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
The Lakers are Western Conference Champions!!
Lets Party!!!!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGnYw-OuCnI
Posted by: richtown | April 16, 2008 at 09:32 AM
Oh and one more thing - we need to BRING BACK COBY!
I noticed in garbage time last night that Jordan and Sasha were our only options at guard. What if one of them (or D-Fish) goes down with an injury in the playoffs? Three healthy guards is not enough and we need young Coby as back-up/insurance.
Actually he is a really good player and I predict he will emerge next year as Jordan did this year. I saw him sink 10 consecutive three's in warm ups in the game up here and believe with his pedigree and energy he will become a valuable asset to us.
Posted by: Jay Jay | April 16, 2008 at 09:32 AM
Pig,
I believe that Orange dude was just messing around. Take that dude lightly and let's concentrate on the celebratory aspect of this regular season and your recent bday.
Hope all is well.
Posted by: Charles | April 16, 2008 at 09:32 AM
WHITE MAMBA:"My advice take it easy life is short.Sage advice; quit trying control people,places or things .Kick back baby LOL"
GOOD COMMENTS BUT PERHAPS YOU SHOULD REREAD
WHAT YOU WROTE MY BROTHER. IT IS VERY GOOD ADVICE.
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 09:34 AM
I love basking in this moment. When else do you get to part of an amazing Laker legacy and still revel in being the little engine that could? People shouldn't be allowed to fans of the league's glamor franchise AND the league's must lovable overachievers at the same time.
But we do!
It's an excellent time to love the Lakers!
Posted by: The D | April 16, 2008 at 09:35 AM
Greetings Laker Nation it is a good day in laker land.we're #1 in the west awaiting either Denver or Dallas it dosen't matter. I know at the beginning of the season this team would be were they are at this time in the saeson.Kobe for MVP he should get it this year he has made this team better.
Kobe has showed this laker team confidence,and hard work pays off,and I agree with Laker Tom God loves the lakers.
Posted by: LakerFan | April 16, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Complex,
Please stop yammering about politi........[SNORE...]
Posted by: The D | April 16, 2008 at 09:36 AM
To be fair the Spurs weren't just missing Manu. They were also missing Horry and Brent Barry.
To be fair on the other side, we were missing Bynum and Ariza, and Mihm isn't back enough for Mihm to play either. Walton may still be hurt. Kobe has a busted up pink and wrist ligament (medial collateral). Fisher has a torn ligament (I think) in his foot. Is Pau's ankle 100 percent?
Sounds about even to me.
What the Spurs losing may demonstrate is that Manu is as important as Popovich said, that they can't win a playoff series without him. As well-oiled and coached a machine as the Spurs are, without Manu breaking down defenses and providing someone that can create their own shot from the perimeter, they aren't much. Yes, I know TP can do that a bit too.
Posted by: Benjamin | April 16, 2008 at 09:37 AM
Mamba, we all have your back here! Pig's already engaged the orange troll, I have the mesquite coals in the Weber getting heated up, we're in for a troll roast! Identify the troll, wound the troll, starve the troll!
And, let me join you and Jon K (good morning Jon......great posts this morning) on that 65 win bandwagon for next year..............it's going to be a great decade to be a Laker Fan!
Posted by: toad | April 16, 2008 at 09:38 AM
I can't get to work but it's all good ..... Oh Happy Day!
Hey fellow bloggers, choose your superlative description ...
1. From crass to class!
2. From amends to AMEN!
3. From stressed to blessed!
Or alternatively ...
4. From stressed to best!
5. From worst to first!
6. From blasé to grace!
7. From done to one!
8. From the ridiculous to the sublime!
Oh Happy Day! There’s something about seeing that “z” next to your team’s name in the standings ain’t it?!?!
Please note I’m only celebrating for 24 hours before I get back to the new season – the playoffs and winning sixteen!
Posted by: Glenn | April 16, 2008 at 09:39 AM
Mamba, we all have your back here! Pig's already engaged the orange troll, I have the mesquite coals in the Weber getting heated up, we're in for a troll roast! Identify the troll, wound the troll, starve the troll!
And, let me join you and Jon K (good morning Jon......great posts this morning) on that 65 win bandwagon for next year..............it's going to be a great decade to be a Laker Fan!
Posted by: toad | April 16, 2008 at 09:40 AM
Mamba24,
Please handle the EUPHORIA.
We need a lot of 911 call to take care of fellow Laker fans hallucinating, talking to themselves, thinking about the Celtics, some are hysterical, please handle them Mamba 24. Last summer they were trading Kobe, now they are all daydreaming. Shucks, we just got the No. 1 seed, let that seed grow into Championship then, that's time to chomp our chest, shout to the world that we are the Cha.......??? right now we can only shout we are No. 1 seed. Shoppers might be wondering, do they sell that seed at Home Depot?
All we have to do now is to show our identity, put out all those LAKER FLAGS NOW and display them. Follow the cue from Utzworld, the Banner Holder.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | April 16, 2008 at 09:40 AM
BK SAID:"Let's try to lay off the political talk, folks."
LET IT BE SAID, LET IT BE WRITTEN LET IT BE DONE.
Come on folks this is a time of joy, After June 15 you
will wish you had these days over so why ruin it.
MY LORDS AK & BK I PLEDGE NO POLITICAL TALK (OR
VERY LITTLE LOL) COME ON FOLKS SAY IT TOGETHER.
I CAN'T HEAR YOU....OK THAT'S BETTER!
P.S. I LOVE YOU LAKER NATION EACH AND EVERY ONE OF
YOU.
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 09:40 AM
Mamba24,
Why are we limiting ourselves to 65 wins? Start the 70 win bandwagon!
Posted by: Xodus | April 16, 2008 at 09:41 AM
Brian Kamenetzky,
Dare I say "One Year Anniversary" coming up?
Posted by: Charles | April 16, 2008 at 09:42 AM
Also Mamba24 and other Old Schoolers,
Remember this?
Laker fans IT calls, but I got something good tomorrow
Seee Ya!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 19, 2007 at 12:55 PM
Posted by: Charles | April 16, 2008 at 09:43 AM
Ex,
Out of respect for the blog, I didnt go into detail( WMD's) but I'm more than willing to in a different forum if you're up to it? I agree with BK, Politics can not only KILL good discussions, but it doesnt make for very good blog fodder either, the convo was a carry over from last night.
Jon K- Exactly !!!!! Thats why your vote and everyone else thats part of this family, should visit the link, vote and let the rest of the sportsworld know what the KBros have brewing over here.
Fire32 - Wut Up !! lol Nah, I disagree with your post. The Lakers are NOT at full strength. we're at 75% If we were at FULL wouldnt we have our entire roster? Drew and Trevor are important cogs in our machine, like it or not. We've maintained because thats what having the Best coach in the league, Best Player, Best Bench and team in the league does for ya. Keeps you out of the Lottery.
and FINALLY.. PSLakerfan, lmmfaoooooooooooo Thanks for your daily affirmation, I think my parents will be happy to know I dont smoke crack and havent changed my name to Tyrone Bigguns ( crackhead from the old Chappelle Show) " No point in debating the rest, it would never end" Agreed, but if you find a place Ex, myself and you could engage without boring others, hit me up, I'm IN!!! Sports is my first love, Politics is getting up there the more I learn how the system works.
EVERYONE VOTE ON OUR BLOG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The Link is posted above.. VOTE and VOTE Often!!!!! Thanks in advance...
Posted by: complex brotha | April 16, 2008 at 09:48 AM
Like some of the others here have expressed last night and this morning, I have been a Laker Fan since the 60's, and have the honor of being able to have seen the 70's Lakers in person, and all the great teams since. The one that had engaged me the most up til this season was the Showtime Lakers of Magic, Cap and Worthy. But i've got to say that this team has pulled me in like no other. The expectations were low over the summer, and I wathced here on the blog as folks tried in every way to recommend what needed to be done when all we really needed was to let the team grpow together. With the win last night and the #1 seed, we are on the edge of something VERY special. I look forward to a decade of excellence unparalleled in Laker Nation History!
16 WINS TO GO TO FULFILL THIS SEASON'S DESTINY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: toad | April 16, 2008 at 09:50 AM
Hello, peeps - wonderful, wonderful day to be a Laker fan, isn't it!? Going to a game was a rare treat for me. Funny moment: M. Moore was in front of Kobe, in his defensive crouch - the funny thing was, my buddy said "Look at his grin" - I could see it from where I was sitting, which was the opposite end of the floor, some rows up! Kobe missed the jumper and on the way back down the floor, he gave Moore an "atta boy" swat.
Well, with all due respect to our "Troll Killers" here, we know who the real troll-killer is: Kobe Bean! He has silenced his critics, point by point. Make team mates better? [check]; Don't be a ballhog? [check]; Positively lead his team? [check]. That said, those trolls are lurking for the first sign of a Laker team stumble. But, hey, let's enjoy today!!
Posted by: cscoot | April 16, 2008 at 09:50 AM
I'm one cloud 9.
I got what I wanted.
The number one seed in the West.
Why the need for the number one seed?
So that Mamba gets his MVP trophy.
Yes, I know the championship is more important.
However, history is important too.
And Mamba needs an MVP on his resume.
And the haters are now forced to give it to him.
With the number one seed and MVP a sure thing:
I can now enjoy the journey that will lead to a ring.
And this championship will be a sweet as the 80s.
Unlike 00-02, this team (I feel) loves to play together.
Talent+chemistry=NBA champs!
GO LAKE SHOW!
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | April 16, 2008 at 09:52 AM
NO MORE POLITICS, NO MORE POLITICAL TALK ON HERE...
So says BK & Mamba24... SO BE IT!!!! When E.F Mamba speaks... LISTEN!!! lol
Posted by: complex brotha | April 16, 2008 at 09:53 AM
Correction - We arent Westren Conf Champs.. YET.. We're simply the top seed coming out of the west. We have to play for the WC Championship before we are crowned.. lol but Im with ya.. after the game last night I was callin non laker fans going "BAM, We're Westren Conference Champs!!!" CTFU Ok.. time to earn some money have a GREAT Day Everyone!!!!
Posted by: complex brotha | April 16, 2008 at 09:58 AM
LAKERMAN420:"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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
THAT'S IT NO CONTEST GIVE THE MAN THE TROPHY RIGHT NOW!
NOW THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT! WHOOOOOOOOOOOO!
D@MMMMMMMNNNNN YOU ARE GOOD MY BROTHER!!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 09:59 AM
SNIFF SNIFF SNIFF D@@@MMMMMMMMMNNNN
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
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:02 AM
Simply a day to celebrate being LAKER FANS!!!!
Our team has delivered by snatching first place overall in the toughest year in history for the Western Conference.
You know some teams would hang a banner or two right now... Not us.. There's a bigger tasks at hand. PJ gave the guys a day off to celebrate and enjoy. Back to business tomorrow and this is when our staff is at its best crafting a game plan to take out the competition. Feels so good to be A LAKER Fan!
Posted by: LakerFaze | April 16, 2008 at 10:02 AM
DIRECTOR OF WIN #8 Present and Accounted for just like our LAKERS. I am still beaming from ear to ear.
NO wore their division tshirts and caps bc this is thier first one in franchise history. They dont have the hardware and kudos as the Lakeshow. I am proud of B. Scott.
I think the mavs would be an easier out for us, avery can not out coach Phil, but Karl has skills if his team would just listen to him. I think the Nugs will be tough, yello has a lot to prove.
Posted by: lakergirl1980 | April 16, 2008 at 10:05 AM
*_____________________________________*
THE LAKERS 2008 CHAMPIONSHIP AND
16 WINS TO CHAMPIONSHIP BANDWAGON
AKA “FO”, “FO”, “FO”, ‘FO” BANDWAGON
*_____________________________________*
01 Andrew Z – Owner______________(32) JesterGuru – Assignment Director
02 LakerTom_ CEO_______________(33 )Nik Kannan – Blog Team Trainer
03 RICK FRIEDMAN – Driver________(34) BZAR – Director of Win Countdown
04 VMAN – Co Driver______________(35 )Doc4DaLakeShow – Blog Dr.
05 JAY JAY Director of Bandwagons _(36) Happy Gilmore – Golf Director
06 Jeff – Security Chief_____________(37) TRIO – 3 Laker Fans in 1
07 Xodus – Enforcer_______________(38) Laker North– Director of North Cal.
08 utzworld – The Banner Holder_____(39) JUNNO – Director Win # 5
09 The Outlaw – Director of Fines_____(40) JustAnotherMambaFan– Director of Mambas
10 KobesBad – And that’s good.______(41) BrownMamba– Asst. Director of Mambas
11 WhiteMamba24 - Ride Director_____(42) DK - Reports directly to Jerry Buss
12 TSIRY – Director________________(43) LakersRydeOrDie – Enforcer
13 AB – Crowd control director________(44) MarkyTheArky – Director of Mirrors
14 LakerTruth – Judge & Jury_________(45) PsychedLakerGirl – Director of Motivation
15 HappyDaze - Morale Director_______(46) SimiLakerGirl – Rpts. directly to Jeannie Buss
16 LAL-Fan - Freakin La Laker Fan_____(47) Milo Rambaldi -Team Prophet.
17 TSPHERE – SuperDelegate________(48) HMRHED – Director of Good Times
18 Staples24 - Helped Kwame pack____(49) LakerFan - Backup
19 JustAnotherMambaFan – Enforcer___(50) KOBESBAD – Director of win 7
20 LakersLegacy - Keeper of Flame_____(51) LAKERGIRL1980 – Director of win 8
21 Tha SHOW – Keeping it Real________(52) ALLAN – BRAZIL Director win 6
22 ANDO – Director of Superstars_______(53) TIM-4-SHOW Director of win 2
23 RDLEE - Directorof Win1____________(54) NEMAIA FALETOGO director of win 10
24 SAMLL Director of win3 ____________(55) ROKY Director of win 11
25CBUCK Director of win 13___________(56) HUBBIT Director of win 4
(26) JON K. Director of win 9___________(57) GREEK DUDE Director of win 14
(27) Mr.BarneyDangles Director of wins___(58) LAKER TOM – Producer, Director & Enforcer
(28) CHUCK23 – Director of win 12_______(59) TOAD – Director of the Win Directors
(29) EastCoastJessie__CFO____________(60) THE LAKE SHOW – Supreme Escort.
(30) The Original J.J. – Ring Master_______(61) DC – Director of Strategic Wins
(31) DICE8UP – Consigliore of 9Rings_____(62) KEIFO – Heir in waiting
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:08 AM
King orange2,
Why do you attempt to tempt Mamba24 with promises that you cannot fullfill. The Wise mamba knows that we are the front runners for now and the foreseable future for that earthly possesion that you speak off. You know that your warriors of the sun are no match for our warriors who have the ice cold blood from the cold waters of the minneapolis lakes flowing thorugh their veins. Do not tease one, with something that one already has, do not attempt to lure the beast unless you can defeat him and do not insult the intelligence and knowledge of the Mamba and the Laker nation, less we rain down a dynasty of terror upon the suns and our association foes!!!!!!
LONG LIVE THE LAKER DYNASTY!!!!!
LONG BLOG MAMBA24!!!!
HEALTH AND FOCUS TO OUR LAKER WARRIORS!!!!
MAY THE GODS GUIDE YOUR FINGERS MY FELLOW BLOGGER!!!!
LAKER FOR LIFE!!
Purple Haemoglobin Flows Through My Veins!!!!
Posted by: purplehaemoglobin | April 16, 2008 at 10:08 AM
complex,
hotair.com typically has about 10-15 discussions a day based on current items; the authors of the posts are from a moderate conservative (at times libertarian) viewpoint (but are not hesitant to criticize the administration or conservative leadership); there are a number of commenters who are at the other end of the spectrum.
Fallbackbelmont.blogspot.com is another good site with a wide range of discussions, but oriented on the topics posted by the author (A U.S. educated Filipino now an Australian citizen).
At both sites you are somewhat constrained to discuss the topics of the posts, though. Not really an "open forum" per se.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | April 16, 2008 at 10:10 AM
THE D:"Please stop yammering about politi........[SNORE...]"
HAHAHA! LOL!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:13 AM
UTZWORLD, PIG MILLER, CHARLES, TOAD, PSYCHEDLAKERGIRL, Thanks for having my back but
the troll was merely playing around. It's all good
MY People, thanks again.
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:16 AM
*________________________________________*
65 WINS FOR 2008 - 2009 SEASON BANDWAGON
*________________________________________*
(01) JON K. Driver & Owner
(02) MAMBA24 – Director of Win # 1
(03) TOAD – Director of all wins.
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:19 AM
RE: king orange2
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
[Open letter to Mamba24]
"Hello sir ,let me introduce myself iam King orange2 master and head Troll GOD of the SUNS univerce.Mr.Mamba24 as head spiritual leader of the Laker Blog I will give you a proposition you cannot refuse.Renounce and publicly disparage the LA Lakers and I will give you any earthly pleasure you desire.Any new kingdom in the SUNS bright new universe,name that whim.You have 6 hours,I know you will make the right decision." Posted by: King orange2 | April 16, 2008 at 07:37 AM
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Your letter reminds me of Satan's temptation of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew chapter 4,
" All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me."
For those who are familiar with the Scripture, we know that Satan does not own anything, therefore he has absolutely nothing to give!
Look at Jesus' respone to Satan on Matthew 4:10, "Go, Satan! For it is written, 'YOU SHALL WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD, AND SERVE HIM ONLY.'
Here's my simple point to you, you little devil "orange2".
You have no kingdom,!! You got nothing AND YOU ARE NOTHING!!
You can either bow down now and exit gracefully, or you will be forced to bow down and worship the Mamba when the Suns exit the first round!!!!
Posted by: Robyn | April 16, 2008 at 10:21 AM
EDWIN G."All we have to do now is to show our identity, put out all those LAKER FLAGS
NOW and display them. Follow the cue from Utzworld, the Banner Holder."
THERE ARE TOO MANY OF THEM EDWIN THEY ARE COMING
FROM EVERYWHERE! HEEEELLLLLLP!!! LOL!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:21 AM
*________________________________________*
65 WINS FOR 2008 - 2009 SEASON BANDWAGON
*________________________________________*
(01) JON K. Driver & Owner
(02) MAMBA24 – Director of Win # 1
(03) TOAD – Director of all wins.
*________________________________________*
70 WINS FOR 2008 - 2009 SEASON BANDWAGON
*________________________________________*
(01) XODUS. Driver & Owner
(02) MAMBA24 – Director of Win # 1
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:23 AM
Vman,
Sorry to disappoint you, but race remains an issue in this country and in basketball. That is very much in the background (if not foreground) of Kareem's blog , which makes a connection with the Lakers. But I agree that shouldn't become a major issue on this blog.
My point was really about Simers. He has done nothing but discredit himself as an LA sports journalist with regard to the Lakers and I'm not the only one on the blog to have noticed that. Suddenly nominating Kobe as permanent MVP doesn't, in my mind, redeem him. Sounds like he's trying to jump on a bandwagon that's managed to take off without him.
I believe that everyone - Buss, Kupchak, Phil, Jeannie, maybe even Jim Buss, whom nobody talks about these days - pretty much did the right thing. And Kobe was the original catalyst, so it isn't a question of saying "will the real magician please stand up." They all contributed. Dr. Buss was the second catalyst, when he publicly said he would do what he could to trade Kobe during training camp. It was a subtle poker or chess game on all sides, something I repeatedly analyzed during the summer when everyone was getting their knickers in a twist about how "morally" unjustified the different moves were.
The result has been win-win for everyone, so let's quit the moralizing and judging as well as claiming, as Simers seems to be doing, that it was the others (Buss, Mitch and Phil) who made it happen and Kobe's just a talented player with an uncontrolable mouth.
The link Mel put up yesterday to the Kobe interview on ESPN was worth following up. Kobe very intelligently put things in perspective, explained his strategy, expressed regret about some of details and showed very astutely that he still knows how to play both the PR game and the power game. I think Dr Buss respects him and even loves him for that. By opposing each other they produced a winning team. The smiles are everywhere... except they're a little less frank and generaous for people like Simers who always has to prove who is superior and who is inferior.
Posted by: Tsphere | April 16, 2008 at 10:30 AM
CSCOOT:"Well, with all due respect to our "Troll Killers" here, we know who the real troll-killer is:
Kobe Bean! He has silenced his critics, point by point. Make team mates better? [check];
Don't be a ballhog? [check]; Positively lead his team? [check]. That said, those trolls are l
urking for the first sign of a Laker team stumble. But, hey, let's enjoy today!!"
OUT FREAKIN STANDING!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:33 AM
The bloggers are all in fine form this morning! Some truly eloquent stuff from Tom... Jon K weighing in with his usual rocking positive power... some political zingers going back and forth and I can understand the gentle admonition from Brian K but I think it's all good - Complex Brotha and others, just saying how they feel (right on, Vman). Mamba24 -this blog wouldn't be nearly as excellent without you and thanks for finally putting me on the roll call, hahaha!!! I noticed Andrew Z weighing in again a couple threads back - always nice to read his stuff. Anybody ever wonder if Mike T is still here among us, throwing in lunatic tidbits under different names just to mess with us? Bloggers like Charles and LTLF have contributed so much this season... and Dave Rosenzweig - dude, you should post more. Psyched Laker Girl's got some kind of supernova thing going on and I'm just kind of rambling on now in some post-regular season glow that won't go away. Can't wait for the first round. Can't tell you how much I appreciate bloggers like Edwin and Faith and Xodus and Tha Show and so many more... and where's Roger anyway??? Sorry, this is starting to feel like a roll call and it wasn't my intent... and anyway I'm getting distracted now cause some girl just came into the office talking about a bird who flew into the window. Sonny B - theraflu and Dit Da Jow, brother. OK, enough of my stuff. This has been a GREAT season though!!!
Posted by: dave m | April 16, 2008 at 10:37 AM
fire32
pau gasol has only been with the team since feb 1 so he didnt start off the season with the lakers and it seemed like the announcers were making excuses for the spurs getting blown out because manu was not there but it probally wouldnt matter with the lakers defensive intensity being what it was. Each player stayed in front of his man and rotation was good!!!!!!!!!!!! Maverick
Posted by: maverick | April 16, 2008 at 10:38 AM
ROBYN:"Here's my simple point to you, you little devil "orange2". You have no kingdom,!!
You got nothing AND YOU ARE NOTHING!! You can either bow down now and exit gracefully,
or you will be forced to bow down and worship the Mamba when the Suns exit the first round!!!!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
HAND IT OVER! GIVE ROBYN THE PRIZE RIGHT NOW!
POWERFUL!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:39 AM
Benjamin,
It would be really cool to have the players occasionally make posts to the blog. Hope AK and BK try to do it. Good to have you as a Lakers and blog fan.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 16, 2008 at 01:08 PM
PsychedLakerGirl,
Get ready for the ride of your life as the Lakers dominate the playoffs! Great to have some female Lakers fans holding up the fort. Thanks from all the guys.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 16, 2008 at 01:11 PM
DOC4daLakeShow,
Loved the Willis Reed reference. You better believe that the entire Lakers squad will be greatly insprired the first time that Drew takes the court. It is going to be awesome to see Drew, Pau, Lamar, Kobe, and Fish starting.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 16, 2008 at 01:29 PM
mamba,
Many thanks for fixing the Championship Bandwagon. You are the best, Larry. We're going to ride you to the 15th Lakers championship. All for 1 and 1 for all.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 16, 2008 at 01:30 PM
Tsphere
I think we agree. Simers is a guy tryin' to stay visible in a field that's takin' on financial water.
I think the black pawn metaphor was the issue for me. I'm yearning for the day when we don't have to go there first. I'm familiar with Kareem's writings. I'm not sure he would have gone with you on this but if it's real to you, then I respect it.
KObe and J Buss are doin' fine and all's right with the Laker world. Fish and Pau fell from the sky and, as usual, fate played as much of a hand in the doing and undoing of that drama as the participants.
Posted by: | April 16, 2008 at 02:27 PM
complex,
I vote Republican becuase they consistently have the best policies. It's nto a sham war. If you wnat to debate that, then make some actual points about it, don't jut call it "sham."
And while you are at it, please point out where Pres Bush has done anything to affect a woman's "right to choose."
Posted by: exhelodrvr | April 16, 2008 at 07:55 AM
For views I think we should go to a LA Times political Blog and we can debate these issues there. I'm with Complex as the Republicans effed up this country and I support Obama since my choice (Edwards) dropped out.
So the best left is Obama.
Lets go Lakers no matter what we all think politically. We all support the Lakers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | April 16, 2008 at 11:29 PM
THE LAKERS 2008 CHAMPIONSHIP AND
16 WINS TO CHAMPIONSHIP BANDWAGON
AKA “FO”, “FO”, “FO”, ‘FO” BANDWAGON
*_____________________________________*
01 Andrew Z – Owner______________(32) JesterGuru – Assignment Director
02 LakerTom_ CEO_______________(33 )Nik Kannan – Blog Team Trainer
03 RICK FRIEDMAN – Driver________(34) BZAR – Director of Win Countdown
04 VMAN – Co Driver______________(35 )Doc4DaLakeShow – Blog Dr.
05 JAY JAY Director of Bandwagons _(36) Happy Gilmore – Golf Director
06 Jeff – Security Chief_____________(37) TRIO – 3 Laker Fans in 1
07 Xodus – Enforcer_______________(38) Laker North– Director of North Cal.
08 utzworld – The Banner Holder_____(39) JUNNO – Director Win # 5
09 The Outlaw – Director of Fines_____(40) JustAnotherMambaFan– Director of Mambas
10 KobesBad – And that’s good.______(41) BrownMamba– Asst. Director of Mambas
11 WhiteMamba24 - Ride Director_____(42) DK - Reports directly to Jerry Buss
12 TSIRY – Director________________(43) LakersRydeOrDie – Enforcer
13 AB – Crowd control director________(44) MarkyTheArky – Director of Mirrors
14 LakerTruth – Judge & Jury_________(45) PsychedLakerGirl – Director of Motivation
15 HappyDaze - Morale Director_______(46) SimiLakerGirl – Rpts. directly to Jeannie Buss
16 LAL-Fan - Freakin La Laker Fan_____(47) Milo Rambaldi -Team Prophet.
17 TSPHERE – SuperDelegate________(48) HMRHED – Director of Good Times
18 Staples24 - Helped Kwame pack____(49) LakerFan - Backup
19 JustAnotherMambaFan – Enforcer___(50) KOBESBAD – Director of win 7
20 LakersLegacy - Keeper of Flame_____(51) LAKERGIRL1980 – Director of win 8
21 Tha SHOW – Keeping it Real________(52) ALLAN – BRAZIL Director win 6
22 ANDO – Director of Superstars_______(53) TIM-4-SHOW Director of win 2
23 RDLEE - Directorof Win1____________(54) NEMAIA FALETOGO director of win 10
24 SAMLL Director of win3 ____________(55) ROKY Director of win 11
25CBUCK Director of win 13___________(56) HUBBIT Director of win 4
(26) JON K. Director of win 9___________(57) GREEK DUDE Director of win 14
(27) Mr.BarneyDangles Director of wins___(58) LAKER TOM – Producer, Director & Enforcer
(28) CHUCK23 – Director of win 12_______(59) TOAD – Director of the Win Directors
(29) EastCoastJessie__CFO____________(60) THE LAKE SHOW – Supreme Escort.
(30) The Original J.J. – Ring Master_______(61) DC – Director of Strategic Wins
(31) DICE8UP – Consigliore of 9Rings_____(62) KEIFO – Heir in waiting
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 16, 2008 at 10:08 AM
Wat Up??? Was put on the bandwagon and now I'm off.
Please fix!! THX
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | April 17, 2008 at 12:13 AM