Bring on the Nugricks
What team the Lakers will play when they open the postseason is yet to be determined. But whoever it is- Dallas or Denver, depending on what happens around the Association Wednesday night- the purple and gold will enter the series as the top seed in the Western Conference, thanks to a 124-101 win over a shorthanded Sacramento Kings squad that capped off a wildly successful 57 win regular season. As far as games go, this wasn't exactly Hollywood quality. While the Lakers weren't exactly razor sharp, they opened the game on an 8-0 run and quite literally never lost control, leading from wire to wire. The Lakers played like a team that knew they were better (considering the Kings were short Brad Miller, Kevin Martin, and Ron Ron, who can blame them?), cranking up the pace when necessary to give themselves some space. That was never more true than during the decisive third quarter, in which the Lakers turned a 14 point halftime lead into a 29 point laugher.
Everything went according to the script, and the Lakers were able to complete a very surprising journey to the top of the W.C. I realize Mel Allen is a baseball guy, but whatever. "How about that!"
Click below for the breakdown.
The Good: Once again, we have a situation where the Lakers so thoroughly dominated the course of play, every player gets a gold star, even if he's not on the list. Since we'd like not to be here until 3 am, the list does require a little bit of winnowing.
- Pau Gasol: On a slow shooting night for 24, Gasol was the engine that drove the LA offense. 22 points on 9-11 shooting, overall, and a tempo-setting performance in the first quarter. A four foot bank shot for LA's first points, a 15 footer two trips later, a dunk, three free throws, all by the 5:56 mark. Overall, he went for 11 points in the quarter, 17 in the half. Just as it was with Andrew Bynum, when the Lakers effectively move the ball through Gasol in the post, the spacing improves and the lanes for everyone on the floor improves. Put LA's three headed monster together, and it becomes a very dicey proposition for an opposing coach to throw double teams at Kobe.
- Lamar Odom: Even if he hadn't put up 15/12/3 on 5-5 from the floor and a symmetrical 5-5 from the line, Odom would have landed here simply for the suit he had made for the game. White, with purple sleeves and gold lapels (described in detail by AK in the pregame). This is a man very, very excited to be heading into the playoffs. How excited, on a scale of 1-10? "It's a ten. I mean, look at my outfit! Look at this! You know what I'm saying? I got this made just for today." But obviously, his game is what really matters, and these days it is exceedingly strong. Tuesday's win also provided a great example of how Pau's presence helps liberate Odom. As I mentioned, he took only five shots from the floor. As a number two option, those nights where LO didn't shoot much were killers. Now, he doesn't have to think about it... and it's no coincidence that he's putting up much better numbers offensively.
- Ronny Turiaf: Ronny was able to build on the strong showing Sunday against the Spurs, and will enter the playoffs on a high note (and not just because he threw a very credible ball Monday night while throwing out the first pitch at the Ravine). Tuesday, he was 5-6 from the floor, including a handful of defense-extending jumpers from mid-range. Those shots have become a vital part of his offensive game, and a great way to force his man to step out on him (or make him pay for laying back, of course). Ronny also kicked in with six dimes and a block over 18:26 of very effective run.
- Other Dudes off the Bench: Strong effort from Jordan Farmar, who seems to have perfected the buzzer beating shot, burying a triple to end the first half. Overall, he finished with 13 points on 5-8 from the floor, plus three dimes. Sasha was strong, snagging five boards and notching eight points. Luke Walton's level of play continues to improve. Tonight, he moved the ball well offensively, and showed some activity on the other end. He seems to be finding a better form just in time for the postseason.
- Aggressiveness: The Lakers piled up points at the free throw line, shooting 34 FTs through three quarters. Getting to the line that often can really boost a team's output, and it shows that the Lakers were aggressively moving to the rack, moving without the ball, and attacking. Sacramento piled up fouls very quickly, and once the Lakers had them in the penalty, it was almost impossible for the Kings to claw their way back. Another illustration of the power of the freebie? Kobe was 3-13 from the floor, and finished with 20 points, thanks to a 13-14 performance from the stripe.
- More Fourth Quarter Rest: I know the Lakers will have (assuming they open the playoffs on Sunday, as is customary) four full days off before their next game, but every time they can save minutes and strain on the starters, it's a big deal. The combined PT for Gasol, Kobe, Fish, and LO in the final frame? 0:00. That's about as good as it gets.
- The Third Quarter: As you might have gathered from the previous bullet, it was good. When the Lakers visited Sacto on April 6, they blew open the game with an 83% shooting performance in the third quarter. Tonight wasn't quite as prolific... but really 70.6% is nothing to snot at. They outscored Sacramento 39-24, and transformed a comfortable lead into a blowout. No need to make the final quarter interesting.
- Kobe Bryant: Was it one of his best efforts? No. But after 82 games of MVP caliber ball, we'll do him a solid.
The Bad: Vladdy rebounded from poor first half to finish strong and remove himself from "Bad List" contention. Derek Fisher wasn't really a factor, but didn't hurt anything. As has been my policy all year (and not just because I'm lazy), when the Lakers beat another NBA team, even one as shorthanded as the Kings, by 23 points (29 heading into the fourth) there just isn't much to complain about. I'm not a picker of nits by nature.
AUDIO:
- Phil Jackson: Download phil_jackson_4.15 postSAC.mp3
- Derek Fisher: Download derek_fisher_4.15 postSAC.mp3
- Ronny Turiaf Download ronny_turiaf_postgame_4.15.mp3
- Lamar Odom Download lamar_odom_postgame_4.15.mp3
- Kobe Bryant (who, I think, is officially tired of saying he didn't expect this first place finish to happen back in October): Download kobe_bryant_postgame_4.15.mp3
- Pau Gasol (who always looks like he still finds it incredibly surreal to be here): Download pau_gasol_postgame_4.15.mp3
BK
Tom, very nice post. I thought the same thing about the special nature of this cinderella season. Beyond that, this is an especially nice collection of people. Perhaps it is the post game interview feature now available. But I feel personally attached to this squad.
All, we will now see why Kobe should be MVP. Last night's game was a superb exclamation point to an amazing comeback season. The celebratory, elation feeling ran through all of it. But, the playoffs will NOT be a walk through the park or a formality on the way to a celebration parade. Kobe (and Fish) will now need to get this team back into discipline mode.
We should stay loose, but we had better not get out of our game and let fancy play lead to turnovers. The West has been tight. All the playoff teams are serious and professional. We need a calm, nearly dispassionate, methodical execution of our offense during games that aren't blowouts. Even when we have big leads we have to stay focused.
Kobe and Fish's maturity will be crucial in this journey. Kobe knows he has a rap for getting the team out of rhythm. Last night he was not the top scorer. This formula is working well. This is the year for him to prove what we've known all along; he understands team. At that point there should be know doubt as to who the greatest player in the league is - Kobe!
MVP!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: JohnnyP | April 16, 2008 at 08:04 AM
LAKER TOM SAID"I recommend that the KBros suggest to the Lakers players that they each
appear on the blog by making a short 1-time post thanking the blog for its unwavering loyal
support as a way of generating the maximum Blog Karma as the team goes into the playoffs.
That is your assignment, if you accept it. LOL. The Blog is the secret power behind the team."
NOW THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT!!! GOD I LOVE YOU BLOG ELDERS!!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | April 16, 2008 at 08:06 AM
King Orange2 - we renounce you!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | April 16, 2008 at 08:07 AM
Good Morning Mamba24, Good Morning Charles, Good Morning Laker Nation!
All is well in Laker Nation, the force is definitely in balance, and we are the team no one wants in the playoffs!
Mamnba, we look forward to the roll call Friday!
16 WINS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: toad | April 16, 2008 at 08:09 AM
King orange 2: JUST SAY NO!
Posted by: utzworld - THE BANNER HOLDER | April 16, 2008 at 08:10 AM
For those still up the air about the MVP, here's what I propose...
Let's take a clip from the first week of the season, when Sir Charles said, "why talk about the Lakers? Ernie, the Lakers are not that good. They're maybe an 8th or 7th seed"
Then, when confronted with the TRUTH, see how that MVP fits...
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | April 16, 2008 at 08:11 AM
AK/BK: sorry you guys don't get any well deserved rest here. And you probably have to move over to the Blue Crew for the rest of the week. Oh well.
Mamba: I assume you are cooking up a juicy roll call for Friday. We will let you have the well deserved rest. Roll call Friday should be awesome! Thanks again for my honor yesterday - what a way to end the regular season - BANG! #1.
LET's GO LAKERS!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | April 16, 2008 at 08:12 AM
Tim-4-Show,
Good deal, hopefully its the Nuggets, it would be pretty cool to meet everyone. I know you and Hugo met at the game earlier this year. I was actually at that game but wasn't posting as much. But anyways, first things first. Go Mavs.
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | April 16, 2008 at 08:13 AM
SONNY BELFAST SAID"How The West Was Won...and you did it! Congratulations.
We would like to have given you more, but we ran out of players, and we ran out
of gas. At least you won't have to suffer through tacos. Shore up your defense and
you should be OK through the west. The Celtics are another animal altogether.
Took my meds (cough, cough, cough, spit) back to bed. Good luck."
SONNY I SAID IT BEFORE AND I'LL SAY IT AGAIN THOUGH WE CHEER FOR
DIFFERENT TEAMS I'LL ALWAYS CHEER FOR YOU. YOU ARE A CLASSY AND
WORTHY BLOGGING OPPONENT AND i WISH YOUR TEAM GOD SPEED
IN REBUILDING AND AGAIN PROVIDING GREAT COMPETION FOR THE LAKERS.
Now take care of that cold man, your team needs you. Sonny Take care of
yourself you are one classy dude
Posted by: MAMBA24 | April 16, 2008 at 08:13 AM
complex brotha,
Voting republican isn't PC. That's why no one ever admits to voting that way.
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | April 16, 2008 at 08:15 AM
This season has been uniquely enjoyable. A roller coaster of emotions with everyone and I mean everyone (that includes us) doing their part. From Buss & Kupchak who did a great thing by not throwing gasoline on Kobe when he was hot & angry to every player who worked so hard to improve and took Kobe's ire as inspirational instead of depressing to Phil who once again conducted our wacky orchestra with his own style & grace and last but not least to the trade that brought us not just a great player, but the belief that WE ARE BACK!
Posted by: Lifetime Laker | April 16, 2008 at 08:16 AM
REPOST:
And they said it WOULDN'T or COULDN'T be done! I am proud of my Lakers and especially we, the people of LAKER NATION for keeping the faith and standing our ground for 82 games.
Now...THE BIG SHOW.
16 Wins To Glory!
Get The Flags Back On Your Windows and Let's Let The Banners Wave From The Desert To The Sea To All Of Southern California!
Posted by: utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER | April 16, 2008 at 08:17 AM
*------------------------------------------*
Wed. April 16, 2008 The Force is Balancing Basketballs on it’s head.
Laker Nation nation is standing so tall that they can touch the sky.
Good Morning Charles.!
Good Morning DAVE ROSENZWEIG, WhiteShadow22, DANCAT,
Good Morning Best int he West Laker Nation!
*
PACIFIC CHAMPS? CHECK !........ BEST IN THE WEST? CHECK!
MVP ? NEXT!............ NBA CHAMPS NEXT!
GOD BLESS YOU DR. JERRY BUSS AND MITCH KUPCHAK!
THANK YOU KOBE BEAN BRYANT! THANK YOU KAMBROTHERS!
WHO ARE WE? THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS…..YOU D@MN RIGHT!
LAKERS TODAY – LAKERS TOMMOROW - LAKERS FOREVER!
*
Today Our Honoree is The LAKER BLOG as a whole.
Past Honorees: Mike Teniente, Edwin Gueco, KLBeast, Generic_One, Fatty
A.K. B.K, J.J.,Laker Tom, Sonny Belfast, Jorema, Taliq, David whang, Faith
ThaShow, Bob, Rick Friedman, HobbitMage, Kobe Apologist, Andrew Z,
Angry Laker, Exhelodrvr, TWoody, WesJoeNixon Kwame Brown, Laker Gurl,
EastSideJessie, LongTimeLakerFan, Dice8Up, FearlessWhackJob, TaosHum,
Lakerman420, Pig Miller, PsychedLakerGirl
*
When I think of the Lakers Blog, I think of family. Dysfunctional family maybe but
family still. Sure this is a Lakers Blog where Basketball goes on. It’s also a place
to go to when you are feeling down. A place to go to celebrate your happiness.
A place to be consoled and a place to be scolded. In short Family. This season
has been one of the greatest seasons In memory, perhaps because so little was
expected and so much was accomplished. Not just the number of wins but we
actually saw the creation of a TEAM before our eyes. Not just a group of players,
but a group of players who genuinely cared for each other much like……FAMILY.
We watched a team come together and grow and thrive and nourish each other
and thrive from that nourishment. I’ve watched myself come to this Blog and thrive
and grow thanks to the unique Mix of views and individuals that we have here. We
have season ticket holders blogging with TNT watchers. Millionaires
(Yes we do quite a few may I add) blogging with everyday Joes. Whites, Blacks,
Asians, Latino’s, men, woman and dogs(I know Jon Delilah is not a Dog but an
independent entity) and the most important thing to any of them is one thing, One
Unifying Force. THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS. This Blog is unique in that respect.
A lot of the credit goes to our Blog Gods the Kambrothers who allow us the freedom
to express ourselves and choose interesting threads to help facilitate discussion.
Don’t think just anybody could be placed into their position and you’d have the same Blog.
I can assure you, you would have a much different and much less interesting Blog.
So as the regular season ends I would not only like to thank Mitch and Dr. Buss as
well as the usuall suspect KOBE BEAN BRYANT. But thank you Andrew and Brian
Kamenetzky for the great job tthat you do. Thanks guys! I also would like to
Thank you Laker Nation for the outstanding job you do. Yes we may become
so passionate about our positions that we may almost come to blows, but we
always come back together as one if the team is threatened , just like…..Family.
Sorry folks I had wanted to write a rip roaring full steam ahead roll-call. I guess I’m
feelin kind of melancholy as one phase of thi campaign has succeeded beyond (come
On now) any of our expectations. I’m sure though we all put on this brave front
There is apprehension as to whether this team really is this good or will they go into
The playoffs and lay an egg. But just remember this. Win or lose as long as
We have each other we aint no losers baby. You may ask….”Why do you say that
Mamba24?” Come on now you know why. Cause……WE ARE THE FREAKIN
LA LAKERS WINNERS OF 14……..Thank you for your time, now if you all
Would fall in and line up it’s ROOOLLLLLLLLLLL CALLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!
*
ROLL CALL : DAVE ROSENZWEIG, WhiteShadow22, DANCAT,
(1) Faith, Bob, Keifo, Vman. Jay Jay, Charles, Edwin Gueco, Tsiry, FATTY, AngryLaker
Tha Show, Tim-4-Show, TheLakeShow, Generic_One, Pig Miller, Toad, Taliq, LakerTruth
WesJoeNixon, Zakee, Cleon, SBPimp, The_D, Bozz, #4, Nemia Faletogo, Elle, HmrHed
ComptonsFinest, FlagrantFowl LakerLegacy, Exhelodrvr, Laker Tom, Rick Friedman ,
RDLEE, Purple Heart, Allan-Brazil, J.D.Hastings, Moko, Puddle, Andrew Z. Hugo Boss
The Outlaw, Tsphere, Jon Kavulic, WeaveMan, SixOneZero, FearlessWhackJob, CBuck
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER, DICE8UP, Never, JANAYA, EastCoastJessie, Jman
BackMamba24, BrownMamba24, WhiteMamba24, Mamba24Fan4Life, FanOfMamba,
JustAnotherMAMBAFAN, Mamba#5, JustALakerFan, VI LakerFan, LALFan, Kobe24
GREEK DUDE, AFRO JOE, KB8THWONDER, ORIGINAL KEN, ORIGINAL J J
LakerGurl, SFLakerGirl, PsychedLakerGirl, SimiLakerGirl, LakerGirl1980, LakerLass
HoustonLakerGirl, SheKobe, LakersRydeOrDie, SloGal, TWoody, LakerFaze, Wow
DrewPauKobe, GoKobeGo, KobesBad, KobeRocks, Laker/KobeFan, LakerMan420
MrBarneryDangles, Todd, JesterGuru, SmoothD, JCool, Jeff, David Whang, WWKBD
KIWI, Machiavelly, DOC4daLakeShow, LakersMR, LakersSTH, HobbitMage, Korey
Allan-BRAZIL, Herb Stempel, DarkAngelSK, TROY, T_Sensei, BerkleyLaker, Dave M.
Stars_R_Aligned, Cscoot, The_Dude_Abides, Johnny Laker, The HEAD-MBENGA
Complex Brotha, WondahBap, Derek, Benjamin, The HAMMER, Cyrus(Ventrilquist),
HappyCamper, HappyDaze, HappyGilmore, CriticalBeatDown, RealityBites, Bzar,
Amazing Happens, TELLitLIKEitIS PSLakerLover, Lakers4Lyfe, Lakers4Real, Che,
CooLHAIR, The_COOL BOBIE, SpokanLakerFan, Duma, Shum, ManSlayer, FatSam
AKR68, GiantSquid, BotSoy, LakerFan, LA_Mental, CaliPhilosopher, JLuv, CDub0512
Bruzer, Peanut_Butter_Spread, Laker_Kev, Lakers_Sparks_Fan, Trio, Reality_Check
You Ever Notice? MarkyTheArky, Justin Leonard, FIishEye, Linda Pineda, Kidwell, Mel
BronxLakerFan ChitTownLaker, HoustonLaker, TexasLaker, BrazillianLaker, USCLaker
LakerNorth, LakerinBC, ROMY R, NIK KANNAN, Earth_Wind_&_Fire, FKIllah, TEEJ
AA Los, Wizo, Caeser, Maxximo, Wolf, Chuck23, 10MillionDollarZen, Man, Jeff Grotke
Lakers4Realz, Gino, Gabe, Darick, Floyd, Vincent, Robyn Khang, Old Scholol, TP,
Eddie Brock, Jandro, Paul Lee, Ajax, Mitchell, David In Spain, J_Doubter, Guy, Xtro,
Playa, Butler, Franky_J., Daryl, LakerDawg, DK,JC, The Dropper, Afro Joe, ZEN, Jeff
Mob_Wagoneer, PK-IN-THE-MESA , Jandro, GreenPaz, Andy B, Lent, TIKI, Brylle
SwanWorld, , Benny Blanca, MEL, AdamKiley, JUSTIN, CHRIS H, LADIESMAN
Linda Pineda, CaliKing, Thirty2, Aime Williams, Chucky .L.Ohno, Look Lonely, Kyle
LakerHolic, GDChild, Dion Centralk, ,GreekDude, Staples24, Robyn, Lakers08, Mel
Laker_Fan, True Laker Fan, Passionate Laker Fan, LT Laker_Fan, Grail, DaxMDD
40YearFan, KillerEight, Johnny P. LOTEC9, LakerLarry, Todd Battles, ASM, MikeAz
LakaLover, Bynumite, CS, Baywood, LakerHopeful, Bobie, Gilly, MARCO64, Drew
Purple&Gold_4Eva, B4Hoops, HeWhoHoops, Jorema, Xtro, MCGarnagle, Ando
Gugy, Laker4Life, ASM, SAMLL, Pince Akrasian, EagleBoy, JR., BLKTHGHT06,
SighBrandon C. Tully Moxness, LakerBake, Sean74, Sead94, LongLiveChick
Marty, Kinglakernidas, Hubbit, RespectMyAuthorith, Hariyahu, Alexinh017, bigMO
Kikos Dad, LiveLakers, Blaze1Bx, Simone, Phred, Swettual, Tajluck, Violater,
Craig, RicoTico, Lauria, NestrosBistro, Sean P. Jamie Sweet, SocalSpider
Sambosola Corner J., BigGameJames, Dascilla, JoninJAPAN(INCANADA),
*
Now The Playoff Lineup for the 14 Time WORLD CHAMPION LA LAKERS:
At Coach 9 time title winner PHIL 9RINGS JACKSONNNN
At center number 17 ANDREW BYNUMMMMMMMMMMM
At forward number 16 PAU GASOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL
At forward number 7 LAMAR ODOMMMMMMMMMMMMM
At guard number 2 DEREK FISHERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
At guard number 24 & the MVP KOBEE BRYANTTTTTTT
Posted by: MAMBA24 | April 16, 2008 at 08:22 AM
GOOD MORNING LAKER NATION!
WOOOOOHOOOOOO!!!!!!
YES!
I never lost the faith! Never! But I never thought it would be this good! At the beginning of the season I was predicting that we'd be a sixth seed and that we'd make the second round of the playoffs and NEXT season we'd see the Western Conference Finals.
Never been better to be wrong!
Sweet, sweet victory!
Thank you, Laker Nation for putting up with me for these years and for arguing with me and cheering with me! What a phenomenal season!
By the way, I want to start the 65 Win Bandwagon for next year!
Bring on the Nuggets! Carmelo Anthony is going to need to drink when we're through with him!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 16, 2008 at 08:22 AM
On a Lighter note... Man I HATE Skip Bayless!!!! That Moron just had the nerve to say the Spurs lost to the Lake Show because Manu didnt play!!!!!!! lol Not once did anyone mention the Lakers were'nt at full strength either.. Let the Hate begin!!!!
Posted by: complex brotha | April 16, 2008 at 07:35 AM
See I knew you weren't a CRACKHEAD!!!!...........lol....
No point in debating the rest, it would never end......
Posted by: pslakerfan | April 16, 2008 at 08:23 AM
Tshpere,
Hillary Clinton is the Devil and, to me, represents everything that is wrong with that "Me" Generation.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 16, 2008 at 08:25 AM
Laker Tom,
You are my hero. Thanks for all your energy on this blog. Great insights.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 16, 2008 at 08:28 AM
Someone has to post a picture of LO's white suit.
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | April 16, 2008 at 08:29 AM
damn it feels good to be a die hard laker fan.
it's been a bumpy, frustrating ride since the kobe-shaq dynasty was broken up.
but i remained true to the purple and gold. it wasn't easy watching the likes of smush parker, chucky atkins and brian cook...but damn - it was worth the wait.
never will my love for the lake show waver.
cheers to the lakers brass, coaches, players and all other laker die hards.
props to the lake show on the number one seed.
plenty of work still left to do, but wow - what an accomplishment!
never again will i take a great laker team for granted...
did i mention how great it feels to be a laker fan?
Posted by: tha show | April 16, 2008 at 08:29 AM
Sonnybelfast,
Hope you feel better soon.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 16, 2008 at 08:30 AM
complex brotha,
Personally, I've never seen a blog that has the energy and commitment of this blog, nor one as well-managed and lead as by the K Brothers.
THIS IS LAKER NATION!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 16, 2008 at 08:33 AM
I love this blog but it is a shame how some of you will use this sports platform to spill out your own self righteous opinions on politics or race relations frankly iam burned out on these issues. My advice take it easy life is short.Sage advice; quit trying control people,places or things .Kick back baby LOL
Posted by: WHITE MAMBA24 | April 16, 2008 at 08:34 AM
complex brotha
wut up champion,
The laker team that beat the spurs last weekend was at full strength. If pau wouldn't of played, then your team wouldn't of been at full strength, but the lakers that played have been playing together the whole season. The lakers with bynum and trevor on it are just on paper so far, that team doesn't exist. When bynum and trevor come back it'll be like getting new players. You guys are going into the playoffs with a team that on paper looks real dominant, but your actually playing with the team thats been playing together most of the season.
So yes, your team was at full strength and the spur were not.
Posted by: Fire32 | April 16, 2008 at 08:38 AM
Yeahhhh baby! That's what I'm talking about.
#1 in the West...no more excuses about the MVP award.
What's up Mamba and all my Laker lovin' brothers and sisters.
WE ARE #1!!!
Bring 'em on now!! 16 wins to glory baby!
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | April 16, 2008 at 08:38 AM
One more remarkable thing about Pau Gasol...
He has allowed this team to relax. His presence has so radically changed the dynamic of this team as compared to the nervous whincing dynamic of the Kwame Brown era.
Two players who absolutely needed to step up did, but only post-Gasol.
Those players are Lamar Odom and Vladimir Radmonovich. And both have not yet reached their potential, but are closing in upon it. These are two VERY GOOD players. Lamar Odom is a potential All-Star. And they're too players who have been frustratingly inconsistent for years now. Pau Gasol has somehow allowed these players to get out of their heads and begin playing with their hearts. And it is remarkable to watch. When Lamar Odom plays with confidence and fire, he is an absolute inspiration to watch on the court. I almost feel like I'm watching a stronger Magic Johnson on the court again. It's fantastic! When Rad Vlad is diving for the ball and attacking the rim, it's like "Who is this guy?" It's great!
The stars have alligned this year!
Thank you, God!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 16, 2008 at 08:40 AM
Open letter to King Orange,
As Mamba24's (and this blog's) official bodyguard, I'll advise you to keep away from him at all times, and speak only to me. You'll be responded to once, and only once. Once you've recieved a response, you'll be free to go back under your bridge or into your cave, or whatever dark place it is you inhabit during the times when you're not making the rest of us suffer through your Funs blather.
No one here will renounce the Lakers. Especially not Mamba.
Consider yourself warned.
Snort
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | April 16, 2008 at 08:41 AM
Open letter to Mamba24
Posted by: King orange2 | April 16, 2008 at 07:37 AM
Lo! Nice one Fire32...
Posted by: Charles | April 16, 2008 at 08:43 AM
Kobe Bryant has 4,003 assists. 4,003 ASSISTS! And he is third behind MAGIC JOHNSON AND JERRY WEST in assists!!!!
Ball don't lie!
Let me ask you the question, how do you get 4,003 assists halfway through your career and be a selfish player? How?
NO MVP? NO PEACE!!!!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 16, 2008 at 08:47 AM
Come on, people!
DON'T FORGET TO WIPE YOUR SHOES BEFORE ENTERING THE BLOG!
We don't want FILTH in this house!
Posted by: so now you know | April 16, 2008 at 08:52 AM
There is something incredibly orgasmic that happens when your team wins a championship, especially if the journey was one that started in the valley of the shadows of certain defeat, and ends at the top of a conference of incredibly competitive contenders.
All hail to the new kings of the Western Conference - the freakin' Los Angeles Lakers!
Hip hip, HORRAY!
BTW guys, can we get a pic of LO's suit? My imagination is running wild.
BTW guys, I have voted twice already, and will vote at least 50 times more because AK/BK, you have been the best!
Posted by: Glenn | April 16, 2008 at 08:52 AM
Let's try to lay off the political talk, folks.
Thanks.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | April 16, 2008 at 09:01 AM
EXhelo
Just scanned these and you beat me to it. Good call.
Tsphere,
Have liked your posts but that one was unworthy of you. Mr Obama may move into the White House, the Lakers are #1, and a reporter applauded an owner for making sound business judgements while he was being ridiculed from all directions. People of all colors are coming together like never before.
Join the party. Kareem will be there.
Posted by: Vman | April 16, 2008 at 09:03 AM
Good Morning Charles --Good Morning Everyone...
As usual Laker Tom's post is almost exactly what I would post...I too have been a long time fan (though I started in '66 because I lived in Japan for three years, ie no T.V.), and have been through the nine Championship runs--and I heartily agree with his comments about this current team and season---
Thanks Laker Tom for articulating a lot of bloggers (definitly including mine) thoughts so well....
Also Big Thanks to all the other sensible and insighful bloggers (you know who you are) whose posts also make this blog so cool....
And welcome to all the new posters who have always read and have seemingly come out of the woodwork in droves---Laker Nation is bigger than any of us can fathom....
WE ARE THE NUMBER ONE SEED IN THE MIGHTY WEST !!!
YEE FRICKIN' HAW !!!
And now, as others have said---the real season begins...wherever this ride takes us, it's going to be nothing short of amazing I think--
THIS IS THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG, CAPTAIN SMITH, THE DYNASTY IS JUST STARTING TO GERMINATE !
I don't care who we face, we have shown we are THE team to beat and if we play up to our ability we will go far in the play-offs...
Mantra time: DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE
PICK & ROLL PICK & ROLL PICK & FRICKIN' ROLL
Every player on our roster is playing well and seemingly improving with each game, the same with team chemistry..
Positives For Puke: another solid game--he continues to improve--keep it up buddy!--only 5 years left on his contract...
by the by--my wife says Quincy Doobie (one of the Dobbie Brothers ) looks like a chicken---I say he was named after something, but his parents weren't eating Japanese steak at the time, but did get the munchies later...yet another palyer with a career high against the Lakers--- I am sick of that crap...
AS EVER---YET ANOTHER GREAT DAY TO BE A LAKER FAN !!!
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | April 16, 2008 at 09:03 AM
More cool posts today department:
Puddle---Mamaba24, Jon K, Tim-4 Show....to name but a few...
thanks all....you often take the words right out of my brain....
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | April 16, 2008 at 09:10 AM
*________________________________________*
65 WINS FOR 2008 - 2009 SEASON BANDWAGON
*________________________________________*
(01) JON K. Driver & Owner
(02) MAMBA24 - director Win # 1.
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 09:12 AM
Forgot to mention another cool post today department:
Dave Rosenzweig-----and welcome to the blog as well sir
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | April 16, 2008 at 09:13 AM
Jon K, although the wince factor has gone down exponentially, the sight of Luke handling the rock still makes me wince....though no where near as much as Kwame did.
I even winced when I typed his name right now.
#4
Posted by: #4 | April 16, 2008 at 09:15 AM
Good morning Laker family!!
Congrats to the whole Laker Organization on a great regular season. Definitely one of the most interesting regular seasons in our history. What a ride!
Happy Bday Kareem!!
Posted by: Lakers Legacy | April 16, 2008 at 09:15 AM
Fire32,
i have to disagree with you that the lakers team that beat the spurs was at full strength. bynum and trevor have already proven their worth to the lakers in the games they've played this season.
both bring something extra to this team: a true low post presence in bynum and solid perimeter defense in ariza.
if you add a true low post presence and a solid perimeter defender to this laker team, THAT is the lakers at full strength.
bynum and ariza aren't paper champions as you put it, both have proven on the court what they can bring to the table for the lakers.
bynum/ariza replace mbenga/newble...please tell me how that doesn't vastly improve the lakers talent & depth?
either way, i am not making any injury excuses like the spurs who have been sputtering the past two weeks...
much respect to the spurs, and we'll who finishes as the best in the west...
peace.
Posted by: tha show | April 16, 2008 at 09:16 AM
Wow. #1 out of the regular season. Definitely a GOOD MORNING to you all. Now we await Denver or Dallas...
Have a great one my fam!
Posted by: Charles | April 16, 2008 at 09:17 AM
Sonny, hope you get better.
I saw your post in the other thread, valiant effort by your guys last night, even being down your 3 best players. Douby lit us up pretty well.
Good luck to you in getting the team that you want up there.
#4
Posted by: #4 | April 16, 2008 at 09:17 AM
GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORNIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIING LAKER NATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Congratulations to the Lakers Baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Best in the west and we knew it all along!!!
In deference to D.J. Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince....(wow)
IN THE BEGINNING THERE WERE MANY...
AS TIME WENT ON THERE BECAME FEW...
NOW THERE IS ONE...
ONE TEAM STANDS ALONE ATOP MT. OLYMPUS...
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN...
THE LOS ANGELES LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It is here...the end has come. One game to determine the West. Standing in our way...the queens...an we gutted them like the spineless jellyfish that they are!!!!!!!!! We showed them no mercy, no lack of resolve...we showed them only death!!! On then to the playoffs!!! We will invade foreign shores and be welcomed by The Laker Nation that exists EVERYWHERE!!! If they are not of The Laker Nation, we will destroy them!! We will bring the powers of the Gods themselves down upon them!!! Lightning will strike their houses and floods will soak their streets!!!Thunder will fill their ears as the heavens themselves unfold their darkness. We will cut out their hearts with a dull bread stick, and...we will trample their villages,and...hit them repeatedly with a rubber chicken while making them listen to Barry Manilow...and...rape the cows and pillage the women!!!(Scratch that,...reverse it.) You know in the end all this raping and pillaging just isn't very nice for a basketball team to be doing, lets just stick to winning games huh?
Inhale now as I blow smoke at the screen.
IT'S TIME TO WATCH THE LAKERS AND DRINK SOME BEER,
TOKE A BOWL AND SCREAM AND CHEER!!!!!!!! LAKERS 4 LIFE BABY!!!!!!
CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP
IT'S TIME TO WATCH THE LAKERS AND DRINK SOME BEER,
TOKE A BOWL AND SCREAM AND CHEER!!!!!!!! LAKERS 4 LIFE BABY!!!!!!
CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP
LakerMan 420
Posted by: LakerMan 420 | April 16, 2008 at 09:17 AM
Psyched Laker Girl said"King Orange2 - we renounce you! "
Thanks Laker girl for having my back. Just one more of your
wonderful attributes. Thanks!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 09:18 AM
Skip Bayless sucks!!! Good morning LakerWakers!!! Another great day in LakerWorld!!!
I salute Mamba24, the Dean of this great blog and a salute to the All-seeing K Bros. Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | April 16, 2008 at 09:19 AM
The Beatles are Back!
I have been unable to find any pictures of lamar odoms suit. anybody?
Posted by: eddie brock | April 16, 2008 at 09:19 AM
Can't stand meaningless political retoric department:
Please keep politics (as well as anything else that is not Laker / NBA related) off this cool blog...
I want to read about mankind's accomplishments, not their failures....
I would imagine there is other blogs for all that crap....
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | April 16, 2008 at 09:22 AM
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER SAID:"16 Wins To Glory!
Get The Flags Back On Your Windows and Let's Let The Banners Wave
From The Desert To The Sea To All Of Southern California!"
NOW THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT! Wave that banner
utzworld I'm with you Bro.
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 09:25 AM
Ok we won and no more obsessing about how we'll finish.
But I'm still obsessing about how others will finish though, and wondering - if Suns and Rockets win (as is likely) and Utah beats the Spurs we will have four 55-27 teams. The Jazz get the #3 slot, but what happens to 4 through 6?
The Rockets hold the tiebreaker over the Suns, the Suns over the Spurs, and the Spurs over the Rockets.
How do they shake that one out? It impacts us, as we get the 4/5 winner in round two.
And finally MAMBA - WHAT DO I HAVE TO SAY TO GET ON THE 16 WIN BANDWAGON??? I should have been #3 on it as I asked right after you and Andrew Z started it (go back and look), and then yesterday I "gently" reminded you of that. Did you welcome me back just to ignore me????
Love you, man.:-)
Posted by: Jay Jay | April 16, 2008 at 09:27 AM
Tha_Show said"never will my love for the lake show waver. cheers to the lakers brass, coaches,
players and all other laker die hards. props to the lake show on the number one seed."
AND PROPS TO YOU MY BROTHER!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 09:30 AM
Mamba24
Thank you for the outstanding ROLL CALL! A true bonus on this most wonderful of days, and you have the gift of expressing the soul of this blog! As Charles remiinds us every morning with his "Good morning, fam" you have captured the FAMILY nature of this space perfectly.
We now can as Phil told the team, it's time to celebrate for a couple of days and then get ready to take care of the business at hand................RING #15!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
16 WINS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: toad | April 16, 2008 at 09:32 AM