Other nuggets regarding the Nuggets
April 18, 2008 | 5:49
pm
BK already tossed out a few thoughts on the Lakers' upcoming foe, but I wanted to add an additional two pennies' worth. Just for funsies.
- I wouldn't be surprised if Denver gets physical with the Lakers early and often. The Lakers have sported a team-wide tendency this season to get frustrated when played in bump-heavy fashion. Especially if it goes uncalled, which tends to create a focus more about bitching to the refs than keeping their heads in the game. But ever since Kobe was forced to keep quiet and avoid getting suspended with a 16th "T," his teammates have also yapped considerably less of late. Coincidence? Absolutely not. The team has often taken The Mamba's lead along these lines. Thus, it's important that he set an example (especially for his less playoff experienced mates) by playing through some unwhistled contact.
Should the physicality I'm predicting present itself, I'm expecting Pau Gasol to be the most frequent recipient. We've seen guys like Joel Przybilla and Erick Dampier frustrate the hell out of Gasol working him in such fashion. Between Kenyon Martin, Marcus Camby, Nene and Eduardo Najera, the Nuggets offer plenty of frontcourt dudes willing to aggressively body him. Save Camby, however, they'll all be giving up tons of length to the Spaniard, so if he can remain calm and roll with it, Gasol should be able to get the best of the matchups.
- A continual temptation will exist for the Lakers to match Denver's style and tempo, which often makes Golden State appear methodical by comparison. To paraphrase "The Karate Kid's" eveil Sensay, the Nuggets' mantra is "shoot first, shoot hard, no conscious, George!" They'll be running and hucking with seconds barely expired on the clock and if the Lakers look to go track meet for track meet, stretches could grow very ugly for them. Denver's already been pegged as the series' undisciplined team. Let's keep it that way.
- Carmelo and AI will inevitably rack points. The key will be how much work was required to get them. For example, in December's 111-107 win at Denver, Iverson put up 51, but Melo's 26 points required 23 attempts (13 of which were missed). During the January blowout at Staples, AI's 24 points look nice at first glance, but a closer look reveals they came on 8-23 shooting. Those two aren't about to tone it down during a struggle, so during nights like these, whatever points they net are offset by a large degree by how off track the O gets during the flurry of misses (especially since Denver isn't known for making up for it with stops). When evaluating their games, pay more attention to the percentage and number attempts than the final number in the box.
- I'm pegging J.R. Smith as the Nuggets' X-Factor guy. The kid's been big since the All-Star break, with his March and April performances crucial factors in Denver's playoff push. When he catches fire, he's absolutely capable of eating up a huge deficit by shooting his team back into the ix. He's also the guy I'm pegging most likely to shoot his team straight into a deficit. In any event, a hand needs to be in his face.
- I was in Denver's locker room during all three games they were in L.A during their losing '06 series against the Clips, and the vibe after each loss was that they literally wanted to kill each other. I was actually nervous at times being in there. Seriously tense atmosphere. From what I've read and discussed with people, the squad's grown less dysfunctional, but remains a fairly volatile bunch. Between Melo, AI, K-Mart, Smith, Camby and Chucky Atkins, there are a fair amount of "strong personalities" on display. Why do I bring this up? Because assuming these guys get behind in the series (as I'm guessing they will), I don't see them rallying around each other to win one for the Gipper.
- I really wish Von Wafer was still on this team. I picture some garbage time during at least a couple of games. Ain't nobody more fun to watch play trash man than the Lakersblog icon.
- Apropos to nothing above but still kinda quirky: 82games.com doesn't keep this particular stat, so I can't officially verify this statement, but I'm pretty sure the Nuggets boast the most heavily tattooed starting five in the league (much less the playoffs). I doubt this "tops" status will be much of an asset during the series, but perhaps being #1 in something can provide solace to Denver fans when their squad gets bounced in the first round.
Prediction: Lakers in 5.
AK
its late... im drunk.. im at 46 votes..i see light at the end of the thunnel go laekrs forrr
http://hardwoodparoxysm.blogspot.com/2008/04/nba-blogger-season-awards-2008.html
Posted by: complex brotha | April 19, 2008 at 12:17 AM
Fatty,
Great post about Andrew. Its’ ridiculous for any Laker fan to doubt Drew’s desire and motivation to get back on the court and help his teammates. Eric Pincus wrote an article on HoopsWorld.com where he explained specifically that it was Drew who wanted to play whereas the Lakers staff felt he needed to rehab for another week or two before returning. It was settled by Drew going to see his doctor in New York, who sided with the Lakers and settled the issue.
The doctor also specifically stated that this was not a setback but just that more time was needed for the knee to heal sufficiently for Drew to be able to play. Phil also made it perfectly clear that there were no plans to shut drew down until next year and that he just needed more time, which the Lakers winning the #1 seed has now given him. He will have almost 5 weeks additional time to heal before we really need him in the conference finals. What he cannot do right now is have full contact practice but he is still working on the court and will likely return in time for the conference finals.
The only thing even more ridiculous in my opinion is to claim that Andrew’s upcoming extension has anything to do with the decision as to when Andrew plays. In fact, it would be to Andrew’s benefit to play. Otherwise, his contract value might be diminished because Drew had not played subsequent to his injury. Laker fans are just frustrated and grasping at straws when they try to infer facts and conjure situations that are just outright fiction. The bottom line is that nobody on the Lakers or in Andrew’s corner wants anything but for Drew to get well soon, get cleared to play, and then go out and help the Lakers win a ring.
Bottom line, stop worrying and fretting. Be grateful that we have the next great NBA center and he is only 20 years old. Even if Drew didn’t come back until next year, which is not what is going to happen, how could we reasonably or fairly complain considering the perfect storm of good fortune that has made us the envy of every team in the NBA?
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 19, 2008 at 12:41 AM
WILL ANDREW BYNUM PLAY IN THE PLAYOFFS?
by Mike Bresnahan for the Los Angeles Times.
http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-spw-lakerqa19apr19,0,142599.story
“Question: If Andrew Bynum does come back in the playoffs, would it be fair to say he would come off the bench? I really believe he will be great coming off the bench to play with Jordan Farmar, Sasha Vujacic, Ronny Turiaf and Co. I really believe that's as good as any other team's bench, and he won't disrupt the court when Pau Gasol is in the lineup.
Answer: Indeed, Bynum will come back as a reserve, which will only strengthen an already deep bench. It will also save from disrupting the flow of the starters, who have developed an obvious synergy over the last nine games.
The big question remains, however, when will the kid be back?
The Lakers have remained mystifyingly silent on the subject, although I personally don't see him returning until at least the Western Conference finals.
The Lakers caught a break in their playoff schedule and won't face a team with a physical center until the West finals, if they get that far, so I don't think they'll risk rushing Bynum back into the lineup until he's needed against Shaquille O'Neal, Tim Duncan, or, on a smaller scale, Tyson Chandler.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 19, 2008 at 12:55 AM
mrbarneydangles,
You should watch the YouTube video of Jordan Farmar, Sasha Vujacic, Ronny Turiaf and Andrew Bynum having a casual lunch interview with LZ Granderson of ESPN. It really shows how these guys get along and have fun with each other. It is impressive in that the guys are far more likable than watching Luke and Cookie et al and very revealing in that these guys are so damn young and naïve, barely older than children. Search Google for the Education of Andrew Bynum. The video is on the same page as the story.
The other great thing happening right now is seeing how everybody on the Lakers Blog is reacting to this team and its success. Remember: this is the first Lakers championship run for the LA Times Lakers Blog, AK and BK, and all of us who blog here. We’re now part of the story in a big way and one of the reasons why Lakers fans know so much about their team and their players. This Lakers team and the Lakers Blog have grown up together and are about to embark upon a unique and memorable journey together to the championship.
Now that is pretty damn cool, no? As Kobe says, let’s enjoy this journey. I have a hunch it is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime type of finish. Go, Lakers.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 19, 2008 at 01:09 AM
From the Press-Enterprise:
"After the Lakers watched some film of the Denver Nuggets Thursday, they all gathered for a team dinner at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in El Segundo, not far from the team's training facility.
They laughed and joked and shared stories about the season.
``Dinner was good,'' Lamar Odom said. ``My man Kobe picked up the tab. We all started chanting `MVP...MVP...MVP.' ''
Odom laughed at recanting the story.
He said all Kobe Bryant could do was laugh as well.
That, Odom said, goes to show how close the team is.
``That's crazy, right?'' Odom said, laughing again. ``MVP...MVP...MVP...Man, it was wild.''
haha, God I love this team
Posted by: bobie | April 19, 2008 at 01:11 AM
LAKERS' POSTSEASON HOPES REST WITH L.O.
by Mark Kriegel for FoxSports.com
http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/8048146/Lakers'-postseason-hopes-rest-with-L.O.
Great article on how LO has been the key that saved the Lakers when there two centers went down. Lamar is the only reason that the Lakers might be able to beat the Suns or Celtics without Andrew. He is playing at an all-star level and could be a longshot to win Finals MVP. He is that important to the Lakers.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 19, 2008 at 01:19 AM
Ventre writes the most hateful article on Kobe I have ever seen.
But he goes far beyond that. Those who support Kobe in any way are morons of the worst kind, and morally bankrupt for supporting him.
One of his quotes is, "if Kobe was burning down an orphanage, we all would loan Kobe more matches."
This is a sad individual who's jealousy and hatred of Kobe doesn't allow him to live with the thought that Kobe is about to win the MVP.
And lead his team to a possible title.
His attack on all of us is repugnant for sure. But I think this guy needs to get a life and get away from writing.
Its just a game, that's all.
http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/24189959/
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | April 18, 2008 at 10:39 PM
Love it! Remember when the villian on Superman would empty the gun into Superman's chest? Having seen all six bullets bounce off his chest, the crook would end up throwing the gun at him in futility?
Reminds me of this "writer" and other "writers" like TJ Simmons. Having taken every shot possible at Kobe, it looks like he might win MVP anyway. Instead of manning up and admitting they just didn't get it all these years, they want to dredge up some remarks from last year and make that the story. Pathetic.
Posted by: Jman449 | April 19, 2008 at 04:45 AM
can't wait for sunday. ( i live in the philippines so 3am here,
monday)...
I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE THE LAKERS.
WOOOOOOOOOOOOWOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
Go Boys! Go Boys! Go, go, go, boys!
wooowowowowowowooooooh!
Posted by: isang | April 19, 2008 at 08:01 AM
michael ventre,
Kobe's ACTION speaks LOUDER than his WORDS.
He has amended his faults.
Posted by: isang | April 19, 2008 at 08:07 AM
WE NEED AN ENFORCER IN THE MIDDLE AS TEAMS WILL BE VERY PHYSICAL WITH OUR SOFTIES.
I HAVE A PLAN.
PUT MBENGA IN A 8x5x4 dark BOX FOR TILL TOMORROW AND TELL HIM THE OPPONENTS WILL SEND YOU TO CONGO DEATH PRISON.
I BET YA. NO ONE AIN'T COMING CLOSE TO THE POST.
Posted by: Disgruntled,Frustrated Laker Fan | April 19, 2008 at 08:43 AM
Good morning Laker Nation around the Globe,
The Playoffs are finally here. The time for trash talk and predictions is over. The teams best prepared to play to their strengths and exploit their opponents' weaknesses will soon emerge from the first round.
I, for one, believe there are no soft match-ups. The level of NBA talent has never been higher. On Sunday, the Lakers must take the court focused, determined, and respectful of the talent on the Nuggets. Letting Denver take an early lead in any game could lead to disaster and disappointment. Any sense of entitlement must be abandoned.
The Lakers have everything needed to bring home a Championship. Now, they have to make it happen. Go Lakers!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | April 19, 2008 at 09:00 AM
Well I've posted parts of this in different blogs but I guess to be included in the official prediction poll I need to do it all in one place so here goes:
JAY JAY's first round West predictions:
LAKERS over Nuggets in 5
JAZZ over Rockets in 6
HORNETS over Mavs in 7
SUNS over Spurs in 6
And I look forward to the Kobe vs Shaq finals against the Suns which we will WIN - in 7 without Bynum, in 6 if he comes back. Word.
Posted by: Jay Jay | April 19, 2008 at 09:04 AM
bluesky,
Sasha is clutch too. I've seen quite a few good 4th quarters from him. 05-06 he was fantastic an unflappable. He can be our Steve Kerr.
Farmar has shown fearlessness in the NCAA finals and in clutch 3 shooting this season as well.
If Gasol gets a little bit more confidence (heck maybe he has enough now) I think he'll be extremely dangerous.
Vlad seems to miss if he misses unrelated to clutchness or unclutchness. Who knows what goes on in that strange head of his.
And the guy that thinks tattoos are the root of all NBA evils and wants to limit them is an old-fashioned fuddy duddy. Welcome to the 21th century! Actions count. The rest is just something upon which bigots can focus.
Posted by: Benjamin | April 19, 2008 at 09:13 AM
Uh oh,
Next thing you know Bucher is going to diss Scientology, another of society's most respected institutions!
Posted by: Benjamin | April 19, 2008 at 09:17 AM
Hmrhed, I'd like in too:
Lakers over Nuggets (5)
Spurs over Suns (6)
Jazz over Rockets (7)
Hornets over Mavericks (5)
Posted by: Benjamin | April 19, 2008 at 09:49 AM
xodus,
I'll bet you didn't know that the first season that the media (LA Times in this case) starting talking about image problems in the NBA there were not one, but TWO NFL players on trial for murder!
Do you think that maybe the media is harder on a less popular and more "Black" game because they can be?
Michael Vick is another excellent recent example of well-behaved NFL players.
Where'd you get your notion that the NBA is the thuggiest league? I hope you've actually given it some thought and looked at some comparative statistics unlike most people.
Posted by: Benjamin | April 19, 2008 at 09:54 AM
Off topic, Watching the WIZARDS vs. CAVS 1st game,
Agent ZERO is currently obliterating the Cavs, 4 3's already,
2nd one was 30ft out! SICK!
Posted by: lakersrydeordie | April 19, 2008 at 10:17 AM
Laker Tom,
>>> This Lakers team and the Lakers Blog have grown up together and are about to embark upon a unique and memorable journey together to the championship. Now that is pretty damn cool, no? As Kobe says, let’s enjoy this journey. I have a hunch it is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime type of finish. Go, Lakers.
More eloquent words have never been spoken on this blog, or anywhere else.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | April 19, 2008 at 10:38 AM
Lakers over Denver in 5
Spurs over Suns in 7
Mavs over Hornets in 6
Utah over Rockets in 6
Posted by: rdlee | April 19, 2008 at 10:43 AM
Cavs/Wizards are waging a serious war on ESPN. Game 1 is living up to all the hype and then some. This will be a playoff for the ages!!!
Looking forward to our Lakers tomorrow against the Nuggets.
Good day to all my fellow Laker fans!!! Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | April 19, 2008 at 10:50 AM
I was watching that vid about the lakers tattos with Jack Haley, what ever happened to that guy. There was a time when I stopped watching the FSN coverage and when I started again that dude was gone.
I heard it may have to do with his reporting, especially in that Laker-Utah trade, George for Boozer or something related to that trade.
??????????????????????????????
Posted by: Stars_R_Aligned | April 19, 2008 at 11:04 AM
Fatty,
Reading that ESPN page again brought up some memories. They pretty much got everything wrong except Farmar. It seems like the only thing any prognosticator looked forward to this season was how much Farmar would progress.
No one had any confidence in Vlade. Everyone thought we would get more Mihm, which would make Bynum more expendable. Everyone thought Kobe would pout, even if just a little. Everyone pretty much thought that Fish wouldn't do much during the regular season on the court. They figured he would help in the locker room only during the regular season, and come alive in the playoffs (but half thought the Lakers wouldn't even make the playoffs).
I guess their crystal ball was made of regular glass...
--Fearless
Posted by: Fearless | April 19, 2008 at 11:08 AM
Hi guys. great stuff as always. I love how the lakers are having such success this eyar reminds me of the past ... speaking of which, this post has a cool look back at Blazers-lakers game seven of the west finals ...
so check-a check it out ...http://www.hoopsvibe.com/nba-blog/great-playoff-moments-day-1-shaquille-o-neal-kobe-bryant-and-l-a--lakers-escape-the-jail-blazers-ar47960.html
Posted by: | April 19, 2008 at 11:45 AM