in the league
Obviously, nothing is certain in this crazy NBA world we're all witnessing, but when a guy has a game like the one Kobe Bryant enjoyed on Sunday, one that powered a 108-104 OT win over the Mavs, the odds of carving out a career appear to increase dramatically. It's not simply a matter of Kobe racking 52 points (although in and of itself, ain't all that shabby). It's when, how, why those points were accrued. For example, if credentials are created by taking over down the stretch, then Kobe's 22 points in the fourth frame and the octet in overtime likely serve as formidable resume filler. Props were also owed for going 15-15 from the line during that time period. Pretty good in any case, but particularly noteworthy under these "Kobe spent the opening three quarters struggling to sink a charity stripe shot" circumstances. But most importantly, the reasons for Kobe's late minute theatrics. His teammates couldn't get it going in steady fashion and needed The Mamba to manufacture a triumph.
Wanna hear something ironic? A large part of why Kobe could take over was Avery Johnson often opting to leave him in single coverage, because, unlike during previous seasons, his teammates can't remain unmanned for long stretches. Kobe would wholeheartedly concur. He likes his new buddy Pau Gasol (whom the Mavs consider a changer for L.A.). He likes his buddy LO (who took on the lion's share of Dirk-guarding duties, no cake walk), his 2008 long distance runner-in-crime. And a lot of people like Kobe's chances at MVP.
The box score serves as another reminder for the Mavs that, to quote U2, they still haven't found what they're looking for on the road with Jason Kidd in the fold (of course, they've also yet to play with Ty Lue, although that should be changing soon). The Lakers can follow that feeling themselves to some degree. They come out on top, yet lose their hold on the choicest of W.C. real estate. Marc Stein is also garnering them #2 status (Marty Burns of SI did him one lower). Maybe they've been listening to the Times' Mark Heisler, who remains a bandwagon holdout.
William Henry Parker and his employers remain on the same payroll, if not- and quite possibly never- the same building. To quote "The Breakfast Club," Smush and Starbury should get together and go bowling.
America may not be perfect, but it still represents hope. Just ask Kareem and DJ Mbenga.
Bzar, on the real I feel whatchu saying about the Rockets, but if anyone is on a roll, they are. They haven't lost a step since losing Yao (granted it's only been 3 or 4 games since the season ending news) but they are still aggressive defensively, keeping teams in check and their guards and bench play has been awesome. If people keep sleeping on them, they are def gonna do damage.I can see them continually moving up. I love my Lakers but trust, I am watching the Rockets like a hawk!
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 03, 2008 at 11:58 AM
Great game, Great victoty!
I am glad the Lakers have survived that game and I hope with such a difficult victory, the Lakers come to reality.
The month of February is definitely in past and I really believe the players know that most of those games were kind of practing although they're all NBA teams.
Those games played last month was good to integrate Pau Gasol in the mix and to elevate the other players confidence. Players like Sasha, Farmar, Vlad, Walton etc needed those games. It would be better if Ariza was in the mix... but well that is something that will come with time.
Now the Lakers is just about to face good and great teams throughout the month of March... and like I said...although it was a great win, it is important for all the players to contribue somehow. It's ok to shoot threes after threes, but I think the Lakers have two or three players who are threat to every opponent...with that, I think some teams try always to double either Gasol, Kobe, Odom which opens the floor for the others guys to not just shoot but also attack the rim.
PJ knows what he's doing... then.. I'll seat back and enjoy it as long as they win.
About the Dallas, Phoenix, Denver... I personally think that the team that is not going to make the playoffs will be the Phoenix and if they do, they'll be seated on the 8th spot.
One last thing... I am 97% sure that Bynum will return right before March 25th. Don't ask me why... just seat back and wait..then you tell me somethig :).
Lets go Lakers
Posted by: Maxximo | March 03, 2008 at 12:00 PM
great game, the mavs and the lakers are very close, lucky for the lakers Dallas doesnt like to double team and let Kobe beat them Most teams wont let Kobe have single coverage in crunch time, especially when the other lakers werent doing much.
Kobe played great, Fisher continued to struggle and what happened to Josh Howard? If he plays like that the mavs are going out in the 1st round.
I have a new name for the machine, the brick machine.
Posted by: Laker Lover | March 03, 2008 at 12:05 PM
Laker Lover, I think Josh Howard is battling back from injuries if I am not mistaken.
Question, has Sasha ever dunked the ball?? I think he needs to expand his game with an in between and he has been kind of successful going to the rack, I wish he'd do that more considering he is pretty good at the foul line...
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 03, 2008 at 12:13 PM
LAKER TOM: "At center number 17 ANDREW BYNUMMMMMMMMM
At forward number 16 PAU GASOLLLLLLLLL
At forward number 7 LAMAR ODOMMMMMMMMMM
At guard number 2 DEREK FISHERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
At guard number 24 KOOOBEEEEE BRYYYANTTTTTT”
Can’t wait for the first time the PA announcer in Staples gets a chance to intro
that starting lineup. Staples and the Lakers world will all rise in unison to give the starting five
and the rest of the team a game-long standing ovation.
Laker Tom when that day comes the entire NBA will TREMBLE in FEAR for then THE FORCE
will have completed it's circuit and nothing, not cheating Refs, not slimy
David Stern, NOTHING WILL BE ABLE TO STOP THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS
AS THEY MARCH TOWARDS THEIR RIGHTFUL 2008 NBA CHAMPIONSHIP
SO SAYETH MAMB24 SO SAYETH US ALL
Posted by: Mamba24 | March 03, 2008 at 12:15 PM
AK - don't love throwing around the "S" word, but Dirk is soft.
While I agree Dirk doesnt always play like he can, no soft player plays like he did in the 4th and overtime, hitting big shot after big shot.
If any player was soft in the 2nd half it was Gasol who was getting pushed around by Erik Dampier no less.
Posted by: Laker Lover | March 03, 2008 at 12:15 PM
Bynum is a couple weeks away. Let's just hope the knee continues to improve and that he has no setbacks...Trevor too.
Lamar needs to get his swagger back..he is seemingly reverting to his cocoon again and not shooting the ball and being aggressive on the offensive side of the ball..It's soooo simple, at 6'10 DUNK the ball everytime, no layups.
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 03, 2008 at 12:16 PM
Why am I not on the roll call?
Also, I know things didn't work out with my son in Lakerdom but I just wanted to issue a formal thank you to the Laker organziation for overpaying my son.
I will now live a very comfortable life because of your generocity. Kwame Brown sucks. You konw it, and I know it. But at least we got the cheddar.
Thanks again Dr. Buss. I would also like to point out that if you guys didn't overpay my son he couldn't have been used as an expiring contract to land Pau.
This is a win win situation.
Kwame Brown's Dad
Posted by: Kwame Brown's Dad | March 03, 2008 at 12:19 PM
KWAME BROWNS DAD: "This is a win win situation.
Kwame Brown's Dad"
Mr. BROWN I always thought your son was a class
individual and now I see where he got it from. No Kwame
Brown does not suck. He just sucked in the system he was in. Here's hoping he will find a system to allow him
to display all his GOD given talents. Peace to you and your
son. LOL!
Posted by: Mamba24 | March 03, 2008 at 12:28 PM
I don't know what the actual record number of first thread, first posts is and, frankly, I'd be concerned about anyone that did, but Charles and Mamba 24 are surely locked in an epic, yet friendly and always respectable, battle.
For the good of us all, they're quick but never hurry.
As such a well deserved
(drummmmmroool)
blog SALUTE. and good mornin'.
Posted by: Vman | March 03, 2008 at 12:30 PM
AK/BK and bloggers
John Schuhmann has the best rankings on
http://www.nba.com/powerrankings/index.html
"You could chalk up Friday's loss in Portland, which ended the Lakers' 10-game winning streak, to fatigue. And you can chalk up Sunday's win over the Mavs to my new pick for MVP (sorry, KG), Kobe Bryant."
opinions r changing in the east. ABC helped.
maybe this was a pivotal win. winning on a sunday on ABC, and Kobe's (all the words listed in Thesaurus were used) performance.
Posted by: ZIn Master | March 03, 2008 at 12:31 PM
lakersrydeordie - I hope Howard is hurt the way he played he looked terrible with Lukie convering him.
Normally thats a huge mismatch for Howard. Lakers got a huge break there.
Posted by: Laker Lover | March 03, 2008 at 12:35 PM
Watching the game yesterday, as my knuckles were whitening and my sphincter was tightening, I was craving for nothing less than a Shaq-size foul on Dampier. You know, like when Shaq went of for a close-range shot against Mutumbo in the Finals, catching Mutumbo's nose with a sliding elbow.
I can't wait for Bynum to come back. Even though I know it will take him awhile to get up to game speed, the idea of a Bynum-Gasol-Odom frontcourt has me giddy. When that thing gets cranking, who's going to stop us? Boston and their newly acquired AARP bench? I don't think so.
Posted by: Marty | March 03, 2008 at 12:36 PM
HeWhoHoops,
>>>I wish I watched the game. I missed his 81 point
>>>game too. I seem to be busy whenever Kobe goes
>>>off.
You definitely missed a good game, but a big chunk of
Kobe's scoring was free throws in the fourth quarter.
There was a stretch in the fourth quarter of it going back
and forth with Kobe hitting clutch shots or free throws on
one end and Dirk answering on the other end.
>>>... and Ariza definitely would have caused some
>>>problems for Dirk and Howard.
Ah, you truly did miss the game. Luke (yes that Luke)
actually did a great job of defense on Howard, and Lamar
played pretty good defense on Dirk as well (at least for
the first 3 quarters).
Don't get me wrong, I can't wait to get Drew and Trevor and
their defense back, but the team that was on the floor Sunday
is capable of playing some good defense as well.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | March 03, 2008 at 12:36 PM
VMAN,
"I don't know what the actual record number of first thread, first posts is and, frankly,
I'd be concerned about anyone that did, but Charles and Mamba 24 are surely locked
in an epic, yet friendly and always respectable, battle."
You are correct sir, but it is only because I am in such a
hurry to say Good Morning to my Blog Brother CHARLES.
LOL! Which got me thinking, I do tend to hog up a lot of
Blog space and so this is probably a good time to limit my post
to a decent level each day. It's just that I am
so d@mn enthusiastic about our Freakin Team.
Posted by: Mamba24 | March 03, 2008 at 12:40 PM
Zin Master,
Posted yesterday during the game when Kobe was keeping us afloat...
----------------------
maybe its all a ploy to get Kobe MVP attention on national TV?
Posted by: DrewPauKobe | March 02, 2008 at 03:07 PM
-------------------------------
IT'S WORKING!!!! LOL
KOBE FOR MVP!!!
KOBE FOR MVP!!!
KOBE FOR MVP!!!
Posted by: DrewPauKobe | March 03, 2008 at 12:44 PM
Mamba24 the Blog hog,
soon u will hear from Gunner and Laker Lover now that Mike T was bought out.
Posted by: ZIn Master | March 03, 2008 at 12:51 PM
Tyronn Lue has sounded to join Dallas once he is waived. He is another prodigal son, raised by Lakers standard but have no qualms in helping the team that gave him the only ring in '00. Perhaps, he felt bad when the Lakers did not pick him up in 01-02 as they opted for Lindsey Hunter and Mike Penberthy or he dislikes playing with Mamba. We wasted all those cheers of Looooooooo, he is now a grown up and independent minded.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 03, 2008 at 12:51 PM
Let the good times roll....
The coaching staff has to be commended for not only keeping the Lakers afloat, but for putting us atop the division and conference with our star center, our star defensive player, and our biggest shooter injured. All this, while integrating a very key player. Dallas and Phoenix can't say the same. The Rockets may be dealing with a key injury, but I think our lineup has been a more challenging patchwork job.
Sasha and Luke have to be commended for their contributions in the absence of Vlad and Trevor as well. If the Phil doesn't get commended for coach of the year, one our players doesn't get most improved, Mitch doesn't get executive of the year, or Kobe doesn't get MVP, it would be a travesty.
Posted by: #4 | March 03, 2008 at 12:52 PM
TIM-4-SHOW do not need to apologize on my behalf !!!"!
I can do that my self. You do not know me and you are not God, so do not start with you sanctimonious judgment of me!!!
I was just showing Sonny in the most explicit of terms why wishing violence on other people is not nice.
Please before you get all protective of Sonny, you forget some the bile this guy and other haters like KL Beast & Gunner used to come out with. I, along with some others stood up to them and in part got AK/BK to change the stance on the content of their posts!!!
As for Sonny he is no 'Saint', if had any 'balls' why does he not send his libel posts to direct to one of Kobe's representatives. He does not because he would be sued to death!!!
So then net time you want to ride your 'Sanctimonious Stead of Chivalry' please take some time to look in the mirror and don't forget to put on your 'Emperor's Clothes'
Angry_Laker
Posted by: Angry_Laker | March 03, 2008 at 12:55 PM
NO Mamba24 NO!
"I do tend to hog up a lot of Blog space and so this is probably a good time to limit my post to a decent level each day."
You don't waste blog space, in fact you inspire people to share with Mamba24's enthusiasm. While there are substitutes waiting on the wing, posters get the clue from Mamba, you're like a ground hog predicting the lenght of Laker winter or early spring.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 03, 2008 at 12:56 PM
Mamba 24
"I do tend to hog up a lot of Blog space and so this is probably a good time to limit my post to a decent level each day."
Can there be too much joy? Laughter? Jovial blog bondage?
Never,
Blog on, sir!
Posted by: Vman | March 03, 2008 at 12:56 PM
PJ doesn't need COY - but I think this team (pre-Gasol) dispells some of the rumors that he could only coach teams with stars and vets. They are humming along and listening to the zen master.
Anyone have any idea how many yoga sessions they had on the Grammy tour?
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | March 03, 2008 at 12:59 PM
After listening to Bynum's interview yesterday, what do you guys think?
Yeah, he MIGHT be back early April, but looking at the progress, there is also a possibility that he wont be back at all (why risk a young rising star).
Don't you think we need to be prepare for the fact that Bynum might not be back at all this year and hence, to find a solution to our porous defense at 5? I'd like to hear some of your bloggers' valuable opinion.
On the side notes, on saturday night, I actually had a dream where I was watching Bynum mad his first dunk after injuries :D...That's freaky (the fact that I actually had a dream about lakers, lol)
Posted by: moko | March 03, 2008 at 01:01 PM
mamba,
Please post that starting lineup every few hours or so. I just love to visualize the PA announcer screaming and Staples rocking as I read your post. Can't wait for the day. Thanks, Larry.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | March 03, 2008 at 01:05 PM
Here is an interesting article from Mike Ventre of MSNBC, the only sports journalist who believed in Kobe last year.
http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/23440749/site/21683474/
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | March 03, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Mamba24 - I agree with the other posts here - BLOG ON!
You are "The Blogmeister Extrordinaire"!
Keep it coming!
GO LAKERS!
The BEAN for MVP or NO PEACE!!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | March 03, 2008 at 01:12 PM
Moko, I think Bynum was just being cautious was all. It's difficult to gauge an injury if you never had one, in terms of a specific return date. I am not a medical practioner but there is always a chance of a setback or relapse. I think they are just going to continue rehabbing and go from there. I don't think the Org would risk bringing him back if they didn't think it was possible that he could realistically contribute to our Playoff ru n.They are taking the cautious approach (especially since we are winning) and hoping he returns to form and elevate us to that next level of a championship contender. That's my guess.
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 03, 2008 at 01:15 PM
AK/BK,
What's the status on Chris Mihm? How many more weeks is he out for? I know people think he's crap just because he hasn't really played for the past two years (Bresnahan didn't even mention his name in the injury update), but when he was healthy, he wasn't exactly stud-status, but he was solid.
I feel that Mihm can only add to the depth on the team and contribute significantly to what the Lakers are trying to do. For sure, he's a better defender than Pau (minus the foul trouble part).
Posted by: hibachi | March 03, 2008 at 01:17 PM
IMO - Bynum's coming back - later than we think though. I say first week in April for the Portland/Dallas @ home games. The "swelling isn't gone" comment bothered me yesterday. That doesn't sound like a big improvement.
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | March 03, 2008 at 01:19 PM
Elle,
All good. Glad you are feeling better...
Regards
Posted by: Charles | March 03, 2008 at 01:21 PM
As the Kobe Bryant MVP Bandwagon states, and as the creator of this particular wagon, I am a 100% serious that if Kobe Bean Bryant is robbed of the Regular Season MVP again this year, i will go freaking postal on David Stern. If Lebron gets a sniff of thee trophy while his team is barley treading above .500 water, I will be outside the commisoners office, doing what I am promising. Lakers nation I will not fail you, if Kobe can't will his way to the MVP this year, then i will have to start kicking people in the head until the get it. #24 is playing a different game than everyone else, he is the greatest of this time, and he potentially maybe the greatest of all time. Stop the hate, watch the game, and be unbiased and give the man his dues. Trully remarkable, and i shutter at the fact that I even entertained the notion of not having him on the Lakers. In fact, I loath myself for those thoughts. Once again Kobe Bryant for NBA Regular Season MVP.
And he is doing this with nine fingers.
Posted by: Nik Kannan | March 03, 2008 at 01:22 PM
Bzar, on the real I feel whatchu saying about the Rockets, but if anyone is on a roll, they are. They haven't lost a step since losing Yao (granted it's only been 3 or 4 games since the season ending news) but they are still aggressive defensively, keeping teams in check and their guards and bench play has been awesome. If people keep sleeping on them, they are def gonna do damage.I can see them continually moving up. I love my Lakers but trust, I am watching the Rockets like a hawk!
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 03, 2008 at 11:58 AM
I want the Rockets to continue to do well, because without Yao, they don't have size inside and the Lakers will kill them with the Triple Towers effect. So they are my preferred first round opponent.
Its always nice to see Tracy McGrady do his "the next Kobe Bryant" impersonation and fail once again.
Anyway, without Yao, the Rockets are in a similar situation as the Lakers the last 2 years. One superstar plus a cast of scrubs just waiting to be first round fodder for the really good teams. I think McGrady's supporting cast is actually better than Kobe's supporting cast in previous years of Smuch, Kwame and Cook.
The Rockets player I was most worried about - Bonzi Wells - was traded to NO. Bonzi used to kill us all the time when he was in Sactown. And you never know if he unpredictably turns it up in the playoffs.
Denver has Camby, Kenyon Martin and Melo as their frontline - not a small frontline, and arguably quicker than ours. They can outscore us on a given night especially if AI goes off, so I would prefer they don't make the playoffs.
GS can also be unpredictable in the 1st round so I would prefer not to have them either. They are the only true small ballers left and Nellie can be an evil genius. LOL
So between the 3, I'm rooting for Houston to be our 1st rounder. Although the way things are going we might well end up with Dallas or Phoenix in our lap for the 1st round. This will be a bigger challenge bec. we will essentially be using the 1st round of the playoffs to reintegrate AB and maybe TA into the lineup so our Team D will be pretty weak. Offense will always be good bec. we have the one and only Mamba, plus Pau is not chopped liver either.
Having a 7 game first round will not be good bec. the second round will probably feature an even tougher opponent.
Posted by: LakerinBC | March 03, 2008 at 01:26 PM
Angry,
Nobody ever said that sonny was a saint. That he is a Kings fan says enough about him. In fact, I was with you back then really criticizing him for what I saw as inexcusably tasteless and homophobic and sophomoric behavior. To sonny’s credit, he agreed to abandon those tactics and has become a sort of adopted figure that the blog welcomes and appreciates like that weird strange uncle who is pretty funny in his own way. Basically, we all realize that his anti-Kobe ravings are a form of manic behavior that he cannot control, much like a person afflicted with Tourette Syndrome.
At any rate, suggesting that anybody – even a Celtics player – get a bullet in the head is not funny in my opinion. I have lost three friends to bullets in the head – one was in Viet Nam – one was a cop – and one was a friend who committed suicide. When you talk about bullets to the head, this is what comes to my mind, which is not what I think you intended. In the future, just keep that in mind. In the meantime, since you are not in an apologetic mood, then Tim and I and others will have to stand up in your stead.
Let’s all just enjoy the chills and thrills of this season. And forgive or ignore the trolls that can’t stand the dread and disappointment on their own team’s blogs and need to come here to interact with real fans who know their basketball and have something to say. Let’s keep it all at a fun level. That’s all we’re saying, Angry. OK?
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | March 03, 2008 at 01:29 PM
Mamba24 it is good to have you back!!!
What the hell have you been doing!!!!!!
Have you been marlin fishing!!!
I tell you what; things have really changed on this board!!!
For one, Gunner is no longer a hater!!!! LOL He is now officially a 'Semi-Hater’!!!! LOL
Do not be a stranger for to long the next time you want to do one of your 'Gandalf Travels' away from 'Bloggs’ Shire'
Angry_Laker
Posted by: Angry_Laker | March 03, 2008 at 01:31 PM
Laker Lover i gotta agree with you about Gasol, he REALLY needs to hit the weight room. It wasnt just Damier who was muscking him around Lamarcus Aldridge was throwing him around like a rag doll.
Dont get me wrong Gasol has got game but he needs some stregth training, and as far as im concerned thats fixable.
The man needs to do some squats, bench press and militaries over the summer, not go overboard to where it changes his style, just enough to get some power in those limbs.
Posted by: BrandonC | March 03, 2008 at 01:33 PM
SOME POST POST-GAME THOUGHTS…
1) LUKE WALTON’S PLAY – The best news for the Lakers in the after glow of the big win over the Mavs was the apparent resurgence of Luke Walton, who played an outstanding game both offensively and defensively. I was most impressed with how well he played defense on Josh Howard, basically taking him out of the game. It was the best defensive performance that I can ever remember Luke turning in. As we all know, Luke needed this shot of great play to restore his confidence. Keep it up, Luke. Great game.
2) KOBE BRYANT 2008 MVP – What I actually find hilarious right now is the wave of support for Kobe as MVP. Give the media enough time and they will eventually repeat all of the wisdom and logic revealed in the blog months ago. As this perfect storm of a Lakers season began to unfold, many of us predicted that the turnaround in the team would lead to a turnaround in the media’s attitude towards Kobe and his MVP chances. The game yesterday basically sealed Kobe’s first MVP award. Only a total collapse by the Lakers at this point could change the landscape.
3) KOBE BRYANT 3-TIME MVP – You are only a virgin once. Once Kobe breaks through this year, he will begin to re-ascend the MJ HOF ladder. As the Lakers win multiple titles and Kobe’s ring totals surpass Jordan’s, Kobe will follow the same path to acknowledged greatness that Michael did. His only competition for MVP awards will come from Drew Bynum on his own team. Before he is done, Kobe will have won at least 3 regular season MVP awards and definitely more than 6 rings total.
4) WESTERN CONFERENCE RACE – Notice that the last two elite teams that the Lakers beat with Pau and without Drew – the Suns and Mavs – are now the 6th and 7th seeds and sliding slowly toward the lottery. What the Pau Gasol trade domino train actually did was to accelerate the elite team makeover that the Western Conference is undergoing. All of a sudden it’s the Lakers and Spurs at the top with the Hornets, Jazz, and Rockets replacing the Suns and Mavs as the second level elite teams.
5) LAKERS DYNASTIES COMING – What remains unsaid by all of the Lakers’ Western Conference competitors is how are they going to be able to handle the Lakers once Andrew Bynum returns? Hell, supposedly elite Suns and Mavs teams couldn’t even beat the Lakers without Andrew Bynum. What are they going to do once the Lakers are fully healthy? On the Mavs website, the fans are trying to convince themselves that the Mavs will actually match up better with the Lakers once Bynum returns. LOL. Even the Mavs fans with some brains were laughing about that. Make no mistake, the sound you hear every time the Lakers take the court is another Western Conference teams window for an NBA championship being closed and nailed shut.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | March 03, 2008 at 01:37 PM
Mamba24,
There is no need for you to apologize good sir. If anything, we should bow to your uplifting posts. Folgers got it all wrong, the best part of waking up is not their excuse for coffee, but rather the magnificent battle cry with which you lead us with. Speaking of which, I hate to be a pain and request too much, but can I be added to the roll call? Thanks brotha.
Posted by: bozz | March 03, 2008 at 01:38 PM
Why ... Kobe Bryant is not your MVP
By Kelly Dwyer
Monday, Mar 3, 2008 2:20 pm EST
Let's start with the obvious, a line of predictable reasoning that (for some reason) we need to be reminded of from time to time: Kobe Bryant is freakin' awesome.
He probably should have been the MVP in 2005-06, though Dwyane Wade, Dirk Nowitzki and LeBron James were all justifiable winners (I still can't believe Steve Nash, my second favorite player since high school, won that thing). Bryant shouldn't have been punished for having to do his damage on an otherwise crummy team. Kobe faltered a bit last season, but you'd probably lose your mind sharing a backcourt with Smush Parker or having to run screen-and-roll plays with Kwame Brown.
This year, the man has been fantastic, running one of the NBA's most devastating offenses while regaining the defensive edge that he appeared to have lost last season. He put on a brilliant performance on national TV yesterday, registering 52 points (30 in the fourth quarter and overtime alone) and 11 rebounds while carrying the Lakers offensively in a win over Dallas.
When Bryant went to the free throw line, the Staples Center crowd chanted, "M-V-P! M-V-P!"
And they should stop it.
Actually, they can chant whatever they want. Chant it for Sasha Vujacic, see if he has a Slovenian sense of humor. My issue is in the incessant (in El Lay and on the national airwaves) proclamations of Kobe Bryant as the NBA's best player.
He isn't. Sorry, but he isn't. He's awesome, but he's not the game's best player. He has the best chance of any NBA talent at dropping 75 points on your ass, and that's impressive, but Allen Iverson, Carmelo Anthony and Wade (when he's healthy) aren't far behind. And "best scorer" doesn't always mean "best player."
And, while we're at it, Kobe's not even the best scorer any more. James is.
And, in this case, "best scorer" means "best player."
And, to anyone who takes the game seriously, "best player" should mean "M-V-P!"
It's not a huge edge, but it's decisive enough: James has Bryant licked in scoring per game (30.3 to 28.2), assists (7.5 to 5.4), rebounds (8.1 to 6.0) and shooting percentage (48.6 to 46.6). Bryant shoots better from long range (35 percent to 30), and has James' number from the line, but so does Kyle Korver. Otherwise, they're even on steals and turnovers, and James blocks nearly twice as many shots.
James may play two more minutes per game, but he still owns a decisive edge in the per-minute numbers, and has to do his damage on a slow-down team (20th in the NBA in possessions). Kobe has a chance to pad his stats (not that he is, kindly read that carefully) with about five more possessions per game on the Lakers. That's significant.
But that's a mere nuance to national TV types and multi-sport columnists who want to hand the mantle over to Kobe just because his team is winning more. Bryant was working his tail off for years just trying to get a sorry bunch of Lakers up around the .500 mark, and he shouldn't be handed an MVP just because Andrew Bynum can ball now and the Grizzlies decided to hand the Lakers Pau Gasol.
Meanwhile, James is just destroying people in Cleveland. Pulling in more rebounds on a team that owns the boards even without him (there's not a lot of stray rebounds to go around) and racking up assists on a team that can't shoot straight (44.1 percent, 24th in the NBA).
His defense isn't on par with Kobe's, but it's not far off, and it's still pretty damn good. Certainly not bad enough for Bryant to overcome being outscored, outassisted and outrebounded by LBJ. And while both are studs in the clutch, LeBron is better. He significantly outscores, outassists and outrebounds Kobe when it matters.
Worse, James is going to get burned by voters who will credit him for MVPs likely won from 2009-2019 and hand it to Kobe just because he's playing "unselfish" basketball." No, Kobe's playing the same brand of competitive basketball he always has, just for a championship-level team. If he wasn't "selfish" in 2005-06 and 2006-07 then the Lakers win 30 games. Replacing a Chris Mihm with a Gasol shouldn't mean James should be denied.
It stinks, but you watch the groundswell: The "best player in the game" bit will start to become accepted as fact, and voters just make up their mind based on what sounds right instead of doing their due diligence. Then I'm stuck in the unenviable position of having to denigrate one of the best players of my generation, if only to open people's eyes in regards to the sort of -- MVP, mind you -- season LeBron James is having.
Posted by: Laker Lover | March 03, 2008 at 01:43 PM
Well as far as Bynum, it's not like they stated at anytime they were going to scale back on his rehab so in that case, I think he is progressing along with the schedule. I would guess it is natural to have swelling after workouts, extensive or otherwise. That is what the rehab is for, to get his knee back right..
I don't think that is cause for concern beyond anything else we havent already heard..
However, I am forever the optimist..
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 03, 2008 at 01:44 PM
Nik Kannan, about KOBE. that is soooooooo TRUE. 9 fingers and he is playing excellent ball when most players would sit out games and get paid...No, he is playing like he has EXTRA fingers! Going for lose balls, rebounding, D'ing up -- Stackhouse was frustrated as H#LL yesterday, unable to get it going!!
Kobe has been doing this all year long.....
MVP!
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | March 03, 2008 at 01:47 PM
Nik Kannan: "Once again Kobe Bryant for NBA Regular Season MVP. And he is doing this with nine fingers."
Well, if he doesn't get it, we can give the other finger to Stern.
Posted by: Marty | March 03, 2008 at 01:57 PM
KOBE IS THE BEST AND WILL WIN MVP... N THE THE LAKERS ARE GOING ALL THE WAY... LAKER NATION...
Posted by: Fabian Torres | March 03, 2008 at 01:59 PM
More posts from Mamba24 please!
Posted by: Charles | March 03, 2008 at 01:59 PM
Laker Lover,
Are you crazy, dilusional, playing the devil's advocate, or just plain silly wrong?? Perhaps all of the above. I get heated when this argument comes up for Lebron. He has more holes in his game than a shooting range target. Fact is, weaker conference, weaker record, lends for a no contest for MVP. He is not a better scorer than Kobe, and if numbers do not lie, 81 points speaks fairly loudly. Kobe has turned it down offensivley, just to turn it up defensivley. I can recall at least 10 times this year where Kobe has come out of the sky and denied an opponet from dunking the ball, including a game saver against Utah and Kilenko. Not to mention the pressure of defending the best player on the other team every night. He dominated D-Wade just this last weak. Need i remind you, everyone else is playing with a full set of fingers. Sure a pinky seems like a small deal, but dealing with my own pinkie injury now, i can not even hold/swing a golf club, and have been forced to play ball with my left hand(and I still tear it up, (Kobe is inspirational.)) Fact is, unlike Hollinger would like to believe, numbers do not tell the whole story, and if you don't believe that, ask the man who you think is the MVP. And as Bron Bron puts it so aptly, Kobe Bryant is the best player in the NBA today. Lebron's time will come, but only with #24 or #8, or whatever number that magician of a basketball player wears is in a rockin chair. Good luck justifying the argument to yourself, cause it just doesn't fly with me.
Posted by: Nik Kannan | March 03, 2008 at 02:05 PM
Laker Lover
The Cavs are offering free of charge passports and visas for Cleav Land. and they promise citizenship on a 3 day request without being a resident. 1 (800) Le JAMES.
same with the Suns. 1 (800) Now Shaq.
Posted by: ZIn Master | March 03, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Ugh, What a Bittersweet day... I, just like everyone else here, was watching the game Sunday and during the halftime "roving camera" thingy following Kobe into the locker room, they showed him slam his towel towards the ground in disgust ( his poor FT shooting I'd guess) then, waiting for him was his wife and daughters. He greeted each with a Kiss and his WHOLE Body language changed!!!!
I looked at my Girl and said "Kobes gonna come out now and score 50!!! watch" she goes, " yea whatever, he cant even make a FT today, his pinky is hurting, we're probably gonna lose this one, it doesnt feel right"l
In my heart, I wanted to come post my gut feeling at the end of the half after seeing how genuinely elated Kobe was seeing his family, all smiling, waiting to give him a kiss ( specifically, his daughters, the look they had was different from the way 99.9% of people look at him. Its something I cant truly explain, but Parents understand what I'm saying) but my mind was telling me,
Dude, you're comfy in a recliner built for a king, watching the game with your gorgeous girlfriend on a 46in HD with an endless supply of Molson's Golden.... Life is Good!!!! why ruin the moment by getting up and sharing with your dysfunctional family?
Aha.. I didnt, so I spent all day today somewhat BITTER, cuz I KNEW IT!!!!! I seen it after his interaction with his family and my lazy azz didnt come spit it out!!! its almost like having the lottery numbers written down, but not playing, then seeing the numbers scroll past while watching LOST or something lol but.... omg was yesterday SCHWEET!!! Guess who's gonna be hearin "I told ya so" all night tonight? I just had to let that off my chest, I kno the KBro's have a "comment of the day" I'd like to nominate myself for Sunday's " Idiot of the Day" Ughhhhhhhhhh ALWAYS follow your Intuition!!!!! lol
Posted by: complex brotha | March 03, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Mamba! I used to be on the roll call, but for some reason I'm not there anymore! If you could add me please? Thanks a bunch, I wanna be part of this special season with style. :)
Posted by: Chris H. | March 03, 2008 at 02:10 PM
Kobe should get MVP for the reasons Kelly Dwyer said he shouldn't AND because LBJ plays in the E league.
He's also arrogant and no where near as good looking as Kobe but I don't think that should count against him.
Go Lakers
Posted by: Vman | March 03, 2008 at 02:12 PM
LakerTom, I did apologize!!!
I shall apologize unreservedly if I have caused you or any other blogger any upset by my comments to Sonny.
This is power of words and I am not a violent person. This is why the 'Quill is mightier than the Sword'
You sir are a true gentleman and have earned my respect in thoughtful way you put arguments without having to 'Ride the Stead of Sell Righteousness'.
I am truly sorry for loss of your friends to gun violence and hope you accept my apology!!
My uncle was shot while he was earning extra money as yellow cab driver so I know what it is like to lose family or friends to gun violence.
I hate guns and have never owned or used one.
Peace !!!!
Angry_Laker
Posted by: Angry_Laker | March 03, 2008 at 02:13 PM